Progressive Wage Model (PWM)

Attractive wages and career progression for locals

The Progressive Wage Model (PWM) for lift and escalator firms in Singapore ensures fair wages and structured career progression for local lift maintenance workers. It provides clear pathways for skill development and wage growth.

This model is designed to help attract, develop, and retain talent in the industry as the demand for lifts increases with the growing number of high-rise buildings in the Built Environment sector.

Mandatory compliance for Progressive Wage Model

Compliance with the Progressive Wage Model is mandatory for all firms registered under BCA’s RW02B and RW03B workheads. Each firm must meet the minimum monthly wage and annual bonus requirements for their workers. Proper documentation, including detailed pay slips and a Progressive Wage Plan, must be submitted for approval.

More information on compliance requirements can be found in the Progressive Wage Model Order [PDF, 852 KB]. 

Government support and industry collaboration for Progressive Wage Model

The PWM is backed by the government and shaped through collaboration with unions, industry associations, and training institutes. 

The government shows its support for PWM via three main thrusts: 

1. Progressive Wage Model (PWM) for locals

2. A structured training & certification framework

3. Supporting career progression

1. Progressive Wage Model (PWM) for locals

The PWM aims to raise wages in the lift and escalator sector by promoting skills upgrading, better job roles, and productivity gains. All registered lift companies are now required to implement the PWM.

Please refer to the Progressive Wage Model Order [PDF, 852 KB]  for the basic minimum wage payable to employees from 1 July 2025 through to 1 July 2028.

2. A structured training & certification framework

BCA and the Institute of Technical Education have developed training, assessments, and certifications aligned with the L&E STC’s competency framework. This will help assess workers’ skills, support career advancement into technical or managerial roles, and enable lift technicians to progress within the PWM.

3. Supporting career progression

Industry firms can enroll technicians aspiring towards higher academic qualifications in the Work-Study Diploma in Vertical Transportation (WSDip (VT)) by ITE. This diploma will equip them with essential skills for lift inspection, maintenance, and diagnostics. 

This programme helps technicians upskill, prepares them for Principal Specialist roles, and supports career progression within the PWM framework. Graduates are recognised as “T” technical personnel for BCA registration.

Annual Progressive Wage Model declaration

Starting 2025, annual PWM declarations must be submitted through the LEAP system. This ensures ongoing compliance and transparency.