Singapore pre-schools told to boost air purifiers during haze season

The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) has mandated that pre-schools deploy air purifiers in primary teaching and learning areas during periods of poor air quality caused by regional haze, according to statements by officials.

The requirement underscores growing concerns about air quality exposure among young children during seasonal haze events, which periodically affect Singapore and neighbouring countries. While nearly all of Singapore's pre-schools already have air conditioning systems in place, the agency has determined that additional air purification measures are necessary to safeguard student health during haze episodes.

The directive reflects efforts by the government to strengthen environmental health standards across the early childhood sector. Authorities have emphasised the importance of maintaining safe indoor air quality as a critical component of childcare facility operations, particularly during months when transboundary haze reduces outdoor air quality to hazardous levels.

Pre-school operators are expected to comply with the ECDA guidelines and ensure that air purification systems are operational and properly maintained in designated learning spaces during haze seasons.