New guidelines underway in Singapore to prepare for extreme weather events: report

"With climate change, Singapore can expect unexpected weather conditions that would impact workplace safety and health," a MOM spokesperson told CNA.

"Hence, the guidelines aim to raise awareness on the likelihood of an extreme weather event and its consequences on workplaces."

MOM did not specify a timeline for the guideline but said they will be released after consultations with the industry and the public, according to CNA.

Preparing for adverse weather events

The new guidelines come after MOM and WSH Council previously urged employers to prepare for erratic and sudden changes in weather conditions as a result of climate change.

These weather conditions include stronger winds, warmer temperatures, longer dry spells, increased occurrences in lightning, and flash floods.

In a previous advisory, MOM and the council encouraged employers to take the following steps:

• Monitor weather conditions. Use weather monitoring systems and alerts to stay informed about upcoming weather conditions. 
• Review risk assessments. Consider the impact of adverse weather events and implement risk controls for specific work activities affected. 
• Communicate possible hazards to workers. Train workers to recognise the hazard, and report to their supervisor and/or stop work as necessary, especially in an emergency. 
• Prepare a recovery plan. Check and ensure the integrity of affected structures and critical outdoor machinery and equipment after the weather event. 

The International Labour Organisation revealed earlier this year that more than 2.4 billion workers, or more than 70% of the total 3.4 billion global workforce, are likely exposed to health hazards, such as excessive heat, exacerbated by climate change.