New Drug Law In Singapore

MHA proposes harsher penalties for large-scale drug possession, stricter control of psychoactive substances

Caning will be introduced as a punishment for those who possess large amounts of certain Class A controlled drugs that “cause the most serious harms”.

SINGAPORE: Offenders who possess a large amount of certain controlled drugs, such as cocaine or cannabis, may face more severe punishments if suggested amendments to Singapore’s drug laws are passed in Parliament.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is also looking to beef up legislation in order to combat the growing use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) and reduce the need for authorities to "play catch-up" with ever-evolving variants

On Friday (Feb 24), MHA tabled the Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Bill and the Constitution of the Republic of Singapore (Amendment) Bill in Parliament.

Among the ministry’s key proposals is a new legislative framework to better tackle the threat of NPS, which produce the same or similar effects as controlled drugs.

Under this framework, substances will not be controlled based on their chemical structure, but instead on their capacity to produce a psychoactive effect.

This comes three years after the ministry first said it was reviewing its laws to deal with NPS, amid new variants of such substances being produced at a swift rate to avoid classification as Class A controlled drugs.

MHA is also proposing to amend the Constitution in order to authorise the arrest and detention of NPS abusers for treatment and rehabilitation

INCREASED PUNISHMENTS FOR DRUG POSSESSION

In a press release, MHA said that the proposed enhanced punishments for possessing selected controlled drugs — which “cause the most serious harms” — above certain weight thresholds will include caning.

These drugs are:

Methamphetamine

Morphine

Diamorphine (pure heroin)

Opium

Cocaine

Cannabis

Cannabis resin

Cannabis mixture

MHA noted that the current sentencing framework for drug possession “does not sufficiently account for the potential harm that could be caused” by those who possess large quantities of drugs.

Currently, those found in possession of controlled drugs can face a maximum of 10 years' jail or a fine of $20,000 or both. There is no statutory minimum for any amount of the drug.

If the proposed legislative amendments are passed, those who possess at least 10g but less than 15g of diamorphine will face a minimum of 10 years' jail and five strokes of the cane. The maximum will be double that.

MHA said that in recent years, the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) has observed that syndicates are willing to deal in larger quantities of controlled drugs in each transaction.

“This shift may correlate with abusers purchasing larger quantities of drugs in a single transaction, instead of multiple smaller quantity purchases.

“A person in possession of large quantities of drugs would have significantly contributed to the local drug demand situation.”

MORE ABUSERS OF PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCES

As for psychoactive substances such as synthetic cannabis, MHA noted that the number of abusers has increased significantly in the last few years.

Eleven NPS abusers were arrested between 2014 and 2017, while an average of 235 were nabbed per year between 2018 and 2022.

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, at least 1,150 NPS were reported worldwide as of April 2022, a sharp increase from the 166 reported in end-2009.

Consumption of NPS has been linked to adverse physical and psychological reactions, including paranoia, seizures, hallucinations and death, MHA said.

MHA added that its proposed new legislative framework will control substances based on whether they can produce a psychoactive effect, rather than on their chemical structure.

Similar approaches have been adopted by the United Kingdom and Australia, the ministry said.

A psychoactive effect, in relation to an individual, means the stimulation or depression – whether directly or indirectly – of the individual’s central nervous system, which affects the individual’s mental functioning or emotional state.

MHA noted that drug syndicates have become “increasingly adept” at changing the chemical structures of NPS to produce new forms of psychoactive substances that are not controlled under international drug conventions and governments’ schedules of controlled drugs, including Singapore’s.

Currently, NPS are listed as Class A controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act, either individually or grouped by their core molecular structure.

It is an offence to traffic, manufacture, import, export, possess or consume these substances.

Any person found guilty of trafficking Class A controlled drugs will face a minimum of five years’ imprisonment and five strokes of the cane.

The Fifth Schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act also allows novel forms of NPS to be listed for up to 12 months, during which CNB officers are empowered to seize the substances while scientific analysis and industry consultations are held to determine if there is a legitimate use.

If no legitimate uses are identified, the substances will be listed in the First Schedule.

MHA said: “As traffickers and abusers now switch very quickly to new forms of psychoactive substances that have yet to be listed as controlled drugs, the authorities are always playing catch-up, due to the lag from the time a new form of psychoactive substance is first detected to the time it is listed in the First Schedule.”

During this period, enforcement and prosecutorial action cannot be taken against those who deal in the substance, MHA added.

The proposed legislative framework will not apply to psychoactive substances that have legitimate uses or are already controlled under other regulatory frameworks. These include intoxicating substances, nitrous oxide, alcohol, tobacco and food additives.

Accused persons can also invoke a defence if they use the substance for a legitimate purpose.

The punishment framework for offences under the proposed legislative framework will take reference from that of Class C controlled drugs.

REPEAT OFFENDERS

MHA is also proposing that offenders who previously trafficked in controlled drugs, and have been convicted of trafficking in NPS, should be considered repeat offenders and subject to enhanced trafficking punishments.

If passed, the Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Bill will give the director of CNB the powers to commit a suspected NPS abuser for medical examination or observation; subject an abuser to supervision; and commit an abuser to treatment and rehabilitation.

