Use of Seat Belts and Other Measures for Safety of Personnel Seated at Back of SAF Tonners

79 Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for Defence (a) when did the SAF introduce the use of seat belts for personnel seated at the back of the tonners; (b) what other safety measures are in place for personnel seated at the back of the tonners; and (c) what led to the SAF making these safety improvements.

Dr Ng Eng Hen: Since 2011, all SAF tonners have been equipped with safety lap belts for passengers seated at the rear.

Other safety measures introduced since 1985 include protective side boards, railings, and canopies, while rear safety straps were introduced in 2000 for the vehicles. Limits have also been imposed on seating capacity and vehicular speed. SAF’s transport operators are trained and entrusted to enforce safety measures, and accorded the right to halt the vehicle, in a safe manner, if needed.

The SAF periodically reviews and update safety measures in training and operations.