More Vaccines and Testing – Things to Note for Singapore Employers
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Singapore will be embarking on an accelerated vaccination programme with effect from 1 June 2021. With these measures, employers can expect most of its workforce to receive the first dose of vaccination by August 2021 and routine COVID-19 testing to become more common.
Accelerated Vaccination
The vaccination drive for young adults aged 39 years and younger will begin around mid-June 2021. Singapore Citizens will also be given a two-week priority window to book appointments first, before bookings are opened to others in this age group.
With the accelerated vaccination programme, young adult employees should expect to receive their first dose by August 2021. However, even with higher vaccination levels, employers must still comply with the safe management measures regulated by the COVID-19 control order regulations.
As vaccination remains voluntary (individuals may choose not to get vaccinated for legitimate reasons e.g. medical or religious reasons), employers are likely to be considering different working arrangements for the non-vaccinated employee as the vaccinated employee population grows.
Testing to Become More Common
The Government will not only test to identify infections when a new case arises but will also routinely and regularly test people who appear well – both for work and social settings. Such routine, large-scale, fast and simple testing is expected to be part of the new normal to ensure workplaces are kept safe. The Government has directed that all employers adopt regular testing using DIY test kits (which will be made widely available and sold over-the-counter) to keep employees safe.
Based on these directions, employers will now have a basis to ask employees to carry out self-testing or administer testing on its employees.
However, employers must pay attention to getting the relevant consents and imposing safeguards in respect of employee test results.
Let’s connect!
If you would like to discuss any issues concerning vaccination and testing in the workplace to ensure compliance with the laws, please do not hesitate to get in touch with any member of the Bird & Bird Singapore Employment team.
This article is produced by our Singapore office, Bird & Bird ATMD LLP, and does not constitute legal advice. It is intended to provide general information only. Please contact our lawyers if you have any specific queries.
