Government focuses on empowering employers to assess and manage risks related to extreme weather events
Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has acknowledged the challenges in setting blanket rules for when companies should halt work during extreme weather conditions. Senior Minister of State for Manpower, Zaqy Mohamad, shared this stance in Parliament on October 16 in response to questions regarding workplace safety during erratic weather.
Challenges in Regulating Work During Extreme Weather
Mr. Zaqy explained that due to the varied effects that weather conditions can have on different types of worksites, it is not feasible to establish uniform guidelines for when work should be stopped. He emphasized that construction sites, for example, operate differently depending on the nature of the work—whether it involves heavy machinery or physical labor—which means that safety measures should be tailored to each scenario.
The extreme weather in 2024, such as thundery showers, strong winds, and record-high temperatures, highlights the need for a flexible, site-specific approach to safety.
Empowering Employers for Risk Management
Rather than imposing a standard rule for work stoppages, MOM places the responsibility on employers and site occupiers to conduct proper risk assessments and implement appropriate safety measures. Mr. Zaqy highlighted that safety guidelines must be adhered to, particularly during adverse weather events.
MOM has committed to studying the long-term effects of erratic weather on worker safety and will consider whether updated protocols or further actions are needed based on scientific evidence.
Collaboration with Industry Groups
In response to questions about preparing for the increasing frequency of extreme weather, Mr. Zaqy assured that MOM collaborates with the Workplace Safety and Health Council and trade associations to help employers and workers assess best practices for adverse weather conditions. Additionally, he noted the importance of ongoing reminders on heat stress management and weather-related hazards, though he acknowledged the difficulty in applying a one-size-fits-all approach given the variability in local weather conditions.
