Singapore’s maritime industry is being urged to prepare for possible haze as reduced visibility could affect navigation in the Singapore Strait and port waters, where traffic is closely managed and even short periods of poor visibility can affect vessel operations.

In a notice issued on Monday, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said prevailing winds could bring smoke haze from hotspots in Sumatra and Kalimantan toward Singapore. It added that dry conditions could increase the likelihood of haze affecting the city-state.

"The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) encourages all maritime companies, especially those with workers performing outdoor work to maintain a business continuity plan for haze."

The MPA said visibility in the Singapore Strait and port waters could be significantly reduced if haze develops, which can affect both transit movements and work carried out on or near the water.

“During periods of restricted visibility, shipmasters are advised to keep a proper lookout and navigate with caution,” it added.

The authority also reminded shipmasters to comply with collision-prevention rules covering restricted visibility, navigation lights and sound signals.

The Port Master may “restrict the movement of harbour craft and pleasure craft” in port waters during reduced-visibility conditions, the MPA said.