SINGAPORE - Companies that run 24/7 manufacturing plants may not be able to implement flexible work arrangements across all their departments but they can offer compressed work-weeks or part-time arrangements while backend staff work staggered hours if a compressed work week is not suitable, said director of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) Women’s Development Secretariat, Ms Sylvia Choo.

Speaking at an event to recognise the companies that have implemented flexible work arrangements, Ms Choo said: “It is all about working out where pockets of flexibility can be exercised.”

In a survey of 450 MNCs and medium to large enterprises last week, it was found that only over 30 companies were in the midst of implementing flexible work arrangements (FWA) while over 300 did not offer any FWA.

The main reason cited for the lack of FWA was “not suitable for industry” and some companies felt productivity and the lack of discipline in employees made it “unfeasible”.

Some 16 companies, include the Housing Development Board, DBS Bank and Proctor & Gamble, were recognised for their efforts in FWA at the event.

“Many working mothers would like the opportunity to join the workforce but they need some flexibility in managing their work and family responsibilities. By practicing fair employment and putting in place reliable work arrangements, employers will be able to encourage more women back to work and widen the talent pool,” said Co-chairperson of the Tripartite Alliance for Fair Employment Practices and Vice President of the Singapore National Employers Federation, Mr Bob Tan.