A Complete Guide to Video Surveillance Systems (VSS)

The construction industry remains one of the most hazardous sectors in Singapore, with workers frequently exposed to high-risk activities such as working at heights, lifting operations, and confined space entry. In light of these challenges, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Workplace Safety and Health Council (WSHC) have continued to champion the integration of technology to proactively manage workplace risks. One of the most impactful tools is the Video Surveillance System (VSS).

What is a Video Surveillance System (VSS)?

A VSS is a network of cameras, monitors, and recording devices used to capture real-time or recorded footage of work activities on-site. Beyond traditional security purposes, VSS has become a strategic asset in improving Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) by enabling:

Continuous risk monitoring
Rapid response to unsafe practices
Visual evidence for incident investigations
Deterrence of non-compliant behaviors
Effective training using real-life scenarios

From 1 June 2024, under the updated WSH (General Provisions) Regulations, it is mandatory for construction worksites with contract values of $5 million and above to install a VSS in specific high-risk zones. This regulatory shift underscores the nation’s strong commitment to technological enforcement of WSH practices.

Why VSS Is a Game-Changer for Construction Sites

In high-risk environments like construction sites, timely intervention can mean the difference between a near miss and a fatality. VSS empowers site management with a live overview of work activities across multiple critical areas without requiring physical presence at every zone. For example:

Work-at-height operations can be monitored to ensure harnesses and edge protection are used.
Lifting operations can be verified for load rigging practices and exclusion zones.
Confined space entries can be reviewed for adherence to entry permits and atmospheric testing.

Moreover, VSS plays a transformative role in post-incident investigations. With timestamped video evidence, root causes can be determined more objectively, allowing for more accurate corrective actions. Over time, this leads to stronger WSH policies, fewer repeated incidents, and a measurable reduction in accident rates.

Mandatory and Strategic Use

While certain locations and worksites are mandated by law to implement VSS, others are strongly encouraged to do so for WSH excellence. Even in smaller worksites or those facing logistical constraints (e.g., power limitations or privacy concerns), companies can opt for portable or body-worn cameras as supplementary solutions. All exceptions must be documented and justified, particularly where full coverage isn’t feasible.

2. Regulatory Framework: Legal Grounds for VSS in Singapore

To strengthen workplace safety outcomes across Singapore's construction sector, the Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations were amended, making Video Surveillance Systems (VSS) mandatory for selected worksites. Understanding the legal framework is crucial for occupiers, project managers, and contractors to remain compliant and avoid enforcement actions.

Legal Mandate Effective from 1 June 2024

Under the revised WSH (General Provisions) (Amendment No. 2) Regulations 2024, it is now compulsory for construction worksites with contract values of $5 million and above to install and operate a VSS at designated high-risk locations.

This requirement applies to:

Main contractors (occupiers) of qualifying construction worksites
Newly awarded projects and ongoing projects that extend beyond 1 June 2024
Specific high-risk work zones, as listed in the Third Schedule of the Regulations

There is no grace period beyond the 12-month industry preparation window (from 1 June 2023 to 31 May 2024). All qualifying worksites must be fully compliant from 1 June 2024.

Worksite Locations Requiring Mandatory VSS Coverage

The legal requirement focuses on targeted high-risk work areas, not blanket surveillance across the entire site. The VSS must monitor the following zones:

Work-at-height locations where a person may fall more than 2 metres
Scaffold and formwork erection, dismantling, and maintenance zones
Excavation and shoring sites
Lifting operation zones, including the use of cranes, gondolas, and MEWPs
Industrial vehicle operating zones, e.g., forklifts, steam rollers, excavators
Areas with significant vehicular traffic posing risk to workers
Loading/unloading bays
Confined spaces, where feasible and safe to install VSS

The installation of VSS is not required for:

Temporary buildings or short-term structures (e.g., showflats, tentage)
Areas where VSS poses a documented risk to safety (e.g. flammable gas presence)

Who Is Responsible?

The occupier—typically the main contractor—is responsible for installing and maintaining the VSS. If the worksite has been fully handed over, the new main contractor assumes this responsibility.

In scenarios involving subcontractors performing high-risk tasks, the main contractor still holds legal accountability for ensuring that VSS compliance is achieved across all required zones.

