Industry Sectors Facing Greatest Productivity Losses from Heat Exposure

37 Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Manpower following projections that heat-related productivity losses could reach $2.22 billion by 2035, (a) which specific industry sectors have been identified as bearing the greatest productivity losses from heat exposure; and (b) beyond the existing mandatory rest break framework, what targeted interventions is the Ministry implementing or funding to reduce heat-related productivity loss in these sectors.

Dr Tan See Leng: The cited National University of Singapore study projected economic losses arising from reduced productivity and work capacity due to rising temperatures, considering the direct impact on affected sectors and indirect losses incurred downstream by other related sectors. Across the four sectors studied, the estimated economic losses were highest in the services sector, followed by manufacturing, construction and agriculture. The workers at higher risk are typically those involved in prolonged outdoor work activities, particularly in the construction, marine and process sectors.

In consultation with tripartite partners and industry, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) updated the heat stress measures for outdoor work in September 2024, including introducing targeted measures for these sectors. Construction sites with a contract sum of $5 million or more, shipyards and the process sector are required to have a wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) meter on site for localised measurements. The WBGT readings are used to guide the implementation of other measures, such as rest breaks and hydration requirements.

MOM is also working with companies to promote and conduct trials on the use of technology solutions to better manage heat stress while mitigating productivity losses. These solutions include cooling vests and garments, and wearables that can allow for real-time, personalised monitoring of heat illness risk for workers in the construction and built environment sectors.