Slips Trips and Falls Prevention

Why Slips, Trips, and Falls Prevention is a Top Priority for Singapore Businesses

​In the fast-paced world of business, it's easy to overlook a simple puddle, an untidy wire, or a cluttered walkway. But in Singapore, these seemingly minor hazards are a significant cause of workplace accidents. Beyond the obvious risk to employee well-being, neglecting slips, trips, and falls (STFs) prevention can have severe financial and legal consequences for your business.

​This is not just a matter of good practice; it's a legal and moral obligation that the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) takes very seriously. Let's delve into why every business in Singapore must make STF prevention a top priority.

​The Sobering Statistics from MOM's 2024 Report

​The latest Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) statistics from the Ministry of Manpower paint a clear picture. While Singapore's overall major injury rate saw a welcome improvement in 2024, the fight is far from over.

​According to the  slips, trips, and falls were one of the top causes of major injuries, accounting for a significant portion of all reported workplace incidents. These are not just minor bumps and bruises; they often result in serious, life-altering injuries such as fractures, sprains, and even head trauma.

​The data underscores a critical point: while many high-risk industries like construction and manufacturing are showing improvements, the danger of STFs is universal. It can affect any workplace, from an office pantry to a warehouse floor. This is a risk that knows no industry boundaries, and it demands constant vigilance from all employers and employees.

​The Legal Imperative: What Singapore's Law Demands

​Beyond the moral responsibility to protect your workers, Singapore's legal framework makes STF prevention a non-negotiable requirement. The cornerstone of this is the Workplace Safety and Health Act (WSHA).

​The WSHA places a clear duty on employers and occupiers of workplaces to ensure the safety and health of everyone at work, as far as it is "reasonably practicable." This includes taking proactive steps to control the risk of slips, trips, and falls.

​Specifically, businesses must align with key legal requirements and subsidiary regulations, including:

• ​Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations: This is the foundation of a safe workplace. It mandates that every employer and self-employed person must conduct a comprehensive Risk Assessment for all work activities. This means actively identifying potential STF hazards, evaluating the risks, and implementing control measures to mitigate them. A risk assessment for a simple office might identify wet floors near a water dispenser, while a warehouse assessment would focus on cluttered walkways and uneven surfaces.

• ​WSH (General Provisions) Regulations: These regulations provide specific guidelines on maintaining a safe and healthy environment. This includes ensuring floors, stairs, and passages are kept free of obstructions and are well-maintained. It also covers the provision of proper lighting and clear signage to highlight potential hazards.

• ​WSH (Work at Heights) Regulations: While this might seem separate, many falls are from a height, even a short one. The regulations require employers to ensure that work at height is properly planned, supervised, and carried out safely, with the necessary protective equipment and controls in place.

​Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and even imprisonment. The MOM conducts regular, targeted inspections, and they are quick to take action against companies that do not meet their WSH obligations.

​The Business Case for Prevention

​Investing in STF prevention isn't a cost—it's a strategic investment in your business's future. The benefits are far-reaching:

• ​Reduced Costs: Fewer accidents mean reduced medical leave, lower insurance premiums, and no legal fines or penalties.

• ​Increased Productivity: A safe working environment leads to a more confident and productive workforce. When employees feel safe, they can focus on their tasks without fear of injury.

• ​Enhanced Reputation: A strong safety culture attracts and retains talent. It shows that you are an employer who genuinely cares for your people, building trust and a positive brand image.

​Slips, trips, and falls are not just unfortunate accidents; they are preventable incidents that can be effectively managed through a strong WSH culture. By aligning with MOM's legal requirements and prioritizing a proactive approach to safety, Singaporean businesses can ensure a healthier, safer, and more productive workplace for everyone.

Importance of Employee Mental Health

Don't Just Work, Thrive: Why Your Business Can't Afford to Ignore Employee Mental Health

​In the fast-paced world of business, we often focus on metrics like revenue, market share, and productivity. But what if one of the most powerful drivers of profitability is something you can't find on a balance sheet? The mental well-being of your employees.

​This isn't just about being a "good" employer anymore. It's a strategic imperative. In Singapore, a recent study revealed that local employees have the worst mental health across Southeast Asia, with low levels of engagement and job satisfaction. This isn't just a personal issue; it has a direct, measurable impact on your company's bottom line.

