SINGAPORE: A Striking Advisory

In a striking advisory released on Sunday, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council are calling on employers to gear up for unpredictable and severe weather patterns that are becoming increasingly common due to climate change.

Recent Severe Weather Events

With recent events on September 17, when severe winds and torrential downpours wreaked havoc in the area—toppling trees, halting traffic, and causing property damage—the urgency of this advisory has never been clearer. It's not just a matter of safety; it's a wake-up call for every business operating outdoors.

Key Adverse Weather Phenomena

The MOM and WSH Council highlighted the need for employers to be vigilant against potential adverse weather phenomena such as intense winds, rising temperatures, prolonged dry periods, and an uptick in lightning strikes and flash floods.

Critical Strategies for Employers

To safeguard workers and assets, the advisory detailed four critical strategies for employers, particularly those in outdoor industries.

1. Stay Informed

Use advanced weather monitoring systems and subscribe to real-time weather alerts—like those from the National Environment Agency’s myENV mobile app—to keep abreast of changing conditions.

2. Revise Risk Assessments

Thoroughly evaluate the risks associated with extreme weather events and customize risk control measures for various work activities that might be impacted.

3. Enhanced Communication and Training

Employers must proactively inform workers about weather-related dangers and equip them with training to identify risks. Effective channels for reporting hazards and initiating emergency stop-work protocols should be established to ensure swift action can be taken.

4. Develop Recovery Plans

In the wake of severe weather disruptions, it’s crucial to have robust recovery strategies in place. Conduct thorough inspections of affected structures, machinery, and equipment to ensure they are safe for continued use.

Conclusion: An Ongoing Responsibility

As Singapore grapples with the realities of climate change, the MOM and WSH Council's advisory serves as a crucial manual for businesses aiming to protect their workforce and operations. Hence, it’s not just about compliance; it’s about ongoing responsibility and preparedness in an era of unpredictable climate conditions.

Stay alert, stay prepared, and ensure that your organization is not just surviving but thriving in this new climate reality!