About Benson Ng
Hello! I'm Benson Ng, and I'm excited to delve into the realm of railway safety. With a background in Aviation maintenance and Human Factors, I bring a passion for ensuring the safety and efficiency of railway operations. My goal is to contribute fresh perspectives and leverage innovative solutions to this vital aspect of transportation. I'm eager to learn from seasoned professionals in the field and collaborate on creating safer railway environments for all!
List the Safety and Health achievements/contributions you have achieved in 2023.
My team and I conduct safety inspections at operational and project-phase stations and premises, as well as carry out random safety enforcement checks on contractors/vendors. We collaborate with Operation and Maintenance stakeholders to ensure the desired outcomes are achieved safely. Additionally, we promote safety training, skillset development, engagement, and enforcement.
I work closely with LTA and contractors to ensure there is 'design for safety' incorporated into the facility, system processes, and equipment through numerous discussions and feedback during the project phase period. I identify gaps and areas for improvement in overall safety practices and standards in the workplace.
Furthermore, I advocate for hearing conservation through audiometric tests, as well as implement noise mapping and monitoring programmes. I am responsible for designing publicity posters and promotional campaigns for the annual STEL Safety and Security Symposium. Additionally, I collaborate with various stakeholders on KAIZEN projects for workplace and process improvement.
Outline the Workplace Safety and Health initiatives that have been implemented by you in your workplace in 2023.
I am currently collaborating with other departments on a project introducing 'Advanced Human Avoidance & Alert Systems' mounted on forklifts. This innovative system utilizes AI human recognition to detect moving or stationary humans behind the forklift (in the blind spot). Upon detection, the system immediately locks onto the person on the screen and triggers a loud audible alarm to alert both the forklift operator and bystanders. Importantly, this project initiative can seamlessly integrate into the existing fleet of forklifts without interfering with any current forklift systems. Consequently, the operator can remain vigilant and maintain full awareness of the forklift's surroundings.
In addition to this, I am collaborating with LTA and LTA's contractor to design and construct an integrated ladder with a permanent platform and barrier. This initiative aims to create a safe working space for staff to access and maintain electrical closets. Moreover, it eliminates the need for maintenance staff to carry a ladder to reach the closet, thereby mitigating the risk associated with working at heights on ladders.
Describe and support in detail on how your influencing capability has assisted in the successful implementation of these initiatives.
I encouraged the stakeholders to take the lead on the project for their warehouse forklift improvement initiative. They agreed to assume the role with guidance from my team, and together, we ensured the success of introducing the vendor AI alert system installed on a forklift.
During our collaboration, my team and I raised concerns about the existing design at the electrical closet area, highlighting the risk of falls. Through effective communication and building strong working trust, LTA and their contractors acknowledged the mentioned risks. They demonstrated openness and flexibility, ultimately settling on a design post collective discussion to address all concerns.
Describe and provide support on how your initiative impacted the Safety and Health management and performance of your workplace/community/industry that was above and beyond.
People being struck by moving vehicles remains one of the top fatal risks, often resulting in serious injuries, and my team strongly believes that these incidents are avoidable. The AI human detection system mounted on the forklift can alert operators through a loud audible alarm in the presence of any personnel in the blind spot. This allows the operator to remain fully alert and aware of the forklift's surroundings, including personnel within the forklift alert zone. Since forklifts are typically leased, it is crucial that the new system does not interfere with the existing forklift system and is removable for transfer to another forklift during swaps.
In your opinion, what are the attributes of a safety influencer? Do share with us on how you have demonstrated these attributes in your daily work that will earn you the recognition of a WSHAsia Safety Influencer Award Winner in your workplace/community/industry.
In my opinion, a safety influencer should possess certain key attributes to effectively promote and uphold safety practices, namely:
- Passionate about safety and committed to creating a safe and healthy environment for everyone.
- Possess leadership qualities to inspire and motivate others, leading by example through 'walking the talk' with ground workers.
- Have an empathetic approach to understanding people's concerns and perspectives.
- Be flexible and adaptable to changes and challenges, continuously seeking ways to improve safety practices.