City calls on businesses to continue containment fight
The Shanghai government has called for companies to continue supporting efforts to contain the coronavirus epidemic.
"We call for all businesses and the city's residents to overcome difficulties together and to take firm action to fight the epidemic," it said in a letter to local businesses on Thursday.
As the city should brave great challenges in the face of the epidemic, it will release comprehensive stimulus measures to cut business operation costs, relieve burdens on companies and support economic development.
The city has ordered that no company, except those deemed indispensable such as providers of public utility or financial services, should start work before February 10.
Those who need to start work earlier "for specific reasons" should file a report with information on the whereabouts of their employees from out of town.
It also encouraged enterprises to have contingency plans ready before resuming work and coordinate with employees so they can return in separate shifts to avoid mass gathering.
They should also assist local disease control authorities to make sure registration work is carried out properly for staff who return to Shanghai from other parts of the country.
All work should be returned to normal under the context of strict and complete preventative measures. It encourages the adoption of flexible working hours and remote working.
Special attention should be paid to places like canteen, elevators, and conference rooms to ensure ventilation and sterilization.
No large conferences shall be held.
All companies should work to maintain the smooth operation of the market and ensure the supply and distribution of medical materials, food and vegetables.
Numerous efforts have been put in place to fight the epidemic and companies have shouldered social responsibilities to stand along with local residents.
A number of companies have responded to government calls to delay work schedules and ensured that salaries are paid on time.
