Workplace Safety and Health in Singapore
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Singapore Acts of Parliament, subsidiary legislation, and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The Workplace Safety and Health Act (WSHA) requires every employer to take reasonably practicable measures to ensure the safety and health of employees at work:
- Safe work environment: Employers must maintain safe machinery, provide adequate training, and implement safe work procedures.
- Risk assessments: Employers must conduct risk assessments for all work activities and implement control measures.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE): Must be provided free of charge where hazards cannot be eliminated.
- Incident reporting: Workplace accidents causing death, serious injury, or dangerous occurrences must be reported to MOM within 10 days.
- Penalties: Employers face fines up to $500,000 and/or imprisonment up to 2 years for breaches; higher for repeat offences or negligence causing death.
When does it apply?
- The WSHA applies to all workplaces in Singapore — offices, factories, construction sites, ships in port, and more.
- It covers all persons at work, including employees, contractors, sub-contractors, and self-employed persons.
- Domestic workers in private homes are excluded.
What to Do If You Are Injured at Work or Face an Unsafe Working Environment in Singapore
- Report unsafe conditions to your supervisor or safety officer. If unresolved, report to MOM (online or call 6438 5122).
- You have the right to refuse work that poses imminent danger to life — notify your employer immediately.
- If injured at work, seek medical attention and ensure your employer files a work injury compensation claim under the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA).
- Under WICA, you can claim medical leave wages and lump-sum compensation without needing to prove fault.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't ignore safety training — employees also have a duty under the WSHA to follow safe work procedures.
- Don't assume you must choose between WICA and a lawsuit — you can claim WICA compensation and also sue for negligence if employer was at fault (but amounts may be offset).
- Don't delay reporting injuries — notify your employer as soon as possible. WICA claims must be filed within 1 year of the accident or within 6 months of your return to work, whichever is later.
Common Questions
How long do I have to file a WICA claim after a workplace injury in Singapore?
WICA claims must be filed within 1 year of the accident, or within 6 months of your return to work, whichever is later. Under the Work Injury Compensation Act, you can claim medical leave wages and lump-sum compensation without proving fault. Notify your employer as soon as possible — late reporting weakens your claim.
Can I refuse unsafe work in Singapore?
Yes. You have the right to refuse work that poses imminent danger to life — notify your employer immediately. Employers must conduct risk assessments, provide PPE free of charge where hazards cannot be eliminated, and maintain safe machinery and procedures. Report unresolved hazards to MOM online or at 6438 5122.
What penalties do Singapore employers face for workplace safety breaches?
Employers who breach the Workplace Safety and Health Act face fines up to S$500,000 and/or imprisonment up to 2 years — with higher penalties for repeat offences or negligence causing death. Workplace accidents causing death, serious injury, or dangerous occurrences must be reported to MOM within 10 days.
When does it apply — workplace safety and health?
The WSHA applies to all workplaces in Singapore — offices, factories, construction sites, ships in port, and more.It covers all persons at work, including employees, contractors, sub-contractors, and self-employed persons.Domestic workers in private homes are excluded.
What should I do if I was injured at work or my employer is ignoring a safety hazard in Singapore?
Report unsafe conditions to your supervisor or safety officer. If unresolved, report to MOM (online or call 6438 5122).You have the right to refuse work that poses imminent danger to life — notify your employer immediately.If injured at work, seek medical attention and ensure your employer files a work injury compensation claim under the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA).Under WICA, you can claim medical leave wages and lump-sum compensation without needing to prove fault.
What should you NOT do — workplace safety and health?
Don't ignore safety training — employees also have a duty under the WSHA to follow safe work procedures.Don't assume you must choose between WICA and a lawsuit — you can claim WICA compensation and also sue for negligence if employer was at fault (but amounts may be offset).Don't delay reporting injuries — notify your employer as soon as possible. WICA claims must be filed within 1 year of the accident or within 6 months of your return to work, whichever is later.