Documented Exceptions

If VSS installation is assessed as not feasible due to:

Space constraints
Power limitations
Valid privacy, security, or intellectual property concerns

...the occupier must document the rationale, including the assessment process and persons involved. These records must be readily available for inspection by MOM officers.

Acceptable alternatives, such as portable or battery-powered cameras, must be considered before exemption is claimed.

Compliance with PDPA (Personal Data Protection Act)

Employers must also ensure that the implementation of VSS respects workers’ privacy rights under the PDPA. This includes:

Avoiding surveillance in personal/private areas (e.g., restrooms)
Limiting access to footage to authorised personnel
Setting clear SOPs for data retention, access, and deletion

This balance ensures that VSS deployment enhances safety without infringing on individual rights.

3. How VSS Enhances Construction Site Safety

Video Surveillance Systems (VSS) are more than just cameras—they are a proactive safety management tool that empowers construction site leaders to monitor, respond, and educate in real-time. The strategic deployment of VSS directly supports Singapore’s goal of cultivating an accident-prevention culture across all high-risk industries, especially construction.

Real-Time Monitoring of Work Activities

A VSS provides continuous, real-time oversight of high-risk activities on-site. This capability allows site supervisors, WSH officers, and project managers to:

Identify hazards as they emerge
Observe unsafe behaviors or procedural lapses
Intervene quickly before incidents escalate

Whether monitoring a crane lift, confined space entry, or scaffold erection, live footage ensures no safety-critical activity goes unnoticed—even when physical supervision isn't possible.

Deterrence of Unsafe Behaviours

The visible presence of cameras plays a strong psychological role in promoting compliance. Workers, subcontractors, and site visitors are more likely to:

Follow Safe Work Procedures (SWPs)
Wear personal protective equipment (PPE)
Refrain from taking shortcuts or engaging in unsafe acts

Knowing that actions are being recorded encourages accountability and instills a safety-first mindset across the workforce.

Post-Incident Review and Root Cause Analysis

In the event of a WSH incident—such as a near-miss, dangerous occurrence, or injury—VSS footage becomes a critical investigative resource. It enables:

Accurate reconstruction of the incident timeline
Identification of immediate and root causes
Verification of worker actions and site conditions

This visual evidence supports data-driven incident analysis, ensures fair assessment, and strengthens the corrective action process. It also supports MOM reporting and internal audits.

Reinforcement of Training and Toolbox Briefings

Video footage from VSS can be integrated into:

Toolbox meetings
Onboarding safety briefings
Refresher training sessions

By showcasing real-life footage—both positive examples and lapses—companies can:

Reinforce WSH policies and procedures
Promote peer learning and self-awareness
Improve hazard recognition among workers

This approach transforms passive training into an engaging, scenario-based learning experience, bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Remote Oversight and Communication

VSS empowers remote monitoring, enabling safety personnel and project managers to:

Supervise multiple zones across large or multi-storey sites
Review footage from mobile devices or control rooms
Send instant alerts to foremen or workers via internal communication channels

This facilitates a more nimble and responsive WSH management strategy, reducing response times and preventing unsafe acts from progressing into incidents.

Supporting Audits and Demonstrating Due Diligence

Footage from VSS can be used as part of:

Internal safety audits
Client and regulatory inspections
Evidence of corrective actions taken

By documenting the follow-through on observed risks, companies demonstrate due diligence and a proactive safety culture, both of which are critical in legal and reputational contexts.

4. Planning for VSS Implementation: Risk Assessments and Site Considerations

Implementing a Video Surveillance System (VSS) in a construction worksite is not a plug-and-play exercise. It requires meticulous planning, risk assessment, and coordination to ensure that the system enhances safety without introducing new hazards or breaching privacy or legal constraints.

Conducting Risk Assessments (RA) Prior to Installation

Before any VSS installation begins, companies must conduct a comprehensive Risk Assessment (RA) to evaluate:

Hazards posed by the installation itself (e.g., working at heights to mount cameras)
Potential interference with existing work activities
Impact on privacy, intellectual property, or security

The RA process ensures that:

Installation activities are carried out safely
Camera placement does not obstruct workflows
The VSS contributes positively to safety outcomes

If cameras are to be installed in sensitive environments such as confined spaces or flammable areas, further technical evaluations and controls must be established.

