Measures to Support Families of Workplace Death Victims and Plans to Regulate Provision of Financial, Legal and Psychological Assistance

Mr Darryl David asked the Minister for Manpower (a) how does the Ministry ensure that employers provide adequate support measures to the families of workplace death victims; and (b) whether the Ministry plans to introduce new regulations to ensure families of workplace death victims receive appropriate financial, legal and psychological assistance.

Under the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA), the next of kin (NOK) of a worker who dies from a work-related incident can receive lump-sum compensation of up to $225,000, without having to file a civil suit under common law. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regularly reviews the compensation limits under WICA to ensure that they keep pace with inflation, wage increases and healthcare costs. The compensation limit for death will increase to $269,000 from 1 November 2025.

Employers who fail to provide WICA compensation can be fined up to $15,000 or face an imprisonment term of up to 12 months, or both. If there are legitimate reasons why an employer is unable to provide compensation, the Ministry of Manpower will assist the NOK using the Workers' Fund.

If deceased workers' NOK require assistance beyond the compensation under WICA, they can access different support services across the Government depending on their circumstances, needs and eligibility. Those needing support for basic living expenses may approach our Social Service Offices. For legal advice and/or representation, NOK can approach the Legal Aid Bureau or the Community Law Centres by Pro Bono SG, as well as various legal clinics across Singapore. Those requiring psychological support can tap on the national mindline 1771 and counselling services operated by trained professionals from the Institute of Mental Health, as well as community mental health teams located islandwide.