​The Hidden Costs of Neglecting Mental Well-Being

​Ignoring the mental health of your team is like having a leak in your foundation—you might not see the damage right away, but it will eventually compromise the entire structure. Here's how poor mental well-being silently erodes your profitability:

• Decreased Productivity & Presenteeism: Stressed, anxious, or burned-out employees are not at their best. They might be physically present at work, but they lack focus, creativity, and energy. This phenomenon, known as presenteeism, can cost companies more than absenteeism, as employees are less efficient and more prone to errors. Globally, lost productivity from depression and anxiety costs the economy over US$1 trillion every year.
• ​Increased Absenteeism & Turnover: Employees struggling with their mental health are more likely to take sick days, resulting in lost work hours and project delays. More critically, a toxic or unsupportive work environment drives away your best people. High employee turnover means constant recruitment, training, and onboarding costs. It's far more profitable to retain skilled, experienced staff than to constantly replace them. Companies with a strong focus on well-being can see a 25% lower turnover rate.
• Higher Healthcare Costs: Untreated mental health conditions can lead to physical ailments. Employees with mental health issues are more likely to have related physical health problems, which drives up medical claims and insurance premiums for the company. Investing in proactive mental health support can actually reduce overall healthcare costs in the long run.

​The ROI of Investing in Mental Well-Being 

​The good news is that the return on investment (ROI) for mental health programs is significant and proven. A World Health Organization (WHO) study found that for every $1 spent on supporting common mental health issues, there is a $4 return in improved health and productivity.

​Here’s how an investment in your employees’ well-being pays off:

• Improved Productivity & Engagement: When employees feel supported and valued, they are more engaged in their work. Engaged employees are more innovative, more collaborative, and more committed to their roles, leading to a direct boost in productivity.
• Stronger Talent Attraction & Retention: In a competitive job market, companies with a reputation for prioritizing employee well-being stand out. Offering comprehensive mental health benefits helps you attract top talent and, more importantly, keeps them from leaving for greener pastures.
• Enhanced Innovation & Creativity: A psychologically safe environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas without fear of judgment is crucial for innovation. When mental stress is low, cognitive function and problem-solving skills are at their peak.
• Reduced Costs: A healthy workforce leads to a reduction in absenteeism, presenteeism, and healthcare expenses. These savings go directly to your bottom line, proving that caring for your employees isn't an expense—it's a smart business strategy.

​Ultimately, employee mental well-being is not a "soft" issue. It's a foundational component of a resilient, productive, and profitable organization. By investing in your people's health, you're not just doing the right thing; you're building a more sustainable and successful business.

Click to gain access to free resource on Mental Health Toolkit for Employers, An employer’s guide to hiring and supporting persons with mental health conditions in the workplace

Importance of Heat Stress Prevention

As Singapore's climate gets warmer, the risks associated with working in hot environments become more pronounced. Heat stress isn't just about feeling uncomfortable; it's a serious occupational hazard that can lead to debilitating illnesses and, in severe cases, be fatal. For both employers and workers, understanding the dangers and implementing preventive measures is no longer optional—it's a critical part of ensuring workplace safety.

​The Dangers of Heat Stress

​Heat stress occurs when the body's natural cooling mechanisms, like sweating, can't keep up with the heat it's absorbing from the environment and generating from physical activity. When this happens, a cascade of health issues can follow, ranging from mild to life-threatening.

• ​Heat Cramps: The first sign of trouble. These are painful muscle spasms, often in the legs or abdomen, caused by the loss of salt and water through sweat.

• ​Heat Exhaustion: A more severe condition where the body starts to fail at regulating its temperature. Symptoms include heavy sweating, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and a rapid pulse. If left untreated, it can quickly escalate to heatstroke.

• ​Heatstroke: This is a medical emergency. When the body temperature rises to dangerous levels, the body's cooling system shuts down. Symptoms include a high body temperature (above 40°C), confusion, slurred speech, and hot, dry skin (or sometimes, no sweating at all). Heatstroke can cause permanent organ damage and even death.

​Beyond these acute illnesses, prolonged exposure to heat can have long-term health consequences, including damage to the cardiovascular system, kidneys, and other vital organs.

​The Ministry of Manpower's (MOM) Requirements 🧑‍💼

​To combat these risks, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has established a comprehensive framework of measures that employers must adopt to protect their workers, especially those engaged in heavy physical outdoor work. These requirements are based on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), which is a key metric that accounts for air temperature, humidity, air movement, and solar radiation to provide a more accurate assessment of heat stress risk.

