Grab launches new safety course for delivery riders to navigate work demands & risks

Grab has introduced a new safety programme for food delivery riders, partnering with the Riding Safety Association of Singapore (RSAS) and the National Delivery Champions Association (NDCA). The initiative, named GrabAcademy RideSafe 2026, debuted on August 12 and was inaugurated by Minister of State for Manpower and Culture Dinesh Vasu Dash.

The core of the programme is the Advanced Riding Development Programme (ARDP): Urban Rider Safety Course, co-created by GrabAcademy and RSAS. This two-hour course educates riders on defensive riding techniques, hazard awareness, risk anticipation, motorcycle handling, low-speed control, emergency braking, and vehicle stability while carrying delivery loads.

During practical exercises, riders utilize their own delivery bags to simulate real-world conditions. While all licensed motorcyclists learn basic safe riding, delivery riders face unique challenges such as carrying heavy bags, making frequent stops, and navigating tight spaces. In the first half of 2026, there have been four fatalities involving platform workers, compared to two for all of 2025.

Dinesh emphasized that the government's strategy focuses on three aspects: providing adequate protections, offering clearer guidance, and collaborating with the right partners. The Platform Workers Act, enacted since January 1, 2025, ensures platform workers receive work injury compensation and imposes workplace safety and health duties on both operators and workers.

A platform worker safety group has been established, comprising government agencies, platform operators, and platform work associations. Dinesh also conveyed a message to consumers, urging them to accommodate riders with additional time during adverse weather conditions or heavy traffic, stating that a brief wait can prevent risky actions on the road.

Yeo Wan Ling, adviser to NDCA and NTUC's assistant secretary-general, noted that workplace safety statistics still highlight significant risks faced by delivery riders. She stressed the importance of riders possessing not only traffic knowledge but also the skills and judgment to respond securely in challenging situations. Yeo also encouraged other platform operators to integrate safety training into regular job routines.

Apart from this new initiative, Grab has other safety measures in place. Platform partners are not penalized for delaying deliveries, especially during heavy rain, and the company informs customers about potential delays. Telematics provide riders feedback on behaviors like hard braking and speeding, while in-app prompts promote breaks to combat fatigue.

Since 2020, GrabAcademy has collaborated with training partners to impart road safety knowledge and riding skills to delivery partners, catering to motorcycles, bicycles, and power-assisted bicycles. RSAS will administer the new course and handle registration and payment.