Work-from-home is here to stay!
- Admin
- Jan 22, 2021
- 1 min read
Updated: Jun 14, 2021
Yes, you've read that correctly! The tripartite partners (Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF), National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and Ministry of Manpower (MOM)) have decided to postpone any further adjustments to workplace safe management measures because of a higher risk of potentially more transmissible strains as well as recent trends in COVID-19 cases in the community (including at workplaces).
Employees should continue to work from home as the default arrangement to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission at the workplace, said Singapore's tripartite partners on Friday (Jan 22) amid the recent rise in community cases.
If employees need to return to the workplace, employers are required to implement flexible work hours to allow them to report to work during off-peak periods.
"The start times for these employees should be staggered such that at least half of all employees start work in the workplace at or after 10am," they added.
"The tripartite partners call on employers to implement staggered work hours more extensively."
Companies should not organize gatherings or activities such as lohei or Chinese New Year meals as these are not considered work-related events and are not allowed under current rules, said authorities.
More people have progressively been returning to the workplace as Singapore entered Phase 2 and 3 of its reopening.
Peak-hour travel on public transport in January increased by 11 per cent compared to November last year, noted the tripartite partners.
"While we understand the desire for more physical workplace interactions, we urge employers and employees to stay vigilant in the fight against COVID-19," said SNEF, NTUC and MOM.
"The prevailing SMM (safe management measures) requirements are vital to continue safe reopening for the economy."
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