Written Answer to PQ on Sitting breaks for employees in retail sector

NOTICE PAPER NO. 3219 OF 2024 FOR THE SITTING ON OR AFTER 12 NOVEMBER 2024
QUESTION NO. 6295 FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

MP: Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song

To ask the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry will consider conducting a study on the health risks of prolonged standing in the retail sector; (b) whether voluntary guidelines will be introduced to encourage retailers to provide seating breaks when not attending to customers and to counter cultural norms that expect staff to stand continuously to appear attentive; and (c) whether the Ministry will evaluate the impact of such practices on workforce health, productivity and recruitment and retention of older workers in the sector.

Answer:

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM)’s occupational health experts review scientific studies on the potential health risks associated with prolonged standing on a regular basis. In general, anyone who stands for prolonged periods of time (e.g. more than 4 hours a day in a fixed location) may experience swollen feet or weakened muscles in the long run.

2. Together with the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council, we have issued WSH Guidelines on Improving Ergonomics in the Workplace to strongly encourage all employers, including retailers, to provide adequate rest and welfare for frontline staff who need to stand as part of their jobs. The Guidelines include good practices for employers to support employees who need to stand for prolonged periods. such as allowing them to sit and rest at regular intervals, and providing anti-fatigue mats or sit-stand stools. Retail employers can also improve displays or storage areas for easier access, leverage on lifting aids to reduce manual tasks and streamline work processes for greater efficiency. These can help all employees, including older workers, perform their tasks safely and effectively.