These align with the CNB director’s existing powers with respect to controlled drugs, said MHA.

Accordingly, MHA proposed amending Article 9 of the Constitution to expressly extend its ambit to the new laws which authorise the arrest and detention of NPS abusers for treatment and rehabilitation.

Members of Parliament will debate both Bills at a later sitting.

MHI Safety Case Workshop

Introduction

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has gazetted the Workplace Safety and Health (Major Hazard Installations)Regulations on 2 May 2017 http://www.egazette.com.sg/gazetteViewDetail.aspx?ct=sls&subscriber=0) which requires facilities that are classified as Major Hazard Installations (MHIs) to develop and implement the Safety Cases.

A Safety Case is a written presentation of the hazards and risks that may lead to a major accident at an MHI and the technical, management and operational measures in place to control risks arising from major accident hazards.

MHIs are required to demonstrate through their Safety Case that a systematic process is in place to identify and implement safety measures on-site so that risks arising from major accident hazards are effectively reduced to As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP).

Led by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) with support from the National Environment Agency (NEA) and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), the Major Hazards Department (MHD) formed is the single regulatory body for all Safety Case matters related to MHIs.

Background

In May 2013, a study mission on the management of Major Hazard Installations (MHIs) led by regulatory agencies with SCIC’s participation was organised to look into the European Union’s Safety Case regime for adoption by Singapore.

Following the study mission, in 2014, the agencies started to communicate proposed changes to the Process Safety regulatory framework in various industry forums. The changes included an update to the 1997 QRA guidelines and the implementation of the “Safety Case” regime for MHIs.

Recognising the needs and benefits for an effective Process safety regulatory framework in Singapore and for the MHI industry to be proactively engaged, SCIC (represented by a team of Industry Managers and senior Process Safety Experts), put forth a proposed Process Safety Framework at the end of 2014. The proposal included the support of the Safety Case regime implementation in Singapore; and formation of the Government-Industry Joint Work Group (JWG), consisting of experts from Industry (SCIC members) and regulatory agencies to co-develop the Safety Case Technical and Assessment Guidance.

Industry Capability Building

As part of the capability building strategy developed by JWG, a series of Knowledge-Building training sessions was conducted in 2016 to equip assigned Safety Case Leads in MHIs with adequate knowledge to commence planning and preparing Safety Cases.

In our continuing efforts to further support our members, SCIC has engaged technical experts from Zento Global Solutions who have the first-hand safety case experience and together we have developed a 4-day training workshop, aligned with the MHD’s Curriculum Development Advisory (CDA) for the Safety Case Practitioners Workshop which is tailored to meet the needs of MHIs in Singapore.

Workshop Objectives

The 4-days workshop is aimed at helping participants to acquire the skills and knowledge required to support the implementation of the Safety Case regime in their respective companies.

Highlights of the workshop include:

• Training content of the workshop has been reviewed by the SCIC members of the Government-Industry JWG, who were involved in the development the Safety Case Technical and Assessment Guidance. This ensures that the training course meets the local requirements for Singapore is aligned to the CDA.

• Case studies, assignments and group discussions have been incorporated to enhance participants’ understanding of the technical requirements, facilitate learning and provide practical application of the course to assist participants prepare for their Safety Case development.

• A sample Safety Case will be used as part of the training materials to facilitate appreciation of what is expected in a Safety Case

Any feedback discussions from the participants on issues and concerns related to the implementation of the Safety Case regime by MHIs during the training sessions will be collated by SCIC. These would be provided as inputs for further discussion at the MHI Strategic Committee (a government-industry committee formed to provide strategic direction and guidance to support the successful implementation of Safety Case regime).

Who Should Attend

Designated Safety Case Leads in MHIs; key personnel who have been appointed to coordinate, prepare,implement and operationalise Safety Cases, any other personnel involved in implementing Safety Cases.

Note: The Safety Case Practitioners Workshop is only open to personnel from MHIs. 

Administrative Details

Details of the 4-days Safety Case Practitioners Workshop (Live Instructor Led E-Training) are as follows:

(Note: Participant is required to attend the entire 4-days of training in the respective workshop registered)

August Session (Registration Open)

Time: 9 am to 5 pm (Registration will commence at 8.30 am)

Venue: Webinar

*The web link will be provided at a later date*

How to Register

Registration Fee (inclusive of GST): $1,512 per participant

** Fee is inclusive of the e-copy materials for the 4-days training.

Participants are required to complete the online registration form via www.scic.sg. Upon confirmation of your registration and payment, a unique login will be provided to the participant via email.

Should you require further assistance, please contact the SCIC Secretariat office at 6267 8891 or email us at secretariat1@scic.sg.

Note: Registration would be on a first-come-first-serve basis 

Scope of Training

Trainer's Profile

Zento Global Solutions is a world-leading consulting and training company, working across all sectors. Operating from offices in Singapore, UK and Australia Zento Global Solutions has two business divisions: Safety & Risk Consulting and Management Consulting. For more information visit www.zentoglobal.com

WSH Alert - Harbour Pilot Died Overboard

 
2023 5th Workplace Accident
Harbour pilot dies after falling overboard

On 11 February 2023 at about 3 am, a harbour pilot was crossing over from a tugboat to a launch boat when he fell overboard. His body was recovered by rescue divers later the same morning. 

