Understanding Workplace Safety & Health Framework
The Workplace Safety and Health Act is a critical legislative framework designed to mitigate or eliminate risks within the workplace. It aims to cultivate a robust safety culture across all levels of an organisation.
Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act
The Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act was enacted to mitigate and/or eliminate safety and health risks at workplaces. Proper safety habits are to be cultivated in all individuals to create a strong safety culture.
According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the WSH Act covers the following:
- All Workplace: Covers all work environments, unless specifically exempt.
- Stakeholder Responsibilities: Defines the duties of employers, occupiers, principals, manufacturers, suppliers, installers, and employees.
- Hazards: Governs the handling of hazardous substances.
- Equipment: Regulates the safe use of machinery and equipment.
Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Guidelines
Eliminate workplace hazards and improve occupational health by following workplace safety and health best practices. According to the MOM, employers are expected to:
- Perform Risk Assessments: Identify potential hazards and implement robust control measures.
- Maintain a Safe Environment: Ensure the workplace is continuously monitored and kept secure.
- Operational Safety: Deploy adequate safety measures for all machinery, equipment, plants, articles, and processes.
- Emergency Preparedness: Develop and maintain comprehensive systems for managing workplace emergencies.
- Instruction & Training: Ensure all workers receive sufficient instruction, training, and supervision to perform their duties safely.
Penalties For Failing To Comply with The Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act
Failure to comply with the WSH Act requirements will result in the following penalties:
- Individual: Maximum fine of $200,000 and/or maximum imprisonment of 2 years for the first offence. Repeat offenders will receive a maximum fine of $400,000 and/or maximum imprisonment of 2 years.
- Corporate Body: Maximum fine of $500,000 for the first offence. Repeat offenders will receive a maximum fine of $1 million.
Failure to comply with a Remedial Order or Stop Work Order will result in the following penalties:
- Not Complying with Remedial Order: Maximum fine of $50,000 and an additional fine of $5,000 for each day of continued offence and/or maximum imprisonment of 12 months for the first offence.
- Not Complying with Stop Work Order: Maximum fine of $500,000 and an additional fine of $20,000 for each day of continued offence and/or maximum imprisonment of 12 months for the first offence.
Request Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Consultant in Singapore
At Assure Safety, we’re the preferred WSH consultancy company in Singapore, with a team of highly experienced WSH consultants. With more than a decade of experience in Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) consultancy services and being an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) by MOM, our expertise lies in WSH, ISO, and bizSAFE.
Your Partner in Workplace Safety & Health Compliance
Ensure your business meets the highest safety standards with Assure Safety. From bizSAFE certification to ISO consultancy, our MOM-approved experts provide decade-long proven results across Singapore.
-
Get a Free
Consultation