How to Appoint and Remove a Company Secretary in Singapore 

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, staying competitive requires more than innovative products or services. It demands a comprehensive understanding of legal and regulatory requirements to ensure smooth operations. One critical aspect of this is appointing the right Company Secretary. A Company Secretary is the guardian of corporate governance and compliance, handling crucial administrative tasks with finesse. This article explores the step-by-step guide on how you can hire or remove a company secretary.

1. Identify the Need for a Company Secretary

Consider what your business needs and determine if you want a company secretary. Think about how large your business is, how tough its methods are, and how vital it’s miles by which you comply with the rules.

2. Define the Qualifications and Responsibilities

Clearly outline the qualifications and responsibilities you expect from the company secretary. Look for individuals with experience, knowledge of corporate laws, and strong organizational skills.

3. Search and Conduct Interviews for Suitable Candidates

Put out an advertisement for the job and do your best to find fit people. You can get help by using job sites, professional organizations, or even contacting a hiring company.

Shortlist candidates based on their qualifications and conduct thorough interviews. Assess their suitability for the role, considering their technical expertise and interpersonal skills.

4. Appointing the Company Secretary

Once you’ve found the best option, you can make them the company secretary. Make sure that all legal paperwork and formalities are done correctly. The business Secretary is in charge of keeping business records, ensuring the rules are followed, and working as a link between the board of directors of the business and the government. Companies such as LeftRight Corporate, Sprout Asia, ACHI BIZ, WLP Group, and J Accounting Services can help you through the process and ensure your business secretary is hired smoothly and legally.

5. Draft and Sign the Appointment Letter

Make an official letter of hire explaining the job’s rules and regulations, such as pay, perks, and trial periods. Make sure both sides sign the letter. In Singapore, it is required by law to tell the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) that a company secretary has been hired.

6. Review and Update Corporate Records

Give the new company secretary all the information and tools they need to do their job well. The company secretary must review and update the company’s data, such as the lists of employees, directors, and major owners.

7. Review the Company Secretary’s Performance

Ensure the business secretary is paid and has perks matching their skills and responsibilities. Inspect the company secretary’s work regularly and give her helpful comments to ensure she keeps improving.

8. Removing a Company Secretary

If the need arises to remove a company secretary, follow the appropriate steps to ensure a smooth legal process.

9. Notify ACRA and Sign the Removal Letter

Prepare a formal removal letter stating the reasons for terminating the company secretary’s employment. Inform ACRA about the removal of the company secretary within the prescribed time frame.

10. Handover and Finalize the Process

Ensure a proper handover of responsibilities and corporate records to the new company secretary or designated personnel.

Conclusion

Hiring and firing a company secretary is essential and must be thought out cautiously and followed by the Singapore law. If you comply with those step-by-step instructions, you could ensure that your agency receives the help of professional company secretarial services. This can make it easier for the business to observe the standards and run smoothly.

Exploring Eligibility for a Corporate Secretary Role in Singapore

Introduction

Amidst the ever-evolving business landscape in Singapore, the significance of a Company Secretary cannot be overstated. This vital role involves ensuring compliance with laws and regulations and playing a pivotal part in maintaining effective corporate governance. This article delves into the requirements for becoming a Company Secretary in Singapore, shedding light on the responsibilities and benefits of this profession.

Understanding the Role of a Company Secretary

A Company Secretary is a crucial link between a company’s board of executives, business owners, and government bodies. Their primary responsibility lies in guaranteeing the company’s adherence to all legal and regulatory norms, ensuring smooth operations and safeguarding the company’s reputation.

Eligibility Criteria to Pursue a Career as a Company Secretary in Singapore

Certain eligibility criteria must be met to embark on a career as a Company Secretary in Singapore. Aspiring Company Secretaries should also become members of the Institute of Singapore Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ISCA). Moreover, they must complete a company secretaryship course approved by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

Some points are discussed down here that will clear all of your doubts.

Educational Prerequisites

Aspiring Company Secretaries in Singapore are expected to possess a strong educational background. Ideally, a business, law, economics, or a related field degree would be advantageous. Companies may also prefer candidates with a graduate program specialising in company office management.

Relevant Work Experience

In addition to academic qualifications, candidates should have relevant work experience. Employers often prefer previous exposure to corporate governance, law compliance, or company office management.

Professional Certifications

Boosting the chances of becoming a Company Secretary in Singapore involves acquiring professional training in company secretarial work. Certifications from reputable organisations demonstrate the candidate’s dedication to the field and their comprehensive understanding of rules and regulations.

Pathway to Becoming a Company Secretary in Singapore

Becoming a Company Secretary in Singapore involves a well-defined process that requires dedication and a specific skill set. Aspiring individuals typically start by obtaining a recognised law, business, or accounting degree. They then enrol in an accredited Company Secretary Course by the “Singapore Association of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators” (SAICSA).

The following steps are a proper guide to becoming a secretary:

Step 1: Attain the Requisite Qualifications

Prospective Company Secretaries must focus on acquiring the appropriate education and professional training. Enrolling in corporate governance and business office practice courses can equip individuals with valuable skills and knowledge.

Step 2: Gain Relevant Practical Experience

Accumulating substantial practical knowledge is of utmost importance. Working in a company, particularly in law regulation, corporate governance, or administration roles, enables individuals to develop the necessary skill set to excel as a Company Secretary.

Step 3: Apply for Company Secretary Positions

Once candidates have acquired the necessary education and experience, they can initiate the application process for Company Secretary positions in various sectors.

Step 4: Register with ACRA

Registration with ACRA, the governmental body responsible for overseeing enterprises in Singapore, is obligatory for company secretaries. This formal registration empowers them with the authority to perform official corporate officer responsibilities.

Conclusion

A competent Company Secretary plays a far-reaching role beyond mere administrative duties. They act as custodians of the company’s compliance with the law and transparency in business dealings. Obtaining the required qualifications, gaining relevant experience, and registering with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) are indispensable steps to embark on a career as a Company Secretary in Singapore. Employing a proficient Company Secretary can pave the way for well-governed and compliant business operations, ensuring enduring success in the long run.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Bathroom Faucet Materials

luxury gold bathroom design

How To Choose The Right Faucets?

When buying faucets, many buyers use the material and design as a guide to choosing the best one for their bathroom designs. Since the faucet material is critical in your choice, it is best to use the pros and cons to make the right choice. 

Brass

Brass is one of the most favoured materials because it can be used for retro and modern styles. Brass faucets are often mixed with either nickel or chromium. These materials increase this metal’s resistance to corrosion, extreme temperatures, and damage. 

Brass is malleable, so it can be designed into any shape. This is why faucets made of brass tend to have unique designs. 

Brass is usually not affected by cleaning solutions, including those that contain acid. However, to keep it from changing colour, brass is often polished. 

One of the downsides of brass is it is expensive. 

Copper

Copper faucets have a golden pink hue. However, faucets made of copper are rare because of their price. So, to make use of its benefits, copper is often used as a coating. 

Some of the advantages of copper include its resistance to extreme temperatures. It also does not react to chemicals, and it does not rust. 

Stainless Steel

Faucets made of stainless steel are probably the most popular. This is because Stainless Steel is strong, durable, corrosion-resistant, and wear-resistant. 

There are instances when Stainless Steel faucets are coated with copper, Bronze, silver, chrome, and gold. Such faucets tend to be bought for aesthetics, over functionality. In its natural form, Stainless Steel is more durable than those with mixes.

Glass

Glass is the least common faucet material because it is fragile. However, this has not prevented some manufacturers from making faucets from glass. Sometimes, multi-coloured lights are added to glass faucets for a dramatic effect. 

Unfortunately, the disadvantages of glass faucets outweigh their advantages. For example, glass faucets are expensive, and they break easily. 

Bronze

Bronze faucets are strong, durable, and corrosion-resistant. Since they expand easily, Bronze can be manipulated into various shapes. Another advantage is that bathroom faucets made from Bronze are easy to clean.

Unfortunately, in its natural state, Bronze tends to lose its sheen. This causes the faucets to appear old even when they are still new. To keep this from happening, a coating is usually done on the faucet to preserve its appearance. 

The price of Bronze is off-putting. This explains why bronze faucets are not common.

MaterialProsCons



Brass
– Great for modern and retro faucets.-Variety of designs.-Temperature resistant.-Rust resistant-Damage resistant-Cannot be used alone. It is often mixed with nickel or chromium.-Slightly expensive 


Bronze
-Durable-Rust-resistant-Strong-Easy to clean
-Loses colour without the protective coating-Expensive


Copper
-Heat resistant-No chemical reactions-Attractive hue-Expensive


Stainless Steel
-Readily available-durable-Strength-Rust-resistant-Wear-resistant-Can be coated with gold, silver, copper, chrome, and bronze.-Coated stainless steel is not as durable as stainless steel in its natural state.

