Employers in Singapore will be required to implement an enhanced set of measures to reduce heat stress risks for outdoor workers.

These measures will take immediate effect, said the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

Increased risk of heat stress

MOM highlighted that outdoor workers in Singapore are more at risk of heat stress due to rising temperatures.

"Unlike the general population, outdoor workers have less discretion over their work activities, and may be more exposed to heat stress," said MOM in a press release.

The new measures were created in consultation with the Ministry of Health (MOH)’s Heat Stress Expert Panel.

How to reduce risk of heat stress

MOM shared a combination of measures focusing on four aspects — acclimatise, drink, rest, and shade — to provide protection to outdoor workers.

Examples of these measures include making sure that new workers are given time to gradually adjust to outdoor work, and ensuring that all outdoor workers hydrate at least hourly and have regular rest breaks under shaded areas to dissipate accumulated body heat.

Heat stress risk must be monitored by employers

Employers are also required to monitor the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) for every hour of outdoor work performed, especially during the hotter periods of the day.

The WBGT is an internationally recognised measurement that reflects the main environmental factors contributing to heat stress. It takes into accounts air temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation.

Workplaces can use the National Environment Agency's myENV app to monitor WBGT readings.

From Jan. 1, 2024, an on-site WBGT meter for localised measurements will be required at construction sites with a contract sum of S$5 million or more, as well as shipyards and the process industry.

This is because these workplaces are likely to have prolonged outdoor activities.

Mandatory rest breaks

MOM has also put in place mandatory rest breaks when the WBGT is higher.

When the WBGT is 32^oC or higher, a minimum rest break of 10 minutes hourly under shade has to be provided to workers carrying out heavy physical activities.

Heavy physical activities includes intense arm and trunk work, carrying, shovelling, manual sawing, pushing and pulling heavy loads, and walking at a fast pace.

For workers with pre-existing health conditions, the rest duration should be longer or as advised by their doctors, MOM added.

The ministry also encouraged workplaces to effect a buddy system for early recognition of heat injury symptoms and implement prompt interventions when any worker shows signs of excessive heat exposure.

MOM said it will conduct inspections at workplaces to ensure that these measures are adequately implemented.

Related stories

Top images via NUR ALISHA on Unsplash.