SMEs Tapping into StartSAFE Programme and Its Effectiveness in Improving Workplace Safety

41 Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Minister for Manpower: (a) how many SMEs have tapped into StartSAFE programme since its launch; (b) how effective has the programme been in improving workplace safety in SMEs; and (c) whether there are plans to expand and enhance the programme to encourage more SMEs to adopt StartSAFE.

Dr Tan See Leng: About 4,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have benefited from StartSAFE since its 2018 launch. Close to 800 StartSAFE participants have advanced to bizSAFE Level 3 and above. Companies achieving bizSAFE Level 3 would have passed an audit of their workplace risk management measures, which is a significant milestone. With this promising progress, we will continue to encourage more SMEs to participate in StartSAFE, a programme fully subsidised by the Government, to assist SMEs in strengthening workplace safety and health.