Factory Notification and Registration
The Factory Notification and Registration is required by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for workplaces classified as factories under the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act in Singapore. This licence is valid for 1 year, with processing typically completed in 7 working days. Factories must notify or register their activities before commencing operations.
- Validity
- 1 year
- Processing time
- Factory Registration and Notification: 7 working days
- Issuing authority
- MINISTRY OF MANPOWER (MOM)
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Who needs the Factory Notification and Registration
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
- Required to operateSection C — MANUFACTURING
What's involved in getting the Factory Notification and Registration
The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.
What this licence allows the business to do
The Factory Notification and Registration allows a business to legally operate a factory in Singapore, ensuring compliance with the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act. This is essential for maintaining workplace safety standards and protecting employees.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the licence can be granted, certain conditions must be met. Factories engaging in high-risk activities are required to apply for a Certificate of Registration, while those involved in low-risk activities must submit a one-time Factory Notification. For factories classified as Major Hazard Installations (MHI), registration must occur at least six months prior to operations. Additionally, a Process Hazard Analysis is necessary for renewable registrations related to specific high-risk activities, such as bulk storage of toxic or flammable liquids.
How the agency reviews and decides
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) reviews the applications for Factory Notification and Registration to ensure compliance with safety regulations. This includes assessing submitted documentation and conducting necessary evaluations. The agency may require additional information or clarification during the review process.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications can stall for various reasons, including incomplete documentation or failure to meet safety standards. Common issues include not providing a comprehensive Process Hazard Analysis when required, or lacking necessary supporting documents such as layout plans or letters of award. Ensuring that all required documents are prepared and submitted accurately can help prevent delays in the application process.
Required documents and prerequisites
Items the applicant typically needs ready before submitting:
- Process Hazard Analysis
- Process Hazard Analysis is only applicable for renewable registration ie. For : i. Bulk Storage (of Toxic or Flammable Liquid) Terminal; ii. Petrochemical Plant or Oil Refinery; or iii. Synthetic Polymer or Chemical Plant.
- File format: doc, docx, txt, pdf
- Maximum upload per application: 7 MB
- Major Hazard Installation (MHI) Assessment form
- File format: xls, xlsx
- Maximum upload per application: 7 MB
- Other supporting documents
- e.g. Letter of Award or Purchase Order issued by the developer, the worksite location or layout plan or any other documents requested, if available.
- File format: doc, docx, txt, pdf
- Maximum upload per application: 7 MB
Factory Notification and Registration FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating my factory?
Yes, obtaining the Factory Notification and Registration is mandatory for any factory in Singapore before commencing operations. This ensures compliance with the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once licensed, your factory can legally operate within the framework of the WSH Act, allowing you to engage in manufacturing or processing activities while ensuring workplace safety and health standards are met.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating a factory without the necessary Factory Notification and Registration can lead to legal penalties, including fines and potential shutdown of operations. Compliance with safety regulations is crucial for protecting employees and avoiding legal issues.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reasons for application rejection include incomplete documentation, such as missing the required Process Hazard Analysis or failing to provide necessary supporting documents. Ensuring all requirements are met can help avoid rejection.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can hold the Factory Notification and Registration in Singapore, provided they meet all the necessary requirements and comply with local regulations.
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