Singapore to end N95 mask distribution on Saturday as haze abates

SINGAPORE: Singapore will cease its haze mitigation measures, including ending the distribution of N95 masks to vulnerable Singaporeans and daily advisories on Saturday (Nov 7), amid improving air quality.

Mask collection will conclude at 6pm on Saturday, said the National Environment Agency (NEA) on Thursday.

Air-conditioned rooms at Community Clubs and selected Residents’ Committee and Residents’ Network Centres that are designated as haze shelters will also close at the same time.

In addition, the Ministry of Health (MOH) will be deactivating both the Public Health Preparedness Clinic Scheme and the Haze Subsidy Scheme from Nov 12.

"With the improvement in air quality conditions, MOM will stand down its haze-related measures for outdoor workers from Nov 7. Employers may resume outdoor work without the additional haze-related precautions," said NEA.

The distribution of N95 masks to vulnerable Singaporeans started on Oct 14, after 1-hour PM2.5 readings climbed into the very high range.

Although the distribution was initially scheduled to begin only when the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) exceeded 200, it was brought forward in response to worsening haze conditions.

The masks were distributed in two rounds, with the second round expanding eligibility to Singaporeans aged 60 and above, down from 67, following public feedback.

Pregnant women, children aged seven to 16 and holders of Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) Orange and Blue cards were also eligible.

Speaking in parliament on Tuesday, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu said that close to 30 per cent of eligible Singaporeans had collected their masks as of Oct 29.

Ms Fu added that N95 masks are generally not required for short periods outdoors, and that reducing prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities remains the most important first response to haze.

In its morning advisory on Thursday, NEA said that dry conditions are likely to persist over parts of the southern Southeast Asian region.

"The hotspot and smoke haze situation may improve over areas with showers but also continue to stay elevated in areas experiencing prolonged dry weather, with a risk of transboundary haze occurrence," the agency said.