01_REVIEW OF DEMERIT POINTS SYSTEM (DPS)

OSHD announced the completion of the DPS review and its key features. The enhanced DPS, which was implemented on 1 July 2015, aimed to drive companies to make concerted efforts to address systemic safety lapses across their worksites. It was made simpler and calibrated to deter employers from exposing their workers to unnecessary risks at work by restricting their access to foreign workers, and to bring about sustained adherence to good WSH practices.

02_WSH (MAJOR HAZARD INSTALLATION) (MHI) REGULATIONS

OSHD also announced the introduction of the WSH (MHI) Regulations under the Workplace Safety and Health Act to effect the Safety Case regime and streamline existing Safety, Health and Environmental regulatory requirements for MHI. It also shared that a National MHI Regulatory Office (NMRO) would be set up in 2016 to better coordinate Safety Case assessments, inspections and investigations.

03_ENHANCEMENT OF WORK INJURY COMPENSATION REGIME

In addition to efforts towards work accident prevention, OSHD also looked at enhancing the WIC regime for injured workers. To this end, it announced the revision of the compensation limits for death and permanent incapacity to calibrate it with rising income and healthcare costs. OSHD also encouraged employers to help their injured workers return to work by allowing expenditures that facilitate early Return to Work be claimable as part of WICA medical expenses.