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, or Huang Di Nei Jing, 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 “origin of medicine” in China, providing essential theories for TCM.
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.
