World · Singapore Bureau
Singapore PHV driver, 37, suffers stroke after gruelling 14-hour shifts
A private hire vehicle driver in Singapore has been hospitalised for a week following a stroke, raising concerns about the physical toll of extended working hours in the ride-hailing sector. The 37-year-old's condition highlights ongoing workplace health risks for drivers operating in the region's gig economy.
LSN Singapore ·
The driver, who works for a private hire vehicle service in Singapore, experienced a stroke after sustaining a pattern of 14-hour working days. The incident prompted his hospitalisation, where he remained for seven days receiving medical treatment and observation.
The case underscores growing concerns about the working conditions and health implications facing drivers in Singapore's ride-hailing industry. Extended shift patterns have long been flagged as a potential health risk, with fatigue and stress cited as contributory factors to various medical events among transport workers across Southeast Asia.
Private hire vehicle drivers in Singapore often work extended hours to maximise earnings, as many operate on a flexible, independent contractor basis without standard employment protections. The incident has reignited discussions about occupational health standards and workplace safeguards within the gig economy sector.
The driver's hospitalisation underscores the need for greater awareness of health risks associated with prolonged work schedules. Health experts have previously warned that sustained fatigue and high-stress working conditions can increase vulnerability to serious medical events including strokes, particularly among middle-aged workers.