Punjab govt issues new SOPs for public offices

Workers advises against sharing face masks

RAWALPINDI: The Punjab Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department has issued a set of new precautionary guidelines for government offices in the province, especially those involved in public dealing.

“To prevent the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) from spreading, there will be a complete ban on the exchange of stationery between the employees while those who bring lunch from home have been prohibited to share crockery with co-workers,” read the notification which was issued on Thursday.

Staffers at government offices, including office boys, helpers, assistants and others have also been directed to wear face masks and gloves.

The department reiterated that it has restricted entry to their offices for those who have a fever or flu. Further, there will be restrictions on the common physical greeting of shaking hands and hugging.

Moreover, the new guidelines prohibit the practice of turning pages by wetting fingers with the tongue, and instead, employees have been directed to use a pen or pencil for the purpose.

The circular stated that Covid-19 enters the body through the eyes, nose, ears, and mouth. Therefore, the workers have been advised to take requisite preventive steps. They have been advised against sharing their face masks with colleagues.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 26^th, 2020.