WSH Bulletin - Heightened Safety Extension

MOM Extends Heightened Safety Period by Three Months with Additional Measures

1. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will be extending the Heightened Safety Period (HSP) by three months from 1 March to 31 May 2023, with additional measures. The HSP was first introduced on 1 September 2022 for six months, with stronger measures1 to address the concerning rise in workplace fatalities. The annualised workplace fatality rate per 100,000 workers improved during the HSP, falling from 1.5 for January-August 2022, to 0.8 for September-December 2022. The full year fatality rate for 2022 was 1.3 per 100,000 workers.

2. However, the annualised major injury rate per 100,000 workers increased from 16.8 to 18.7 in that same period. The impact of HSP was also uneven across sectors. While Construction showed the most improvement in terms of monthly average fatal and major injuries2, the Transportation & Storage sector’s monthly average fatalities3 did not improve and its major injuries4 worsened during HSP. This is of concern, as major injuries reflect persistent safety lapses at workplaces and most of these injuries have debilitating effects.

3. Since the start of 2023, there have been four workplace fatalities. Furthermore, based on past trends, periods post-Chinese New Year have had higher workplace injury numbers as companies rush to compensate for workdays lost. Heightened alert and vigilance need to be maintained.

Additional Measures During Extended HSP

4. During the extended HSP, MOM will put in place the following additional measures, taking into account the recommendations of the International Advisory Panel last month, to complement existing ones (see Annex for existing measures):

Require CEOs and Board of Directors to attend a mandatory half-day in-person WSH training course, for companies found to have serious WSH lapses following serious or fatal workplace accidents.

This is on top of existing HSP measures where companies may be barred from employing new foreign employees for up to three months. We will continue to require company leaders to personally account to MOM and take responsibility for WSH rectifications. These measures aim to strengthen WSH ownership and accountability among corporate senior leadership, and better equip them to meet their WSH responsibilities.

The course curriculum will be an enhanced version of the existing bizSAFE5 training for senior management. It will feature additional modules on the Approved Code of Practice for Chief Executives and Board of Directors’ WSH Duties, and root cause analysis of top incident types. MOM will notify companies whose senior leaders are required to attend this training.

Increase maximum fines from $20,000 to $50,000 for breaches of WSH Act Subsidiary Legislation that could result in death or serious bodily injury, in order to enhance deterrence for WSH Act breaches.

Empower workers by raising awareness of the various channels to report WSH concerns and providing protection for workers who speak up.

The WSH Council will launch a National WSH Campaign in April 2023, to encourage workers and members of the public to report unsafe practices at workplaces. Workers are encouraged to first report WSH concerns to their supervisors and companies for expedient resolution, before raising it to the authorities if no action is taken. This can be easily done through the SnapSAFE page on MOM’s website, and a QR code leading to the page is displayed at worksites. Workers and members of the public can also call MOM’s hotline at 6438 5122.

Migrant workers can also reach out to MOM through the FWMOMCare app, or reach the Migrant Workers’ Centre at 6536 2692. The Campaign will also heighten awareness of the types of protection available for workers who report or raise WSH issues.

Introduce bite-sized versions of WSH guidance materials to better support all companies, in particular SMEs, in instilling a stronger safe operations culture. This is in addition to the earlier expansion of the StartSAFE programme to better support SMEs. The WSH Council will introduce these materials from May 2023. 

Longer-term Measures to Sustain WSH Standards

5. Beyond the HSP and the above measures, MOM, together with the Multi-Agency Workplace Safety Taskforce (MAST)6, will consider further measures to strengthen WSH standards and practices. These include placing greater accountability on employers and senior management, enhancing safety training, reviewing incentives and penalties, and sectoral strategies.

6. Said Senior Minister of State for Manpower, Mr Zaqy Mohamad: “We have made good progress following the HSP, with improvements seen in the annualised workplace fatality rates and within the Construction sector. This shows that tangible results in WSH performance is possible with concerted efforts from all stakeholders. However, we are still not where we want to be – which is why we remain cautious and have decided to extend the HSP with additional measures. Only with vigilance, greater ownership and continual training, can we get back on track to achieving our WSH 2028 goals of keeping our fatality rate at below 1.0 per 100,000 workers, and our major injury rates at below 12.0 per 100,000 workers.”

