Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) in Singapore is governed by strict regulations to protect employees from hazards. The WSH Act requires employers, employees, and stakeholders to take responsibility for workplace safety. Compliance reduces risks, prevents accidents, and ensures businesses operate within legal frameworks.
Key WSH Regulations in Singapore
- WSH Act – Covers all workplaces, placing legal duties on employers, occupiers, and workers to ensure safety.
- WSH (Risk Management) Regulations – Requires companies to identify, evaluate, and manage risks through proper assessments.
- WSH (General Provisions) Regulations – Addresses key workplace safety requirements such as fire prevention, ventilation, and emergency exits.
- WSH (Construction) Regulations – Mandates safety practices for construction sites, including fall protection and site supervision.
- Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA) – Ensures employees receive compensation for workplace injuries or occupational diseases.
- Code of Practice on WSH Risk Management – Guides businesses in implementing structured risk assessment procedures.
Key Responsibilities Under WSH Laws
- Employers must provide a safe working environment, conduct risk assessments, and offer safety training.
- Employees should follow safety protocols, report hazards, and use personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Workplace Safety Officers (WSO) oversee compliance, conduct audits, and implement safety measures.
- Contractors and Subcontractors are responsible for safety at construction sites, ensuring all workers comply with regulations.
Common Workplace Hazards & How to Prevent Them
- Slips, Trips, and Falls
- Keep walkways clear and well-lit.
- Use anti-slip mats and proper footwear.
- Ensure immediate clean-up of spills.
- Manual Handling & Ergonomic Risks
- Train employees on proper lifting techniques.
- Provide ergonomic workstations to reduce strain.
- Rotate tasks to prevent repetitive stress injuries.
- Machinery-Related Injuries
- Install machine guards and emergency stop buttons.
- Conduct regular maintenance checks.
- Ensure workers receive proper equipment training.
- Chemical Exposure
- Label and store hazardous substances properly.
- Provide ventilation and PPE such as gloves and masks.
- Train employees on handling and disposal procedures.
- Fire and Electrical Hazards
- Conduct fire drills and install smoke detectors.
- Avoid overloading power sockets.
- Ensure all electrical work is performed by qualified personnel.
Compliance Tips for Employers
- Conduct Regular Risk Assessments – Identify workplace risks, document them, and implement control measures.
- Provide Ongoing Safety Training – Educate employees on hazard prevention, emergency response, and safe work practices.
- Enforce PPE Usage – Ensure workers wear the necessary protective gear, such as helmets, gloves, and masks.
- Establish a WSH Committee – Appoint safety representatives to monitor compliance and address workplace risks.
- Report and Investigate Incidents – Document all workplace accidents and near misses to improve safety measures.
- Stay Updated with WSH Guidelines – Follow advisories from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and WSH Council.
Creating a Culture of Workplace Safety
Building a strong safety culture requires commitment from leadership and employees. Encouraging open communication about risks, rewarding safe behaviors, and integrating WSH practices into daily operations can significantly reduce accidents. Safe workplaces boost productivity, employee morale, and compliance with regulations.
Companies that prioritize safety protect their workforce while avoiding legal penalties and operational disruptions. Staying proactive in WSH compliance ensures a safer and more efficient workplace for everyone.