Preliminary investigations revealed that the pilot was wearing a life jacket and the sea was choppy at the time of the accident.

Transfers between vessels at sea expose workers to the risk of falling into water. Another accident where a worker fell into the sea while boarding a service boat occurred on 17 May 2022. The WSH Council calls on all maritime stakeholders performing similar activities to undertake an urgent assessment of their safety measures.

What companies should do

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

• Safe transfer conditions: Do not proceed with vessel transfer if there are unfavourable weather or sea conditions, extensive vessel or boat movement, if anyone feels unwell, or if it feels unsafe to proceed. For safe boat-to-boat transfer at sea, it is ideal for both boats to be stationary and alongside each other. If stopping is not practical, both boats should be as slow as practicable and kept at the same speed.

• Safe vessel transfer: Establish and implement safe work procedures for transfer between vessels. Identify suitable transfer point(s) and allow transfers only at the designated point(s). Provide secure handholds and/ or footholds at each transfer point. Keep transfer points free of trip hazards and well-lit at night. Board only when the boat-to-boat transfer points are level with each other and under the direction of the launch master.

• Transfer supervision: Deploy workers on both boats to supervise and assist with the transfer, and to activate emergency response and rescue procedures if required.

• Worker competency: All personnel making vessel transfers should be trained on the safe work procedure for transfer.

• Right to decline boarding: Advise workers to stay alert and exercise caution during vessel transfer. Respect the right of workers to say no if the conditions for boarding are unfavourable.

• Emergency response: Equip each boat with life-saving equipment (e.g. life buoy with rope) for use in the event of a man-over-board situation. If a worker falls into the water, there must be a life buoy which he can hold on to so that his head stays above the water until he is rescued.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide workers with the necessary PPE (e.g. life jacket, safety boots, gloves, and safety helmet with chin strap) for transferring between vessels. The life jacket should be a working SOLAS-type approved life jacket or a life jacket meeting ISO 12402 Personal Flotation Device with a performance level 100 or higher. Place all life jackets on a regular inspection and maintenance programme to check their integrity and proper function so that they will work as intended during an emergency.

For more information, refer to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s Guidelines for Safe Transfer of Persons between Vessels at Anchorages; the WSH (General Provisions) Regulations; and the WSH Council’s Guide to WSH for Service Providers on Safe Working on Ships at Anchorages, and Case Studies for Working In and Around Water.

Video on Safe Boarding of Vessel

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 extended Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 31 May 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, and attend a mandatory half-day in-person WSH training course.

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

* Information on the accident is based on preliminary investigations by the Ministry of Manpower as at 14 February 2023. This may be subject to change as investigations are still on-going. Please also note that the recommendations provided here are not exhaustive and they are meant to enhance workplace safety and health so that a recurrence may be prevented. The information and recommendations provided are not to be construed as implying liability on any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations under the law.

Workplace Health Program -WOW Package

A Workplace Health Promotion (WHP) Programme is a programme that your company provides continually to improve or maintain the health of its employees. The approach is holistic, and includes education, training and sustaining a workplace environment that promotes well-being.

Workplace Health Promotion is:

"A continuous process for the enhancement of the quality of working life, health and wellbeing of all working populations through environmental improvement (physical, psychosocial, organisational, economic), personal empowerment and personal growth." World Health Organization, 1977.

Healthy employees are more likely to be productive employees who are essential for successful businesses. Successful companies lay the foundation for a healthy economy and form the basis of sustainable development* in a country.

* Sustainable development: Building healthy public policy and providing supportive environments for health to continually improve living conditions, support healthy lifestyle and increase opportunity for well-being.

Since no two companies are alike, it is not possible to have a fixed formula for an effective WHP programme that will fit every company. There are, however, 5 guiding principles a WHP programme should be organised according to.

B. Overview of Steps to Developing a WHP Programme

A WHP programme will be effective if it is strategically positioned and well-organised. It also needs to be systematically planned, implemented and evaluated.

A WHP programme should be set in place in stages (as illustrated below) at your own pace, and according to the resources available.

C. Critical Success Factors for Implementing WHP Programmes

Companies with successful WHP programmes share the following factors:

Sufficient Management Support

By management support, we refer to the extent to which the management of a company would go to ensure its WHP programme succeeds. This usually involves directives and direct involvement from the management.

Organised Structure

The WHP programme can ride on existing structures that have a stake in employee welfare, e.g. occupational health and safety, work-life and healthy lifestyle committees. Alternatively, a separate WHP committee can be set up.

Committee members should come from different levels, with junior executives as well as senior managers. They should also be representatives from different departments to ensure buy-in from different sectors.

In addition, there should be clear lines of reporting to ensure accountability.

Planned and Evaluated Approach

Planning increases the likelihood of achieving the goals of WHP programme. Evaluation allows you to recognise success and make improvements.

