bizSAFE Program (Application/ Renewal)
The bizSAFE program is a local initiative aimed at enhancing workplace safety and health standards across various industries. Developed by the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council in collaboration with various government agencies and industry stakeholders, the program focuses on cultivating a safety-first mindset among businesses and their employees, promoting a proactive approach to risk management, and reducing the number of workplace accidents and incidents.
The program is designed with a progressive and structured approach, allowing business to advance through different levels by implementing effective safety measures and demonstrating a commitment to workplace safety. There are several levels within the bizSAFE program, each building upon the foundation of the previous level.
bizSAFE Levels
Level 1: bizSAFE Awareness Workshop
At this introductory level, business owners, top management, and senior executives participate in an awareness workshop to understand the importance of workplace safety and health. bizSAFE Level 1 acknowledges the company’s understanding of its legal responsibilities as outlines in the WSH Act and its capability to formulate a comprehensive WSH policy. To achieve this level, the upper management of the company needs to secure a Certificate of Attendance by participating in either the half-day bizSAFE Level 1 Workshop tailored for CEOs/ Top Management or the Top Executive WSH programmes, which can be completed through a half-day workshop or an e-learning course conducted by Approved Training Organization (ATO).
Level 2: bizSAFE Level 2 Workshop
In this phase, an organization’s key personnel attend a workshop that delves deeper into risk management principles and strategies. The workshop equips participants with the knowledge needed to identify potential hazards and implement measures to mitigate them effectively. bizSAFE Level 2 acknowledges the company’s possession of a skilled Risk Management (RM) Champion who is capable of guiding and rallying relevant employees in the following endeavors:
- Developing a Risk Management (RM) plan
- Carrying out a Risk Assessment
To achieve this level, the company must possess one of the following:
- Risk Management Course (issued between Nov 2007 and Dec 2013); or
- WSQ Statement of Attainment for the “Develop Risk Management Implementation Plan” course (Course Code MF-COM-402E-1); or
- WSQ Statement of Attainment for the “Workplace Safety and Health Control Measures” course (Course Code WPH-WSH-4075-1.1); or
- Attained WSH-related qualifications acceptable by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM); or
- Registered Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Officer Licence with MOM
Level 3: Risk Management
At this stage, the company conducts a comprehensive risk assessment of its workplace and operations. This involves identifying potential hazards, evaluating risks and developing appropriate control measures. bizSAFE Level 3 acknowledges the company’s accomplishment in performing risk assessments for all work activities and processes within the workplace, aligning with the stipulations in the WSH (Risk Management) Regulations. An Auditor affiliated with the Accredited Auditing Organisations (AAO) for bizSAFE under the purview of the Singapore Accreditation Council (SAC) would need to perform the Risk Management Implementation Audit for your organization’s Risk Management plan.
Level 4: Risk Management Implementation
Businesses at this level put their risk management plan into action. This entails not only implementing safety measures but also integrating them into daily operations, involving employees at all levels, and fostering a culture of safety. bizSAFE Level 4 Acknowledges that your designated Workplace Safety and Health Management System (WSHMS) Champion possesses the expertise and capabilities necessary to create and establish a strong and effective Workplace Safety and Health Management System (WSHMS). In order to attain this level, the company needs to fulfill both a Level 3 prerequisite and a Level 4 criterion as listed below:
- WSQ Statement of Attainment for “Develop a Workplace Safety and Health Management System (WSHMS) Implementation Plan” course (Course Code MF-COM-403E-1)
- WSQ Statement of Attainment for “Workplace Safety and Health System Management” course (Course Code WPH-WSh-4086-1.1)
- Attained WSH-related qualifications acceptable by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
- Registered Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Officer Licence with MOM
Level 5: Workplace Safety and Health Management System
At the highest level of the program, organizations establish a structured Workplace Safety and Health Management System (WSHMS) that incorporates risk management principles. This system is designed to be sustainable and adaptable, ensuring continuous improvement in workplace safety and health standards. The bizSAFE Star accreditation acknowledges that the company’s Workplace Safety and Health Management System (WSHMS) effectively detects, oversees and mitigates workplace risks or hazards in accordance with the guidelines of the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act and global standards like ISO 45001. Starting from April 1, 2021, to be eligible for this level, the company is required to provide one of the subsequent certifications along with a Risk Management Audit Report:
- Singapore Standard S651:2019 certificate; or
- ISO 45001:2018 certificate issued/ awarded by a certification body, accredited by Singapore Accreditation Council (SAC); or
- ISO 45001:2018 certificate issued/ awarded by a certification body, accredited by an accreditation body recognised under Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA)
Advantages of bizSAFE
- Reduced Incidents: By addressing potential hazards, businesses can significantly decrease the likelihood of accidents and improve overall safety.
- Enhanced Reputation: Organizations that prioritize safety earn a positive reputation, attracting stakeholders who value responsible practices.
- Regulatory Compliance: The program aligns with safety regulations, helping business adhere to legal requirements.
- Cost Savings: Fewer accidents result in reduced costs related to compensation, medical expenses, and productivity loss.
- Improved Morale and Productivity: Employees in a safe environment tend to be more motivated and productive
- Competitive Edge: High safety standards can differentiate businesses in competitive markets.