Achieving bizSAFE Certification in Singapore: A Complete Guide

In Singapore, workplace safety and health are critical to sustaining productivity and fostering a healthy work environment. The bizSAFE certification, initiated by the Workplace Safety and Health Council (WSHC), is a key program aimed at helping businesses build strong safety and health capabilities. This guide explains what bizSAFE certification entails, its benefits, and the steps to achieving it.

What is bizSAFE Certification?

The bizSAFE certification is a structured, five-level program designed to guide companies in improving their workplace safety and health (WSH) standards. It is a recognized framework that helps businesses identify risks, implement safety measures, and develop a robust WSH management system.

Businesses across various industries, particularly construction, engineering, and manufacturing, are often required to attain bizSAFE certification to qualify for tenders and projects in Singapore.

Benefits of bizSAFE Certification

Enhanced Reputation

Achieving bizSAFE certification Singapore signals to clients, partners, and employees that your company prioritizes workplace safety. This can enhance trust and brand reputation.

Tender Eligibility

Many government and private sector projects in Singapore mandate bizSAFE certification as a prerequisite for participation.

Improved Workplace Safety

With a structured approach to managing risks, businesses can minimize workplace accidents and enhance employee morale.

Cost Efficiency

By proactively managing risks, companies can reduce costs related to workplace injuries, insurance premiums, and potential legal liabilities.

Levels of bizSAFE Certification

The bizSAFE program is divided into five progressive levels:

bizSAFE Level 1

A company’s top management attends a half-day WSH workshop to understand their roles in cultivating a safety culture.

bizSAFE Level 2

A company appoints a Risk Management (RM) Champion who completes a two-day course on conducting risk assessments in the workplace.

bizSAFE Level 3

The company implements risk management processes that comply with the WSH (Risk Management) Regulations. A certified auditor must assess and approve the processes.

bizSAFE Level 4

The company develops a Workplace Safety and Health Management System (WSHMS) that aligns with industry best practices.

bizSAFE Level STAR

Reserved for companies with comprehensive WSHMS that comply with international standards such as OHSAS 18001 or ISO 45001.

How to Get bizSAFE Certified

Enroll in Relevant Training

Identify the appropriate bizSAFE training courses for your company’s management and employees. The courses are available through WSHC-approved training providers.

Appoint a Risk Management Champion

Select a team member to undergo training to lead risk assessments and oversee the implementation of safety measures.

Implement Risk Management

Develop and document your company’s risk management plan, ensuring it meets the required standards.

Audit and Submit for Certification

Engage an approved WSH auditor to assess your risk management processes and safety management system. Once approved, submit the documentation to WSHC for certification.

Maintain and Upgrade Certification

To progress through the bizSAFE levels, continue enhancing your WSH practices and systems. Regular audits and updates are necessary to maintain and upgrade your certification.

Conclusion

bizSAFE certification is a valuable asset for companies in Singapore, ensuring compliance with workplace safety regulations and enhancing business opportunities. By progressing through the program’s five levels, businesses can demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, improving their operational efficiency and reputation in the process.

Start your bizSAFE journey today to safeguard your workforce and unlock new growth opportunities!