Selecting Strategic Camera Locations

Camera placement is critical for effective monitoring. According to WSH Council guidelines, the VSS must cover designated high-risk locations (not necessarily the entire site). Cameras should be installed:

At elevated vantage points to capture broad views
With a clear line of sight to the monitored activity
In positions free from obstruction or glare
Away from private areas (e.g., rest shelters, toilets)

To improve camera effectiveness:

Avoid overlaps and blind spots
Use physical or digital privacy zones to restrict coverage of neighboring premises
Adjust angles to maximize safety coverage while minimizing unnecessary surveillance

If camera relocation is needed during the project (e.g., due to scaffolding setup or structure changes), ensure ongoing coverage is maintained during transitions.

Mitigating Constraints: Power, Space, and Privacy

In certain scenarios, installing a VSS may be logistically challenging. Common constraints include:

Limited power supply at remote or early-phase construction zones
Space restrictions that prevent proper mounting
Client concerns over privacy or security (e.g., sensitive facility works)

To address these, companies should:

Use portable or battery-powered VSS with rechargeable packs or solar support
Consider wearable cameras for supplemental coverage (though not a full replacement)
Work with VSS vendors to find creative mounting solutions (e.g., crane-mounted cameras)
Ensure all exceptions are formally documented with justification and approval

For example, if a confined space cannot support safe VSS deployment due to flammable gases, this must be noted in site safety records and shared with inspectors if required.

Documentation and Accountability

All decisions regarding VSS implementation, relocation, or omission should be:

Supported by formal documentation (emails, memos, RA records)
Reviewed by competent personnel
Made available on-site during MOM inspections

Failure to adequately document these decisions may result in non-compliance penalties, even if practical challenges exist.

5. Technical Setup: Camera Types, Specifications & Area Coverage

An effective Video Surveillance System (VSS) begins with selecting the correct camera types, ensuring the system meets regulatory requirements, and placing cameras strategically to cover all required high-risk areas. This section outlines the essential hardware considerations, mandatory specifications, and practical coverage guidelines for Singapore construction sites.

Camera Types: Dome, Bullet, and Portable Cameras

Dome Cameras

Circular and compact design, commonly used in indoor environments.
Offers a discreet appearance; the direction the camera is pointing is not easily identifiable.
Tamper-resistant due to its protective dome casing.
Suitable for sheltered or indoor spaces where unobtrusive monitoring is preferred.

Bullet Cameras

Cylindrical in shape and more prominent in appearance.
Acts as a visual deterrent and can accommodate larger lenses for long-range coverage.
Built-in hood protects against weather conditions and glare.
Ideal for outdoor surveillance of open construction zones and perimeter monitoring.

Wearable or Portable Cameras

Includes helmet-mounted and body-worn cameras.
Provides a close-up view of specific tasks or restricted access areas such as confined spaces.
Serves as a supplementary tool, not a replacement for fixed cameras.
Portability makes them useful in remote or transitional work areas where fixed camera installation is not feasible.

Mandatory Camera Specifications

To comply with the WSH (General Provisions) (Amendment No. 2) Regulations 2024, all VSS deployments must meet the following minimum specifications:

Minimum video resolution of 1080p HD (1920 x 1080 pixels).
Minimum video frame rate of 12 frames per second.
All recordings must be time-stamped and date-stamped with a camera identification code.
Video files must be exportable in common formats such as .avi or .mp4.
Recordings must not be materially obstructed by overlay information (e.g., timestamps or camera IDs).

Additional recommended features include:

Night vision capability, especially for worksites with night shifts or poorly lit areas.
Pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) functionality for broader area coverage and flexibility.
Weather-resistant and dust-proof casings for outdoor use.
Integration with video analytics or AI for enhanced monitoring (optional, not mandatory).

