SINGAPORE - A shocking video that surfaced on social media has sent waves of concern among Singaporeans after it depicted a domestic worker precariously cleaning a service balcony on the 17th floor of a high-rise building. The footage, initially shared on March 8, quickly garnered attention due to the apparent dangers involved in the cleaning process.

The caption accompanying the video revealed: "The neighbor next door… My boss often sees them, too. Sometimes, they even climb onto a chair to clean their window. My boss says it’s so dangerous—what if they fall?" Numerous viewers echoed these concerns, emphasizing the risks that workers face while performing such potentially hazardous tasks.

In the clip, the domestic helper is seen crouched on the service balcony, scrubbing the floor diligently. The individual who posted the video further elaborated in the comments about their past experience with previous helpers, explaining, "This is the third maid. The previous two were Indonesian, so I could communicate with them and suggest they stay safe. I even discreetly gave them food since they weren’t eating enough. This new helper is from Myanmar, and the language barrier complicates things. I’ve lived here for years, and my employer has never required me to clean the outside like this."

Many viewers expressed their disdain for what they deemed reckless practices by employers. One commenter shared a personal story, stating, "Even when my grandma asked me to clean the outside of the window, I refused. It’s too dangerous, and I value my life more than any pay." Another maid echoed a similar sentiment, sharing, "I have a contract that clearly states I'm only responsible for cleaning the inside of windows. If I step outside, I could face penalties."

This alarming incident highlights a broader issue regarding domestic workers' safety and their treatment in Singapore. It follows previous incidents, such as a widely circulated photo from December 2024, showcasing another domestic worker on a balcony railing while hanging laundry, prompting discussions about the risks and expectations placed on these helpers.

Comments from viewers revealed a growing frustration with such dangerous employer demands, prompting questions like, "Why is it necessary to perform such risky tasks? Would the employer put themselves in the same situation?" The outcry emphasizes the call for better protections and regulations to ensure the well-being of domestic workers, who often face precarious work conditions.

As society reflects on these troubling narratives, it raises critical questions about the responsibilities of employers and the safeguards necessary to protect vulnerable workers. Is it time for changes in the law to mitigate these risks? Singaporeans are eager for answers and accountability.