Existing Initiatives for Heightened Safety Period

FOOTNOTE

1. See go.gov.sg/heightenedsafetyperiod

2. Monthly average number of fatalities for Construction fell from 1.6 pre-HSP to 0.3 during HSP. Similarly, monthly average number of major injuries fell from 8.3 pre-HSP to 7.3 during HSP for major injuries with higher risk of fatalities, and 5.5 pre-HSP to 4.5 during HSP for major injuries with lower risk of fatalities.

3. Monthly average number of fatalities for Transportation & Storage pre- and during HSP remained at 0.8.

4. Monthly average number of major injuries with lower risk of fatalities for Transportation & Storage worsened from 2.3 pre-HSP to 4.3 during HSP, and monthly average number of major injuries with higher risk of fatalities stayed about the same pre- and during HSP at 2.3 and 2.0 respectively.

5. bizSAFE is a nationally recognised capability building programme designed to help companies build workplace safety and health capabilities.

6. Set up on 12 October 2022, the MAST comprises representatives from Ministry of Manpower, Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of National Development and Ministry of Trade and Industry. 

My Responder App

In Singapore, many of the emergency cases SCDF responds to could be quickly attended to by members of the public even before SCDF’s arrival. For example, more than 2,500 people suffer from Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA), with a survival rate of just 5%, which could be improved by simple medical intervention within the first few critical minutes. At the same time, there are more than 1,000 minor fires (such as rubbish chute/bin fire) that could easily be extinguished using publicly-available means.

What is My Responder App 

myResponder is an application by SCDF to alert members of the public to nearby fire and medical cases, and thereby save lives and increase the survival rate for OHCA, as well as mitigate minor fires in the first few critical minutes. myResponder is also a means by which members of the public may be asked to provide onsite information (via submission of photos and videos) for SCDF to gain an understanding of the situation. Through the ‘Call 995’ button in the app, users can also send their geolocation to SCDF’s 995 Operations Centre, enabling SCDF to dispatch the emergency resources to the scene sooner.

myResponder works by notifying members of the public – also known as Community First Responders (CFRs) – of cardiac arrest and fire cases within 400m of their location. myResponder will also highlight nearby AEDs that may be available to responders, and provide guided advisories in the mitigation of minor fires. CFRs can then proceed to the stated location and assist by performing CPR or applying an AED to revive the patient, mitigating minor fires using available extinguishing means, or providing further information to SCDF’s 995 Operations Centre. The table below provides a summary of the possible cases that CFRs may be asked to help in.

Response is entirely voluntary, and we only encourage volunteers to respond when they are available within safe and reasonable means.

Registering via myResponder as a Community First Responder

Registering is simple and anyone can be a Community First Responder. Just follow the simple steps below:

1. Download myResponder from

iOS_App_Store 

or

Google_Play_Store

2. Follow the screenshots below

3. Read the tutorial and FAQs in the app, and you are all set to be a Community First Responder!

Please note: If you are using an Oppo, Huawei or Xiaomi phone, please follow this link for additional steps to enable your device to receive notifications.

To understand more about responding to cardiac arrest cases, please visit https://www.scdf.gov.sg/savealife.

Note: From 30 Mar 2019, users of the myResponder app will be able to enjoy the following streamlined experience:

(i) Report fire safety infringements

(ii) Access to e-services such as Home Fire Alarm Device (“HFAD”) scheme

(iii) Access to reference material on important life saving skills such as how to perform CPR, use an AED and operate a fire extinguisher

(iv) Access to publications such as Civil Defence Emergency Handbook, SCDF’s annual reports

CERT -1st Aider

And if you are the designated CERT first aider you will need to download the My Responder App in your personal mobile which is part of the SCDF CERT Audit checklist requirement.

COVID19 Endemic Phase Medical Leave

Doctors in Singapore can decide on number of days of Covid-19 medical leave in endemic phase

Responding to a query about the updated protocol for Covid-19 related medical leave, Director of Medical Services at the Ministry of Health (MOH) Kenneth Mak clarified that there is no specific mandated duration of leave in place if someone were to be infected with the virus.

He was speaking at the multi-ministry taskforce's press conference on Feb. 9.

Previously, a Ministry of Manpower advisory updated on May 16, 2022 stated that if one is mildly symptomatic but tests positive for Covid-19, they should self-isolate for 72 hours and do an Antigen Rapid Test (ART) on the third day.

One should return to work only after testing negative.

The advisory stated that there was no need to visit a doctor to obtain a medical certificate, but that an infected individual should consult a doctor for medical advice if they feel the need to do so.

A more enlightened approach
Mak said "a more enlightened approach" would be moving away from mandating specific durations of medical leave.

Instead, doctors will conduct individual assessments on patients before deciding the appropriate number of days of medical leave that the patient should take.

