Migrant workers play a significant role in Singapore’s economy, and as such, they are subject to various medical examinations to ensure their health and safety. One of the medical examinations required the 6 monthly medical examination. Aside from the 6 monthly medical examination, below are common medical examinations required for migrant workers in Singapore.
Pre-Employment Medical Examination
Before arriving in Singapore, most migrant workers are required to undergo a pre-employment medical examination (PEME) in their home country. This examination is designed to identify any health conditions that could potentially affect the worker’s ability to perform their job or pose a risk to public health.
The PEME typically includes a physical examination, blood tests, and chest x-rays to screen for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis (TB). Workers who are found to have active TB are not permitted to enter Singapore, while those with latent TB are required to undergo treatment before starting work.
In-Employment Medical Examination
Once in Singapore, most migrant workers are required to undergo regular medical examinations as a condition of their work permit. These examinations are designed to detect and manage any health conditions that may arise during the worker’s employment in Singapore.
The frequency and scope of these examinations vary depending on the type of work performed and the worker’s country of origin. For example, construction workers are typically required to undergo medical examinations every six months, while domestic workers may only need to be examined once a year.
The in-employment medical examination typically includes a physical examination, blood tests, and chest x-rays to screen for TB. Workers who are found to have active TB are not permitted to work, while those with latent TB may be required to undergo treatment before continuing their employment.
MOM Medical Examination
In addition to the pre-employment and in-employment medical examinations, some migrant workers may also be required to undergo a medical examination by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This examination is typically required for workers in occupations that are considered high-risk or require a higher level of physical fitness, such as construction workers or marine crew.
The MOM medical examination includes a physical examination, blood tests, and other tests as deemed necessary by the examining doctor. Workers who are found to have any medical conditions that could potentially affect their ability to perform their job safely may be required to undergo further tests or treatment before continuing their employment.
Specialized Medical Examinations
In some cases, migrant workers may be required to undergo specialized medical examinations depending on the nature of their work. For example, workers in the food industry may be required to undergo regular medical examinations to screen for foodborne illnesses, while healthcare workers may need to undergo screenings for infectious diseases such as HIV or hepatitis.
Conclusion
Migrant workers in Singapore are subject to various medical examinations to ensure their health and safety, as well as the health of the general public. These examinations include pre-employment medical examinations, in-employment medical examinations, MOM medical examinations, and specialized medical examinations as required by their occupation.
It is important for migrant workers to comply with these medical examination requirements to ensure that they are able to work safely and remain in good health. Employers and recruiters should also be aware of these requirements and provide support to their workers to ensure that they are able to undergo the necessary examinations and receive appropriate treatment if necessary.
