CLIMATE CHANGE INDUCED WORKPLACE SAFETY AND HEALTH RISKS ON FACILITIES MAINTENANCE WORKERS

Abstract

This dissertation studies the link between the effects of climate change on workplace safety and health of Facilities Management workers. It also aims to develop a Risk Assessment framework to evaluate the link between climate change, climate change mitigation measures and the WSH risks of FM workers in Singapore’s FM industry.

To do so, literature reviews on the effects of climate change and the current hazards FM workers face in a variety of FM industries were done to understand the hazards. To validate the RA framework, data and from semi-structured interviews with an industry professional, Risk Assessment conducted with FM supervisors and the author’s own FM Practical Training Scheme experience at a Town Council were evaluated.

The results obtained from the Risk Assessments indicated that climate change has negative effects on FM activities and WSH risks, whether directly or indirectly. Some FM activities were identified to have the highest risk level on workers. These FM activities were prioritized in identifying the risk mitigation measures. It was also found through interviews and research that Risk Assessment guidelines for green buildings are inadequate. Therefore, customised Risk Assessment guidelines for buildings with green features were developed, including possible control measures to eliminate or mitigate the WSH risks induced by both climate change and its adaptation measures.

Due to the increase in climate change across the world, there is more need to create awareness of the WSH risks brought about by it and reduce WSH risks to a minimum.