NBT takes tough measures against SARS
By CT Hj Mahmod

NBT Bunut Branch Manageress taking her staff's body temperature

In spite of Brunei remaining free from the deadly SARS epidemic that has caused over hundreds of deaths world wide, the fear of the deadly virus has lead to some people having to adjust their lifestyle in their working area in order to protect themselves and their families. NBT has taken vigorous and necessary measures in protecting their staff, their families and colleagues against the deadly virus.

Over 150 regular thermometers were distributed individually to all NBT staff where they were required to record their temperature twice daily. All three NBT operating units located at Gadong, Bunut and Kuala Belait, were provided with a heavy duty thermometer, which records temperature readings through the ears. Staff were also required to record their temperatures twice daily.

Should any staff have a temperature above the normal body temperature, they would be advised to stay away from the office and see a doctor immediately. This was highlighted in a statement made by Mr Ninan Chacko, the Managing Director of NBT, in his memo that was circulated to all NBT branches.

All business travel of NBT staff would also be kept to a minimum unless deemed necessary. According to Sharifah Marianah, NBT's Branch Manageress in Bunut, "all visitors on a business trip to NBT, especially from Singapore have stopped completely since the deadly SARS outbreak".

Apart from Singapore, NBT used to have visitors from their principle countries such as Japan, Hong Kong and England, every month before the SARS epidemic, but travel has now been minimised.

However, any visitors to NBT from SARS-infected countries and those that have transited from those countries would have to undergo prompt mandatory checks before arriving at the office.

All staff were also urged to maintain a high level of personal hygiene, especially by washing their hands regularly. Disinfectant cleaning was also applied to all NBT offices' vicinity. As a constant reminder to be vigilant at all times, posters from the Ministry of Health were put up in their office premises.

Mr Ninan Chacko, also stated a stern reminder that 'discipline' is the key word, and 'that all NBT staff should adjust their lifestyle and do their part to curtail the spread of the virus and keep it away from their shores'.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin