Effect of Extreme Weather Events on Workplace Safety for Those in High-exposure Sectors
Ministry of ManpowerSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the impact of projected extreme weather events on workplace safety in high-exposure sectors, as raised by Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye. Minister for Manpower Dr Tan See Leng identified construction and shipyards as high-risk sectors and cited climate studies projecting increased temperatures and rainfall intensity. To mitigate risks, the Ministry of Manpower mandates hourly 10-minute rest breaks for heavy outdoor work when the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature reaches 32°C. Employers are further required to report heat-related illnesses and follow official guidelines to evaluate weather-specific risks and develop comprehensive response plans. The Ministry continues to monitor these evolving environmental risks to periodically review and update workplace safety and health measures for all sectors.
Transcript
18 Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry has studied how projected increases in extreme weather events may affect workplace safety in high-exposure sectors; and (b) which sectors are assessed to face the highest weather-related workplace safety risks.
Dr Tan See Leng: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) periodically reviews and updates our measures to prepare for the effect of climate changes on working conditions. Notably, Singapore's Third National Climate Change Study by the Centre for Climate Research Singapore released in January 2024 found that the annual average daily mean temperature is projected to increase from 27.9°C to between 28.5°C and 30.1°C by 2050. The study also found that the heaviest rainfall events will become even more intense.
Adverse weather scenarios are wide-ranging and affect different sectors and workplaces in various ways. For example, workers at workplaces with prolonged outdoor activities, such as construction sites and shipyards, are more prone to heat stress risks associated with hot weather. On the other hand, flooding could damage equipment and lead to safety risks in both indoor and outdoor workplaces depending on their location.
On heat stress, MOM has mandated specific safety measures, such as hourly rest breaks of at least 10 minutes, for workers performing heavy physical work activity outdoors when the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature reaches 32°C and above. MOM takes enforcement actions against companies found to be non-compliant. Employers are also required to report work-related heat illnesses to MOM under the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act.
For other adverse weather risks, MOM and the WSH Council have issued Guidelines on Preparing for Adverse Weather to advise employers across all sectors on how to evaluate specific weather risks in their work settings and develop comprehensive response plans. We will continue to monitor and review our measures as these risks evolve.