Introduction of Temperature Threshold and Issuance of Stop-Work Orders When Threshold Is Crossed

Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for Manpower (a) apart from the "Enhanced Measures to Reduce Heat Stress for Outdoor Workers" that are introduced in October 2023, what plans are currently in place for the Ministry to issue stop-work orders once the wet bulb globe temperature crosses a certain threshold; and (b) if there are no such plans, whether the Ministry will consider implementing a threshold wet bulb globe temperature for stop-work orders.

The risk of heat injuries depends on a combination of factors, such as the nature of the work task and the worker's physical fitness. Thus, it may not be practical to set a single Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) threshold to stop all types of outdoor work. Employers should instead conduct proper heat risk assessment taking into account environmental, personal and job risk factors of each workplace and implement measures to reduce heat stress risks and prevent heat-related injuries. Some of the enhanced measures to reduce heat stress for outdoor workers include providing loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing to workers, cool drinking water supply near work areas and identifying and redeploying workers vulnerable to heat stress when the weather is hot. Nonetheless, employers are required to provide a minimum rest break of 10 minutes hourly, under shade, when WBGT is 32oC or higher to protect outdoor workers.