COVID-19: Extension of the Circuit Breaker in Singapore and what it means for Employers
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I'm an employment and disputes lawyer heading up both practices at Bird & Bird Singapore. I solve people problems with business impact.
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On 21 April 2020, the Multi-Ministry taskforce announced that fewer businesses will be allowed to operate during the Circuit Breaker which has been extended to 1 June 2020 (inclusive). Apart from the suspension of operations of less critical services, additional restrictions on selected consumer facing businesses are now in force.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) has also announced that the number of businesses allowed to operate on the work premises will be reduced. MTI will inform affected business and they will have 24 hours from notification to suspend their operations on site.
Additional measures for workplace premises which remain open
Employers must continue to implement safe-distancing measures. Importantly, all work places must have in place a system that logs the entry and exit of workers from their workplaces. Employers are encouraged to use SafeEntry, the digital check-in application which can be found here.
Enforcement agencies will increase the number of inspections of workplaces. Businesses will also be required to suspend their operations if a cluster of infection arises amongst staff working on the premises.
Enhanced Jobs Support Scheme (JSS) and Foreign Worker Levy and rebate
The waiver of Foreign Worker Levy and rebate has also been extended by one month. Eligible employers across all sectors will also receive an additional JSS pay out in May 2020 of 75% on the 1st S$4,600 of the gross monthly wages of local employees.
This article is produced by our Singapore office, Bird & Bird ATMD LLP, and does not constitute legal advice. It is intended to provide general information only. Please note that the information in this article is accurate as at 24 April 2020. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on any changes as soon as these are communicated to us. Please contact our lawyers if you have any specific queries.