Comprehensive Programme

This includes:

A balance selection of different types of interventions - policies, supportive environmental measures and health education activities

Mass and targeted interventions

Coverage of four key areas of healthy lifestyle - physical activity, healthy eating, non-smoking and stress management

D. Essential Guide to WHP

To find out further details on WHP programme planning and implementation, check out the 'Essential Guide to Workplace Health Promotion: The ABC's of managing your organisation's programme'.

E. WHP Training Course

You may consider attending the Workplace Health Promotion Training course to acquire knowledge, tools and techniques to plan, manage, implement, market and evaluate an effective WHP programme.

What is Workplace Outreach Wellness (WOW) Package?

The Workplace Outreach Wellness (WOW) Package supports all companies in your goal towards a healthier and more engaged workforce. This package is specially curated for companies, with a suite of relevant and impactful health programmes that are brought to your doorsteps.

i. Programmes under WOW Package

Chronic disease screening & follow-up

For chronic diseases, it is always "the earlier, the better" - this applies to both detection and management so that serious health risks can be mitigated. 

Help your employees detect and manage their chronic disease with a basic health screening that covers: BMI, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose and fasting blood cholesterol.

As a follow-up from the health screening, health coaches will provide 1-to-1 lifestyle coaching session, to interpret individual health results and provide bite-sized advice and tips for participants to work towards improving their overall health.

General Workplace Health Programmes

Companies can select from a variety of workplace health programmes based on the following health areas: 

Physical Activity: Choose from a range of fun physical activities to be conducted in the comfort of your company. Ranging from low to medium and high impact, there will be something for everyone.

Nutrition: Have direct access to experts who can provide useful insights to up your nutrition and dietary knowledge.

Mental Wellbeing: Benefit from talks and workshops that equip your employees with ways to manage stress and build mental resilience through a selection of programmes to promote mental wellbeing.

Ergonomics Workshop: Educate your employees on the risks of muscoloskeletal diseases (MSDs), and how they can manage body pain and lower injury rates and related costs through expert sharing.

ii. Eligibility Criteria

The WOW Package is available for private companies of all sizes with a locally registered Unique Entity Number (UEN).

iii. Co-funding Arrangements

WOW programmes will be co-funded on a fixed rate, based on the respective programme category, subject to certain requirements and conditions.

iv. How do I get on-board the programme?

The WOW programme will be relaunched soon with new Project Managers. To register your interest early, please contact HPB via email HPB_Health_At_Work@hpb.gov.sg 

Travelling Safety -SMRT Transport Network

Daily over two million of commuters took the SMRT Corporation buses and trains network for their daily mundane activities. 

Travelling Safely is possible if commuters observe some basic safety requirement to make each trip smoother, safer and more enjoyable.

Safety at the Bus Stop

• For your safety, please stand on the pavement behind the yellow lines.
• Flag the bus in advance to give the driver ample time to see you and stop.
• Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching it. It is dangerous to rush towards a moving bus.
• Please board the bus in an orderly manner and do not push other passengers.
• Do assist or allow the elderly, disabled, pregnant women and young children to board the bus first.
• Do not board the bus when the doors are closing.
• Do not board the bus from the rear doors.
• For the comfort of other passengers, smoking is not allowed at bus stops.
• Do not run or play at the bus stop, children should be supervised at all times.
• For commuters in wheelchairs, please allow the Bus Captain some time to deploy the boarding ramp for you.
• Be considerate to other's commuters.

Safety at Bus Interchanges and Terminals

• Do not walk in the bus park. It is meant for Bus Captains’ use only.
• Be considerate and queue when waiting for the bus.
• For your safety, stand clear of the curb while waiting for your bus.
• Assist or give way to the elderly, disabled, pregnant women and young children when boarding the bus.
• For commuters in wheelchairs, please allow the Bus Captain some time to deploy the boarding ramp for you.

Safety on the bus

• After boarding the bus, pay for the bus fare with your fare card or cash and move to the rear. Do not block the entrance.
• When possible, please move to the rear to allow other passengers to board the bus.
• Do not stand on the steps of the bus and be mindful when the doors are opening and closing.
• For your safety hold on to the seat handle bar at the front or side when seated.
• When standing in the bus, please hold on to the hand grips or stanchion pole for your safety.
• For commuters in wheelchairs, please position your wheel chair at the wheel chair zone with your back against the cushion. If you have a care giver, do brief them these safety pointers.
• To minimise obstruction to other commuters, please ensure that your bags, luggage, prams/strollers do not block the walkways and doorways.
• Please offer your seat to those who need it more than you, especially the elderly, handicapped, pregnant women or children.
• Please supervise children at all times in the bus.
• Do not eat, drink, litter or smoke while on the bus.
• Do not block the exit of the bus.
• To alight, press the bell once in advance. Give the driver ample notice and time to pull into the bus stop.
• Let the bus come to a complete stop before alighting. For your safety, never force the doors open.
• Do not alight if the doors are closing. Press the bell to alert the Bus Captain.
• Please report any unusual incidents or sightings on board the bus to our Bus Captains.
• If you have left your belongings on the bus, please lodge a Lost & Found report here or at our Passenger Service Offices.