This protocol applies not only to Covid-19, but other types of infections as well, Mak explained.

This ensures a more "sustainable response" to the new norm post-endemic, said Mak.

He added: "Companies should still be encouraged to respect medical leave given by doctors and provide ample opportunities for employees to recover from the infection."

However, Mak acknowledged that this arrangement might vary between different companies and individuals.

Workplace Accident - Harbour Pilot Died

SINGAPORE: A 29-year-old harbour pilot from PSA Marine died on Saturday (Feb 11) after falling into waters off Kusu Island.

The pilot fell overboard while disembarking from a tugboat to board a launch boat off the Southern Islands, said the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), adding that he was wearing a lifejacket at the time.

The authority's marine safety control centre was alerted to the incident at about 2.50am.

MPA, the Police Coast Guard and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) deployed patrol and emergency response vessels to conduct search and rescue operations.

"MPA also activated divers to conduct an underwater search for the missing pilot and issued navigational safety broadcasts to the surrounding vessels to support the search efforts," the agency added.

A harbour pilot's work involves boarding vessels to navigate them through congested waters.

SCDF and the police said the incident took place near Kusu Island, which is part of the Southern Islands.

SCDF added that it deployed two marine vessels and conducted a surface search at the location.

The pilot's body was recovered at about 11.30am and taken to the Police Coast Guard base on Pulau Brani.

MPA said investigations are ongoing.

Healthy 365 Program

What is Healthy 365?

Healthy 365 is a mobile application by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) Singapore which aims to encourage users to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Through the use of gamification and rewards, users are encouraged to sign up for in-app challenges and health programmes to earn Healthpoints.

The app seamlessly pairs with fitness tracking devices to help users log their daily steps count and amount of time spent on active exercises. Users can also scan QR codes via the app to earn Healthpoints when they purchase healthier meals, drinks and groceries from participating partners.

By 7 February 2023, all users must perform a one-time Singpass login to continue using the Healthy 365 app. Update your app from 5 January 2023 and follow on-screen instructions. If you do not have a Singpass account, click here to set up one now.

For support, click on the FAQs or step-by-step guides below.

Download the Healthy 365 app today!

Key Features

Fitness journey at a glance featuring user's fitness and rewards information

Health challenges, including the National Steps Challenge and Eat, Drink, Shop Healthy Challenge, for users to sign up to convert their healthier actions into rewards

Events listing featuring exercise classes that users can book via the app

Healthpoints redemption that includes a catalogue of healthy lifestyle rewards for users to choose from

Minimum Mobile Phone PS Requirements

Android Ver. 6

iOS Ver. 10

Supported HPB-Issued Fitness Trackers

AxtroFit

AxtroFit 2

AxtroFit 3

Careeach (HR)

Glide HR

Tempo 2 (HR)

Tempo 3C

Tempo 4C

Supported 3rd Party Fitness Apps

Actxa®

Apple Health

Fitbit

Garmin Connect ™

Polar Flow

Samsung Health

Also check out LumiHealth, a personalised health programme that helps Singapore residents improve their mental well-being, fitness, nutrition, sleep, and more with the LumiHealth app and Apple watch. Click here for more information.

View App FAQ

View App Terms of Use

View Privacy Statement

View step-by-step guide for Healthy 365 app log in and profile update

View step-by-step guide to verify your Healthy 365 account with Singpass - English | Chinese | Malay | Tamil

WSH Guidelines -Healthcare Industry

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 .

Check out the free WSH Guidelines -Healthcare to improve your organization WSH practices. For the latest WSH Guidelines update, refer to Singapore Workplace Safety and Health Council Website.

WSH Guidelines -Healthcare

It was developed to share and promulgate good industry practices among the various healthcare settings in Singapore. The guidelines provide information on common WSH hazards faced by healthcare employees in their work and practicable measures to mitigate the associated risks. The guidelines also highlight the importance of a robust healthcare management system, which has become critical and essential especially in the dawn of Covid-19 and possible future pandemics.

To learn more click

WSH Guidelines -Working At Heights PPE

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.

Check out the free WSH Guidelines --PPE for Work At Heights to improve your organization WSH practices. For the latest WSH Guidelines update, refer to Singapore Workplace Safety and Health Council Website.

WSH Guidelines -PPE for Work At Heights

Fall from heights (FFH) is one of the leading causes of death and injury in the workplace. It is therefore essential that measures are taken to protect workers against the risks of falling from heights.

