Mention workplace safety and health, and most people instinctively think about high-risk industries like building and construction or oil and gas, where potential safety hazards can lead to fatal outcomes. However, keeping individuals safe from harm within a typical low-risk sector is equally paramount.

“We need to do what is reasonably possible for the well-being of employees in any organisation, regardless of the industry,” said Ken Lim, human resources manager and a member of the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) committee at Epworth Community Services.

Epworth Community Services is a Social Service Agency (SSA) that helps at-risk and disadvantaged children and youths.

Following an email sent by the Social Service Institute (SSI) about the “Maintain Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) in Social Service Agencies” three-day course co-developed by SIT, SSI and the National Council of Social Service (NCSS), Ken signed up for it.

“The course is specifically tailored for the social service sector, equipping participants with the appropriate knowledge to comply with WSH requirements,” said Ken.

Ken Lim, HR manager of Epworth Community Services, found the classroom sharing sessions from experienced safety practitioners to be
useful in addressing safety hazards that could arise in a social service setting. (Photo: Ken Lim)

Learning Beyond Basics

Offered by SITLEARN, the course covers topics such as Singapore’s WSH Act and its interpretation, developing activity-based risk assessment, risk management plan and Emergency Response Plan (ERP).

Beyond theoretical teachings, sharing of case studies by fellow participants also made the learning experience particularly enriching for Ken.

“Some of our course mates had experiences in building and facility management or had related safety certifications. We benefitted from the sharing sessions on resolving issues that could arise during operations. Also, the course instructor generously extended advice via email even after the course had ended,” he shared.

Like Ken, John Num, a facilities and projects manager from Metta Welfare Association, which delivers social service programmes for individuals and families, found the classroom discussions helpful. As a risk assessment team leader in his organisation, John took up an additional course, “Introduction to Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management System”, developed for supervisory level individuals in social service agencies.

The course focuses on helping social service agencies establish a systematic framework for managing OH&S risks.

“The two courses highlighted the importance of understanding possible risks and hazards at our workplace, especially after hearing from other participants during their presentations,” said John, who holds a certificate in Workplace Safety and Health Control Measures (bizSAFE Level 2).