DEATH FROM FALLS FROM HDB FLATS WHILE HANGING CLOTHES

Mr Chiam See Tong asked the Acting Minister for National Development how many persons fell to their deaths while hanging out their washing to dry in Housing and Development Board flats each year from 1983 to 1993 and what measures have been taken to prevent such accidents.

Mr Lim Hng Kiang: HDB does not keep records of such incidents. However, it is aware that there were a few cases where people fell from their flats while hanging clothes.

The clothes drying sockets provided in HDB flats for residents to hang out their washing comply with building regulations. They are, therefore, safe for use. However, residents who are smaller in stature, or who are frail, should exercise caution while hanging out their washing. For example, they should not hang out heavy items like bed-sheets while standing on unstable stools, or lean too far out beyond the parapet.

Residents generally prefer to dry their clothes using the present system, as it is more convenient and economical. A pilot project undertaken by HDB to get residents to dry their washing at their service balcony was not well received. Despite this, HDB will continue to examine other feasible means for residents to hang out their washing.