Platform workers should not face penalties for haze-related delays

Platform operators should not penalise workers for delays incurred during haze episodes, Singapore's Acting Minister for Manpower Jasmin Lau said. The directive underscores obligations placed on operators under the Platform Workers Act to ensure adequate workplace safety and health protections for their workforce.

The guidance comes as regional haze episodes continue to pose challenges for delivery and service workers across Southeast Asia. Operators are expected to recognise that adverse environmental conditions beyond workers' control can impact service delivery timelines.

Under the Platform Workers Act, operators retain primary responsibility for establishing safety standards and health measures that protect workers during hazardous conditions. This includes implementing policies that account for reduced visibility and air quality issues during haze periods.

The clarification aims to ensure platform workers are not unfairly penalised through wage deductions or rating reductions when external environmental factors affect their ability to meet standard performance metrics. Industry observers note the directive reflects growing regulatory focus on worker protections in Singapore's gig economy sector.