​Here are the core requirements and recommended best practices:

• ​Monitoring and Planning: Employers are required to monitor the WBGT hourly, especially during the hottest parts of the day. This data helps them implement appropriate controls and work schedules to mitigate risks.

• ​Acclimatization: Workers who are new to Singapore, returning from prolonged leave, or are new to outdoor work must be given time to gradually adjust to the hot environment. A gradual increase in daily heat exposure over at least seven days is a key part of this process.

• ​Hydration: Staying hydrated is a simple yet powerful defense against heat stress. Employers must provide an adequate supply of cool or cold drinking water near work areas and encourage workers to drink at least 300ml every hour, or more depending on the intensity of the work.

• ​Rest and Shade: Regular breaks in cool, shaded areas are essential for workers to recover. For heavy physical work, a minimum of a 10-minute hourly rest break must be provided when the WBGT reaches 32°C or higher. Longer rest periods are recommended as the WBGT increases.

• ​Emergency Response: Every workplace should have a clear emergency response plan. This includes procedures for identifying signs of heat-related illnesses, providing immediate first aid (such as cooling the worker with water or ice packs), and having a process for reporting illnesses.

• ​Training and Buddy System: Workers and supervisors should be trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stress in themselves and others. Implementing a buddy system is a simple and effective way to ensure workers look out for each other and can provide timely assistance if needed.

• ​Protective Clothing and Equipment: Providing workers with loose-fitting, light-colored, and breathable clothing can significantly help in keeping them cool. Additionally, using fans, air coolers, and other ventilation methods in rest and work areas helps to lower the ambient temperature.

​By diligently following these MOM requirements, employers can create a safer work environment, reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, and ensure that their workforce remains healthy and productive even on the hottest days.

Unmasking the Vaping Haze

 Unmasking the Vaping Haze: What You Need to Know

​Vaping has soared in popularity, especially among younger generations, often marketed as a "safer" alternative to traditional cigarettes. But beneath the alluring flavors and sleek designs lies a growing concern: significant health risks that demand our attention. It's time to cut through the marketing haze and understand what vaping truly does to your body.

​The Hidden Dangers of Vaping

​Many mistakenly believe that e-cigarettes are harmless water vapor. However, they contain a cocktail of chemicals that can have serious short-term and long-term effects.

• ​Nicotine Addiction: The vast majority of e-liquids contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance found in tobacco. Nicotine can harm adolescent brain development, affecting memory, concentration, learning, and impulse control. For adults, it's a powerful stimulant that can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure.

• ​Harmful Chemicals: Beyond nicotine, vapes expose users to various toxic chemicals, including: ​Formaldehyde and Acrolein: These are known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) that can damage DNA. ​Diacetyl: Linked to "popcorn lung," a severe and irreversible lung disease that causes scarring in the tiny air sacs of the lungs. ​Heavy Metals: Traces of metals like lead, nickel, and chromium can be found in the aerosol, originating from the heating coils. Inhaling these metals can have toxic effects on multiple organ systems. ​Ultrafine Particles: These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing inflammation and damage to the cardiovascular system.

• ​Respiratory Issues: Vaping can irritate and damage lung tissue, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Long-term use can contribute to chronic bronchitis and increase the risk of developing lung diseases.

• ​Cardiovascular Strain: Nicotine's impact on the heart is well-documented. Vaping can increase heart rate and blood pressure, putting strain on the cardiovascular system and potentially raising the risk of heart disease and stroke.

• ​Gateway to Smoking: Studies suggest that young people who vape are more likely to transition to conventional cigarette smoking. The addictive nature of nicotine plays a significant role in this progression.

​Singapore's Stance: Strict Regulations Against Vaping

​Recognizing the escalating health risks, the Singaporean government has taken a firm stance against vaping. Their comprehensive regulations aim to protect public health, especially that of its youth.

​Singapore Government Regulations to Prevent Vaping Abuse:

1. ​Prohibition of Vapes and Related Products: ​Complete Ban: It is illegal to import, distribute, sell, or offer for sale e-vaporisers and their components (e.g., e-liquids, cartridges) in Singapore. This includes online sales and personal imports.

2. ​Possession and Use are Illegal: ​Personal Use Ban: As of February 1, 2018, it is also illegal for individuals to possess, purchase, or use e-vaporisers. This means that even if you acquired a vape outside Singapore, it is illegal to bring it into or use it within the country.