Glass
-Attractive-Breaks easily

These are the common materials used for making bathroom faucets. Some of the similarities between the different materials are their durability, flexibility, and rust resistance. Faucet manufacturers are always looking for ways to make faucets that offer value for money.

Types of Personalised Lanyards 

customised lanyards in a glass

Lanyards Are Great For Organisations

The lanyard may seem like a small item, but it is very important for organizations and event organizers. Many companies in Singapore go out of their way to get the best-customised lanyards for employee IDs and Visitors’ passes. 

One of the decisions corporations have to make when making customised lanyards is deciding the type of lanyard to use. At a glance, the fabric seems to be the only thing that differentiates one lanyard from another. However, there are different types of lanyards, each with advantages that will help companies make the right decision. 

High Visibility Customised Lanyards.

High visibility lanyards are great for large events and the outdoors. They have a reflective strip that is visible at a distance and in the dark. The reflective properties of these customised lanyards make them suitable for workers on roadside sites, mines, and construction sites. 

The brand name and logo on a customised high visibility lanyard can be seen from afar. If you are organizing an outdoor or evening event, high visibility lanyards are a great choice since it will be easier for anyone to spot accredited guests and employees. 

Breakaway Lanyards

These are the most common personalised lanyards in Singapore. They are often used in corporate offices and have employee IDs and visitor’s cards attached. Breakaway lanyards have a buckle that you can latch and unlatch when wearing it. It is an awesome choice for those who wish to have a lanyard that does not slide over the head. 

Double-Ended Lanyards

Double-ended customised lanyards have a hook on both ends. These lanyards are great for people who need to use both ends of the lanyards. For example, you can clip your ID on one end and a pen on the other end. The downside of this type of lanyard is it is not secure on the neck and can easily be misplaced. 

Pocket Lanyards

Customised pocket lanyards are smaller than the standard lanyard. These lanyards are less visible but are just as functional as those that are worn around the neck. As the name suggests, this lanyard can be used to secure your ID or keys and kept in the pocket.

Sublimated Custom Lanyards

Also known as full-colour lanyards, this type of personalised lanyard is available in a range of colours. The ink is transferred to this lanyard through heat transfer. This type of lanyard is great if you intend to use a range of colours for an eye-catching lanyard. 

The sublimated lanyard is often favoured because of the striking design effects and the possibility of using multiple colour combinations. Sublimated custom lanyards are also more comfortable to have on all day.  

Woven Lanyards

The branding on woven custom lanyards is usually embroidered instead of using ink. If you need a lanyard that is likely to last a long time, then the personalised woven lanyard is ideal.

Printed Customised Lanyard

This type of lanyard is personalised using the screen-printing process. When a one-colour logo is used, it is an economical option for bulk purchases. When the base colour contrasts with that of the logo, this lanyard can be quite attractive and easy to spot. 

Printed custom lanyards can also accommodate up to four colours, so if you wish to have logos and texts of multiple colours, this is a great choice. 

Final Notes

The types of custom lanyards in Singapore are classified according to their fabric, printing method, and latches. Most companies that make personalised lanyards offer different rates depending on the length. Each type of personalised lanyard has its advantages and disadvantage. It is best to choose one with more benefits. 

The Benefit Of Using Toilet Bidets

Modern Toilet Bidet Next To Toilet

Toilet Bidets And Cleanliness

Everyone goes to the washroom and everyone want to have a clean and fresh body after using the toilet. Keeping personal hygiene needs an hour as it leads to cleanliness. I remember some friends when return from their European visit often talks about low sinks in the washrooms. Others call it a modern style of toilet. 

When someone takes the word Bidet, it means fancy so people relate it with fashion. In reality, the bidet is all about toilet sprays which are focused on the cleanliness of genital parts. Users of bidet share that the back part of the body feels clean, fresh and healthier after using the bidet.

The concept started in Europe. The United States of American has also witnessed the shift from using toilet tissues in the toilets to bidet usage. There has also been a shift towards the use of bidet in toiler among young populations in some parts of the world. Some are using the Japanese style of bidet while the Malaysian market is also full of different and customise shapes and styles of the bidet. 

Why Is Using Toilet Bidets Preferable?

These Are Considered To Be Better And Environment Friendly:

On an annual basis, the usage of toilet cleaner rolls in the United States of America is as much as 36.5 billion. It means an equivalent amount of trees being cut for making these toilet rolls, which in the term is not feasible for the environment. Very few people know about the impact of toilet rolls being used in the toilet and how simple toilet bidets can be a good replacement for saving the environment.  So with toilet bidet, the immense quantity of water that is used otherwise for making tissue rolls is also reduced. Toilet bidets are thus, safe for the environment and considered the preferred choice to be used in the replacement of rolls.

Toilet Bidets Ensure Cleanliness:

After using toilets, toilet bidets ensure personal and genital areas cleanliness. It also lessens bacteria infections and other issues with urine infections. When an intimate part is cleaned with water, it stops the spread of bacteria. Also, a toilet bidet means you have taken shower.

Toilet Bidets Lead To Genital Health And Haemorrhoids:

For people, who have had surgical treatment of their genital areas, toilet bidet spray is a warm feel and healing process. Water spray is no doubt a better alternative and satisfying means of washing oneself. It is also estimated that water spray prohibits the growth of haemorrhoids on anal parts. Also, the blood circulation is regularized in the anal part owing to the spray of warm water. 

Toilet Bidet For Pregnant Women:

Even for pregnant women or those who have just given birth, the toilet bidet is a safe and recommended method of washing. Soon after giving birth, the intimate parts in women are very sensitive and toilet bidet is safe to be used. Such women can also prevent the formation of any bacteria or fungal infection in the vaginal part and helps in smooth healing.

Wrapping Up

The uses of toilet bidets are many. The primary use and advantage is personal hygiene and cleanliness. A toilet bidet might be a new concept for you, but the world is rapidly moving towards this new technique. Malaysia is also adopting this advanced method of cleanliness and the market offers many products of different designs in this regard. Get your toilet bidet in Malaysia from a quality store now.

Benefits Of Investing In Custom Safety Vests

Worker Wearing A Safety Vest On Scaffolding

Why Safety Vests?

Employees working in environments considered hazardous are required to wear safety vests. In some industries, employees have no option but to wear safety vests, not because of the risks but because of the company policy. 

Some companies consider the contractor safety vest a necessary part of official wear, even if the work is not considered risky. 

What are the benefits of wearing custom safety vests?

A Safety Vest Has High Visibility Features.

Someone wearing a custom safety vest can easily be spotted from afar during the day and at night. This is primarily because the vest is made of bright fluorescent colours, like green, orange and yellow. During the day, the colours stand out. At night, the colours glow. This, for example, makes it easy for a driver to spot a cyclist at night. 

Easy Identification Of Workers

In high traffic areas, without custom safety vests, it may be difficult to identify a worker in a crowd of people. For example, it is easy to tell workers working on a road because of the contractor safety vest. 

Some of these sites pose risks to people who are unfamiliar with the area or work being done. To avoid accidents and to easily identify people who are not supposed to be at the worksite, employees wear a contractor safety vest. 

Markets The Business

If your employees are to wear safety vests, why not take advantage of the opportunity to market your services? You will undoubtedly gain from free marketing. Add your logo and contacts on the contractor safety vest so that anyone who sees it and needs the service can contact you. 

Additionally, the custom safety vest may enlighten the public about the range of services that you provide. For example, people may associate your company with road repairs. But a contractor safety vest may inform them that your specialty is asphalt repair. 

Worn By Workers Across Various Industries

Work uniforms tend to be unique to the industry. Apart from specific sectors, such as the medical and fire departments, most industries and organizations are free to design their work uniforms as they wish. 

The custom safety vest is a fallback work uniform for many professions, such as traffic police, construction workers, kindergarten caregivers, cyclists, athletes, bank employees, airport employees, events managers, retail store workers, waiters, and workers in other industries. 

The only thing that distinguishes employees of one organization from another is the brand details on the custom safety vest. 

If you are yet to get work uniforms for your employees and wish to make it easier for clients to identify your workers, you can start with the contractor safety vest. 

Structured Appearance

One way to introduce a sense of unity among people with shared responsibilities and goals is to use custom safety vests. For example, people who have come together to clean their environment can wear custom safety vests to communicate their intention and goals to members of the public. People who are exercising together can wear safety vests to show they are united in their cause. 

