SINGAPORE, June 26 -- Companies breaching workplace safety rules will face higher fines, longer shutdowns and tighter restrictions on hiring migrant workers as Singapore steps up enforcement following a recent cluster of workplace fatalities.

According to CNA, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said composition fines for safety offences during inspections will be increased from S$2,000 (RM6,315) to S$3,000 for first-time offenders, with tougher penalties for repeat or serious breaches.

Firms issued stop-work orders will now face a minimum shutdown period of eight weeks, up from five weeks previously. In severe cases involving fatal or serious accidents, companies may also be barred from hiring new migrant workers for three months.

The move...