This guide is developed to help contractors and workers who are involved in working at heights to better understand the application of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as full body harnesses, energy absorbers, connectors and lanyards.

It is important to note that risk assessment needs to be carried out prior to any work at heights (WAH) activities. Whenever possible, WAH activities should be eliminated or substituted. Using temporary edge protection systems (such as guardrails) shall be the first option in designing any fall prevention systems. The use of anchorages and lifelines, with PPE shall be considered if the option of having temporary edge protection is not feasible

To learn more click

Fire Safety - Safe Charging of PABs & PMDs

It has been noted that the majority of PMD and PAB fires reported in Singapore that SCDF had responded to were found to have resulted from the use of non-compliant devices such as non-UL2272-certified PMDs, modified devices or incompatible power adaptors,

Modifications included the replacement of batteries with those not from original equipment manufacturers, the addition of extra batteries, and changes to the electrical circuitry.

SCDF has urged the public not to modify their PMD devices and, if required, to replace components with only the ones from original equipment manufacturers.

And here are few fire safety tips for safe charging of PABs and PMDs

1) Check Charger / Batteries 

Do regularly examine batteries for any damage or deformities such as bloating, corrosion or powdery residue. 

Do use a power adaptor that carries the Safety Mark and is recommended by the manufacturer. 

Do not use charger if: 

- The charger lamp does not light up . 

- The charger was dropped or there was strong external impact to the charger. 

- Cable casing is broken or wiring is exposed. 

- Charger is/was wet . 

2) Check Environment 

-Do charge PAB/PMD on a hard, flat surface to allow optimal dissipation of heat. 

-Do not charge a PAB/PMD or its batteries: 

- In places with high humidity or high heat. 

- Near combustible/flammable materials. 

- In confined or poorly ventilated spaces . 

- Along an escape path. 

3) Check PAB / PMD 

- Do purchase PMDs with UL2272 Certification Mark. 

- Do purchase EN15194 certified PABs that are type approved, affixed with LTA's orange seal and registered. 

- Do not tamper with, modify, or attempt to repair a device on your own. 

4) When Charging 

- Unplug the charger when you are away for long periods of time. 

- Do not leave batteries or devices to charge unattended for an extended period of time or overnight . 

- Do not charge the PAB/PMD immediately after use. 

5) Keep out of Reach 

Keep children and pets away from the charger. 

To learn more about safe riding tips on PABs, PMDs and PMAs click Riding Mobility Device Safety

Singapore Lift Mask Covid19 Restrictions

Masks no longer required on public transport from Feb 13 as Singapore moves to Dorscon green

SINGAPORE - Singapore will lift its remaining Covid-19 restrictions like requiring masks on public transport from Monday, when the country adjusts its disease outbreak response to the lowest level.

The lowering of the Disease Outbreak Response System Condition (Dorscon) from yellow to green comes as the global and local pandemic situation is stable, and the disease is mild especially among vaccinated individuals, said the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Thursday, noting that Covid-19 currently poses minimal disruption to healthcare capacity and people.

However, MOH will still require mask-wearing for visitors, staff and patients in healthcare and residential care settings such as hospital wards, clinics and nursing homes, where there is interaction with patients, said the multi-ministry task force handling Covid-19 at a press conference.

5 things you need to know as S’pore lifts Covid-19 rules

Here are the things you need to know about the changes:

1. No masks required on public transport

From Feb 13, commuters will no longer need to wear masks when taking public transport.

However, the Health Ministry will still require visitors, staff and patients in healthcare and residential care settings to wear masks when interacting with patients. These include hospital wards, clinics and nursing homes

Other authorities, such as the Singapore Food Agency, for instance, may still require food handlers to wear a mask or spit guard.

Businesses may also opt to maintain mask-wearing as part of their company policy for workplace health and safety or business continuity.

Since Aug 29, 2022, masks have not been required in most indoor settings

2. Covid-19 vaccines remain free

Covid-19 vaccinations and oral antivirals will continue to be free for those eligible.

All Singapore citizens, permanent residents, long-term pass holders and some short-term pass holders will not need to pay for vaccines under the National Vaccination Programme.

Covid-19 vaccinations and Covid-19 oral antivirals will continue to be fully subsidised for clinically eligible public hospital patients and nursing home residents until further notice.

3. Treatment and testing no longer fully subsidised

Treatment for those with the virus - regardless of their vaccination status - at hospitals or Covid-19 Treatment Facilities will no longer be fully subsidised.

People with Covid-19 will no longer need to stay in Community Isolation Facilities, just as they are not required to do so for other endemic diseases like influenza or chicken pox.