Final Notes

These are some of the benefits of using a contractor safety vest. When customised and worn appropriately, employees and businesses stand to gain from the use of custom safety vests

Why You Should Use Custom T-Shirt Printing To Promote Your Business

Multicoloured t-shirts on a wooden table

Customised T-Shirts For Marketing

Have you ever wondered why most brands use customised t-shirts as part of their marketing campaign? You probably have quite a few from your favorite brands. A custom t-shirt is a great addition to weekend wear for many people. However, for most businesses, a custom t-shirt Singapore is more than apparel. 

If you are an entrepreneur and wonder if personalised t-shirt printing is worthwhile, you should do so for the following reasons. 

Increase Your Company’s Visibility

When you open up a business in Singapore, you need to be ready for stiff competition. You have to find ways to keep your clientele, and at the same time, lure more people to your business. Out of sight, out of mind, may very well be about business because people will start noticing your competition if you are not visible. 

One way to ensure customers turn to you when they need a product or service you offer, if by giving out customised t-shirts. Every time they wear the t-shirt, they will be reminded of your company’s existence. 

T-shirt Printing Is Inexpensive.

The cheapest and fastest means to advertise your brand is using a custom t-shirt Singapore. Most t-shirt printing companies offer great rates for bulk t-shirt printing, making it cost-effective for businesses. 

When you include promotional t-shirts in your marketing campaign, you will realize the cost of t-shirts is much lower, considering it will have a lasting impact, especially if you get great quality t-shirts that clients will love. 

They Are Quick To Produce

The t-shirt printing process is fairly simple for businesses looking to customise them for promotional purposes. You only need to choose plain coloured t-shirts, have your logo, and all the info you would like to have on the t-shirt. Once the company handling the t-shirt printing has everything they need, you can get the custom t-shirt Singapore fairly quickly. 

T-shirt Printing Is Versatile.

You can make your promotional t-shirts as unique as you wish. For example, before requesting t-shirt printing, have a list of catchy phrases, colour options, t-shirt designs, as well as your preferred fabric. Customers are more likely to wear a customised t-shirt printing in Singapore. if they like it. Not only will they wear it, but they are comfortable wearing it when they are out and about. This increases your company’s visibility since other people are likely to notice the t-shirt. 

T-shirt printing is also available at a range of prices. So, you can pick the most acceptable depending on your budget and volume of production. For example, the quality of the t-shirt, the printing technique, and the type of ink will influence the final cost of printing the t-shirts. 

Loyal Customers Get A Sense Of Belonging.

When loyal customers receive branded custom t-shirts, they feel appreciated and an important part of the business. After all, a business would be non-existent without the support of its loyal customers. 

It is not a question of the value of the appreciation for most customers, but the thought behind it. If you give a good quality custom t-shirt to Singapore, that is enough to make them happy. 

Having branded t-shirts for your business is undoubtedly a great idea that you need to consider. Customised t-shirt printing in Singapore is a walking advertisement, and your business will likely see an increase in sales with the increased exposure.

Choosing the Best Fabric for Your Custom Windbreaker

man wearing windbreaker in a forest

How Do You Choose A Windbreaker?

For years, the windbreakers in the market were primarily made of nylon. Buyers did not have much choice when it came to the type of fabric, probably because custom windbreakers were not a thing. However, now that you have the freedom to decide how you want your windbreaker to appear, both in colour and design, you even get to choose the fabric. 

The lightweight and waterproof features of the windbreaker still limit the types of fabric to use. However, today you have more options when it comes to the material of the windbreaker. 

Nylon

Vintage custom windbreakers still use nylon as the primary fabric as it reflects an era when nylon was the only fabric that’s waterproof and wind-resistant. Unfortunately, the swishy sound made when one walked was off-putting for many people. The noisy movement increased the demand for other fabrics that had wind-breaking and waterproof features, but quieter. 

Micro Polyester

Micro polyester is softer than nylon and does not produce a swishy sound when one walks. A custom windbreaker made from micro polyester often has a cotton or mesh lining. Although it is softer, a micro polyester windbreaker provides sufficient protection from the wind and rain. It is an ideal choice for people living in hot areas, like Singapore, because it is lightweight.  

Polyester

Custom windbreakers made of polyester are similar to those made from micro polyester. However, the difference is in the weight of the fabric. Polyester windbreakers are heavier, although lighter than those made from nylon. 

You may choose to insulate it with cotton or mesh, depending on your preference. The lining helps ensure the custom windbreaker does not stick to your skin, especially if you wear it over a vest when you go out for your run. A cotton lining is warmer than a mesh lining. 

Tricot

Tricot is brushed polyester. It has a very soft texture and a bit of shine, but it is heavier than the other fabrics. Unfortunately, while this custom windbreaker is warmer, it loses some of its wind-breaking and rain-resistant features. So, your primary purpose for buying a custom windbreaker made of Tricot is to stay warm. This windbreaker is best worn when the weather is chilly with no rain. 

All these fabrics can be customised with your logo and test, depending on your preferred printing options. Screen printing and embroidery are often used on windbreakers. However, some companies are hesitant to embroider nylon windbreakers because the fabric is thicker and more delicate. 

A simple embroidery, primarily of a text, may be acceptable. However, designs that require a relatively high concentration of stitches may not be ideal for custom windbreakers made of nylon. 

Final Notes

These are the main fabrics you’ll find available when customising your windbreaker. When choosing the material, consider how you wish to customise the print. 

If the design makes embroidery difficult or impossible for your preferred fabric, you may choose to change the design or opt for an alternative material. Discuss your options with a company making custom windbreakers in Singapore handling the custom features to ensure you choose the ideal fabric. 

Importance of Work Injury Compensation Insurance

Since it doesn’t have natural resources, Singapore relies heavily on human capital for its thriving economy. This is why the government emphasizes the need to protect workers against accidents and unforeseen dangers that may affect productivity. Work injury compensation insurance is one of the policies employers are required to invest in to protect their workforce. 

Singapore has moderate to high-risk industries. Whether an employee is working in logistics, tech, or manufacturing, an accident could occur unexpectedly. Work injury compensation insurance protects employees and businesses from costs related to the injury. Find out more about it and how you can insure your workers here.

Ensures employers take precautions to prevent accidents.

Before an insurance company takes on responsibility for any claims made over an injury, it will seek to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. Are there any workplace hazards? Was the accident a result of negligence? These are some of the questions that insurance companies ask when a claim is made against work injury compensation insurance. 

Given the delicate nature of this insurance policy, employers need to go out of their way to ensure the workplace is a safe environment for the workers. A business that reports multiple accidents reflects badly on the employer. The situation could be worse if the injuries result in deaths. 

This also puts the company in a delicate place since insurers will start charging high premiums or even avoid providing work injury compensation insurance for such a business. 

Workers are protected if they become permanently incapacitated.

Workplace injuries can have different outcomes. The worker may be forced to spend some time away from work. This translates to a loss of income, which will affect the worker’s quality of life. During the period the worker is away from work, he will need compensation to cater for his health and daily needs. 

When a worker is permanently incapacitated, he can no longer earn a living. He will be entitled to compensation because it is not his fault that he is no longer productive. 

Families are protected in case of death.

Unfortunately, some injuries result in the death of workers. For example, in the past decade, the construction industry in Singapore has registered several fatal workplace accidents. 2013 recorded the highest number of deaths at 34 workers, while 2020 had the least number of fatalities where nine workers lost their lives.

These workers probably had families that depended on them for their survival. Work injury compensation insurance ensures that grieving families get their due and that the loss of life does not automatically result in loss of income. 

Protects businesses from financial ruin

Work injury compensation claims often cost thousands of dollars. A company, irrespective of its size, can easily be ruined if it has to cover these costs every time there is a workplace injury. Whether the compensation is in the form of medical leave wages or incapacitation claims, the company may be forced to cut down its expansion plans to cover the compensation costs. 

A business with work injury compensation insurance is unlikely to have its finances tied up in lawsuits. Without worrying about the unexpected costs, entrepreneurs can focus on running the business and providing a safe environment for workers to boost productivity. 

What You Should Know About Security Bonds in Singapore

Did you know that Singapore issues close to one million work permits annually? Employers are expected to get a security bond for every foreign worker they employ. The security bond, also known as the immigration bond, serves as security should the worker fail to follow the work permit conditions. Security bond MOM costs $5,000. 

The security deposit can be in cash or a banker’s guarantee. In some cases, employers replace the security deposit with Foreign Worker Bonds (FWB). When an employer buys FWBs, he doesn’t need to deposit the $5,000 security upfront. More information about Security Bonds (MOM, Singapore) can be found here.

Who purchases the security bond and why? 

