From April 2008, a new Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council will be formed. This is a step-up from the WSH Advisory Committee (WSHAC) formed in September 2005. The latest development provides the Council statutory powers and more muscle to lead and partner the industry in engagement and capability building efforts.
MORE SECTORS TO BE COVERED UNDER WSH ACT
In the last two years, the area of WSH has received greater focus. When enacting the new Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act in March 2006, the Ministry of Manpower announced that the Act will eventually be expanded to protect workers in all workplaces.
The first phase will cover six new sectors from March 2008, including that of the logistics, landscape care, hotel, food and beverage and healthcare industries.
BIGGER ROLE FOR WSH COUNCIL
To help WSHAC develop WSH standards nationally and beyond, it needs to take on a bigger role, hence its development to a WSH Council.
Workers on the ground can look forward to safer and healthier workplaces with the new Council looking closely at WSH issues to safeguard their lives and health. The Council’s proposed roles will be an extension of the current WSHAC. It will play a part in:
• Training and building capabilities to better manage safety & health
• Monitor WSH trends and developments
• Promote safety and health at work and recognise good businesses and practices
• Set acceptable safety practices
As the new Council plans its path ahead, it welcomes inputs from all stakeholders on how it can play a bigger role in the areas listed above. Your feedback is important so do drop an email to the WSHAC at admin@wsh.sg.
To know more about WSHAC and the Council, visit http://www.wsh.sg.