3. ​Penalties for Offenders: ​Fines and Imprisonment: Those caught importing, distributing, selling, or offering for sale e-vaporisers can face substantial fines and/or imprisonment. For instance, first-time offenders can be fined up to S$10,000 and/or jailed for up to six months. Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties. ​Possession/Use Penalties: Individuals caught possessing or using e-vaporisers can be fined up to S$500 per item.

4. ​No Exceptions for Tourists or Transit Passengers: ​Universal Application: These laws apply to everyone, including tourists and those transiting through Singapore. Visitors are advised not to bring vapes into the country.

5. ​Public Awareness Campaigns: ​Educational Efforts: The Ministry of Health (MOH) and Health Promotion Board (HPB) conduct ongoing public education campaigns to raise awareness about the harms of vaping and the legal consequences of non-compliance.

6. ​Enforcement: ​Vigilant Authorities: Enforcement is carried out by agencies such as the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) at borders and within the country to detect and deter illegal activities related to vapes.

The appeal of vaping may seem strong, but the scientific evidence clearly points to significant health risks. Singapore's proactive and strict regulations serve as a testament to the serious concerns surrounding e-cigarettes. It's a reminder that true wellness comes from informed choices and prioritizing long-term health over fleeting trends.

Fire Proofing Your Future

Fire-Proofing Your Future: The SCDF's Guide to Battling Blazes from EVs and Cooking

​In a bustling city like Singapore, fire safety is a critical part of our daily lives. While the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) is always on the front lines, a proactive approach from the public is our best defense. Let's explore two common yet distinct fire hazards—Electric Vehicles (EVs) and unattended cooking—and learn how the SCDF's recommendations can keep us all safe.

​The New Age Hazard: Electric Vehicle Fires

​As Singapore embraces a greener future with more EVs on the road, a new type of fire hazard emerges. The unique composition of lithium-ion batteries in EVs presents a different challenge compared to traditional petrol vehicles. When these batteries are damaged or faulty, they can experience a "thermal runaway," an unstoppable chain reaction that generates immense heat and can be difficult to extinguish.

​SCDF's Proactive EV Fire Measures:

​The SCDF has adapted its strategies to this modern challenge, focusing on specialized training, equipment, and public awareness.

• ​Specialised Response: SCDF firefighters are specifically trained to handle EV fires, which require a different approach than conventional car fires. Their primary goal is to cool the battery pack using large volumes of water to prevent the thermal runaway from spreading and to contain the blaze.

• ​Do Not Extinguish: The SCDF's most important advice for the public is do not attempt to extinguish an EV battery fire yourself. This is due to the intense heat, the risk of toxic fumes, and the high chance of re-ignition. Instead, if you see smoke or fire from an EV, the SCDF advises: ​Pull over safely to the side of the road. ​Evacuate immediately, and keep a safe distance of at least 15 meters from the vehicle. ​Call 995 for assistance, providing details like the make, model, and vehicle registration number.

​This hands-off approach for the public ensures that trained professionals with the right equipment can handle the complex situation safely and effectively.

​The Enduring Threat: Unattended Cooking Fires

​Despite the rise of new technologies, the most common cause of residential fires in Singapore remains a classic: unattended cooking. A moment's distraction, a quick errand, or a phone call can turn a peaceful kitchen into a fiery disaster.

​SCDF's Simple, Life-Saving Recommendations for the Kitchen:

​The SCDF emphasizes that the best way to fight these fires is to prevent them from happening in the first place.

• ​The Golden Rule: Never Leave Cooking Unattended. This is the single most important piece of advice. If you must leave the kitchen, even for a moment, turn off the stove or appliance.

• ​Keep a Clear Zone: Maintain a safe distance between your cooking area and flammable materials like paper towels, dishcloths, oven mitts, and curtains.

• ​Know How to Respond to Oil Fires: In the event of a fire in a pot of oil, never use water. Water will cause the burning oil to splatter and spread the fire. The SCDF recommends: ​Turn off the gas supply immediately. ​Cover the pot with a lid or a fire blanket to smother the flames.

• ​Equip Your Home: While not mandatory, the SCDF strongly advises every household to have a dry powder fire extinguisher and a fire blanket readily available in the kitchen. Learning how to use them can make all the difference in a minor incident.

​By staying vigilant in our kitchens and being aware of the specific dangers of new technologies like EVs, we can empower ourselves to be a key part of Singapore's fire safety network. The SCDF's recommendations are not just rules—they are life-saving habits.