Coverage Requirements for High-Risk Zones

The law does not require full site-wide surveillance. Instead, cameras must monitor specific high-risk zones outlined in the Third Schedule of the WSH Regulations. These include:

Every area or floor under construction where:
- Work at height is carried out and the fall distance exceeds 2 metres.
- Scaffolding or formwork erection, dismantling, or maintenance is occurring.
- Excavation or shoring activities are ongoing.
Areas where lifting operations are performed or lifting equipment (e.g., cranes, gondolas, MEWPs) is in use.
Zones with active use of industrial trucks, such as forklifts, excavators, or steam rollers.
Locations with vehicular traffic that poses danger to workers.
Loading and unloading areas.
Confined spaces where work is carried out, if VSS installation is safe and practical.

Important placement guidelines:

Cameras should be mounted at high vantage points with a clear line of sight.
Avoid blind spots and ensure critical activities are not obscured by temporary structures.
Position cameras to prevent unintended recording of neighbouring premises using physical or digital privacy controls.

Placement Strategy and Camera Management

Select camera locations based on a thorough risk assessment and layout of site activities.
Mix fixed and portable systems to maintain flexibility as the project progresses.
Ensure each camera is clearly labelled in the Video Management System (VMS) for easy footage retrieval.
Plan for relocation during phased construction without disrupting ongoing surveillance coverage.
Verify that all camera timestamps are synchronised from a central source to ensure consistency in recordings.

Recommended VSS Vendors in Singapore

While the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) does not endorse specific vendors, construction companies are advised to engage experienced providers familiar with WSH regulatory requirements and site conditions. The following vendors are active in Singapore and offer solutions ranging from basic CCTV to AI-powered construction surveillance:

Vendor Name	Website	Key Capabilities
ST Engineering Electronics	stengg.com	Large-scale surveillance, government infrastructure, analytics-ready systems
Certis Cisco	certisgroup.com	Integrated security and monitoring services for construction and industrial sectors
SafeT Solutions	safet.sg	SME-focused VSS systems, PSG-eligible AI packages
iHub Solutions	ihubsolutions.com	Smart monitoring, logistics-integrated surveillance
Trakomatic	trakomatic.com	AI-driven analytics, people flow monitoring, smart zone alerts
Telematics Wireless	telematics-wireless.com	Wireless and solar-powered VSS ideal for remote and temporary setups
Security & Risk Solutions (SRS)	srs.sg	Custom surveillance, PDPA-compliant deployments, risk advisory
Advance Micro Control	advance-micro.com	Industrial VSS design, ruggedised equipment for harsh environments
JRComm Technologies	jrcommtech.com.sg	IP camera systems, NVR/cloud solutions, scalable for large projects
Frontline Security	frontline-security.com.sg	Construction-grade CCTV and site security integration
V3 Smart Technologies	v3smarttech.com	VSS integrated with IoT and environmental sensors
Eukles Solutions	eukles.com	Video analytics with automated safety alerting features
Oneberry Technologies	oneberry.com	Mobile surveillance towers, smart detection with redaction features
Ricoh Singapore	ricoh.com.sg	Corporate and industrial-grade video surveillance with remote access tools

Tip: Eligible SMEs should explore the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) under GoBusiness Singapore to subsidise AI-enabled VSS packages.

6. Power Supply, Transmission & Storage Best Practices

An effective Video Surveillance System (VSS) must operate reliably across all conditions—from the early construction phase where infrastructure is minimal, to fully developed sites. This section outlines how to ensure continuous system operation, secure data transmission, and proper video storage to meet both regulatory requirements and practical site needs.

Power Supply Options for Construction Sites

At construction worksites, power availability varies based on the development stage and site configuration. Companies must evaluate whether fixed power sources are accessible at each VSS deployment point and consider alternatives where necessary.

Common VSS power options:

Direct power connection: Suitable for built-up or indoor areas with established electrical infrastructure.
Rechargeable battery packs: Required in early-stage or remote areas where power access is limited. Batteries should be high-capacity, non-flammable, and safe for continuous use.
Solar power systems: Can supplement battery use during daytime operations. Particularly useful for open outdoor zones or temporary camera setups.
Vehicle- or equipment-mounted VSS: Drawing power from tower cranes, site vehicles, or mobile units to monitor specific activities.

To ensure operational continuity:

Install an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to mitigate risks of power failure.
For portable systems, implement a rotation and charging strategy to avoid downtime due to battery depletion.