A security bond is a contract between the government and the employer. It is illegal for employers to ask employees to provide this security deposit. The idea behind the security bond is to ensure employers take great interest in the kind of people they employ. 

Every employee with a security bond attached to his work permit is expected to strictly follow the work permit’s terms. Should the employee go against some aspects of the permit, the employer may be forced to forsake part or the entire security bond.

Are some foreign workers allowed to work without the security bond?

Yes, S pass holders are not required to have a security bond attached to their work permits. Singapore offers different types of passes and Work Permits for foreign workers. S Pass is given to mid-level skilled workers, like technicians, who earn at least $2,500 a month. 

Applicants for S pass are expected to have a degree, diploma or technical certificate from accredited institutions. Additionally, relevant work experience is required. Employers are expected to vet applicants for the positions they have available to ascertain their eligibility for the S Pass. 

Malaysian workers do not need work permits, so security bond MOM is not required. 

Where can you buy the security bond?

You don’t need to go to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to get the security bond. You can get security bond MOM at the bank or from insurance companies in Singapore. The security bond is usually sold as an insurance product, either separately or as part of a package. 

Should the government charge the employer a fine, the insurer will often pay the government. The insurer then recovers the funds from the employer.  

What happens to the security bond when the work permit expires?

Security bonds are usually attached to the work permit. MOM will only issue a work permit when the employer secures a security bond MOM. Usually, work permits are valid for two years. However, some may be issued for a shorter period if the employee’s passport expires before the end of the two-year period or if the person’s employment is valid for less than 24 months.

If the employer and employee agree to renew the work permit, it needs to be done at least eight weeks before the permit expires. The employer also needs to visit the bank or insurance company to extend the security bond. 

The insurer or bank will send the new security bond details to the Ministry so that it is also updated in their system. It usually takes about three days for the security bond to be updated. 

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) takes issues of foreign employees seriously. It is obligated to maintain Singapore’s integrity as a favoured destination for expatriates. The security bond ensures that employers only hire authentic people because they stand to forfeit the security bond if things go wrong. 

Security Bonds for Foreign Domestic Workers in Singapore

All non-Malaysian foreign domestic workers in Singapore are required to have a work permit and security bond. There are approximately 250,000 foreign domestic workers in Singapore. If you have decided to get a foreign domestic worker, you need to make sure all the documents are ready before your worker arrives in Singapore. 

The security bond costs $5000. You can get a bank guarantee or get one from an insurance company. Read more about security bond requisites and information here.

When should you get a security bond?

Once you and your incoming foreign domestic worker (FDW) agree on the terms of employment, including the salary and terms of employment, it is best to start processing the work permit.

The security bond will be attached to the work permit. So, the Ministry of Man Power (MOM) will require the bank or insurance company to send in details of the security bond before processing the work permit. 

How long does it take for a security bond to be ready?

It usually takes three working days for a security bond to be processed. However, this depends on how soon the insurer starts the process. It is, therefore, important for you to follow up with your bank or insurer to ensure the security bond MOM is ready. The work permit will then be processed. 

When the security bond is ready, you will receive an acknowledgement letter. Ensure your worker gets a copy of the security bond. Without the security bond and work permit, the FDW will be denied entry into Singapore. 

What happens when the services of the FDW is no longer needed?

Singapore usually gives two-year work permits. However, if you need the FDW for a shorter period, you can request a work permit for the required time frame. However, the cost of the security bond remains $5000, irrespective of the validity of the work permit. 

Should the FDW work through the expected period, or if you terminate the services before the expiry of the work permit, you should inform MOM of your intentions. The Ministry will then cancel the permit. The FDW is expected to leave the country when she no longer has a valid work permit. 

When you should expect the security bond to be refunded

The security bond, as the name suggests, is to serve as security. It is an agreement between employers and the government. You are basically saying you trust the FDW will meet the terms of the work permit. Should there be an issue, the government will fine you, and you may lose part or the entire security bond.

If, however, the FDW meets the terms of the work permit until it expires or until that point when you cancel it, you will receive a full refund of the security bond MOM. 

The security bond is usually discharged at least a week after the FDW has left Singapore. So, as an employer, you still have a responsibility beyond cancelling the work permit. You need to make sure your worker leaves the country for you to receive a full refund of the security bond. 

When are you at risk of forfeiting the security bond?

There are several circumstances where you may be forced to forfeit the security bond. They include;

  • Failure to pay your worker’s salary as agreed, either the amount or within the agreed period. 
  • When you or your worker go against the conditions of the security bond or work permit.
  • Should you fail to send the worker home when the work permit is revoked, cancelled or expired. 
  • When the worker goes missing from your home, and you have no idea where to find her. 

You may be exempt from liability should you report a violation of the work permit conditions as soon as you discover it. If you prove that you discussed the terms of the work permit with the FDW, the MOM may refund the security bond even when the worker fails to fulfil the terms of the work permit. 

Even though MOM understands that there is so much an employer can do to ensure the worker fulfils her obligations, you are expected to carry out due diligence when employing a foreign domestic worker. Hiring a person of integrity will save you money and your reputation as a reliable employer.

In future, you will find it easier to get a security bond if your workers comply with the terms of the work permit.  

Types of Insurance for a Business in Singapore

According to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), 542,792 businesses were registered in Singapore during the first quarter of 2021. Once businesses are registered and running, the business owners were taking risks. The best way to ensure a business is protected against risks is by getting business insurance for each company.

Property Insurance

This is one of the main insurance policies that businesses in Singapore take. Businesses, whether they are startups or established enterprises, buy all sorts of property, including desks, vehicles, computers, machinery, buildings, and fixtures. Singapore has different kinds of businesses, including online businesses.

More and more Singaporeans are turning to online businesses for goods and services. Singapore’s e-commerce industry is estimated to be worth 4.9 billion dollars. Unfortunately, the greater the demand for e-commerce, the greater the risks for businesses that provide online services. 

If you have an e-commerce business or are considering starting one, you may need business insurance against hardware and software theft, trademark infringements, internet telephony crimes, and regulatory changes. Discuss with the insurer aspects of your business to determine the type of property insurance that you need. 

When requesting property insurance, you must consider the various risks attached to property damage. For example, business interruption insurance covers lost revenue and expenses that you still incur despite the damage to your property. 

Before taking business insurance, have a list of the various risks. Pay greater attention to the direct threats to your business. Your insurer will then provide a customised business insurance package that caters to your immediate needs. 

Employee Insurance

Insurance companies in Singapore have different types of employee insurance policies. The type of cover depends on the employment status and the level of risk to which the employee is exposed. The common employee insurance covers are work injury compensation and health insurance. 

Work injury compensation insurance is a cover that protects the business should an employee seek compensation for injuries at work or health conditions resulting from exposures in their workplace. 

Singapore’s Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA) requires all employers to get work injury compensation insurance for all local and foreign employees. This business insurance policy is especially critical for businesses in the construction industry where there are higher risks of injuries. 

Employers are expected to make contributions to MediShield Life, the basic health insurance for all Singaporeans. Business owners can take on additional health insurance to cater for health cover that is not catered for in the MediShield Life insurance. 

Even though foreign workers with work permits and the S pass are not eligible for the MediShield Life cover, they are entitled to medical insurance. Insurance companies have different health policies that employers need to consider when requesting business insurance. 

Legal Liability Insurance 

Public liability insurance protects businesses from liability. Policies under this category different types of claims from clients or members of the public against the business. 

Director insurance protects decision-makers in the company from liability should they get sued for some of their decisions. Professional indemnity insurance protects your occupation in the event you face legal liability. This business insurance cover is ideal for professionals, like auditors, accountants, architects, and lawyers. 

Most business insurance covers in Singapore fall under these three categories. However, most insurance companies tailor their policies to suit businesses in various industries.  

It is important to discuss the day to day running of the business with your insurer. This way, you can get the insurance policies that will be useful to your business. 

Guidelines for Employers Hiring Foreign Workers in Singapore

Do you have a company and require workers, both local and foreign? Singapore is a global business hub, and entrepreneurs bring in foreign workers to plug supply shortages. Highly skilled workers are often looking for opportunities in Singapore, and employers are always ready to deposit the security bond in exchange for the knowledge and expertise of these professionals. 

While Singapore is quite flexible when it comes to the employment of additional workforce to meet the demand, it has set standards that foreign employees need to meet. Employers are expected to follow these guidelines to ensure you get Employment Passes and Security Bond MOM for foreign employees.

Does the Singapore Employment Act cover foreign employees?

The Singapore Employment Act is very specific about the terms of employment, including the rights of employees and the responsibilities of employers. An employee covered in the Act is expected to have an employment contract with aspects covered in the Act. 

