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Higher standards set for factory-converted dorms from next year

SINGAPORE — From Jan 1 next year, all operators of factory-converted dorms must comply with four new conditions set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), aimed at raising housing standards for foreign workers.

SINGAPORE — From Jan 1 next year, all operators of factory-converted dorms must comply with four new conditions set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), aimed at raising housing standards for foreign workers.

They must have at least one sick bay on the premises or a contingency plan to deal with cases of infectious diseases, set up a feedback channel for workers to report issues related to the dormitory’s housing conditions, allocate a personal locker to each worker, as well as provide Wi-Fi within the dormitory grounds.

These will be taken into account when they seek approvals or renewals to house foreign workers on industrial premises, and they will have to submit documentary proof to show that they have met all the conditions.

They must also comply with these conditions at all times during their operations.

The four new conditions will add to those already in place.

There are about 1,000 factory-converted dormitories here housing some 80,000 foreign workers, and operators are legally obliged to provide “a safe and secure living environment” for them.

The announcement was made by Minister of State for Manpower Teo Ser Luck yesterday to some 550 industry operators attending a seminar that covered good and bad practices of running accommodation for migrant workers.

The tighter conditions were decided upon after MOM sought the feedback of operators over the past few weeks, and after consultations with industry stakeholders.

Mr Teo also announced that the ministry is planning to look into having awards to recognise exemplary dormitory operators, and more details would be revealed when ready.

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