Video Transmission Methods

VSS systems transmit data from cameras to recording devices or cloud servers. Selection of the transmission method should be based on network availability, site security requirements, and scalability.

Transmission options:

Wired (Ethernet): Preferred for stable, high-quality video streams and secure networks. Suitable for static cameras in fixed locations.
Wireless (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, SIM/4G/5G): Useful in dynamic worksites or temporary setups. Allows for flexible deployment but may require signal boosters or data encryption for stability and security.

Regardless of the method, ensure that transmission channels are secured with access controls and encryption protocols to prevent unauthorised access or tampering.

Video Storage and Retention Guidelines

Construction surveillance footage may be large in volume and must be managed systematically. Data storage solutions should balance retention needs, ease of access, and cybersecurity.

Recommended storage options:

Local storage: SD cards, USB drives, or network video recorders (NVRs). Best for small sites or backup redundancy.
Network-based drives (NAS): Suitable for multi-camera systems with centralised control.
Cloud storage: Offers scalability, remote access, and disaster recovery. Recommended for large-scale or distributed sites.

Regulatory storage requirements (as per WSH VSS FAQs and guide):

Store all footage for at least 30 days from the date of recording.
In the event of a reportable WSH incident, footage must be retained for a minimum of 180 days and must not be overwritten or deleted.
All recordings must:
- Include camera ID, location, date, and time stamp.
- Be unaltered and traceable.
- Be exportable in open or common multimedia formats (e.g., .avi, .mp4).

To ensure footage remains useful:

Synchronise the date and time across all cameras from a single authoritative source.
Enable real-time footage export for incident response, training, or audits.

Backup, Export, and Data Security

To prevent data loss, ensure the VSS includes:

Backup capabilities, such as redundant storage or scheduled auto-backups.
Export functions to external devices (e.g., portable hard drives, thumb drives) without loss of metadata.
Access controls restricting footage retrieval to authorised personnel only.
Cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, encrypted transmission, and role-based access, particularly for internet-connected systems.

Companies are advised to follow cybersecurity guidelines from the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and the Singapore Police Force’s standards on IP surveillance systems to safeguard internet-enabled VSS against remote breaches.

A well-powered, securely transmitted, and properly stored VSS forms the backbone of a compliant and reliable construction site surveillance system. It ensures that real-time data is actionable, archived data is retrievable, and operations continue uninterrupted.

7. System Operation: Viewing, Access, and Monitoring Practices

Once a Video Surveillance System (VSS) is installed and operational, the next critical step is establishing proper viewing protocols, access controls, and monitoring routines. These ensure that the system not only complies with regulatory expectations but also becomes an integrated part of the site's safety management framework.

Video Management System (VMS) Software

The backbone of VSS operation lies in the Video Management System (VMS)—the software interface that allows users to monitor, review, store, and manage footage.

Key functions of a good VMS include:

Live feed monitoring from multiple cameras.
Playback and search by date, time, or event.
Camera control (e.g., pan-tilt-zoom for supported units).
Footage tagging for training or incident records.
Export options to external storage devices.

A properly configured VMS helps project managers, WSH officers, and safety coordinators stay informed in real-time and enables swift response to unsafe conditions or events.

Access Management and Accountability

Controlling who can view, edit, or export VSS footage is a legal and operational necessity.

Access control best practices:

Restrict system access to authorised personnel only (e.g., project managers, WSH officers).
Use role-based permissions to limit functions like footage deletion or configuration changes.
Implement audit trails that log who accessed the system and when.

This helps safeguard footage from unauthorised tampering and ensures compliance with the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), especially if personal data (e.g., identifiable worker activity) is recorded.

Real-Time Monitoring and Surveillance Routines

While continuous live monitoring is not legally required, it is highly recommended for high-risk zones such as:

Lifting operations
Work-at-height activities
Excavation and shoring
Confined space entry

Real-time monitoring enables:

Early detection of unsafe behaviours
Immediate corrective action via onsite communication
Verification of procedural compliance (e.g., PPE use, access control)

For large or multi-level sites, VSS provides critical visibility across zones that are not easily supervised in person.