Forward Singapore -What is it

 

CHARTING OUR WAY FORWARD

Forward Singapore

Since the launched of the Forward Singapore exercise in June 2022, over 14,000 Singaporeans from all walks of life have participated in about 140 engagement sessions across a wide range of topics. Beyond these sessions, many more of you have shared your views and ideas through surveys and other feedback tools. Thank you to everyone who has come forward to participate so far!

Across the conversations, Singaporeans acknowledged that we are living in a time of change and must relook our current way of doing things. We are emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic into a more uncertain world, with big-power tensions sending ripples globally. At home, our aspirations are evolving, and we face continued pressures like a rapidly ageing population and slowing social mobility. All this places more stresses on our society and our people.

Through the Forward Singapore exercise, Singaporeans are exploring the values, priorities, and policies needed to strengthen our social compact for the next bound of our nation’s journey. 

From the engagements to date, some common values that our people hold dear have emerged: promoting fairness, deepening inclusiveness, and creating a culture of giving back. Singaporeans also offered varied suggestions, ranging from how we might broaden pathways to success and ensure greater opportunities for all, to strengthening assurance for workers and families.

You can read more detailed findings from the engagements across the six Forward Singapore pillars here.

In the next phase of Forward Singapore, there will be more engagements to discuss specific issues, and opportunities for the public to co-create policy solutions. The outcomes of these engagements and partnerships will guide the Government’s policy deliberations and the eventual recommendations of Forward Singapore.

The exercise will conclude in the second half of 2023 with the Forward Singapore report. This report will articulate our collective vision for Singapore and offer recommendations for how society can come together to realise it.

Share Your Views With Us
We would like to invite you to get involved in Forward Singapore. Share with us your ideas, feedback and suggestions for Forward Singapore by clicking here.

Together, we can build a better and brighter Singapore.

The exercise will be organised along six pillars, each headed by 4G leaders:

Each pillar will engage Singaporeans to understand their concerns, review policies, and establish new partnerships to implement changes.

The Forward Singapore exercise will last a year, and conclude with a report in mid-2023.

Joint Regulatory CWC Control

JOINT REGULATORY CONTROL OF SCHEDULED CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION (CWC) CHEMICALS

With effect from 21 August 2023, the National Environment Agency (NEA) and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) will be co-regulating 47 scheduled CWC chemicals with Singapore Customs.

Existing Regulatory Control of Scheduled CWC Chemicals

2 Singapore Customs, as the National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention (NA(CWC)), will continue to oversee Singapore’s international obligations towards the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). There is no change to the existing Singapore Customs’ licensing regime.

Enhancements to Regulatory Control of Scheduled CWC Chemicals

3 In addition to Singapore Customs’ regulatory requirements, NEA and SCDF will be administering domestic regulatory controls on safety and security by co-regulating the 47 scheduled CWC chemicals as Hazardous Substances (HS) under the Environmental Protection and Management Act (EPMA) and its Regulations, or as Flammable Materials (FM) under the Fire Safety Act (FSA) and its Regulations respectively:

a) NEA will co-regulate 35 of the 47 scheduled CWC chemicals as HS with Singapore Customs. Today, NEA is already co-regulating 9 CWC chemicals2 and will coregulate another 26 CWC chemicals as part of this regulatory change.

b) SCDF will co-regulate the remaining 12 of the 47 scheduled CWC chemicals as FM with Singapore Customs.

4 Companies that perform the following activities which exceed the exemption threshold quantities or purities must obtain a licence/permit:

a) Activities involving HS require a HS licence or permit for:

i. Import, export, manufacture, offer for sale, transport, storage and/or use –

Companies will be required to obtain a HS licence. In addition to a HS licence, a HS transport approval will be required for the transportation of HS, subject to the type of HS and its quantity per transportation.

1 The legislative amendments are gazetted by NEA and SCDF on 17 February 2023 and will take effect on 21 August 2023, factoring a 6-month transition period for the industry to prepare and comply with the regulatory changes.

2 The 9 chemicals that NEA is currently co-regulating with Singapore Customs are (1) Amiton, (2)Arsenic trichloride, (3) Phosgene, (4) Cyanogen chloride, (5) Hydrogen cyanide, (6) Chloropicrin, (7) Phosphorus oxychloride, (8) Phosphorus trichloride, and (9) Phosphorus pentachloride.

ii. Purchase, storage and/or use – Companies will be required to obtain a HS permit.

b) Activities involving FM require a P&FM licence for import, transport, storage or conveyance via pipeline.

5 Please refer to Annex A for details on the co-regulation of the 47 scheduled CWC chemicals, including the respective agencies, exemption criteria for licence/permit application and requirements for road transportation.