Safety Case Refresher Course SCIC

Safety Case Refresher Course Objective

The WSH (Major Hazard Installations) Regulations was promulgated in 2017, with majority of the existing MHIs in their second cycle of Safety Case. During this period, MHD and SCIC have published a few technical guidelines on key topics (e.g. EC&I, ALARP and HF) to further provide MHIs on technical expectations and requirements to fulfil the intent of the Safety Case requirements.

This refresher training is intended to reinforce and highlight certain key aspects (or topics) that MHD may verify during the annual onsite verification (OSV) and 5-yearly revision of the Safety Case document. Industry examples and simple group exercises will be shared during this refresher training

Key topics include:

• Concept of “Demonstration” and Expectations from MHD

• Process Safety – Identification of Safety Critical Utilities & Equipment

• ECI – Basis alarm and interlock set points / SIF loop or Interlock Loop test

• MI – Material selection and program overview

• ALARP Demonstration methodology

Who should attend?

• Safety Case Leads (SCLs), Process Safety, EHS,

• Key MHI personnel from Process, Electrical, Control & Instrumentation, Operations,

Maintenance that are involved in the Safety Case preparation or support

Programme

Trainer Biography

Er. Chan Keng Yong, MEng, PE (Chemical)

Er. Chan Keng Yong possesses about 25 years of local and international experience comprising of process safety, process, commercial, business development and project management experience in the oil and gas industries, including gas and chemicals. He is a commercially astute and technically competent manager who have successfully grown business and developed technical teams. His experiences include

process safety management (PSM) consulting, Safety Case, qualitative and quantitative process safety studies, EH&S consulting, commercial/business management, and business development in safety consulting. He is a registered Professional Engineer (Chemical) by the PE Board Singapore since May 2017.

He started his career in the oil refinery with Mobil Oil Singapore as a technical engineer for about 4 years, followed by a regional process safety role with Air Products and Chemicals (Asia and USA) for 7 years. After 11 years of technical and operational process safety experiences in the manufacturing work environment, he moved to a techno-commercial & consulting management role with Siemens O&G consulting managing pressure relief and flare analyses and mechanical integrity software related projects.

In DNV GL, he was the Business Development Lead cum Principal Consultant for the Risk Management Advisory section for Oil & Gas in Singapore/SE Asia. Thereafter, he joined Ramboll Environ Singapore for 5 years where he built and grew the process safety team in Singapore, providing technical leadership and project/team management on a range of process safety and health & safety consulting services (Safety Case, QRA, Process Hazard Analysis, PSM training, EHS Management System Review etc.) for various clients in Singapore and SE Asia.

Er. Chan is knowledgeable in PSM systems from both plant and consulting perspectives and has executed numerous PSM related works and trainings in Singapore, Asia, and USA. He has facilitated and/or led more than a hundred process hazard analysis (PHA) workshops (for newly design and/or operational facilities) including safety integrity level (SIL) classification workshops, for both offshore and onshore facilities and downstream specialty chemical companies. His other specialties include onshore QRAs, Safety Case(Singapore), PSM advisory and audits (e.g. PSSR, MOC, Consequence Modelling, PSM KPI development), EH&S Due Diligence (specifically on process safety) and conducting process safety training. Since the promulgation of the Singapore Safety Case regime in 2017, Er. Chan has supported the Safety Case training, development, and IP/RP support for numerous new (greenfield) and operational facilities. These clients are in specialty chemicals, industrial and specialty gases, warehousing logistics,

pharmaceutical API, and power industries

Administrative

Date : 02 October 2025

Time : 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Venue : SCIC Training room

SDU Points: 6

How to register

Registration Fee (before GST): $350 per participant (member)

 $450 per participant (non-member)

*Fee is inclusive of the training materials, lunch and 2 tea-breaks.Participants are required to complete the online registration form via https://scic.sg/index.php/en/test/event/462-scic-safety-case-refresher-course

A confirmation email will be sent to you upon receiving your registration. Should you require further assistance, please contact the SCIC Secretariat office at 6267 8891 or email us at secretariat1@scic.sg

Note: As seats are limited, each company is limited to 2 registrants for this forum.

Vaping Severe Health Effects

What is Vaping?

Vaping is the physical act of inhaling and exhaling an aerosol produced by a battery-powered e-cigarette or vape. Unlike the traditional method of burning tobacco to smoke, vaping heats a liquid into an aerosol that is then inhaled. This liquid, termed as vape juice, typically contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals.