Use of Footage for Incident Review and Training

VSS recordings serve not only as evidence for post-incident investigations but also as educational content to improve workplace safety awareness.

Applications include:

Self-investigation of near-misses or reportable incidents.
Toolbox briefings using actual video clips to highlight good practices or lapses.
Training sessions for new workers, demonstrating site-specific risks.
Internal WSH audits, showing how hazards were identified and addressed.

By leveraging real footage, companies make safety messages more relatable and grounded in actual worksite conditions.

Review and Integration with Safety Management Systems

To maximise the value of VSS, companies should:

Regularly review footage from different locations, even in the absence of incidents.
Include VSS reviews as part of regular safety committee meetings.
Integrate VSS observations with risk registers and Safe Work Procedures (SWPs).
Maintain a system log of actions taken in response to observed safety lapses.

This ensures the VSS is not merely a passive recording tool but an active component of the overall WSH strategy.

Proper use of a VSS goes beyond installation—it depends on robust monitoring, disciplined access control, and ongoing integration into site safety operations. When used effectively, the VSS becomes a force multiplier for both compliance and prevention

8. Operational Excellence: Lighting, Signages, Training & Cybersecurity

Beyond the physical setup of cameras and software, achieving full value from a Video Surveillance System (VSS) requires comprehensive operational support. This includes ensuring proper lighting for image clarity, informing stakeholders about surveillance, training personnel, and protecting the system against cyber threats.

Lighting: Ensuring Clear and Effective Monitoring

Adequate lighting is a foundational requirement for all camera-monitored zones. Poorly lit areas compromise video clarity, reduce the usefulness of footage for investigations, and may cause surveillance blind spots.

Best practices for lighting:

Install dedicated lighting where ambient conditions are insufficient.
Use infrared-capable cameras for night vision if lighting installation is impractical.
Ensure light sources do not create glare or shadows that obstruct key views.
Regularly maintain lighting fixtures to avoid dimming or failure.

Lighting should be assessed during the risk assessment phase and incorporated into the site’s surveillance plan.

Signages: Informing Stakeholders About Surveillance

To comply with data protection laws and ethical workplace practices, clear signages must be displayed to inform all persons that surveillance is in operation.

Signage requirements:

Install at all site entry points and in proximity to monitored areas.
Use clear, legible text in multiple languages if needed.
Indicate the purpose of the VSS (e.g., safety monitoring, incident prevention).
Regularly inspect signs to ensure visibility and legibility throughout the project duration.

Visible signs also reinforce the deterrent effect of the VSS, reminding workers and visitors that safety behaviours are being observed.

Training VSS Operators and Safety Personnel

Even the most advanced VSS will underperform if operators are untrained or unclear on their responsibilities.

Training components should include:

How to operate and monitor the system through the VMS.
What types of unsafe behaviours or conditions to look for.
Procedures for responding to incidents or lapses captured on video.
How to export and archive footage for investigations or audits.

Establish a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for VSS usage and conduct periodic refresher training to keep staff updated.

It is also recommended to include scenario-based exercises using past site footage to enhance hazard recognition and decision-making.

Cybersecurity: Protecting VSS from Digital Threats

As many VSS are now connected to networks or cloud systems, they are vulnerable to unauthorised access or cyberattacks. Securing the system is essential to prevent data breaches, remote disabling, or footage tampering.

Cybersecurity measures include:

Use of firewalled networks for all internet-enabled VSS devices.
Encryption of data during transmission and storage.
Regular software updates and patch management for all system components.
Restricting access via strong authentication protocols and user role management.
Logging all system access and configuration changes for audit purposes.

For additional guidance, refer to:

Engaging a cybersecurity consultant or VSS provider with expertise in secure deployments is strongly recommended for high-risk or complex sites.

By addressing these operational elements—lighting, signages, training, and cybersecurity—companies reinforce the functionality, reliability, and legal defensibility of their VSS. These measures ensure the system not only works as intended but becomes an integrated, trusted part of site safety culture.

9. Maintenance Matters: Keeping the System Running Smoothly

A Video Surveillance System (VSS) is only effective if it remains operational, accurate, and well-maintained throughout the construction lifecycle. Failure to service the system can result in loss of footage, blind spots, or regulatory non-compliance during critical periods. This section outlines the importance of both preventive and reactive maintenance practices to ensure the system continues to deliver value.