Some of these facilities will remain open for people who want to self-isolate, but they will be charged for their stay.

As these facilities are not classed as medical facilities, citizens and permanent residents will not be able to tap government subsidies, MediShield Life or MediSave to pay their bills.

All patients will be required to pay for any Covid-19 testing.

From Feb 13, protocols for those who tested positive for the virus will also be scrapped, but residents are advised to exercise social responsibility.

Persons infected with Covid-19 should follow the updated general advisory for people with acute respiratory infection symptoms

4. TraceTogether and SafeEntry no longer required

The Government will no longer require infected persons to submit TraceTogether data.

SafeEntry data is no longer being collected and the Health Ministry has deleted all identifiable TraceTogether and SafeEntry data from its servers and databases.

A TraceTogether token return exercise will take place from Feb 13 to March 12. Members of the public can return their tokens at all 108 community clubs

5. Unvaccinated travellers entering do not need proof of pre-departure test

From Feb 13, all travellers who are not fully vaccinated and entering Singapore will no longer need to show proof of a negative pre-departure test

Short-term visitors who are not fully vaccinated will no longer have to purchase Covid-19 travel insurance.

Singapore Workplace Accident

Singaporean worker dies after glass doors topple on him; 4th workplace fatality this year

SINGAPORE – A 53-year-old Singaporean worker who was unloading a shipment of glass doors in an Alexandra warehouse with two other men died from his injuries after nine glass doors toppled on the three of them.

The man was taken to the National University Hospital with another worker who was injured and is now in a stable condition. The third worker in the team was not injured.

The latest incident makes it the fourth workplace fatality so far in 2023.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said it has instructed AGL Facade Systems to stop all work activities and appoint a workplace safety and health auditor to review the company’s work practices.

The company has also been barred from hiring new migrant workers for three months, and its director is required to personally account to MOM for safety lapses and take direct responsibility for rectifications, the statement added.

MOM said the accident took place at about 2.15pm last Thursday at Harbour Link Complex in Alexandra Terrace, when the men were unloading the glass doors from a shipping container.

MOM said glass sheets and panels in shipping containers should be bundled in upright positions within wooden crates when they are being transported. Forklifts or purpose-built telescopic handlers should be used for safe unloading, it added

If the items need to be shifted manually, proper means of support – such as props, braces, frames or restraint belts – need to be provided to prevent other items within the container from toppling, the statement said.

MOM added that it was investigating the accident.

Riding Mobility Devices Safety

With the rise of e-commerce and online food delivery, demand for delivery services has grown rapidly. This demand is increasingly met by bicycles, power-assisted bicycles (PABs), personal mobility devices (PMDs) and personal mobility aids (PMAs) in recent years because they offer flexible and cost-effective alternatives for businesses.

The hazards/risks associated with riding which includes:

• Reckless riding;
• Speeding; and
• Distractions (e.g. making phone calls while riding)

All responsible rider must observe the applicable legal legislation that are relevant to safe riding which include

• Workplace Safety and Health Act
• Road Traffic Act
• Active Mobility Act

Irresponsible use of these mobility devices can injure pedestrians, other road users and the riders themselves. With more bicycles, PABs, PMDs and PMAs (see Figure 2) used for work, companies need to take steps to ensure the safe use of these mobility devices for all their riders.

Employer's Role

You are encouraged to:

• Implement a zero-tolerance policy against unsafe riders (e.g. penalties for reckless riding).
• Review remuneration scheme to introduce incentives for safety performance.
• Employ riders with valid licences (for motorcycle riders).
• Ensure equipment and mobility devices (company-owned) are suitable for the job and regularly maintained.
• Provide PPE such as gloves, helmets, boots, riding jackets and pants.
• Familiarise riders with emergency response procedures.
• Remind riders to take care of their health and hydrate regularly.

Employee's Role

As a rider, you should:

• Plan delivery routes to avoid hazards (e.g. avoid major roads with heavy or fast-moving traffic).
• Keep to the left and adhere to traffic rules at all times (do not ride against the traffic).
• Avoid riding into the blind spots of other vehicles (especially heavy vehicles like trucks).
• Keep a lookout for and give way to pedestrians (e.g. on shared pathways).
• Dismount from bicycle or PAB when navigating through a crowd.
• Stop riding during heavy downpours.
• Conduct visible check on your mobility device before riding.
• Watch out for the elderly, young children and even pregnant women sharing the same pathway .
• Carry out routine maintenance and timely repairs on your mobility device.

