THE HIGHLIGHTS

MOM has reviewed the Heat Stress measures for outdoor works in September. It emphasizes the importance of acclimatization, hydration, rest, and close monitoring of workers to avoid heat-related illnesses. Here are some of the updated guidelines:

• Acclimatisation
  • Gradually increase workers' exposure to heat over at least 7 days, especially for those new to Singapore or returning from leave of more than a week.

• Rest & Shade
  • Ensure workers get adequate rest under shade for recovery from heat.
  • To provide rest area near working area.
  • Provide a minimum of 10 minutes rest every hour when WBGT reaches 32°C and above especially during heavy physical work activity.
  • Provide a minimum of 15 minutes rest every hour when WBGT reaches 33°C and above especially during heavy physical work activity.
  • Provide longer rest periods as WBGT increases.

• Monitoring WBGT
  • Monitor WBGT every hour during work hours, especially during the hotter periods of the day
• Rescheduling Work
  • Whenever possible, shift outdoor work to cooler parts of the day
• Clothing
  • Workers should wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing to minimize heat absorption

• Worker Monitoring
  • WBGT below 33°C
    • Identify vulnerable workers to heat stress and arrange redeployment when required
  • WBGT reaches 33°C and above
    • To redeploy vulnerable workers to non outdoor work.

• Emergency Preparedness
  • Ensure that emergency response plans are in place, with cold water, ice packs, and other cooling aids readily available.

Overall, the new guidelines introduce stricter measures, including mandatory WBGT monitoring in high-risk workplaces, more precise rest schedules based on WBGT levels, and a stronger emphasis on early detection of heat-relatedillnesses. Please refer to MOM - heat stress measure for outdoor works for more details.

https://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/2024/0906-revised-framework-to-guide-employers-and-protect-outdoor-workers-against-heat-stress

ZAP 2.0 implemented by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for its contractors aims to address safety issues at construction sites through several key initiatives. These initiatives focus on supervision, risk behaviour, safety competency, risk ownership and worker well-being. Some major points include:

1. To develop a comprehensive job description for supervisor and establish supervisor competency and assessments

• Management must ensure supervisors are assessed before appointment, identify competency gaps, and conduct safety leadership assessments.
• Management will develop and implement an enhanced competency framework to support the professional growth and development of newly appointed supervisors.

HSB's Implementation:

• Comprehensive job descriptions and competency assessments for supervisors.
• Supervisors and Safety Coordinators will facilitate a 'Take 5' meeting to inform workers of daily hazards, risk controls, and environmental factors.

2. Implementation of a communication platform between various parties (e.g. WhatsApp) for sharing SHE matters and good practices.

HSB's Implementation:

• WhatsApp
• Novade (Near Miss Reporting)
• Safety Shoutout in HSB App (Feedback)

Promoting near miss reporting and analysis during mass toolbox meetings

3. To implement a reward and penalty /improvement system

HSB's implementation:

Penalty and reward program on sites

4. Management shall implement an open reporting system (e.g. QR code) for workers to report any safety non-compliances and other matters

HSB's implementation:

• Open reporting systems for safety violations

5. The management team to conduct quarterly dialogue sessions with the workforce and 6 monthly SHE dialogues with subcontractors’ senior management.

• Conduct bi-monthly top management WSHE Meeting with project team and Subcontractor.

6. Focus on worker's health and mental well-being:

• Providing real-time WBGT monitoring system with alerts

7. To implement a "New Worker Safety Management Program" on site

• To enhance the new worker program to cater for different categories of workers (e.g. New, new trade and break in service)
• Management to implement probation with buddy system (the buddy and the new worker should speak the same language)

HSB's implementation:

• Implementation of New Worker Safety Management Program: 3-6 month evaluation for inexperienced workers, issuing blue vests, with no solo work or high-risk task

8. Management to develop WSH training facilities and topical WSH Training materials:

HSB's implementation:

• All HSB project site has WSHE training facilities.

• To enhance employee safety, WSH training materials are now available on the HSB mobile app.

HSB is committed to LTA ZAP 2.0 by ensuring a proactive approach to risk management, training, communication, and worker well-being, striving for a zero-accident workplace.