Vaping is currently illegal in Singapore. Many of these vapes contained addictive and harmful substances like etomidate. This is a potential public health threat as Etomidate has been found in one out of three e-vaporisers seized by the authorities

Vaping can damage vital body functions and due to its harmful effects, persons who vape etomidate may walk in an unsteadily gait, appear to be in a daze and unaware of their surroundings. The Government is taking tougher actions against vaping. We will impose much stiffer penalties and step up nation-wide enforcement.

Act wisely. Stop all vaping now. Quit today before it's too late. If you need help to quit? Call

Health Promotion Board’s Quitline: 1800 438 2000 

To seek support from social service agencies, please refer to 'Avenues for help' section below.

Witnessed a vaping-related offence?

• Report online or call the Tobacco Regulation Branch: 6684 2036 / 6684 2037

Vaping is illegal and harmful

Vaping is illegal. Harmful substances such as etomidate are added into e-vaporisers and pose serious harms to users. For now, persons who come forward to seek help or bin their e-vaporisers will not face any penalties for doing so.

In Singapore islandwide here is where you can bin the vapes?

Platform Workers Act

What is a platform operators 

Ministry of Manpower defined a platform operator provided platform services and exercises management control over one or more platform workers. A platform operator can be an individual or an entity.

Who is a platform operator

A platform operator :

• Provides either ride-hail or delivery service.
• Exercises management control over one or more platform workers.
• Can be an individual or an entity such as a sole proprietorship, a corporate body, an unincorporated association, or a partnership.

Platform Workers Act: what it covers

The Platform Workers Act is an act representation of platform workers and platform operators providing them with the rights, obligations, protections and representation

Effective from 01 January 2025, there are new protections for platform workers were implemented which include work injury compensation, CPF contributions, and representation rights.

To learn more about the changes for platform workers and operators in Singapore refer to the infographics below:

What is the Platform Workers Act

The Platform Workers Act is about the Platform Workers to strengthen their protections by implementing the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Platform Workers.

The recommendations include:

Ensuring adequate financial protection for platform workers in case of work injury

Under the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA), the Platform workers will be entitled to the same scope and level of work injury compensation as employees .

Improving platform workers' housing and retirement adequacy

Platform operators are required to deduct CPF contributions from platform workers' earnings as and when they earn and submit it to CPF Board every month.

CPF contribution rates for platform workers and platform operators will be gradually increased to match that for employees and employers to help platform workers achieve the same level of housing and retirement adequacy as employees.

The increased CPF contributions will be mandatory for platform workers born on or after 1 January 1995. Older platform workers can choose to opt in to the increased CPF contributions if they wish to.

Enhanced representation

Platform workers and platform operators can form their own platform work associations.

Platform work associations that are recognised by platform operators can negotiate with platform operators to further the interests of platform workers, and represent the platform workers in work disputes.

Similarly, platform operators can form and be collectively represented as a platform work association.

To learn more click Platform Workers Act- Singapore

WSH Guidelines Preparing Adverse Weather

What is WSH Guidelines 

WSH Guidelines showcased workplace safety and health best practices and WSH program for controlling workplace hazards and improving occupational health for various industry and program 

WSH Guidelines on Preparing for Adverse Weather

The following adverse weather conditions are covered in this guidelines:

• Strong winds

• Heavy rainfall/flooding

• Lightning

• Heatwaves

• Haze

The guidelines cover the following phases:

• Assessing the impact of an adverse weather condition, and planning the responses to the adverse weather condition.

• Executing preparation works and responses when an impending adverse weather condition is detected.

• Recovering of workplaces and conducting inspections/checks to safely resume work.

The scenarios, hazards and measures shared in this guidelines are non-exhaustive. Companies should monitor the weather and conduct site-specific risk assessments for all relevant work activities impacted by adverse weather. For equipment and structures, companies can work with relevant stakeholders, including designers, manufacturers, and suppliers, to develop appropriate control measures

To learn more click WSH Guidelines on Preparing for Adverse Weather

 

WSH Guidelines Personal Flotation Devices

What is WSH Guideline 

WSH Guidelines showcased workplace safety and health best practices and WSH program for controlling workplace hazards and improving occupational health for various industry and program.

WSH Guidelines on Personal flotation Devices Life Jackets Scope

These Guidelines are intended for any person working in and near water in Singapore, including but not limited to workers involved in mooring operations, vessel transfers, launch boat operations and workers working next to water bodies such as reservoirs and ponds. They apply to all works in Singapore where there is a possible risk of a worker falling into water and drowning while carrying out such works.

