Foreign Property News | Posted by Hnin Ei Khin
A company in southern China has sparked public outrage for mandating that its staff use the toilet during specific time slots, contending that this policy aligns with an ancient Chinese medicine text.
Three Brothers Machine Manufacturing Company, situated in Foshan, Guangdong province, introduced the Toilet Usage Management Rule on February 11, aiming to maintain order, enhance efficiency, and correct workplace attitudes.
The Yangcheng Evening News reported that the company referenced the Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon, asserting that the guideline was intended for the health of its employees.
Compiled over 2,000 years ago, this foundational text is recognised as the earliest and most significant written work in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), often referred to as the
According to the company’s policy, workers are permitted to use the toilet before 8am, from 10.30am to 10.40am, between 12 noon and 1.30pm, from 3.30pm to 3.40pm, and from 5.30pm to 6pm. Employees on overtime shifts are allowed to use the facilities after 9pm.
During other time periods, if workers urgently need to urinate, they may do so but must limit their time to two minutes.
(Staff may use the toilet outside the designated time slots, but they must limit their time to two minutes. Photo: Shutterstock)
The company has also imposed strict bans on toilet use at certain times in the morning and afternoon, including those on overtime shifts.
Employees with “special physical conditions” requiring bathroom access during restricted intervals may apply to the human resources department for approval, although their salaries will be deducted for the time spent.
The company stated it would monitor employees through surveillance cameras, imposing fines of 100 yuan on those who violate the rule.
The rule was scheduled for a pilot run until the end of February, with official implementation planned for March 1.
Ref: China firm enforces 2-minute toilet breaks and specific time slots based on ancient text
Photo Credit-Shutterstock
