Companies ramp up heat mitigation measures, including monitoring water intake and mandatory breaks to protect workers.
SINGAPORE: Contractors in Singapore are experiencing delays of up to two months in their projects as a growing number of workers fall sick due to the recent spike in temperatures. The temperature hit a scorching 37°C in Ang Mo Kio on May 13, matching a 40-year record for the highest daily maximum temperature, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA). This marks the highest temperature recorded since April 17, 1983, in Tengah. Several other locations across Singapore also saw temperatures surpassing 36°C last Saturday.
CONSTRUCTION DELAYS DUE TO THE HEAT
The extreme heat is taking a significant toll on construction workers, many of whom are accustomed to long hours working under the sun. However, the rising temperatures are now leading to more health issues among them.
Migrant worker Selvarasu Senthil, who fell ill last week, explained, “I went to see a doctor. The doctor said I’ve been exposed too much to the sun, so I have a headache, fever, and feel faint.”
At Hitomo Construction, between 10 and 30 percent of workers have called in sick daily over the past few weeks. The company’s CEO, Serene Pan, attributes the increase in medical leave to the intense heat. She said, “We’ve seen a rise in the number of medical leave requests. As a result, we’re facing delays in our schedules, with a possible two-month delay due to the hot weather.” The company is also expecting a reduction in profit margins by up to 10 percent because of these delays.
RAMPING UP MEASURES TO BEAT THE HEAT
To help workers cope with the extreme conditions, many companies have implemented measures to prevent heat-related illnesses. Arc Urban Services is monitoring the water intake of its workers via group chats and providing additional amenities to ensure their well-being.
“We’ve ordered outdoor portable fans that the men can use if it gets too hot,” said Isaac Ho, project manager at Arc Urban Services. “We also provide large tentage shelters that workers can take to different sites for some shade.”
Straits Construction has mandated two scheduled breaks per day for its workers. Executive director and COO, Kenneth Loo, emphasized that workers must take responsibility for their health. “They need to speak up if they feel unwell. As an employer, we ensure they have the necessary measures in place, but ultimately, they must report any signs of heatstroke.”
To support companies in managing heat stress, the Workplace Safety and Health Council (WSH) offers guidelines, including providing shaded rest areas and ensuring workers stay hydrated.
