9 April 2025
On 4 April 2025, the Ministry for Manpower (“MOM”) announced the introduction of a new set of guidelines that provide recommendations for managing workplace safety risks during strong winds, floods, lightning, heat stress, and haze (“Guidelines”). The Guidelines, issued by MOM and the Workplace Safety and Health Council (“WSH Council”), enable employers to run their operations safely with reduced downtime.
The Guidelines provide broad-based recommendations and a foundation for employers to build on according to their operational needs, taking into consideration varying operational demands across industries and firm sizes. MOM reports that, in its consultation with the WSH Council’s Construction, Marine, and Chemical Industry Committees, and the Work at Heights Taskforce and Crane and Lifting Taskforce, stakeholders expressed support for the approach taken by the Guidelines, noting that the Guidelines are timely and useful in shaping the right ground practices across industries.
MOM states that employers should evaluate specific weather risks in their workplaces and develop comprehensive response plans. This includes clear communication systems, regular drills, and preparations to secure temporary structures and equipment. Employers should also maintain communication with contractors to ensure their preparedness for adverse weather conditions.
While the Guidelines are not mandatory, employers and workers have obligations under the Workplace Safety and Health Act 2006 to maintain safe workplaces. MOM will conduct checks to ensure the right safety measures are in place to prevent incidents from occurring and cautions that it will not hesitate to take enforcement action against employers and individuals found culpable of safety lapses.
Reference materials
The following materials are available on the MOM website www.mom.gov.sg and WSH Council website www.tal.sg/wshc: