Construction projects in Singapore have grown in scale over time with larger buildings often involving specialist works such as complex facades, deep excavations and long-span composite structures. BCA has also observed greater adoption of more sophisticated methods of construction such as Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) and Advanced Precast Concrete System (APCS). Such works require a broad range of specialised competencies and coordination among multiple parties.
As such, BCA will enhance the regulatory regime to require the appointment of (i) a BCA-licensed firm; and (ii) individual professionals employed by the BCA-licensed firms for supervision of structural works with project value exceeding $75 million.
Benefits of the Firm-Based Regime
The firm-based regime will offer the following benefits:
- Ensuring continued compliance to safety standards. Licensing a firm ensures access to a broad range of specialised knowledge and experience to supervise or certify complex projects and equipment. The public will consequently benefit from safer and higher-quality buildings.
- Enhancing coordination and service quality. A firm can implement proper governance and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to guide collaboration and coordination among employees across different projects. Additionally, firms will be able to centralise its resources to invest in advanced technologies and establish robust knowledge management systems leading to more consistent and efficient service delivery for service buyers.
- Training and developing the next generation. A firm with a long-term perspective may actively attract and develop talent to succeed ageing professionals. This facilitates both the institutionalisation of knowledge and retention of engineering talent in the built environment sector.
Transition Towards Firm-Based Regime
To support the shift towards the firm-based regime, BCA is currently working with SAC to establish the technical and competency requirements for Site Supervision Firm (SSF).
BCA will provide a transition period before mandating firm-based regime in 2028 to: (i) support forerunning SSFs by facilitating their accreditation through the SAC; and (ii) continue engaging firms to provide support on meeting the licensing requirements. Developers and Builders are strongly encouraged to engage accredited firms for the applicable scope of works ahead of the legislative amendments.