Who should read this guide

In this guide, bicycles, PABs, PMDs and PMAs are collectively termed active mobility devices. Users who ride motorcycles or active mobility devices are referred to as riders.

Companies and riders who will find this guide useful include those who:

• Offer delivery services using motorcycles and/or mobility devices.

• Engage delivery services through contractual agreements.

• Provide active mobility devices for staff to travel within the workplace, e.g. security officers using PMDs for patrols

To learn more click

Mental Health Support

Mental health is a growing concern. The Singapore Mental Health Study conducted between 2016 – 2018 found that 1 in 7 people in Singapore have experienced a mental disorder in their lifetime, as compared to 1 in 8 people in 2010’s Mental Health Study.

International studies have suggested that work stressors were among factors associated with poor mental health1. This document sets out practical guidance on measures that employers can adopt to support their employees’ mental well-being, and provides resources employers, employees and self-employed persons can tap on.

Mental well-being at workplaces

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), work is good for health. A healthy state of mental well-being can also contribute to improved productivity. A negative working environment, however, can lead to physical and mental health challenges. While a person’s mental health is influenced by many factors, including both work and non-work factors, this Advisory’s focus is on what can be done in workplaces to support employees’ mental well-being.

Causes of work stress

Work stress can come from multiple factors and can relate to work content and work context. Work content refers to working conditions, such as job content, participation and control, workload, pace of work, and work schedule. Work context refers to organisation of work and labour relations, such as organisational culture and function, interpersonal relationships at work, and home-work interface3. During the COVID-19 pandemic, practices such as mandatory work-from-home and split team arrangements have been widely adopted, leading to drastic changes to work content and work context that can and have contributed to work stress for many employees. While some degree of work stressors will not have adverse effects, employers should be mindful that extreme levels of such stressors at work can harm employees’ mental well-being.

Employers can consider the following recommendations to prevent work stress from compromising well-being and productivity. The recommendations can be implemented at three levels –

Individual employees;

Team / department level; and

Organisation level

Depending on your organisation’s readiness and available resources, it can adopt the recommendations that would work best to support the mental well-being of its employees.

I. Recommendations to support individual employees

Appoint mental wellness champions to raise employees’ awareness on mental well-being and mental health conditions through talks and workshops.

Examples of mental well-being programmes include lunch-time talks on stress management, emotional regulation, relaxation techniques, mental health first aid, crisis management skills, etc.

Employers can tap on the Health Promotion Board (HPB)’s existing mental well-being programmes under the Workplace Outreach Wellness (WOW) Package or Workplace Safety and Health Council’s Total WSH Programme.

Provide access to counselling services such as through Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs). These services allow employees to speak to a professional on their work and non-work related challenges.

To encourage utilisation of the service, assure employees that their conversations with the service provider will be kept confidential and will not be disclosed to the organisation without consent.

Individual employees should also look after their own mental well-being and reach out for help if they feel overwhelmed.

Employers of migrant workers should identify service providers conversant in their native languages. See Annex A for a list of possible EAP service providers. Foreign domestic workers (FDW) employers could remind their FDWs of the option to call the Centre for Domestic Employees if they want to speak to a third-party.

For companies with flexible employee benefits (e.g. medical benefits), consider extending the scope of coverage to include mental well-being programmes, mental health consultations and treatments. This signals the company’s desire to support its employees in overcoming their mental health challenges.

II. Recommendations for the team / department

Train managers / supervisors / WSH representatives / peer support leaders / union leaders to spot signs of mental distress, and on where they can refer employees to seek help from.

Employers may wish to tap on the service providers listed in  HPB’s Mental Health Workplace programmes to equip managers and HR personnel with skills to be supportive leaders at the workplace.

Foster a psychologically safe and trusting work environment by having open and regular conversations on mental well-being.

Supervisors can schedule regular check-ins with employees to assess their state of mental well-being and review / prioritise their workloads where necessary. If employees share their mental health challenges, it is an act of courage and vulnerability. Supervisors should respond with sensitivity and provide assurance that their challenges will be kept confidential and will not be documented.

Teams could come together to share their thoughts / experiences related to mental well-being and their journey of overcoming personal struggles. Management can also encourage an open culture by sharing their stories. Such conversations seek to signal that “it is OK to not be OK” and aim to destigmatise negative associations around mental health challenges.

Strengthen the social support system at the workplace –

Form informal support networks such as peer support programmes, parenting support groups, mentor / buddy system, etc. Establish clear escalation protocols for these informal support networks to know when and where to refer their colleagues for professional help. It is also important to ensure that these peer supporters have their own network of support.

