The Ministry of National Development (MND) is testing out using drones for this, as announced by Senior Minister of State Sun Xueling. She said the trial happened at Blk 271D, likely in Punggol Walk.
Why Use Drones?
Cleaning high-up places like ledges needs workers in gondolas or on ropes, which can be dangerous. Drones offer a much safer option because the workers can stay on the ground while the drones do the cleaning. This is also more efficient, as the drones can reach hard-to-get-to spots more easily.
Ms. Sun mentioned in her Facebook post that since she joined the MND in June, she’s been looking for ways to use technology to make work safer. She wrote, “This morning, we are testing out using drones to wash high-rise ledges. This involves various steps involving the use of water pressure and dissolvents.”
The use of drones for cleaning is already a thing in Singapore, with some companies offering services for cleaning windows and building exteriors. Experts say that drones can help lower the risks that come with using things like scaffolds and gondolas. Plus, the technology can be more cost-effective and allow for more focused cleaning.
Privacy and Other Concerns
To handle this, residents at the trial location were told about the cleaning ahead of time on Monday. They were also told to close their windows or curtains if they wanted to, to protect their privacy during the operation.
Ms. Sun added that before they decide to use this technology more widely, they’ll need to look at a few things. She said she would “look at the results of the cleaning, resident feedback, and also cost of deploying such technology before proceeding further.”