6 All HS and FM licence/permit holders will be subject to safety requirements imposed by NEA and SCDF respectively. Facilities storing scheduled CWC chemicals will also be subject to enhanced security requirements under the respective regulatory regimes. Agencies will reach out to the licensees of these facilities and if necessary, arrange for a joint site inspection with the Singapore Police Force (SPF) to thoroughly assess the adequacy of existing onsite security measures. The details on the licensing/permit/approval requirements may also be found on the NEA and SCDF websites respectively:

NEA https://www.nea.gov.sg/our-services/pollution-control/chemicalsafety/hazardous-substances

SCDF https://www.scdf.gov.sg/home/fire-safety/petroleum-and-flammablematerial-licences

7 To avoid any potential disruption to business operations, companies dealing with the scheduled CWC chemicals should consider applying for or amending their licences/permits/transport approvals from 1 March 2023 onwards. Applications can be submitted via GoBusiness at https://gobusiness.gov.sg. For SCDF’s import and pipeline licences, applications can be submitted via SCDF E-Services3 at https://eservices1.scdf.gov.sg.

Streamlining of TradeNet Import/Export Permit Declarations for Scheduled CWC Chemicals

8 Companies that are importing/exporting scheduled CWC chemicals shall continue to apply for the TradeNet import/export permit. Agencies will implement product code pairing for TradeNet import and export permit declarations for the jointly controlled chemicals using relevant Harmonised System Codes and Product Codes of Singapore Customs and NEA/SCDF. Detailed changes to the declaration process will be made known to traders and declaring agents in Q2 2023. In the interim, traders and declaring agents may continue to declare the import and export permit applications for these chemicals using existing Singapore Customs’ Product Codes. 

9 Please note that Singapore Customs’ existing trade controls and restrictions4 under the Chemical Weapons (Prohibition) Act and its Regulations remain applicable. From 21 August 2023, TradeNet import/export permit approvals from the co-regulating agencies (i.e.,

Singapore Customs and NEA/SCDF) will be required prior to any import/export of scheduled CWC chemicals.

10 Should you have any enquiries on the regulatory changes involving scheduled CWC chemicals, please contact:

SCDF • Storage Licence (Koh_Wen_Xi@scdf.gov.sg)

• Transport Licence

(Md_Razif_Abd_Rahman@scdf.gov.sg)

• Import Licence (Muhathir_Mohamad@scdf.gov.sg)

• Pipeline Licence (Wong_Weng_Kuin@scdf.gov.sg)

NEA • NEA_PCD_HS@nea.gov.sg

Singapore Customs

• CUSTOMS_NACWC@customs.gov.sg

Ready-to-Eat Raw Fish

Ready-to-Eat Raw Fish -What is the Fuss ?

Introduction

Raw fish is a popular ingredient and dish in many countries. For example, sushi and sashimi are a staple in Japanese cuisine, while Poké, a salad made with chunks of seasoned raw fish mixed with vegetables is a favourite dish in Hawaii, United States. In Singapore, family and friends gather to celebrate the Lunar New Year by tossing yu sheng, a salad commonly consisting of raw fish and a variety of vegetables and condiments.

Raw fish intended for raw consumption are generally sold and marketed separately from other raw fish intended for cooking. As with the consumption of all raw food, there are some food safety risks in consuming ready-to-eat (RTE) raw fish.

What are the risks of consuming ready-to-eat raw fish?

RTE raw fish is considered a high-risk food as it does not go through a cooking process. Raw fish contains a higher germ count, which can increase if good hygiene practices are not observed during the preparation process, such as preparing the fish with dirty hands and using dirty utensils and cutting boards.

Besides microbiological contamination, the consumption of RTE raw fish also carries a risk of contracting parasitic diseases. An example is herring worm disease, which is caused by parasites or roundworms attaching to the wall of the stomach, intestine or esophagus. Roundworms can grow up to 3 cm long and are commonly found in marine fish. These roundworms are a main food source for marine fish.

How can we reduce food-borne illnesses from eating RTE raw fish?

Through a joint responsibility approach to food safety, we can reduce the risk of food-borne illness from eating RTE raw fish.

SFA's food safety monitoring programme is guided by a science-based risk assessment and management approach that is consistent with international standards. This means that food that is more susceptible to food-borne diseases is subjected to more stringent checks. Food, including raw fish, is tested for a wide range of food-borne hazards including microbial pathogens and presence of parasites.

The industry must also ensure that the fish they farm, produce and sell are safe for consumption. Importers should source RTE raw fish from suppliers that adopt proper cold chain management and hygienic handling practices of the fish. Suppliers and retail food establishments should also practise proper segregation of RTE raw fish from other raw food intended for cooking.

Consumers who choose to eat RTE raw fish must be aware of the risks involved. As a general precaution, vulnerable people with lower immunity system such pregnant women, children and the elderly, or people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, should avoid consuming raw fish altogether.

Should you choose to eat RTE raw fish, follow these tips to reduce the risk of food-borne illness:

• Purchase RTE raw fish from licensed establishments
• When purchasing RTE raw fish from supermarkets or retail food establishments, ensure that it is intended/suitable for raw consumption
• When in doubt, cook the fish thoroughly before consumption, as cooking is an effective way to kill bacteria and parasites
• Follow the instructions indicated on the package on the handling and storage of RTE raw fish. RTE raw fish should be placed in the chiller at temperatures between 0 oC and 4 oC soon after purchase.
• Do not consume expired RTE raw fish.
• Avoid cross contamination. Wash hands and kitchen utensils thoroughly before and after handling RTE raw fish and use separate sets of kitchen utensils for RTE raw fish and cooked food.