For example, if the employee earns less than SGD 2000 per month, the law states that he is entitled to additional protection when it comes to overtime, public holidays, rest days, retrenchment benefits, and other variable benefits. 

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) expects you to meet these obligations when applying for the employment pass and security bond. 

You may have greater flexibility when drawing a contract with an employee not covered by the Act. ‘In this case, you only need to negotiate the terms with the employee. However, the terms will need to be stated clearly in the employment contract. 

Prepare an employment contract

Having an employment contract is critical when hiring, especially foreign workers. When processing work permits and the security bond, MOM assumes you will bear some responsibility should the employee go against the terms of the employment pass. 

When drafting the contract, it is best to do it with the help of a lawyer or an HR consultant. Using someone familiar with such contracts will ensure you have everything captured, including acknowledging that the foreign employee understands the terms of the work permit. 

MOM is often lenient to employers who can prove that they discussed terms of the work permit with the employee. This may save you from forfeiting the security bond MOM should the employee go against the terms of the work permit. 

Other aspects that need to be covered in the contract include the appointment position, contract duration, remuneration package, benefits, probation clause, and code of conduct. This will protect the employer and employee in case of any disputes. 

Only hire the permitted number of foreign workers.

The industry’s quota system dictates the number of foreign workers each employer can employ at any given time. MOM has details of the number of work permits allowed for every industry, depending on the industry’s shortage. 

You need to keep track of the quota system to ensure you hire the foreign employees you need early. You also need to start processing work permits and submit the security bond MOM to secure the place of the foreign workers you need. The workers also need to be ready to arrive in the country within the required period after the employment pass is issued. 

Conclusion

Singapore occasionally sees a rise in demand for foreign workers. Like other developed countries, sometimes the local market cannot fully meet the demand for skilled and unskilled workforce.

As an employer, you need to analyze your business to determine when you may need more workers and for what period. This will help you plan for the number of foreign workers you need and how much you need for their security bond. 

Choosing the Right Customised Gift

Do you find it easier to get personalised photo gifts for individuals but struggle with customised gifts? You are not alone. The relationships we have with our co-workers and employers are different from our connections with family and friends.

When getting personalized gifts, you are expected to maintain your professional ethics, and at the same time, show your joy and appreciation to the recipient.

Corporate companies also go to great lengths to get personalised photo gifts to clients and business partners. Fortunately, the market has various customised gifts for corporate companies.

Who are you buying the gift for?

One mistake many people make when buying customised gifts, personalised or not, is mass buying and sending them en masse irrespective of their position in the company. Junior officers may not be bothered much by the gift. If anything, most will appreciate whatever they receive. Top tier management may not be as receptive.

The executive of the company must be largely responsible for all business decisions. If you are wooing the company for more business or thanking them for business, you need to put much thought into the gift you are sending the company’s directors.

This doesn’t mean the gift needs to be expensive. However, it shouldn’t be cheap either. Instead, if you are concerned about the budget, a personalised photo gift may be ideal. The photo may be of something that connects both companies. For example, an acrylic photo block with a great photo may be appreciated over cheap wine.

Go for a practical gift.

When you give friends and family a gift, whether it is functional or not, they tend to hold onto it because it came from you. Corporates hardly ever keep things they have no use for. It is even worse if a substantial amount of money went into the customised gift.

Before buying personalised photo gifts, ask yourself if they will be of any use. If it is a gift that can be hang and displayed, that may work. For example, a wooden photo block can keep the books on the shelf in line while remaining decorative.

How durable is the gift?

Getting a durable gift is a plus when buying customised photo gifts. Some of the gifts that last end up being useful for the company and ultimately save the business money. For example, acrylic display stands make great functional gifts that can last years. The company will find different ways of using them, depending on the size.

Choose a unique period to deliver the gift.

When planning on possible gifts, it is best to do the unexpected. This is one way to make your personalised photo gift stand out. For example, Christmas is a season when many corporate companies receive gifts.

Some companies may have the finances to splash on personalised photo gifts. Yours may have a limited budget. Instead of competing with such companies if they send gifts during the Christmas season, you may choose to send New Year best wishes instead.

Fortunately, many businesses are today specialising in customised gifts. Even if you cannot afford to give impressive gifts today, you can plan for them tomorrow. It is, however, important not to go overboard. If you are not getting as much business from a company, going out of your way to spend too much on gifts is not wise.

Important Things Business Owners in Singapore Need to Know About Public Liability insurance

So, you have finally decided to protect your business by opting for public Liability insurance. To get the most out of it, it is critical that you have a clear picture of how it works, and what it covers. Knowing all this is going to reinforce your decision to opt for it.

 

Keep in mind that public liability insurance isn’t only for large enterprises that have a lot of customers or medium-sized businesses. Small businesses can opt for it if they host events where clients or customers come together, or if they meet their customers every day, or they have a good number of employees.

 

Truth be told, opting for Public Liability insurance for businesses can be tricky, and for good reasons. You see, if you don’t do it right, or its policies aren’t concrete, it may not be able to cover the expenses that are inevitably going pop up in the event of an accident.

 

 

The following article by Val Jackson discusses the terms, conditions, validity, and a few other things you need to know about Public liability insurance.

 

Public liability insurance

 

Everyone has a legal duty to behave logically towards others. Those who fail to do so will be legally obliged to pay compensation to anyone who is injured or whose property is damaged as a result of their actions. Read more here.

 

You likely now know what Public limited liability can and can’t cover. You also now know a lot about its features and how it works. But, do you think every business must have it? If you don’t know the answer, then you are going to benefit from the next article.

 

 

This article by confused.com sheds light to some frequently asked questions about public liability insurance.

 

What is public liability insurance?

 

Many business owners don’t take the time to understand public liability insurance and could face paying exorbitant fees for damages if their policy proves to be insufficient for their needs. Public liability insurance is the most common type of insurance taken out by small businesses. Read more here.

 

You likely now know the answers to some puzzling questions about public insurance like- Is it compulsory? What exactly it covers? How can one get the most out of it, and many more? But do you know how much it will cost you to opt for it? Read the next article carefully to get an overview of the average cost of getting public liability insurance.

 

 

The following article by Digby Bodenham unveils how much it cost to have public liability insurance.

 

How much does public liability insurance cost?

 

The average UK annual public liability insurance premium costs £119.37, according to AXA. However, some small businesses and sole traders will pay less than that and it can be as little as £40 a year.AXA says 10% of its customers paid £59 for annual public liability Read more here.

 

You surely now have an idea of how much it is going to cost you to have public liability insurance. You also now know some factors like- turnover, profession or trade, your business location, and many more that could have a serious impact on the price of the insurance. One thing you must know is that there are strategic ways you can cut down its cost.

 

 

Final note

 

Opting for public limited liability isn’t as straight forward as you probably think. With so many loopholes and policies you are likely not conversant with, it may be difficult for you to make a final decision.

 

Well, if that is the case, you must do deep and extensive research to learn as much as you can about it, and how it works.

 

While doing this may be difficult, it will help you figure out ways to get the most out of it. What’s more, it will help you figure out how to get it at a cheaper price.

 

Convincing Reasons Why Business Owners in Singapore Need Public Liability Insurance

Is your business situated in Singapore? Do customers visit your shop or business area regularly? If you answered yes to both questions, then this article is for you. You see, growing a business in Singapore isn’t just about connecting with your customers or making a great product. It also involves protecting your business and employees. This could mean everything, from making your work environment safer to hiring experts who know what they are doing to handle your projects. But despite your best efforts, there is a slim chance that things such a disaster or an accident may occur. If you aren’t prepared, you are going to spend a lot of money to address them. However, if you are prepared, you won’t have to pay a dime when disaster strikes.

 

Want to find out how to prepare your business for the unexpected? If yes, stick around as we will be taking a close look at an insurance that can protect businesses in the event of an emergency: Allegiance’s Public Liability Insurance

 

 

This article by Jean Murray shows a type of insurance that every business owner in Singapore with many employees and interactions with clients need to have.

 

What Is Public Liability Insurance?

 

Owning a small business or being self-employed brings risks. If your business interacts with customers and the general public, you need insurance to help cover some of those risks. For example, A client comes into your office, sits in one of your chairs, and the chair collapses. Read more here.

 

You likely now know what public liability insurance is all about and why small, medium-sized, and large businesses in Singapore need to have it. You also now know what it protects and what it doesn’t cover. Before opting for it, you must do deep and extensive research to learn what it is all about and the risks that come with it.

 

 

The following article by Investopedia sheds light on some in-depth things you need to know about public liability insurance.

 

What Is Liability Insurance?

 

Liability insurance provides the insured party with protection against claims resulting from injuries and damage to people and/or property. Liability insurance policies cover both legal costs and any payouts for which the insured party would be responsible if found legally liable. Read more here.

