Singapore Air Quality Reaches Unhealthy Levels Across All Regions

Air quality across all five regions of Singapore entered the unhealthy range on September 15, marking the first time this has occurred since September 2019. The Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) registered readings between 104 and 154 at 6am on that day, though levels improved slightly by the evening. The National Environment Agency stated that haze from fires in Indonesia continues to affect the country, with dry conditions and southeast winds expected to prolong the situation.

In response to the deteriorating air quality, various organizations have implemented protective measures. Some companies are providing N95 masks, scaling back outdoor work, or allowing flexible work arrangements. Singtel announced it would suspend outdoor work except for emergencies if the PSI exceeds 300, while OCBC is providing N95 masks and advising managers to monitor vulnerable employees. Foodpanda is advising riders to take breaks and adjust their schedules via its app.

Sports and educational bodies have also introduced stricter protocols. The Singapore Hockey Federation will suspend matches if the PSI exceeds 100, a threshold more stringent than the SportSG recommendation of 200. The Football Association of Singapore has introduced hydration breaks for Premier League matches and may postpone games if the 24 hour PSI reading exceeds 200. Additionally, an adventure camp for CHIJ St Nicholas Girls School students was cancelled on September 14.

Medical professionals report a 20 percent increase in patients with asthma, allergies, and respiratory issues. Experts note that the central region of Singapore has consistently registered the highest PSI levels due to high urbanization and urban heat, which traps pollutants closer to the ground. The National Environment Agency also clarified that Singapore's PSI system differs from other international air quality indices because it uses specialized equipment to measure six specific pollutants.