The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore introduced new rules that aim to protect outdoor workers from the risks of heat stress, reports Channel News Asia. Among these enhanced measures, which take effect immediately, is a compulsory 10-minute break every hour for workers carrying out ‘heavy physical activities’, when the temperature crosses a certain threshold. "Unlike the general population, outdoor workers have less discretion over their work activities, and may be more exposed to heat stress," said the Ministry.

It added that rising temperatures in Singapore place workers, especially outdoor workers, at an increased risk of heat stress.  The new measures, which the Ministry consulted with the Ministry of Health's Heat Stress Expert Panel on, focus on four aspects: Acclimatise, drink, rest and shade. Employers are also required to monitor the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) for every hour of outdoor work performed, especially during the hotter periods of the day.  The WGBT, an internationally recognised measurement of heat, reflects the main environmental factors that contribute to heat stress.

When WGBT is 32 degrees Celsius or higher, "a minimum rest break of 10 minutes hourly under shade has to be provided to workers carrying out heavy physical activities", said the Ministry.