 

You likely now know how insurance liability works and some common types of it like- product liability, indemnity, director and officer, commercial, and comprehensive general liability insurance. Do well to consult an expert before choosing among them. Do you know that there are two other insurance you need to ensure that your business is completely protected?

 

 

The following article by Singaporelegaladvice lists 3 types of insurance every business in Singapore needs to have.

 

3 Types of Business Insurance Every Singapore Business Needs to Buy

 

Often mistaken simply as a regulatory requirement, business insurance is not only about protecting you or your business. It is also a way of protecting your employees, your suppliers, and even your customers from some of these threats. Read more here.

 

You likely now know the three main insurance every serious business owner should opt for. Truth be told, having all of them may be difficult. But don’t let that deter you, as you will benefit from all of them in the event of an accident.

 

 

Final note

 

Nothing is certain in life and business. Everything could be going perfectly well right now, but things could change for the worse in a matter of seconds. If you aren’t prepared, you may use your hard-earned money to compensate the people involved in the accident.

See, you don t have to go down that path. The simple act of buying a public insurance liability can protect you from all eventualities that may come your way while running your business.

 

Do well to learn, as much as you can, and if possible, consult an expert who understands how it works, what it protects, and how you can get the most out of it.

 

Why Your Business Needs Public Liability Insurance

Why Your Business Needs Public Liability Insurance

Entrepreneurs usually have many financial obligations, especially at the inception of the business. Capital is a challenge for many startups. The absence of cash flow at the beginning causes many entrepreneurs to shelve their plans for insurance until a later date when the business has taken off. However, this bid to save money may be a costly mistake. An employee or client may be involved in an accident at the facility before the company takes public liability insurance. The hospital bills and possible court cases will hurt the business’ reputation and finances before it even makes its mark in society.

Public Liability can pose a big operating cost to your business if you are not careful and an accident happens on your premises. Check out Allegiance Public Liability Insurance if you are considering Public Liability Insurance today.

In this article on publicliabilityinsurance.com.au, the author discusses some of the insurance covers suitable for small businesses.

Forms of Insurance suitable for small businesses

“If you’re like most small business owners, you spend a lot more time running your business than worrying about insurance. But you know insurance is important right? After all, there’s no point putting so much blood, sweat and tears into your business if you could potentially lose the lot. So to keep things simple we’ve put together a list of the top 5 forms of small business insurance…” read more here

Taking insurance will give you the peace of mind to concentrate on your business knowing that in case of anything, you are covered. Taking insurance covers to protect employees and clients is critical. Property insurance is also necessary. Anything could happen to your property including damage to the equipment you use to market your business. If you are working with a tight budget, you should not take risks which may end up grounding the company should disaster strike.

In this article on business-insurance.aon.com.au, the author analyzes the safety benefits a business gets from insurance.

Benefits of insurance on small businesses

“If you work with clients or customers, or in public spaces, it’s important to protect your business against claims of damage or injury. That’s why we often include public liability insurance in our industry-specific business insurance packages. These packages are tailored to meet the unique requirements of your business. As well as public liability insurance, they may also include….” read more here

Accidents are a common occurrence in places of business. The injury could be on an employee or client. If working in public spaces, if something tremendous happens to cause damage to the property or people in the area. If a business has no insurance cover, it is risking possible lawsuits and a failed business should the entrepreneur fail to raise capital to reinvest in the company. When taking a public liability insurance cover, it is critical for the company to find out exactly what benefits come with this cover. For example, find out if legal fees are covered in the event the company gets embroiled in legal issues with injured staff or clients.

In this article, John Boitnott discusses some of the risks a business is exposed to and the need for insurance.

 

Small business risks that demand insurance

“From the day an entrepreneur starts a business, he exposes himself to certain risks. Even before the first employee is hired, a business is at risk, making it important to have the right insurance in place. One lawsuit or catastrophic event could be enough to wipe out a small business before it even has a chance to get off the ground.” read more here

Errors are a common occurrence in business. It may be due to employee negligence or policy mishap. However, this could negatively affect a business. Omission and oversight may have a significant impact on the running of the company. For example, failure of an employee to warn clients of a slippery floor when cleaning may result in injuries that could have been avoided. It is essential for companies to consider possible hitches that may arise and result in irreparable damage to the business. This should be the motivation needed to seek insurance.

Public liability insurance is necessary for all businesses that interact with members of the public, primarily if the company is located in a public space. It is best to play it safe by protecting the company from any liabilities. When discussing the possibilities of insurance, it is critical to find out what the cover includes. This way you will know exactly what you are paying for and what to expect when you make a claim.  

The Advancement of Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems

The Advancement of Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems

As more individuals and organizations continue to digitize their systems, threats have continued to grow. Internet security has become paramount. Attackers do not just try to infiltrate networks, they are finding ways to go around the intrusion detection systems. The evolution of intrusion detection systems has become necessary if the security of data is to be prioritized. Since attacks come in different forms, it is vital to focus on the known and unknown attacks. All networks used need to be protected, particularly if you deal with sensitive information. Apart from networks, attacks on applications have become more frequent since these are often overlooked. If applications are used, you need to secure your system fully, as this could be the access point of the attacks to your system.

An integrated Intrusion Detection System in Singapore is not easy to find. If you are looking for one, look for ATT Systems Intrusion Detection System. They have a wide range of expertise and can advise you on your security needs. Visit their site today.

In this article, John PIRC discusses the changed intrusion detection systems have undergone over the years to suit the evolving threats.

How intrusion detection systems have evolved

“Having worked for the past 20 years for nearly every IDS/IPS vendor in product management and research, I’ve seen a lot of improvements to IDS/IPS products. They all are still quite similar to their original incarnation, which started with an academic paper written in 1986. The IDS/IPS basic fundamentals are still used today in traditional IDS/IPSs,…” Read more here

When intrusion detection systems were first introduced, the focus was on the known threats. Over the years, the unknown risks have been of great concern. Worries of these threats led to the use of anomaly and signature intrusion detection systems. These are used to identify any suspicious activities and send notifications. Between 2000 and 2005, intrusion detection systems were preferred to intrusion prevention systems. These systems have continued to see growth and higher adoption by organizations, with some combining both methods to heighten the security of their networks.

In this article,  Crystal Bedell discusses the importance and the value of application awareness with the use of intrusion detection systems.

When and why you need intrusion detection systems

“Over the years, network intrusion detection and prevention systems have evolved to handle varying types of threats. These days, network managers expect network intrusion detection systems (IDS) and network intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to detect Web application attacks and include anomaly-awareness in addition to handling older threats that haven’t disappeared.” Read more here

Intrusion detection systems come with many diverse features. It is difficult, especially for a novice, to determine what he needs and what will work for home and office networks. Networks have different threats, and it is essential to distinguish the type of risks you may be exposed to. This will help you when choosing which intrusion detection system, you should use. Some individuals have opted for intrusion prevention systems over intrusion detection systems. For some, this has worked. Others have had to introduce intrusion detection systems to work with the already installed intrusion prevention system because of the type threats their operations are exposed to.   

In this article, Information Security Media Group gives tips on how organizations can boost information security with the use of intrusion detection systems.

 

How organizations can secure information and data using intrusion detection systems

Intrusion detection and prevention software has become a necessary addition to the information security infrastructure of many organizations, so the National Institute of Standards and Technology is updating its guidance to help organizations to employ the appropriate programs. NIST is seeking comments from stakeholders on the guidance…” Read more here

It has become necessary for organizations to consider intrusion detection systems for wireless network traffic. This is because the use of devices such as mobile phones and tablets have increased possibilities of threats through unexpected channels. Rather than working with the assumption that information is safe, all possible entry points need to be considered, especially if employees use their mobile devices to access data in the network.

Although networks are exposed to many threats, intrusion detection systems have been improved to match the risks. It is up to organizations and individuals to determine the possible threats and which intrusion detection systems are best suited for these threats. They also need to know where to place the intrusion detection systems. As much as these systems are designed to protect the network against attacks, they should not affect the running of the network.

Proper Sleeping Positions When You Suffer From Neck and Shoulder Pain

Proper Sleeping Positions When You Suffer From Neck and Shoulder Pain

Neck and shoulder pain can disrupt your life and can cause intense discomfort as you go about your daily activities. Affecting 4 out of every 5 Americans, neck and shoulder pain is one of the most common health conditions today. Neck and shoulder pain can be caused due to a number of reasons. A majority of the cases of neck and shoulder pain are caused due to poor sleeping positions.

If you are looking a product to relieve your neck and shoulder pain, do consider PIP Magnetic Patch. They are Japan’s No #1 selling pain relief product, and have been well received for many years. Check out their site here today.

