Penang Bridge collapse: Contractor had not registered workers with CIDB

The initial investigation carried out by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) has found that the contractor involved in building the ramp leading to the second Penang Bridge, which collapsed last Thursday, had not registered some of its workers with CIDB.

Penang CIDB director Ir Raslim Salleh said they also found that the contract workers involved in the project did not even had the certificate and accreditation from the board, or better known as the CIDB Green Card.

"Based on our records and initial investigation, the contract workers did not have the green cards and we will not hesitate to take action against them. The main contractor, however, is registered with us.

"We are in the midst of investigating further as the government has also ordered an in depth investigation to be carried out. A special investigation body will also be set up for the purpose," he told reporters here.

Three people were injured, including two foreign workers, while one life was lost after the ramp to the Second Penang Bridge in Batu Maung collapsed in the incident which occurred a 6.40pm last Thursday.

Earlier, Raslim joined 80 enforcement officers from several agencies in an integrated enforcement operation at construction sites around Kepala Batas here today.

Among the agencies involved were the Penang Immigration Department, Health Department, Seberang Perai Municipal Council and RELA.

Raslim said the operation would be carried out periodically involving more agencies to improve awareness among employers and employees about the importance of safety aspects and high-quality structures at their project sites.

He said during the operation, the CIDB would also focus on getting contractors involved in construction projects to register with the board and adhere to all regulations concerning the construction industry.