Singapore issues a circular on enhanced measures to reduce heat stress risks for outdoor workers in the maritime sector

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on 3 November 2023 issued a circular on enhanced measures to reduce heat stress risks for outdoor workers in the maritime sector.

This circular outlines enhanced measures to reduce heat stress risks for outdoor workers in the maritime sector, following the Ministry of Manpower’s directive from October 24, 2023.

Rising temperatures in Singapore increase the risk of heat stress for outdoor workers.

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has collaborated with the Ministry of Health (MOH) to introduce measures—focusing on acclimatization, hydration, rest, and shade—to protect workers.

Employers must monitor the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) hourly during outdoor work, using the myENV app from the National Environment Agency (NEA).

Certain workplaces, like construction sites with a contract sum of S$5 million or more, shipyards, and process industries, require on-site WBGT meters for localized measurements.

Employers must implement these measures to reduce heat stress risks for outdoor workers, subject to MOM inspections. Details can be found at go.gov.sg/heatstress-outdoorwork.

For additional queries, email Ms. Chen Miaosi at chen_miaosi@mpa.gov.sg.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

Enhanced Measures to Reduce Heat Stress Risks for Outdoor Workers