New Guidelines to Better Prepare Employers for Impact of Adverse Weather on Workplace Safety

04 Apr 2025 Press Releases

With climate change impacting global weather patterns and leading to more unpredictable weather in Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council have introduced a new set of Guidelines that provide recommendations for managing workplace safety risks during strong winds, floods, lightning, heat stress and haze (see Annex for summary of recommendations). This proactive move enables employers to run their operations safely with reduced downtime.

2 The Guidelines take into consideration the varying operational demands across industries and firm size. As such, the recommendations are broad-based and provide a foundation for employers to build on according to their operational needs. From our consultations with the WSH Council’s Construction, Marine, and Chemical Industry Committees, as well as the Work at Heights Taskforce, and Crane and Lifting Taskforce, stakeholders expressed support for the approach taken and highlighted that the Guidelines are timely and useful in shaping the right ground practices across industries.

3 Employers should evaluate specific weather risks in their workplaces and develop comprehensive response plans. This includes clear communication systems, regular drills, and preparations to secure temporary structures and equipment. Employers should also maintain communication with contractors to ensure their preparedness for adverse weather conditions. 

4 While the Guidelines are not mandatory, employers and workers have obligations under the WSH Act to maintain safe workplaces. MOM will also conduct checks to ensure the right safety measures are in place to prevent incidents from occurring. MOM will not hesitate to take enforcement action against employers and individuals found culpable of safety lapses.