A poor sleeping position can intensify your neck and shoulder pain and cause intense discomfort. This is why it is important for you to sleep in a proper position.

Here are some proper sleeping positions for when you suffer from neck and shoulder pain.

Sleep on your back with a very thin pillow

Great news if you are a back sleeper. Sleeping on your back can alleviate neck and shoulder pain. Use a very thin pillow to support your neck and lie straight on your back. Do not use pillows that are too thick or hard as it will add to your discomfort. Choose a soft pillow that conforms to the shape of your neck. Use extra pillows under your calves and your back to provide ample support to your spine in this position.

Sleeping on your side

This is the best position to sleep in if you suffer from neck and shoulder pain. Sleeping on your side keeps your spine in perfect alignment thus reducing the strain on your neck and shoulders. Try to avoid curling up too much as this can again cause neck and shoulder pain. Use a slightly thick pillow when you sleep on your side to provide ample support to your neck. Also, keeping a pillow between your legs can help maintain your posture.

Do not sleep on your stomach

Sleeping on your stomach is bad for several reasons. While sleeping on your stomach, your spine is not properly aligned. In addition to this, your neck is not supported enough which means that you will wake up with a sprained neck in the morning.

Sleeping on your back or on your side are two of the best sleeping positions when you suffer from neck and shoulder pain. The key is to make sure that your neck and shoulders are well supported and that your spine is properly aligned while you are sleeping.

Reasons Why Women Are More Prone To Osteoarthritis than Men


Reasons Why Women Are More Prone To Osteoarthritis than Men

Joint aches and osteoarthritis are more common in women as compared to men. Studies have revealed that the joints of women degenerate more quickly as compared to men. OA is a degenerative condition, which has an effect on the joints because of the loss of cartilage over the years. Cartilage is a protein, which offers a cushioning layer between a person�s joints. As time passes, there is erosion in the cartilage that increases the friction in a person�s joints resulting in decay.

If this happens, you can look for joint support products such as PIP Elekiban Support. If you are having elbow support issues, you can consider elbow support products such as PIP Elekiban Elbow Support. Check out their website for more information.

The major signs of osteoarthritis include joint aches, stiff joints, swollen joints among others. Factors such as family history, previous injury, trauma, and age are some of the common reasons for the condition. Here are some of the top reasons why women suffer more fro osteoarthritis.

1. Hormonal differences
There are hormonal differences between women and men that play an important part in causing osteoarthritis. It has been observed that women post their menopause have a higher likelihood of succumbing to arthritis due to reduced estrogen levels in their bodies. At the same time, those women who undergo hormone replacement therapy after their menopause have a lower possibility of developing OA. Some experts feel that estrogen can have a positive impact on cartilage.

2. Trauma/injury caused to the knees
It is another key reason why women may be more vulnerable to succumb to osteoarthritis as compared to men. There is a well-established theory that women suffer more from ACL or anterior cruciate ligament injuries as compared to men. Such injuries result in OA in the future irrespective of gender.

3. Knee joint�s anatomy is different
Men and women not only have anatomical differences. Even kinematic differences can have a crucial role to play in causing osteoarthritis more in women. When the measurement of knee movements was done with respect to stop-jump activities, it was observed that women exhibited a higher range of motion and extension than women. The difference mechanics put a greater pressure in the women�s knees making them more susceptible to osteoarthritis. It has been also seen that women athletes suffer more fro OA as compared to men.

4. Knee cartilage volume
The difference between the musculoskeletal structures between men and women cannot be denied. Even the bone volume and density are different in males and females. A study also indicates that the knee cartilage volume is different in men and women making women more prone to osteoarthritis.

Hence, women should be more cautious and ensure that they are having proper diets, good circulation, and exercise regularly, especially post their menopause years. They can also consider using support products, like the one we have mentioned above.

How to Loosen up a tight neck

How to loosen up a tight neck

Do you feel like you constantly have weight on your shoulder? Do you experience tightness in your neck, upper back, and arms? Do you also experience headaches developed due to all the aforementioned symptoms? If your answer to these questions is yes then you might be experiencing “Tight Neck”. It could develop due to a lot of reasons. It could be due to heavy workouts, excessive swimming or overhead activities, sitting in the same position for a long time, or even stress. While there is nothing about a tight neck that needs medical attention, it simply impairs the normal functioning of the body.

If you are suffering from some form of neck or shoulder pain, and normal treatment or exercise does not work for you, you can consider alternative therapy such as magnetic therapy. PIP Elekiban Singapore is the perfect solution you are looking for. They have the regular magnetic plasters aka PIP Elekiban, Magnetic Necklace Singapore PIP Magneloop and other support products aka PIP Support. Check their website out today.

Therefore, you must find out ways of loosening up the tight neck. Below are a few ways of loosening up a tight neck.

If you wish to know more about the stretches that you can try to get rid of the tight neck then this article at Self by Popsugar Fitness is a good read! Try these techniques and say goodbye to sore/tight neck.

Stretch

Whether you slept in a funky position last night or you have been sitting and staring tensely at your computer for hours on end, neck pain happens. And a crick in the neck is not only annoying and painful, but it can also lead to headaches and upper back pain. Read More Here!

Neck pain is indeed daunting and it certainly takes a toll on you. Stretching is one of the best ways of loosening a tight neck. It is simple and effective and you do not have to see any specialists. You just have to know the right type of stretches that can relieve tightness in the trapezius muscles and you are good to go. You can try them at home and see the results for yourself.

If you wish to know how to give yourself a massage, then read this article by Stefanie Bengel at Active. Try out the technique and see it do wonders for you.

Get a message

If you feel the tightness on the back, more in your middle traps and between your shoulder blades, you won’t need to do yoga exercises to reach there with the tennis ball. Find a wall and lean against it with the tennis ball between and roll up and down. Read More Here!

If you have a hectic schedule, which most of us have, that does not allow you to exercise much then getting a massage can be a great way of getting rid of sore muscles. A good massage does wonders for your neck pain. By identifying the point where you most feel the pain and then focussing on that area, you can relieve the tension. Also, you need to seek a professional masseuse every single time and you can do it yourself. All you need is a tennis ball and a wall.

To know in depth about how magnesium can help with neck pain you can read this article by Stephanie Burke at Spine Health.

Check Magnesium Intake

Neck pain is most frequently the result of a muscle strain or sprain. Increasing your intake of magnesium, a mineral that aids in the contraction and relaxation of muscles, may help avoid these pain causing problems. Read More Here!

Increasing magnesium intake is the key to relieve neck pain and prevent it. You should make it a point to consume foods that are rich in magnesium, such as, fruits, beans, vegetables, soy products and whole grains. Reading the nutrition labels of the products before consumption will provide you with the necessary insight about the same. Magnesium helps in the contraction and relaxation of the muscles and is thus helpful with neck pain.

Thus, the above-mentioned tips would really help in relieving neck pain and soreness. Some other useful tips could be to use ice packs on the affected area, staying hydrated, and using good ergonomic chairs while working to avoid it in the first place. You must also maintain a good posture and take frequent breaks if you have been sitting in one place for a long period of time. However, if the pain is extreme and does not seem to recede then you might have to check with your physician to understand and treat it.

Benefits Of Choosing A Package Insurance Or Business Owners Insurance For Your Business

Corporate insurance is one of the most important aspects that any business owner will have to invest in when they are starting a business. However, there are many different parts of a business that need insurance and traditionally a business owner would have to buy separate insurance policies for each of the departments. In the beginning, when you start a business it is not always possible to buy an insurance policy for every part of the business as it is not economically and at the beginning, you will need the finances for other investments.

As a solution to this, a business owner can choose a package insurance or a business owners insurance which is more of a generalized insurance that covers most of the different aspects of the business and makes it easier for the business owner to focus on the parts of the business that needs more attention. A package insurance or a business owners insurance consists of most of the common and more important types of insurance that are critical for a business. This includes

Property insurance: this includes any property that the company owns

Business interruption insurance: any sort of interruption that could result in the loss of profit of the company is covered by this insurance, this is also known as contractors all risk insurance

Liability insurance: this insurance covers the liability of the employees or a third party.

Fire and allied risks: this covers the office building or any other property against fire hazards, earthquakes, storm, explosives, lightning, floods and other sorts of natural calamities.

Theft and housebreak: any type of burglary is covered in this insurance

Breakdown of machinery: mechanical breakdown or electrical malfunction of any of the machines that are used by the company

Electronicappliancesand equipment: this covers all of the equipment that the company uses against installation, data loss, or software.

