What's Changing in Singapore's Workplaces?
Starting January 1, 2025, Singapore is rolling out new safety rules for machinery and combustible dust. These changes aim to make workplaces safer, especially in manufacturing.
Why the Change?
Recent years have seen concerning trends in workplace safety, particularly in the manufacturing sector. A tragic incident in Tuas in 2021, involving an explosion at a manufacturing facility, served as a wake-up call for stricter safety measures. This, combined with statistics showing that machinery-related accidents caused 14% of serious workplace injuries in 2023, has prompted the government to take action. The new regulations aim to address these issues and create safer work environments across Singapore.
New Rules for Machinery
The new rules will affect various aspects of machinery use and management. Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing:
Expanding the Safety Net
The government is casting a wider net when it comes to high-risk machinery. New additions to the list include:
Sheet benders and rollers
Lathes and milling machines
Mixing by mechanical movement
Industrial machines for cutting, packaging, and food processing
This expansion means more machines will be subject to rigorous safety standards, helping to prevent accidents across a broader range of equipment.
A Chain of Responsibility
The new regulations create a clear chain of responsibility for machinery safety:
Manufacturers and Suppliers: These companies are now on the front line of safety. It's their job to ensure machines are designed and tested with safety in mind. These companies will also need to provide comprehensive safety information with their products.
Installers and Modifiers: Companies in this role are crucial too. When these businesses install or modify machinery, they must ensure their work doesn't compromise its safe use. This means considering safety at every step of the process.
These changes aim to create a safety-first culture throughout the entire lifecycle of machinery, from design to daily use. By involving all companies in the supply chain, the government hopes to significantly reduce machinery-related accidents and create safer workplaces for all.
Dealing with Dangerous Dust
Label It Right
Companies that supply or use combustible dust face new labeling requirements under the upcoming regulations. These businesses must clearly label packages with hazards and safety instructions, with a specific focus on materials like flour or starch in packages of 25kg or more.
Speak Up About Dust
Organisations handling large amounts of specific combustible dusts have new reporting responsibilities. These companies are required to notify the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) about the presence of such materials in their facilities. They must also inform their building owner or landlord about these potentially hazardous substances.
These measures aim to increase awareness and communication about potentially hazardous materials in the workplace, helping to prevent accidents and ensure proper handling procedures are in place.
What This Means for Your Business
The new regulations require companies to upgrade their safety measures, especially those using high-risk machinery or handling combustible dust. You'll need to review your risk management strategies, ensure compliance by January 2025, check your supply chain's safety standards, train your employees, and possibly improve your documentation systems.
Your Partner in Navigating Singapore's New Safety Rules
As Singapore's workplace safety regulations evolve, ESC stands ready as your expert guide. Our comprehensive EHS legal register updating service ensures you're always in step with the latest compliance requirements, helping you avoid costly penalties and disruptions. This service, coupled with our team of seasoned safety experts, offers in-depth EHS and risk management support tailored to your specific industry needs.
By partnering with us, you're investing in the long-term safety, efficiency, and success of your business. Contact ESC today to build a robust safety framework that makes your business a workplace safety leader.
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