Set aside time and resources for bonding activities (both face-to-face and virtual) to strengthen relationships among employees.

III. Recommendations for the organisation

Review the state of employees’ mental well-being regularly as part of risk assessment for workplace health.

Conduct surveys to understand general state of mental well-being of employees and work stressors.

iWorkHealth - a confidential online self-administered assessment tool is one of such surveys that companies can tap on.

Employers should implement measures to address findings from the survey and track their effectiveness in improving the mental well-being of employees by monitoring the progress from survey findings and administrative data as proxy indicators (e.g. absenteeism / MC rates). Such measures could include upstream organisational changes to remove the source of the work stressor or minimise employees’ exposure to the stressor.

Review HR policies to ensure hiring practices, workplace practices and performance management systems are non-discriminatory and merit-based in nature.

The Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices (TGFEP) states that companies should not ask job applicants to declare personal information, which includes their mental health condition, unless it is a job-related requirement.

Employers should adopt appraisal systems that are fair and objective, with measurable standards for evaluating job performance. Please refer to the TGFEP.

Employers can also establish an internal channel (e.g. designated officers, survey links to send anonymous feedback) for reporting feedback and dispute resolution related to practices that erode mental well-being. Clear policies related to maintaining confidentiality for reporting feedback should also be articulated.

Implement and encourage take up of flexible work arrangements (FWAs) to help employees meet both their work and personal demands. Types of FWAs include (but are not exclusive to):

Flexi-place such as telecommuting and work-from-home, which allow workers to work offsite to also meet their personal needs (e.g. caregiving).

Flexi-time such as staggered working hours, compressed work week and time-banking, which allow workers to adjust their daily work hours according to their personal needs and productivity.

Flexi-load such as part-time work and job-sharing, which allow workers to reduce their workload as required to balance with other personal needs.

For more information on FWAs as well as resources on how to implement them, please refer to TAFEP’s guide on FWAs.

Establish a work-life harmony policy to provide clarity on after-hours work communication.

Understanding the need for proper rest outside of work hours

Adequate rest outside of work hours will help reduce work burnout and improve productivity.

This is particularly pertinent for employees who telecommute, where the lines between home and work become increasingly blurred.

Work-life harmony remains key to employee’s overall well-being and optimal business performance5.

Establish after-hours policy for work communication

Employer are encouraged to establish reasonable expectations for work-related communication after hours and have it communicated to employees.

For unionised companies, employers may discuss with unions (where applicable).

Examples of after-hours policy that employers can adopt as good practices:

Employers should set out clear position that for work-related messages (e.g. SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram) and emails sent after work hours6, a response is not expected until the next working day, except for messages / emails marked as “Urgent”.

For non-urgent messages and emails sent outside work hours, senders could include a header stating that no immediate response is expected from the recipient.

If employees are required to work after-hours, supervisors should consider giving time-off for employees to have adequate rest.

Establish return-to-work policies to support employees who are recovering from mental health conditions.

Returning to work can be a daunting experience for an employee who is recovering from a mental health condition. Employers can support their employees by practicing FWAs (i.e. Flexi-load and Flexi-time) to allow them to gradually transit back to work while still providing time for treatments.

Employers may wish to refer to the NCSS Mental Health Toolkit for Employers on return-to-work guidelines

Total WSH Programme

Total Workplace Safety and Health Programme

What is Total WSH

Total Workplace Safety and Health (Total WSH) is an approach that looks at an organization safety and health issues and challenges together at work.  It covers:

• Workplace Safety; 

• Workplace Occupational health and 

• Employee personal health (including both physical and mental well-being) 

The Total WSH programme is a FREE programme where Workplace Safety and Health Council authorized Total WSH Service Providers will guide and teach  your company to manage safety and health in an integrated way, and educate your workers on how to better take care of their safety and health through modular activity packages.

Benefits of Total WSH Programme

• Reduces the risk of workplace injuries and ill-health

• Healthier and better staff well-being 

• Lower absenteeism rate and healthcare costs

• Better business performance from more productive staff 

Who May Apply 

You may apply if your company is based in Singapore and is not currently engaged in any Health Promotion Board’s workplace health outreach programmes.

Activity Package Details 

Your Total WSH service provider will guide you through the programme's onboarding, implementation, integration and sustainability, and offboarding phases.

