The new guidelines were launched just weeks ago
Will you be adopting the latest tripartite standards on work-life harmony? Two weeks ago, the new guidelines were launched following feedback from employer groups, labour unions, and the public. The standard, managed by TAFEP, includes information of implementing flexi-work arrangements, progressive leave schemes like personal or extended leave, and various employee support schemes.
Though its launch coincided with an ongoing mental well-being crisis amidst remote or hybrid working, efforts to tackle Singapore’s long-held problems with work-related stress had predated the pandemic, including dialogue panel sessions held in 2019.
READ MORE: MOM reveals guidelines to manage work-life harmony
During a parliament discussion, Manpower Minister Josephine Teo shared plans to encourage adoption of the new standard. One of which is an incentive for employers: Employers who adopt the standard this year will get free access to the Human Capital Diagnostic Tool. This tool can aid leaders on their HR transformation journey, as well as offer data and insights on the employee experience.
As with all tripartite standards, companies who adopt the guidelines can use the lol in branding and recruitment efforts to stand out as progressive employers.
TAFEP will also be raising awareness on the importance of supporting work-life harmony by conducting clinics and briefings with companies that are part of various trade associations across the island.
Additionally, an Alliance for Action on work-life harmony set up in March this year will develop resources such as tips on practical efforts to improve employee well-being. The alliance will also be sending out a team of 100 ambassadors to help promote the standard to both employers and employees.
The tripartite partners including NTUC and Singapore National Employers Federation will be encouraging companies in their networks to adopt measures that promote work-life harmony. “These measures support employees in achieving better work-life harmony and can also help improve a company’s recruitment and retention of talent over time,” Teo said.
Tripartite standards are voluntary guidelines organised by TAFEP and the Ministry of Manpower to encourage the adoption of fair and progressive HR practices. They are non-binding and don’t serve as legislation or law in any way. There are currently about nine standards. Besides work-life harmony, they provide guidelines on areas such as flexible work arrangements, enabling age-friendly workplaces, grievance handling, and managing self-employed or contract staff.
“Ultimately, companies that are progressive in employment practices will find themselves being able to attract and retain more talent,” Teo said.
