It’s been over a year since Covid-19 made its unwelcome entrance into our world, and Singapore has been steadily gaining back semblances of what’s “normal”. In another step forward, restrictions will be further eased under Phase 3, and here are all the updates you need to know.
1. More people can return to their workplace
From 5 April onwards, Singapore will move towards a more ‘flexible and hybrid way’ of working. That means WFH will no longer be the default, although it is still encouraged. Wherever possible, meetings should be still virtual. You can also bid goodbye to team A and team B as split team arrangements will no longer be necessary.
Up to 75% of staff can be at the workplace at any one time, and the restriction on how long they can spend at the workplace will be lifted. Although, employers should stagger start times and offer flexible working hours.
Cross-deployment is still not permitted, except for firms or industries where this is critical for operations. In such cases, additional safeguards must be taken to minimise risk of cross-infection.
2. Team bonding and workplace social events can resume
All team bonding events and recreational gatherings within or outside the workplace can resume from 5 April, although it must adhere to the limit of eight people.
However, work-related events can host up to 50 people, with safe distancing measures of course. This means that employers should avoid holding events over mealtimes and work-related events should not have meals as a main feature.
3. Bigger weddings will be allowed
Great news for those planning to tie the knot in 2021 – from 24 April, you can host up to 250 attendees at your marriage solemnisation or wedding reception in zones of up to 50 people each. A big jump from the previous limit of 100 attendees!
However, pre-event testing for all attendees will be required for receptions with more than 100 guests, including the wedding couple. This is due to the fact that with more attendees, there is a higher risk, as people will be in close and prolonged contact with one another and unmasked while eating.
4. More people can attend wakes and funerals
However, this is only for the day of burial or cremation. From 24 April, the cap will be raised from 30 to 50 attendees. It will remain at 30 attendees for the rest of the wake. Pre-event testing is not needed for people attending wakes and funerals.
5. Larger live performances and sports events can take place
From 24 April, live performances and sports events at designated venues can have up to 750 attendees if they implement pre-event testing, or up to 250 attendees without testing. Sadly, the nightlife industry pilot programme will still be on hold for now.
6. Vaccinated individuals will be exempt from pre-event testing
People who have been fully vaccinated and had time to develop sufficient protection will be exempted from pre-event testing. This would be two weeks after he/she receives the second dose of the vaccine.
7. Social gatherings to remain capped at groups of 8
No changes to the number of visitors you can receive at home as well.
8. Vaccination program now open to residents aged 45 to 59
Any residents in this age range can now register online to get vaccinated. As soon as slots are available, you will receive a text with a personalised URL for you to book your appointment online.