To learn more about food safety, check out Singapore Food Agency

WSH Alert -Worker Struck By Toppled Glass

Workers struck by toppled glass doors

On 2 February 2023, a group of workers was unpacking glass doors from a shipping container when nine of the doors (each weighing about 120 kg) toppled and struck two of the workers. One worker died of his injuries while the other had to be hospitalised.  

Preliminary investigations revealed that the glass doors were being unpacked from the shipping container without any form of support or restraint.

Figure 1: Shipping container with the glass doors before unpacking.

Figure 2: Position of the toppled glass doors after the accident.

Transportation of heavy material not secured in a stable position, such as glass panels stacked vertically, poses a high risk of the material toppling onto workers. The WSH Council calls on all companies handling heavy materials, including glass panels, to undertake an urgent assessment of their safety measures.

What companies should do

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

• Container packing plan: Request from the supplier a detailed packing plan which provides information on the contents of the shipping container such as the cargo inventory list, the weight of each cargo item, arrangement of cargo within the container, and how each item has been secured. If feasible, ask suppliers to pack the cargo in a stable or secured way, such that they will not topple during unpacking. 

• Safe unpacking method: Obtain from the supplier the instructions for safe container unpacking. The unpacking method depends on how the cargo was packed. The following are two recommended packing/ unpacking methods:

1. Bundling cargo into a crate or case within the container. The crate or case may then be moved in or out of the container using a purpose-built overhead travelling crane and/ or forklift with telescopic handlers.

2. In the case of glass panels, strap them onto palletised A-frame racks which can be moved in or out of the container using pallet jacks and/ or forklifts.

• Secured cargo: If the cargo cannot be bundled into a crate or strapped onto A-frame racks, ensure the cargo is secured in place with mechanical support (e.g. props, braces or frames) and/ or restraint belts attached to the anchor points inside the container. To prevent toppling and facilitate unpacking, remove the supports and restraints one at a time only for the cargo being moved whilst ensuring that the remaining items are still secured.

• Safe Work Procedure (SWP): Establish and implement a SWP for handling heavy cargo with toppling risks. The SWP should include the safe unpacking method, risk controls, safe working positions, and the mechanical handling equipment to be used. Train workers (including contractors and outsourced workers) on the safe unpacking method and provide on-site supervision to ensure the SWPs are closely followed.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide workers with the necessary PPE (e.g. safety helmet, safety shoes, safety eyewear, gloves, high-visibility reflective vest) for the unpacking task.

For more information, refer to SS 663: 2020 Code of Practice for Safe Loading on Vehicles, WSH Council’s Code of Practice on WSH Risk Management, WSH Guidelines on Safe Loading of Vehicles, and SafeWork NSW Australia’s Guide for Unpacking Shipping Containers.

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 extended Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 31 May 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, and attend a mandatory half-day in-person WSH training course.

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

CERT Recertification Program

What is CERT Recertification Program

A structured and sustainable re-certification program for Tier 1 P&FM CERT

What is Tier 1 P&FM CERT

Tier 1
Premises storing more than 5 metric tons of Petroleum & Flammable Material

To learn more about other Tier's and its associated minimum fire safety training and minimum equipment inventory requirement click
National CERT Standard

CERT Recertification Program

✓ This program will include relevant practical components that will elevate the skill sets of CERT

✓ Increase the confidence of CERT to tackle on-site incidents

This programme consist of CERT Refresher Training component, and the CERT Audit component, which will be conducted by the approved training provider competent personnel. It is a total of 1 & half day programme, which consists of the briefing, training, and both the CERT documentation and practical audit. Both the documentation and practical audit.

Total Programme Duration:

One Day + Half Day 

CERT Recertification Briefing and Documentation Audit

- Up to 3 hours (Half Day) (Time can be adjusted within office hours)

- Only Key Personnel (FSM/ SMC/ SIC, etc) to be present

CERT Refresher Training and Audit

- 0830 hours to 1730 hours (1 Day)

- For CERT Team

Upon successful completion of the CERT Recertification Program, the premise will be considered to have fulfilled the CERT Audit requirements for the work year.

Premises which have sign up the CERT Recertification Program and successfully completed and fulfilled all the requirement stipulated in the SCDF CERT Audit Checklist before 01 April 2022 will be exempted from 2024 CERT Audit.

To learn more about the CERT Re-certification, click  FSM 2022 briefing. Here is the list of SCDF approved training providers who are qualified to conduct the CERT Re-certification Program for your premise

Chemical Standards Exchange - SS 586 : 2022

Chemical Standards Exchange - "Safeguarding our workers and workplaces" and sharing of revised SS 586 Part 2 and 3

The Chemical Standards Exchange is an annual flagship seminar organised by the Chemical Standards Committee (CSC) to highlight the importance of Singapore Standards in promoting health, safety, environment, and sustainability in the chemical industry.

