Oral answer by Ministry of National Development on whether the designs of new HDB precincts have taken into account the variability and range of inclement weather

Oct 16, 2024

Question No: 6625

Question by: Dr Tan Wu Meng

To ask the Minister for National Development (a) whether the designs of new HDB precincts have taken into account the variability and range of inclement weather, including heavy rain and strong winds; (b) whether the assessments have considered the prospects and implications of wind-swept rain entering lift shafts and affecting lift equipment; and (c) what rectification measures have been considered by HDB for new precincts where wind-swept rain has raised concerns about lift durability.

Answer:

In Singapore’s tropical climate, strong winds may cause rainwater during a heavy downpour to enter common property that is not completely enclosed. HDB has employed various design strategies over the years to try to mitigate the extent of rainwater splashing into homes and common areas. These considerations are incorporated into HDB’s design requirements to ensure that our precincts are reasonably well protected from the tropical weather, even as we design for natural ventilation and ample lighting.

In view of increasingly volatile weather patterns brought about by climate change, HDB has conducted Wind-Driven Rain (WDR) simulations for all new public housing developments since 2021. Through the WDR simulation, the effects of rain and wind, even in more extreme conditions, are modelled to identify areas prone to rainwater splashing. This allows designers to implement mitigating measures early during the design stage.

HDB adopts design features recommended under BCA’s SS550:2020 standards for lifts such as sloped thresholds at lift doors to reduce the risk of water ingress into the lifts. HDB also installs rain screens and canopies at the lift lobby if these are found to be necessary. These measures are generally adequate to keep rainwater out of the lift area.