The objectives of these guidelines are to provide Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) guidance on 

(i) the selection of life jackets for the different work environments in line with international standards, and

(ii) good practices on the use and maintenance of life jackets. 

To learn more click WSH Guidelines on Personal flotation Devices Life Jackets Scope

Heat Stress Management Programme

Climate change resulting in rising temperature have increased the risk of heat stress, for workers undertaking land transport infrastructure works and those performing outdoor tasks. The Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act, have called for employers to implement effective heat stress management measures to safeguard their workers health

The Ministry of Manpower, Land Transport Authority and WSH Council urge employers to adopt the following recommended heat stress control measures to strengthen their workplace heat stress management programme to sustain their workforce productivity through building greater workplace heat resilience

Fatalities Involving Compressed Gas Cylinders

Two workers died in separate incidents after being struck by flying compressed gas cylinders In the first half of 2025. Following which another accident occurred on 28 July 2025 involving a ruptured compressed gas cylinder caused an explosion at a workplace and fortunately no one was injured .

These accidents clearly emphasize  the risks and hazards associated with the use, handling and management of compressed gas cylinders and it is necessary to put in place the required risk control measures to ensure workers’ safety during the handling of compressed gas cylinders.

Workplace Accident  : Worker struck by flying gas cylinder

A workplace fatality was reported on 28 March 2025, involving a worker investigating into the cause of a fire alarm triggered by a newly installed fire suppression system at a worksite. After establishing it to be a false fire alarm, the worker proceeded to remove one of the pilot cylinders containing carbon dioxide. The pilot cylinder was first disconnected from its support bracket, before it was placed free-standing on the ground. But shortly after, the cylinder suddenly flew and struck another worker standing nearby. The worker who was struck died in the hospital.

Figure 1: Position of cylinder before it was disconnected.

Figure 2: Position where the cylinder landed after it flew.

Workplace Accident : Worker struck by flying fire extinguisher projectile

A workplace fatality was reported on 15 May 2025, involving an excavator ( fitted with an electromagnet) being used to transfer scrap metal, a discarded fire extinguisher cylinder (containing carbon dioxide gas) suddenly flew and struck a worker seated nearby. The worker was taken to the hospital where he later died.

The cylinder’s valve connector likely broke when the excavator’s electromagnet pressed on the scrap metal pile. This would have caused the residual gas to suddenly discharge and turn the cylinder into a projectile.

Figure 3: Scene of the accident.

What companies should do

Companies should assess and ensure that their WSH management system includes the following measures or checks:

Working with compressed gas cylinders

The sudden release of high-pressure gas from a cylinder can transform it into a projectile and severely injure workers in the vicinity. Compressed gas cylinders must be properly handled, transported and stored to prevent such a scenario. 

Companies carrying out similar work activities shall review their work procedures and implement the necessary control measures to protect workers working with compressed gas cylinders.

• Inspection of Gas cylinder : Implement regular checks on gas cylinders for physical damage (such as corrosion, cracks, or dents) and signs of leakage especially at its valve connector and any pipe/tube fittings used. Immediately removed any cylinder from service , valve connector or fittings found with a defect. Ensure all gas cylinders are periodically examined or tested by a competent person in accordance with the WSH (General Provisions) Regulations and the manufacturer's recommendations.

• Safe work procedures (SWPs): Establish and implement SWPs for the handling, transport and storage of compressed gas cylinders. This should be done in consultation with relevant stakeholders such as the gas cylinder manufacturer, gas cylinder transport service provider, gas system designer, plant manager, and process safety specialists.

Safe Work Procedures should consider the following content which is non-exhaustive:

Securing of the gas cylinder: Do not leave cylinders containing residual gas free-standing. Gas cylinders should be stored in an upright position and secured by chaining or fastening them to a wall bracket or other fixed supports.

Safe transportation of cylinder: Transport cylinders vertically or as upright as possible. Use a cylinder cart to move individual gas cylinders and chain or strap the cylinder to the cart securely. Never roll, slide or drag a gas cylinder as this may result in physical damage to the cylinder. Do not move a gas cylinder with its pressure regulator attached. The valve connector is also vulnerable if the cylinder falls; shut the valve connector, remove the regulator and protect the valve with a safety cap before moving the cylinder.

