When Is A QRA Required In Singapore? MOM, SCDF & MHD Guide

In Singapore, QRA may be required for organisations handling, storing, or transporting large amounts of hazardous or flammable materials. However, the requirements may differ from one organisation to another depending on the type and quantity of hazardous materials involved, as well as how they are handled or stored. Planning, expanding, or modifying such a facility may also require QRA, depending on the proposed changes. Some organisations may engage with QRA consultants in Singapore to support QRA preparation and regulatory compliance.

1. When May A QRA Be Required In Singapore?

In Singapore, the Major Hazards Department (MHD) serves as the single regulatory front for QRA submission, safety case assessment, site verifications, and investigations into MHIs that may require multi-agency coordination. MHD is a joint-government department led by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and comprises officers from MOM, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), and the National Environment Agency (NEA). QRA may be required in certain scenarios, but organisations are highly encouraged to check with MHD to determine if a QRA is required.

Major Hazard Installation (MHI)

MHIs are workplaces that handle large quantities of dangerous substances and meet the applicable MHI criteria. QRA may help MHIs quantify potential risks and support the development of measures to reduce risks to As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). MHI determination may depend on factors such as the types and quantities of dangerous substances present and the relevant work activities. As QRA requirements may apply to certain MHI-related projects, organisations may seek guidance from MHD where required.

Storage Of Petroleum And Flammable Materials (PFM)

Under the Fire Safety Regulations, SCDF may require certain organisations that are transporting, handling, or storing large quantities of petroleum and flammable materials to conduct a QRA. New facilities or existing organisations undergoing modifications or expansions may be required to conduct a QRA to identify hazards, quantify risks, and reduce the risks to ALARP through practical measures.

New Facility Construction Or Layout Modification

When planning to construct a new facility or making significant modifications to an existing facility, organisations may need to determine whether a QRA is required based on the hazardous materials involved, their quantities, and the proposed changes. Changes in work processes, equipment, or quantities may change the potential risk associated with the facility. The activities may include introducing new chemical processing lines, expanding fuel storage tanks, changing safety controls, or modifying plant design. Businesses are encouraged to approach MHD early, such as during the basic concept and design stage, to check whether a QRA is required.

2. What Should Businesses Do If A QRA May Be Required?

Organisations should check if their facility or project requires QRA by reviewing the substances involved, their quantities, and how they will be stored, handled, or transported. When necessary, organisations may approach MHD for pre-consultation. Early consultation may help organisations determine whether QRA is required and understand the requirements before progressing the project.

If a QRA is required, the workplace will need to engage a registered QRA consultant in Singapore to conduct the QRA. The consultant may carry out the assessment for the organisation. Then, the organisation will need to submit the QRA report and relevant supporting materials to MHD for evaluation by the relevant agencies. Organisations may need to consider QRA preparation, submission, and review while planning the project timeline.

3. Strengthen Your QRA Preparation With QES Consultancy

Preparing a QRA may be complex without professional expertise and prior experience in QRA requirements and preparation for regulatory review. QRA consultants from QES Consultancy help organisations conduct professional QRA through relevant quantitative risk assessment methods, providing expert guidance on QRA compliance.