Off-site Levy Scheme (OLS)
This scheme encourages firms to transition to more productive, technology-enabled construction methods by rewarding those operating advanced manufacturing facilities with lower levy rates. Check if your facility qualifies for OLS benefits.
Last updated 14 March 2026
What is the Off-site Levy Scheme?
The Off-site Levy Scheme supports the Built Environment sector's transformation by encouraging the adoption of more productive technologies such as Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA). Introduced in tandem with the revised Construction levy framework from 1 January 2024, this scheme gives construction Work Permit Holders (WPHs) employed by eligible DfMA facility operators lower levies when they are predominantly working in approved off-site facilities.
Who is eligible for the Off-site Levy Scheme?
To be eligible for the Off-site Levy Scheme, construction firms must meet three specific requirements. By meeting these requirements, firms demonstrate their commitment to automation, worker management, and localisation efforts.
Application requirements
1. Accreditation requirement
Your DfMA facility must hold accreditation under one of the following schemes, which recognise operators with higher levels of automation:
Alternative pathway
Firms that have committed to invest in or set up any of the above automated DfMA facilities within the next three years may be approved by BCA on a case-by-case basis.
2. Eligibility and verification of workers Requirement
Worker eligibility criteria:
Full-time workers working at least 35 hours per week, or
Workers spending at least 80% of working hours in the approved DfMA facilities
Worker Management System (WMS) requirements:
Firms must implement a Worker Management System that provides location-based information through geofencing technology, featuring:
Un-editable records of workers' locations
Real-time viewing capability of workers' "live" locations
For more information on levy tiers for the Construction sector, please visit the Ministry of Manpower website.
3. Localisation requirement
Firms must demonstrate their commitment to localisation through the Human Capital Diagnostic Tool (HCDT) Moderated Assessment process.
Assessment process:
Conducted by an approved Assessor
Generates a detailed benchmarking report comparing your firm against others in the same sector
Mandatory submission as part of the Off-site Levy Scheme application
Provides insights into current HR capabilities and identifies improvement opportunities
The HCDT assessment evaluates various aspects of localisation efforts. This includes employment of local workers, HR planning and management improvements, and overall workforce development strategies.
How to apply
Operators of DfMA facilities that meet the accreditation requirements outlined in requirement (1) above can submit their applications online.
Application process:
Ensure your facility meets one of the three accreditation requirements.
Implement the required Worker Management System with geofencing capabilities.
Complete the HCDT Moderated Assessment with an approved Assessor.
Submit your application through the BCA Off-site Levy Scheme portal.
Additional resources
For comprehensive information about the scheme, including detailed guidelines and frequently asked questions, please refer to:
Circular on Off-site Levy Scheme [PDF, 145 KB] - Official scheme documentation and implementation details
Need assistance?
If you require additional support with your Off-site Levy Scheme application or have questions about the requirements, please contact BCA through our standard enquiry channels for personalised guidance.
Related information
Human Capital Diagnostic Tool (HCDT) - Assessment tool for HR capabilities
Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) - Information on DfMA technologies and accreditation schemes