SINGAPORE, Aug. 28 -- Singapore's outdoor workers will get mandatory access to cool drinking water, emergency ice packs and heat-suitable clothing from December 1 under tougher measures aimed at reducing heat stress.

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said four practices that were previously recommendations will become mandatory, including heat stress training and ensuring cold water, ice packs or water spray are available for emergencies, Singapore-based news outlet CNA reported.

"These enhanced measures provide clearer expectations for employers while strengthening protection for workers," Minister of State for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash was quoted as saying.

The new rules will apply to all outdoor work regardless of wet bulb globe temper...