Singapore prioritizes high standards of hygiene and sanitation in public spaces to safeguard public health. The Environmental Public Health (Specified Premises) Regulations mandate the appointment of a Premises Manager (PM) and an Environmental Control Officer [ECO(SP)] in designated “specified premises.”

• Premises Manager (PM): A person or incorporated entity responsible for the charge, management, and control of the specified premises.
• Environmental Control Officer [ECO(SP)]: Appointed by the PM, preferably someone familiar with day-to-day operations, to ensure compliance with environmental sanitation standards.

"The expansion of the Environment Control Officers Scheme to Specified Premises in 2021 demonstrates a significant step towards enhancing environmental hygiene and safety standards in Singapore. With our ECOs, we ensure our managed properties meet and exceed these standards by actively implementing sustainable practices and championing the 3Rs, contributing to a cleaner, greener, and safer built environment for all."

What are Specified Premises?

Specified premises, identified under the Environmental Public Health Orders of 2021 and 2022, include buildings with high human traffic and potential public health risks, such as:

• Shopping malls: Commercial buildings with significant retail space (Net Lettable Area ≥ 4,600 sqm and Retail Gross Floor Area ≥ 7,000 sqm) promoted as or generally regarded as shopping malls.
• Hotels: Hotels with more than 200 rooms.
• Healthcare facilities: Hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
• Educational institutions: Schools and other educational institutions.
• Food establishments: Food courts, markets, and other food establishments.

Exclusions:

Certain building types are excluded, such as those primarily used for sports and recreation, civic and community facilities, public transport, and specific business premises. Clusters of open-air shops or those with non-air-conditioned common areas are generally not considered specified shopping malls

Why are PMs and ECO(SP)s Mandated?

• High human traffic: Increased risk of disease transmission in crowded premises.
• Potential for outbreaks: Poor hygiene can lead to outbreaks, especially in enclosed, air-conditioned spaces.

Vulnerable populations: Some premises, like healthcare facilities, house individuals more susceptible to infections.

What do ECO (SP) Do?

ECO (SP) in specified premises play a crucial role in maintaining public health and safety. Their key responsibilities, as outlined in the regulations, include:

• Develop, monitor, and review the ES Programme (ESP)

• Conduct audit checks and routine inspections

• Liaise with NEA during compliance inspections and provide records and reports.
• Assist authorities in investigating disease outbreaks.
• Organize campaigns and training engage workers, tenants, and stakeholders to coordinate environmental efforts.
• Attend training as required by the Director-General of NEA to maintain the necessary knowledge and skills.

ECO(SP)s are indeed essential for maintaining public health in specified premises. By adhering to these regulations, building management ensures a healthy and safe environment for everyone. However, navigating the complexities of environmental public health regulations can be challenging.

That's where our team of experts comes in. By entrusting your facility management needs to us, you can rest assured that your facility is in compliance with all relevant regulations and provides a safe and healthy environment for everyone.