If the valve connector of a gas cylinder breaks off, the forces generated by the sudden gas expansion could propel the cylinder a few metres away from its original location. Therefore, it is important to use compatible valve connectors and protect the valve connector when the cylinder is not in use. It is safest to move gas cylinders when they are empty, where feasible to do so.

Use only Compatible valve connectors: Use only manufacturer-approved valve connectors that are compatible with the gas cylinder. Consult the cylinder manufacturer or supplier on the use of thread seal tape to prevent leaks at the cylinder-valve connection.

Labelling of the cylinder: Clearly label each cylinder as “FULL”, “IN USE” or “EMPTY” so that workers can easily determine its status. Train workers to verify the cylinder’s status onsite through other means e.g. by comparing the cylinder’s weight and/or pressure against the original readings when full and the expected readings when empty.

Proper cylinder storage: Store gas cylinders in a cool and well-ventilated area, and away from direct sunlight, sources of heat and corrosive substances.

• Competent workers: Deploy only supervisors and workers who are trained on the SWPs and have a good understanding of the possible hazards and risk control measures when working with compressed gas cylinders.

• Work supervision: Provide onsite supervision to ensure the SWPs are closely followed, and risk control measures are in place and effectively implemented.

For more information, refer to the WSH (General Provisions) Regulations, the Ministry of Manpower’s circular on Inspection and Filling of Compressed Gas Cylinders, SS 639: 2018 Code of Practice for the filling, inspection, testing and maintenance of gas cylinders for the storage and transport of compressed gases, and Chapter 3 of the WSH Council’s WSH Guidelines for Laboratories Handling Chemicals.

Disposal of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers

The handling and disposal of portable carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguishers poses a serious WSH concern as the residual pressure within an extinguisher is often strong enough to propel the cylinder and injure workers in the vicinity. All companies handling metal waste to review their risk assessments and implement the necessary control measures to protect their workers from harm.

• Responsible disposal: Work closely with upstream waste generators and service buyers to ensure only empty cylinders are received for metal recovery or recycling.

Portable fire extinguishers intended for disposal should be regarded as hazardous waste and not be disposed as general waste. They should not be sent directly to scrap metal yards unless the yard houses a facility to safely empty an extinguisher’s residual contents prior to metals handling/processing.

It is recommended to send fire extinguishers to a licensed hazardous waste disposal contractor or a specialised fire equipment disposal service provider who can handle non-empty cylinders safely.

• Safe work procedure (SWP): Establish and implement SWPs for the proper handling and disposal of incoming CO2 fire extinguisher cylinders. The SWP should cover the following (non-exhaustive):

• Separate CO2 fire extinguisher cylinders from other scrap metal waste.
• Inspect and segregate non-empty cylinders from empty cylinders.
• Temporarily store non-empty cylinders in a well-ventilated location and secure them in an upright position.
• Send non-empty cylinders to a depressurisation facility to safely release or recover residual gas.
• Verify empty/emptied cylinders are free of residual contents and mark or label them as “EMPTY” or “DISCHARGED”.
• Send only cylinders that have been verified empty to the scrap metal yard for metal recovery or recycling.
• •Competent workers: Deploy only workers who have been trained on the SWP for the proper handling and disposal of fire extinguisher cylinders. Communicate the possible onsite risks and the implemented risk controls to workers.
• Highlight the importance of detecting and weeding out non-empty cylinders that may be present in a scrap metal pile.

• Work supervision: Provide on-site supervision to ensure the SWPs are strictly followed.

• Safe work environment: Instruct the site supervisor and excavator operator to scan the work area to confirm that no workers are inside the scrap metal yard before starting excavator operations. This is because yard workers may be exposed to flying metal debris especially due to the presence of a strong electromagnet. Mark out the excavator work zone with suitable warning signs and/or erect barriers to prevent unauthorised entry while the excavator is in operation.

• Use of technology: Consider the use of technology (e.g. automated metal waste conveyor system, remotely-operated magnetic separator) to eliminate or reduce worker exposure to the risk of being struck by flying metal debris.

For more information, refer to the WSH (Risk Management) Regulations, Singapore Standard SS 578: 2019 + A1: 2022 Code of Practice for the Use and Maintenance of Portable Fire Extinguishers, the Singapore Civil Defence Force’s online page on Portable Fire Extinguishers, the National Environment Agency’s Code of Practice for Licensed General Waste Collectors, and the WSH Council’s 6 Basic WSH Rules for Safe Operation of Excavator.

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.