New framework includes required measures to reduce risk of heat stress
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) released on Friday a revised framework that aims to protect outdoor workers against heat stress amid rising temperatures.
The revised framework for outdoor workers has been aligned with the three-tier Heat Stress Advisory for the general population, which is based on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT).
"The framework includes required measures that are critical in mitigating the risk of heat stress, such as heat acclimatisation, regular hydration, monitoring of WBGT, and the provision of adequate rest breaks under shade, that must be implemented," MOM said in a statement.
"There are also recommended practices, such as close monitoring of workers' health condition and the provision of ventilation, for employers to consider at the different WBGT bands."
Source: Ministry of Manpower
Protecting outdoor workers
According to MOM, it reviewed the framework for outdoor workers to grant employers the flexibility to adjust and implement measures based on their localised conditions.
It also seeks to ensure that outdoor workers are "adequately protected" amid rising temperatures, as they have less discretion over their work activities.
A previous study published in the Cell Press journal One Earth in March revealed that an additional 1°C of heat will limit the working hours of about 800 million people in the tropics "for over half of the hours in the year."
The research warned that potential well-being outcomes from heat stress include heat-related illnesses, kidney injury, cardiopulmonary injury, and death.
Workplace inspections to follow
Meanwhile, MOM said it will conduct inspections in workplaces to ensure that employers are complying with the required measures under the new guidelines.
The ministry previously took enforcement action against 78 workplaces that were found non-compliant with the government's rules to reduce heat stress for outdoor workers.
The International Labour Organisation previously called for collaborative efforts to develop and implement effective mitigation and adaptation measures to protect employees around the world.
Its research revealed that 2.4 billion workers, or more than 70% of the total 3.4 billion global workforce, are likely exposed to excessive heat at some point during their work. This excessive heat has resulted in 22.85 million occupational injuries and 18,970 work-related deaths annually.
