In the event of a terror attack, would your workplace be prepared? It’s a question many HR professionals may be asking themselves this morning after a leading politician urged organisations to put a plan in place.
Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean was speaking at the annual National Security Conference yesterday when he said businesses have an important role to play in readying both their workplaces and workers for a potential threat.
“Our security agencies are working hard to detect, prevent and deal with potential attacks – at the same time, strong community support is essential to keep Singapore and Singaporeans safe,” said Teo Chee Hean.
“To complement our efforts to prepare Singaporeans, we need to also prepare our businesses as well," he continued, explaining that employers can also help build cohesion, harmony and trust in the community.
Teo’s comments come as the terrorist threat to Singapore is at the highest level in over a decade. Since 2015, eleven Singaporeans have been detained and six have been issued with Restriction Orders – more than in the previous seven years combined. A number of foreign workers found to be radicalised have also been deported.
As well as launching the SGSecure Guide for Workplaces – a guidebook to help businesses raise their security preparedness – Teo laid out key areas for businesses to work on.
Firstly, organisations must be prepared so employees are able to protect themselves and their colleagues in case of an attack. This step will be supported by the Public Service, which will train public officers on emergency preparedness, such as first-aid and the use of automated external defibrillators.
Secondly, businesses must protect their workplaces and have effective contingency plans in place such as well-practiced drills and rehearsed evacuations.
Finally, Teo said companies should also partner with their communities to strengthen vigilance while also building religious harmony and social cohesion.
"Our racial and religious harmony is a strength but as we can see from elsewhere in our own region, and countries beyond, that this is not the natural state of affairs," he said.
"Our business sector has a key role to play in helping to build cohesion, harmony and trust in Singapore. This is an important complement to the actions to strengthen the preparedness of our workplaces."
Related stories:
How can Singapore firms remain vigilant against workplace attacks?
How HR should respond to a workplace tragedy
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