Baggage: loss or damage of baggage while traveling

Sanitary and fixed plate insurance: damage or loss of sanitary fixtures or fixed plate

Personal injury: this covers any accident or injury that you suffer

Dishonesty or infidelity of the employees: This covers and loss or damage that the company may suffer due to dishonesty of an employee

Alternate accommodation or rent insurance: this pays for the expenses that will occur if you need to shift the office to a new location.

This takes away the stress of having to buy each of these insurances separately.

Benefits of choosing a package insurance

The most obvious advantage of choosing a package insurance for your business is the financial benefit as the premium that has to be paid will be relatively lower than if you had chosen to buy each of the individual policies separately.

The second advantage of a package is that it can be customized to meet the needs of your business. This helps the business owners design a package that is most suited to their needs and the needs of their company.

When you choose to get a business owners insurance then you get judicial management of any loss assessment that you need.

The funds that you invest in the insurance will be allocated based on indemnity guidelines that are clear.

Most insurance companies have a list of specific covers that the business owner can choose from when they choose to customise their insurance policy for the business. This is a great option as for a first-time business owner as they would have a guideline about the basic requirements that they can follow when choosing the insurance policies that they may need.

The company can also choose to add cover against terrorism at an additional premium if the owner feels that there can be a threat of a terrorist attack on the business.

The role of technology in improving the penetration of health insurance

It is an undeniable fact that technology is playing an all-pervasive role in our lives. Even a desultory look into any field will reveal that with the help of technology, we are able to have better outputs and improved customer service. Not only that, companies that make proper use of appropriate technologies can certainly succeed in achieving the growth they expect to have. The health insurance industry is one among many industries that have started using technological innovations for their growth. Let us look at how technology helps health insurance companies in penetrating the market.

1. Thanks to various technological developments, health insurance companies are able to enhance the efficacy of their efforts to satisfy their clients. This means that customers are seeing an overall improvement in their experience. Nowadays, satisfied customers do not hesitate to share their experience online and so, health insurance companies find it easy to access more number of potential customers than ever. In other words, these companies are able to penetrate the market more easily.

2. Advanced technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics are helping health insurance companies in their efforts to engage with their customers in a better manner. Not only that, these companies are readily embracing digital platforms as well as the latest technologies pertaining to mobile phones for providing impeccable service to their customers. This helps them bring down the costs they incur for engaging with their customers. Since they are able to serve their customers more efficiently, they can succeed in their efforts to expand their customer base.

Why should health insurance companies use technology?

1. The rate at which computer literacy and use of technology have been increasing has been phenomenal in the recent years. More and more people are opting for technology-based solutions because of their exposure to various developments that have taken place in the field of digital technology. This population that is of a considerable size is influencing service providers including the health insurance companies in a big way.

2. Insurance companies have to cater to the high expectations of this growing population. They have to put in place systems that can facilitate fast, convenient and transparent services to these customers. Systems that facilitate regular engagement with customers should also be put in place. Health insurance companies seem to have realized that customers expect to have personalized services.

3. Even in the corporate sector, business entities are making increased use of technologies for making their decisions. Business owners and decision makers compare all the relevant aspects including the quality of service, costs, deliveries, and reputation of the insurance companies when they buy corporate insurance.

Therefore, unless health insurance companies maintain the standards expected of them, they cannot satisfy their customers including their corporate clients. In other words, using appropriate technologies has become a must for health insurance companies.

4. Apart from helping in customer engagement, technological innovations help the health insurance companies speed up their processes. Not only that, these companies are able to manage and maintain their data in a better manner as well. Thanks to better management of data, they are able to do their market analysis more scientifically. This means that their decision making process is more scientific and logical. So, the strategies they devise for adopting to the changing trends are more suitable. Health insurers are now able to cover risks that they were earlier not able to cover profitably.

5. Thanks to the developments that have taken place in the mobile technology, insurance companies are able to communicate better with their customers as well. This helps them immensely because satisfied customers do not hesitate to become their loyal customers.

To summarize, technological developments will certainly also enhance while buying product liability insurance in companies and their efforts to further penetrate the market.

Why public liability insurance is so important

Although public liability insurance is not a legal requirement for many businesses, your client may not start a venture with you unless you have a public liability insurance cover.  As a matter of fact, your client’s contract with you may specify that you need to have coverage for the possible damages to the client during the contract period.  Having the cover also establishes your credibility among your clients and they would carry out business with you without worrying about the damages and legal issues that they may need to initiate against you in such events.

 

Public liability insurance Singapore is something you should have if your business requires you to interact with members of the public, because if you accidentally damage someone’s property while carrying out your business or a visitor injures himself or herself within your office premise, you will have to pay a hefty fine, which may include legal costs as well.  These costs can run into thousands or more, and if you are running a small business then these additional financial liabilities can put an end to your business.  However, if you have the cover, all the expenses will be taken care of by your insurer.

 

Irrespective of the nature of injury or damage, someone can always file a compensation claim against you.  The accident could be very simple in nature, like you or one of your employees spilling coffee on your client’s system, or it could be a serious one that could severely hamper your business and reputation.  However, this can be avoided if the claims are settled in an amicable manner, and public liability insurance deals with all such claims, whether the incident is small or serious in nature.

 

The consequences of such incidents and the resulting financial costs can jeopardize your personal and financial growth if you try to defend the compensation claims without insurance.  Public liability insurance also protects your employees, for example an injury caused to a visitor or a client because of your employee would also be covered, and the negligence on the part of the employee will not hamper your business either.

 

Public liability insurance helps you grow your business, which can otherwise be hindered by these unnecessary financial burdens due to liability claims, especially if your business involves a lot of public interaction.  Hence, to avoid uncertain expenses and carry out your business without any hassle, it is advisable to buy public liability insurance and get yourself covered against public claims.

The 101 On Transit Insurance

Everyone needs to be insured for a life cover, health cover or an accident cover in case of an eventuality. The main breadwinner should make it a point to have life insurance coverage so that the family does not suffer when s/he dies. In the case of health or accident insurance, it is a case of being smart because without this basic insurance, one will have to pay large medical bills. Ditto with marine insurance; if you own a ship, the vessel needs insurance. A person using the services of a freight forwarder in transportation of goods also needs to make sure that the goods during the journey have adequate cover.

In the export-import trade, transporting shipments from one location to the next is a done deal. After declaring the contents of the cargo, the bill of lading is provided to the exporter/importer. This covers various aspects like the amount, the duration of the voyage, insurance, and the generalities. Nevertheless, it is wise to have an additional insurance coverage in the event of an accident, fire and flood, vandalism, natural disaster, or anything else that may occur. The coverage begins once the items are booked with the cargo carrier and it ends once the cargo reaches the destination as detailed in the bill of lading.

The website www.allegiance.com.sg throws open plethora of information about the various insurance covers available. Marine insurance is also offered and if you are new to the concept, call in the professionals and get the 101 on the varieties available. A transit policy is defined as an annual cover in total, ideal for hull insurance as well as the exporter. Premium is calculated based on the value of the goods being shipped. The risk coverage is factored in, which is convenient to keep the cargo covered. 

When you opt for transit insurance, you can rest easy knowing that the goods exported are safe from damage or even loss. It is a stressful job trying to ship high value products from one location to the next. To find an insurance plan that suits you, a good service provider will offer you the best plan. Before going ahead, read the fine print carefully. Otherwise, your cargo may not have the adequate coverage that you expect. Conditions may apply, so get the policy right so that your most precious cargo is well taken care of during the journey.

Welcome to Silks Gallery

 Silks Gallery is an international art Gallery based in Limassol, Cyprus established in 2007. We are a fashionable boutique gallery situated in the new alley complex by the sea at the heart of the city’s tourist centre with good proximity to the trendy areas of Limassol. We are proud to be one of the most stylish galleries in town with the highest standard of art promotion in Cyprus. We specialize in showcasing works of most popular and renowned international artists as well as promoting up and coming talents from around the world.

The online version of the gallery is there to act as an online art platform where artists can launch their careers from or continue to build on their already established reputation. Artists are offered a great opportunity to showcase and sell their works to a worldwide audience, participate in various visual arts competitions and gain exposure with art collectors and art brokers.

For the list of exhibition go to ‘EXHIBITION & EVENTS’

For a list of competitions go to ‘COMPETITIONS & CASH PRIZES’

We can also do a full portfolio review to have your work considered for inclusion in an exhibition. For more information on how to get your portfolio reviewed and exhibit please don’t hesitate to contact us at: info@silksgallery.com

For art collectors and connoisseurs we cater fully to their needs with our extensive artist portfolios to choose from. All our artists are professionals and can also be commissioned for a custom made art work to fit your interior or to give as a gift for that someone special.