 

Expected Timeline and Process

Your Total WSH service provider will guide you through the programme's onboarding, implementation, integration and sustainability, and offboarding phases: 

Workplace Safety and Health Council service providers for Total WSH:

 • Chubb Global Risk Advisors 

 • ProAge Pte Ltd

 • Wong Fong Academy 

 For More Information 

 • Workplace Safety and Health Questionnaire

 • Basic Health Survey

 • Contact WSHC

WSH Alert - Pump Attendant Struck By Car

 

Pump attendant knocked down by a car

On 19 January 2023, a pump attendant was walking towards a pump island when he was hit by a car exiting the petrol station. The attendant fell to the ground and later passed away due to his injuries.

The WSH Council calls on all companies involved in operating petrol stations to do an urgent assessment of their traffic safety measures to prevent vehicle accidents.

What companies should do

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

• Traffic Management Plan (TMP): Implement a TMP to minimise the risk of vehicle collisions and improve the safety of all persons at a petrol station. Suggested risk controls include:   

-   implement a speed limit within the station and communicate this clearly via traffic signage;  

-   install road humps or rumble strips at strategic locations to slow down vehicle movement;  

-   post signage (e.g. at the pump island) and/ or road markings to remind drivers to keep a lookout for pedestrians;  

-   place convex mirrors to eliminate blind spots within the petrol station; and

-   provide pedestrian crossing(s) that are clearly visible to drivers to facilitate safe people’s movement to and from pump islands.

• Hazard communication: Brief workers on the possible workplace hazards and the dangers of distracted walking (e.g. walking while looking at one’s handphone) at a petrol station. Movement to and from pump islands should only be at designated pedestrian crossings. Equip each worker with a high-visibility reflective vest. 

For more information, refer to WSH Council’s WSH Guidelines on Workplace Traffic Safety Management and 6 Basic WSH Rules for Traffic Management.

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.

During the Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 28 February 2023), the Ministry of Manpower will impose severe actions for serious WSH lapses, which include:  

•    Debarment from hiring new work pass holders   

•    Company leaders to personally account to MOM and take responsibility for rectifications 

•    Engaging external auditors to conduct a thorough review of company’s WSH processes 

WSH Guidelines -Transport of Goods Services

WSH Guidelines -Service Allied to the Transport of goods

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 

Check out the free WSH Guideline -Service Allied to the Transport of goods to improve your organization WSH practices. For the latest WSH Guidelines update, refer to Singapore Workplace Safety and Health Council Website.

Introduction

Logistics (service relating to the transportation of goods) is a sector that involves the moving of goods or cargo from point to point via a variety of transportation vehicles. This may range from picking of goods using forklift, stacker and other suitable equipment to palletizing, loading, unloading and depalletizing. The supply chain management method of handling goods has heightened the need for more safety and health awareness among various stakeholders.

The logistics industry contributes significantly to our country’s economy and supports many other economic activities. Logistics industry employees such as warehouse assistants, deliverymen, container drivers, cargo handlers, packers, freight forwarding and crating services employees, can be exposed to a variety of safety and health hazards at work depending on their specific tasks. Musculoskeletal disorders and injuries can arise from manual handling activities. Workers may be exposed to chemicals, noise, vibration and thermal stress. The type of accidents that may occur include falls, being hit by falling objects, crushing injuries, electrocution as well as fire and explosion.

Work-related injuries and diseases can happen as a result of unsafe acts and conditions. Unsafe acts occur when employees are unaware of the hazards and the proper work practices, for example, not adopting the proper lifting methods. Unsafe conditions arise out of ignorance or lack of diligence in ensuring a safe and healthy working environment, for example, a slippery floor. Work related accidents and diseases can be prevented by identifying the hazards and taking appropriate preventive measures.

These guidelines provide information and guidance on the identification of work hazards and their prevention. Employers should work together with employees to establish a safe and healthy work environment

To learn more click

SCDF Fire Fighting Suit

 SCDF introduces new firefighting protective suit with improved flame protection

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) has unveiled a new firefighting protective suit (FFPS).

New firefighting suit with improved features

From Feb. 1, 2023, some SCDF firefighters will don the new FFPS when responding to emergency calls.

The new FFPS has a khaki-based colour and has added functions, such as better protection from extreme heat and environmental conditions, as well as increased visibility in low light conditions.

Additionally, the FFPS has an improved fit that provides better range of motion due to its lightweight and stretchable outer shell.

It also has highly breathable fabric layers that reduces heat stress, improved flame protection to enhance safety, and increased abrasion resistance to enhance durability.

To learn more click SCDF Instagram Post