Since the outbreak of the 2019-Novel Coronavirus, steps have been taken to ensure the safety and health of all Singaporeans.
Among the measures is a Quarantine Order and a Leave of Absence.
What’s the difference between the two?
Leave of Absence (LOA)
An LOA is a precautionary measure to prevent the possible transmission of infections.
Those on LOA should
- Stay at home
- Minimise contact with other
- Monitor their health closely
They may leave home briefly to attend to matters, but must return home as soon as possible.
Residents, long-term pass holders who recently returned from China, and all workers returning from mainland China are required to take a 14-day LOA. All employers are to report to Ministry of Manpower (MOM) when their workers are returning, so that their return can be staggered.
Previously, employers were provided support in the form of a daily $100 pay-out for the period of the LOA/SHN. This support will no longer be given for LOA/SHN beginning on or after 7 April, in view of the general cessation of business activities due to the Circuit Breaker measures, and the support offered to firms and SEPs through the enhanced Jobs Support Scheme (JSS) and Self-Employed Person Income Relief Scheme (SIRS) respectively.
Quarantine order
An individual on a quarantine order is isolated with the aim of limiting the spread of the virus in the community.
He or she will be isolated either at home, at Government Quarantine Facilities, or at a hospital.
A quarantine order is a directive with legal force. It has severe penalties for non-compliance.
All recent travellers to Hubei will be quarantined.
Action against errant landlords
There has been feedback of landlords evicting tenants who are placed on LOA or a home quarantine order, and based on their nationality.
There is no need for landlords to evict these groups.
Action will be taken against landlords found to be irresponsibly evicting their residents.
These landlords may face restrictions and even be barred from renting out their flats to foreign work pass holders in future.
Individuals who are on LOA are not unwell. They are isolating themselves as a precaution.
Neighbours and landlords are urged to be sympathetic and helpful. There are guidelines available for landlords to adopt if they have a tenant on home quarantine or LOA.
Related links:
Joint statement on persons placed on home quarantined orders and leave of absence
Health advisory for persons placed on Leave of Absence
Advisory for individuals sharing residential spaces with persons on Leave of Absence
Advisory for employers and employees travelling to and fro from Mainland China
