Walking side by side

From procurement policies down to site practices, a developer's actions set the tone for how safety is enforced across the construction chain

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Donning hard hats and safety vests, senior management of City Developments Limited (CDL) visited the Norwood Grand construction site in Woodlands in June.

For CDL, these “Gemba Walks” are more than symbolic. The term comes from the Japanese principle of genchi genbutsu — which means “go and see” — and encourages leaders to leave their offices and observe issues directly on the ground.

In 2024, CDL’s senior management conducted over 27 such visits across Singapore, engaging face to face with 1,200 project staff, from crane operators to site supervisors.

This boots-on-the-ground approach has helped CDL clinch the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Developer Awards for the 13th time this year, reinforcing its reputation as a safety leader in the built environment sector.

"This award reflects not only CDL’s commitment, but also the collective effort of our partners, contractors and workforce," says Mr Sherman Kwek, CDL's group chief executive officer.

"It also signals a broader industry shift where prioritising well-being drives quality, trust and long-term resilience.”

CDL is among Singapore’s largest developers, with projects spanning housing, offices, hotels, serviced apartments, student accommodation and integrated developments across 168 locations in 29 countries. Listed on the Singapore Exchange, its influence extends beyond Singapore’s shores.