As the theme for 2022 focuses on health and safety, this exchange will showcase the revised Singapore Standard SS 586 : 2022 on Part 2 “Globally harmonised system of classification and labelling of chemicals – Singapore’s adaptations”, and Part 3 “ Preparation of safety data sheets (SDS)”, compared to the previous edition published in 2014 and 2008, respectively.

Highlights of the revised standard will be presented by the experts of the working group (WG) who were involved in the document’s development.

Other safety related standards under the care of CSC, will also be presented to briefly demonstrate how these documents can be used by the industry.

Event details:

Date         :       7 Mar 2023 (Tuesday)

Time         :       2.00pm to 5.00pm (Registration starts at 1.30pm)

Venue       :      Amara Singapore

                         Level 3 Ballroom

                         165 Tanjong Pagar Rd

                         Singapore 088539

Who should attend: Chemical manufacturers, importers, suppliers, users, testing laboratories and supply chain service providers, relevant government agencies, academia and research institutions.

How to register:

To register, interested participants will need to purchase a copy of SS 586 – 2 : 2022 or SS 586 – 3 : 2022  (at a 20% discounted price of $ 23.00 and $56.60 (excl. GST) respectively) from Toppan Leefung Pte Ltd (click here for SS 586-2 and here for SS 688-3) or via the QR codes below:

Click here, for the event registration after purchasing SS 586-2 or SS 586-3. Please note that, for each purchase of the standards, the organisation can send one representative to attend the physical event.

For enquiries on the purchase of standards, please contact Mr Rahman Daud from Toppan Leefung Pte Ltd at rahmandaud@toppanleefung.com.

Please note that seats are limited and would be on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Registration deadline: 1 Mar 2023

Programme in brief:

• Overview of Chemical Standards Committee
• The important role of standards in enabling safety in our workplaces
• Practices in the safe storage of flammable liquids (SS 532)
• Overview of revised SS 586 Part 2 and 3
• Highlights of key changes made to SS 586 Part 2 and Part 3
• Industry practices in adopting the change in SS 586
• Panel discussion on SS 586 Part 2 and 3

Singapore Standards - Newly Published

The following are some newly-published Singapore Standards:

1. SS 551:2022 – Code of practice for earthing

2. SS 586-2:2022 – Specification for hazard communication for hazardous chemicals and dangerous goods – Part 2: Globally harmonised system of classification and labelling of chemicals – Singapore’s adaptations.

3. SS 586-3:2022 – Specification for hazard communication for hazardous chemicals and dangerous goods – Part 3: Preparation of safety data sheets (SDSs)

4. SS 570-1:2022 – Personal protective equipment for protection against falls from a height – Part 1: Single-point anchor devices

5. SS 570-2:2022 – Personal protective equipment for protection against falls from a height – Part 2: Flexible horizontal lifeline systems

6. SS 692:2022 – Guidelines for nutrition and food services for infants and children

7. SS IEC 61215-1:2023 – Terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design qualification and type approval – Part 1: Test requirements

8. SS IEC 61215-1-1:2023 – Terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design qualification and type approval – Part 1-1: Special requirements for testing of crystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) modules

9. SS IEC 61215-2:2023 – Terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design qualification and type approval – Part 2: Test procedures

Flexi Subscription Plan

The Singapore Standards Subscription Service allows you instant and unlimited access to your preferred Singapore Standards anytime and anywhere. The Subscription Service is an effective, cost-saving and multi-user solution for accessing Singapore Standards.

We are pleased to announce our new subscription solution, Flexi Subscription Plan, which allows you to subscribe to Singapore Standards for a short-term period, starting with a minimum of one-month subscription. You could select the Singapore Standards that you require, the number of users and the subscription period between 1 month to 11 months, depending on your business requirements and budget.

For more information on the Flexi Subscription Plan or to receive a quotation, call us at Tel: 6826 9685, 6826 9629, 6826 9680 or email to singaporestandardseshop@toppanleefung.com.

(Please note that the Flexi Subscription Plan is for new subscriptions only and existing subscribers cannot convert to this plan until after the expiry of their present subscription.) 

Upcoming Event: Launch of SS 333 Specification for Fire Dampers

Enterprise Singapore, together with IES-SDO, is organising a seminar launch of the revised Singapore Standard on specification for fire dampers (SS 333:2022) on 21 March 2023, Tuesday at Concorde Hotel Singapore.

Air-conditioning and ventilation ducts have to traverse through fire rated walls, floor and ceiling in order to provide an economical and effective system for any building. This system, however, provides an effective means whereby fire and smoke (fire-smoke damper) can infiltrate throughout the whole building. Hence, there is a necessity to have fire dampers in order to preserve the integrity of each compartmented area in the event of an outbreak of fire.

This seminar will highlight the key changes of SS 333:2022, which includes Fire Code provisions, and the usage of fire damper and fire-smoke damper. Participants will also learn how to differentiate between fire damper and fire-smoke damper, and its installation methods. Product testing procedures and how to get fire-smoke damper tested and listed under SCDF Product Listing Scheme (PLS) will also be covered.

For more information: https://bit.ly/3RlYQ10