At City Developments Limited (CDL), safety and kindness go hand in hand. Both are essential in building trust and stronger connections with workers on the ground.

Worker engagement at CDL goes beyond routine checks. The company actively connects with workers through regular site visits that prioritise not just physical safety, but also open conversations on key health and safety topics. These include preventing slips, trips and falls, working safely at heights, and protecting against dengue — everyday concerns that make a big difference on the job.

Given Singapore’s warm and humid climate, heat management is a top focus area. During engagement sessions, CDL teams offer practical support such as isotonic drinks and fresh fruit to help workers stay cool and hydrated. Always on the lookout for simple yet effective solutions, CDL recently introduced a new initiative: the cooling neck scarf.

The reusable scarf uses evaporative cooling technology and features a built-in UV neck shade, offering up to eight hours of comfort without the need for batteries or charging. Unlike bulky fan-operated suits, the scarf is lightweight, non-restrictive, and ideal for long hours outdoors. It can also be worn during off-duty hours, such as leisure or recreational activities, helping workers manage heat stress throughout the day. It’s a small gesture that sends a big message that CDL cares about workers' well-being both on and off the job.

In May, CDL distributed the first batch of scarves to around 50 workers. Encouraged by the positive feedback, the company plans to expand the initiative across all sites and locations during CDL’s regular site walks, also known as Gemba Walks, by the end of this year.

This initiative reflects CDL’s ongoing commitment to thoughtful, practical ways of caring for its workforce. At the heart of its approach is a simple belief: safety is a shared responsibility. Leaders must set the tone by leading through action, while workers and employees alike play a role in building a safe, supportive environment. It’s this mindset that continues to guide CDL’s health and safety efforts across the board.