"It would be wiser if the design of HDB flats was improved to reduce the risk of windows falling to almost zero, instead of requiring owners to conduct regular inspections." — Netizen
Singapore-In response to the 43 incidents of falling windows reported by HDB units this year and reminding residents of regular inspections, the public suggested that improved window design is a better solution.
The Bureau of Housing and Construction (BCA) stated in a joint press release on Saturday (December 11) that there were 43 records of window collapses in the first 11 months of this year.
About half of the cases involved casement windows, while 16 cases were collapsed sliding windows, and the remaining 5 cases consisted of other types of windows, such as shutter designs.
These agencies stated that the reported cases did not cause any injuries.
According to BCA's investigation, the main reason for the collapse of casement windows was corrosion of aluminum rivets until the window panels could not be firmly fixed in place.
The BCA’s 2004 renovation order required all homeowners to replace all aluminum rivets in casement windows with stainless steel rivets.
At the same time, the problem behind the sliding window case is the lack of appropriate safety plugs and angle steel bars to keep the sliding window in its track.
The HDB said: "Without these safety features, when the homeowner applies excessive force when opening or closing the window, the window will fall off and fall."
It is recommended that homeowners with sliding windows check safety devices and replace worn-out devices in time.
During the same period, BCA also received 12 cases involving poorly maintained windows and impending fallout.
BCA works with the Housing Authority and works with affected owners to designate contractors to inspect and repair their windows.
"Therefore, we urge homeowners to check and maintain their windows regularly," the HDB said, adding that this should be done at least every six months.
These agencies stated: “If a homeowner fails to replace all aluminum rivets in casement windows with stainless steel rivets, they will face a fine of up to S$5,000, up to six months in prison, or both.”
"In addition, if the windows collapse due to lack of maintenance, the homeowner can be fined up to S$10,000, imprisoned for up to one year, or both."
A list of BCA approved window contractors and window maintenance tips can be found here.
In response to this suggestion, members from the online community wanted to know whether the design of the window could be better improved to prevent such risks.
“It would be wiser if HDB improved the design to reduce the risk of windows falling to almost zero, instead of requiring owners to conduct regular inspections,” commented Facebook user Allan Tan.
Facebook user Calvin Loh Kok Howe pointed out that homeowners inspecting windows may not find signs of compromise. "Hey... Do you think ordinary homeowners would know what to pay attention to?"
"Unless the corrosion or damage is very obvious, most homeowners will only pass an inadvertent visual inspection and think it's okay. Then when things do happen, who should be blamed? The HDB arranges routine inspections and gives no Wouldn’t it be better for the family in question to stamp the approval stamp?” /TISG
Reading related: HDB: The man splashed water and let it fall to the lower floor, and the residents said "This is why your clothes never dry"
HDB: The man splashed water and let it fall to the lower floor, and the residents said,'This is why your clothes never dry.'
Follow us on social media
Send your exclusive news to news@theindependent.sg
Send your exclusive news to news@theindependent.sg