Written Answer to PQ on Transboundary Haze and Inspections

NOTICE PAPER NO. 1269 OF 2026 FOR THE SITTING ON OR AFTER 9 SEP 2026
QUESTION NO. 2020 FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

MP: Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye

To ask the Acting Minister for Manpower in view of the increased risk of transboundary haze, whether the Ministry will step up targeted inspections of sectors with large numbers of outdoor workers during a prolonged haze episode, to ensure that measures such as work rotation, indoor rest breaks and appropriate respiratory protection are duly implemented.

Answer:

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is monitoring the haze situation closely and is already conducting inspections, including at workplaces with large numbers of outdoor workers, to ensure employers put in place adequate measures to protect their workers. Should the situation worsen, MOM will step up these inspections. Where serious lapses are found, MOM will take enforcement action.

2. Depending on the air quality, the measures that employers should put in place include rotating or redeploying workers, providing indoor rest breaks and adequate hydration, and deferring non-essential work. If the 24-hour PSI exceeds 200 and prolonged or strenuous outdoor work is unavoidable, employers should provide workers with appropriate respirators.