Preventive Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is essential to ensure that the system operates as designed and to minimise downtime due to unexpected failures.

Core preventive maintenance tasks include:

Regular inspections of cameras for physical damage, obstruction, or misalignment.
Cleaning of lenses to remove dust, moisture, or construction debris that can degrade image quality.
Verifying timestamps and camera identifiers are accurate and synchronised.
Testing power supplies, battery levels, and solar backup components.
Checking video recording and export functions on the VMS to ensure footage is saved properly.

These tasks should be documented in a maintenance schedule and carried out at fixed intervals (e.g., bi-weekly or monthly), depending on site conditions.

Reactive Maintenance and System Repairs

Despite best efforts, system components can fail due to environmental exposure, hardware aging, or accidental damage. Having a plan in place for immediate rectification is critical to avoid surveillance gaps.

Recommended reactive maintenance actions:

Replace damaged or non-functioning cameras as soon as possible to maintain mandatory coverage.
Respond to connectivity issues (e.g., Wi-Fi dropouts, cable faults) that interrupt video streaming or recording.
Maintain a list of spare components and consumables (e.g., mounting brackets, batteries, SD cards) for quick replacement.
Ensure system logs are reviewed to detect hidden faults (e.g., low storage space, recording interruptions).

All breakdown-related interventions should be logged, and corrective actions tracked for transparency and audit readiness.

Contractor and Vendor Coordination

Whether your VSS is managed internally or maintained through an external vendor, clear service level agreements (SLAs) and response protocols must be established. These should include:

Response times for urgent camera or system failures.
Procedures for onsite diagnostics, replacement, or updates.
Clear communication between site personnel and vendor technicians.
Maintenance logs that are shared and accessible to WSH officers or project managers.

Vendors should also be aligned with WSH expectations for compliance—including camera resolution, retention periods, and footage integrity.

Continuous Improvement and System Upgrades

As your project progresses and site conditions change, your VSS setup may need to evolve. Maintenance processes should be accompanied by periodic reviews to assess:

Whether current camera positions still provide full coverage.
If upgrades are needed to add night vision, higher resolution, or wider angles.
If additional zones now qualify as high-risk and require surveillance.
Opportunities to integrate new features, such as AI video analytics or mobile monitoring dashboards.

Treat the VSS not as a static installation, but as a living system that adapts to the dynamic environment of a construction site.

Routine care and swift issue resolution are essential to maintain the credibility, functionality, and regulatory compliance of your VSS. A well-maintained system ensures that construction firms are not only meeting legal requirements but also protecting their workforce with dependable, high-performance safety technology.

10. Conclusion: Making VSS a Core Part of Your WSH Strategy

The implementation of Video Surveillance Systems (VSS) in Singapore’s construction industry is no longer optional for many projects—it is a regulatory requirement, a safety enabler, and a strategic investment in risk management.

With effect from 1 June 2024, the Ministry of Manpower mandates the use of VSS for construction worksites with contract values of $5 million and above, focusing on specific high-risk zones. Compliance with this requirement is not just a legal obligation—it represents an opportunity for companies to improve real-time visibility, promote safer behaviours, and strengthen incident prevention mechanisms across dynamic and complex sites.

However, to truly maximise the benefits of VSS, construction companies must go beyond minimal compliance. A VSS should be:

Well-planned, through risk assessments and strategic camera placements.
Technically compliant, meeting required resolution, frame rate, and coverage specifications.
Operationally integrated, with trained personnel monitoring, reviewing, and acting on footage insights.
Secure, through robust access controls, cyber hygiene, and PDPA compliance.
Continuously maintained, ensuring reliability from installation to project completion.

When used effectively, VSS contributes to a culture of proactive safety and transparency. It supports not only hazard identification and intervention but also education, accountability, and data-informed decision-making.

For contractors, developers, and WSH professionals, investing in a robust, well-managed VSS is an essential part of delivering safe, compliant, and productive worksites. It should be seen not as a cost of compliance, but as a critical safety asset and a foundation for modern, technology-driven WSH leadership.