Construction sites are dynamic, high-risk environments where safety and wellbeing cannot be left to chance. Recent statistics from Singapore, Hong Kong, and India show that despite improvements, the industry continues to face serious challenges – from fatal accidents and major injuries to high levels of work-related stress and burnout.
At Unispace, we care deeply about the physical and mental health of our employees and project partners. This commitment is why strict adherence to our global Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is essential – not only to meet regulatory requirements, but to create a consistent, safe, and supportive working environment across all regions. Christopher Anthoni, Health & Safety Officer for Southeast Asia, and Govind Malgonda, Assistant Manager HSEQ for India, shared valuable insights on how strong systems, respect for local traditions, and proactive wellbeing practices come together to protect our people and strengthen a culture of care.
Standard Operating Procedures form the backbone of a safe and healthy site. They provide clear and consistent work instructions that:
Key elements of effective SOP implementation include:
Risk Assessments and Safe Work Procedures
Standardised formats and structured reviews ensure hazards are properly identified, control measures are adequate, and legal, client, and Unispace requirements are met. When hazards are clearly understood, unsafe assumptions are reduced and work can be carried out with greater confidence.
Permit-to-Work (PTW) Systems
For high-risk activities such as hot work, electrical work, work at height, and confined spaces, PTW provides a formal authorisation process that verifies risks, controls, and competencies before work begins.
Inspections and Audits
Regular site inspections and audits, supported by checklists, observations, and worker interviews, help identify unsafe acts, verify control measures, and drive continuous improvement in safety performance.
Emergency Response Preparedness
Well-defined emergency procedures, trained first aiders, fire-fighting equipment, and regular drills ensure prompt and coordinated responses that protect lives and minimise damage.
Across Southeast Asia and India, these SOPs are aligned with Unispace’s global HSEQ standards and local statutory requirements, ensuring both regulatory compliance and consistent safety expectations.
Wellbeing is not only about procedures, but also about understanding and respecting local context.
Pre-Construction
Activities include safety planning, review of risk assessments and method statements, PTW preparation, site induction, emergency briefings, and installation of safety signage and access controls.
In India, it is customary to conduct a Bhoomi Puja or Vastu Puja before construction or major refurbishment works. This ceremony seeks blessings for safety, smooth execution, and successful project delivery, while being carried out under strict safety controls.
During Construction
Daily toolbox talks, HSE meetings, site inspections, safety campaigns, and good housekeeping practices help maintain high safety standards and support workforce wellbeing. Continuous onboarding ensures that new workers and visitors understand site rules and expectations.
Post-Construction
Final safety inspections, permit closures, and HSE post-mortem reviews are conducted to confirm that all hazards have been addressed and lessons learned are captured. In India, a post-construction office puja and ribbon-cutting ceremony often mark project completion and handover.
Physical safety measures such as appropriate PPE, ergonomic tools, mechanical aids, clean drinking water, hygienic facilities, proper lighting, ventilation, and good housekeeping remain fundamental.
Equally important is mental and emotional wellbeing. Construction workers, particularly migrant workers, may face additional stressors including job insecurity, recruitment debt, separation from family, and social isolation.
Practical on-site initiatives include:
On-site wellbeing is built on the combined strength of systems, culture, and people.
By consistently applying global SOPs, respecting local practices, and genuinely caring for both the physical and mental health of our people, Unispace continues to foster safer sites, stronger teams, and a sustainable culture of wellbeing.