Hongkong Post was notified by a driver of its contractor this evening (January 23) that he tested positive for COVID-19, who is now under home isolation pending admission to hospital for treatment.
      
     The driver concerned performs driving duties for the General Post Office Delivery Office (GPO/DO). Working for around three to six hours every morning, he is responsible for transporting mail bags and postal staff between Central and Admiralty. The driver needs not work in GPO/DO or come into contact with mail items or discharge any delivery duties. Neither does he park his vehicle in GPO/DO after he completes his duties every day. His body temperature was normal during temperature screening at work and he was wearing a mask while on duty.

     The driver last performed duty on January 22. He felt unwell that night and sought medical treatment today and underwent COVID-19 testing. Tonight he was notified by the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) that he tested positive.
      
     After receiving the above notification from the driver, Hongkong Post conducted a briefing on the case for all staff members of GPO/DO, and instantly traced the source which showed that a total of nine staff members took a ride on the vehicle in question and had work contacts with the driver concerned. Hongkong Post will arrange them to undergo COVID-19 testing. In addition, pursuant to the guidelines set out by the CHP, Hongkong Post will arrange for thorough cleaning and disinfection of the car park on the ground floor of GPO/DO, and inform all the staff members working in the GPO building about the case.
      
     Hongkong Post has always attached great attention to the occupational health and safety of its staff by strictly implementing various infection prevention measures during the epidemic, including conducting body temperature screening for all staff members; providing them with protective gear such as face shields, protective goggles, masks, alcohol-based handrub, gloves and alcohol swabs; and requiring them to wear masks when performing duties and stepping up the cleaning of their working environment.
      
     Hongkong Post will continue to maintain close liaison with the CHP. Staff members are also reminded to take note of their personal hygiene and stay vigilant at all times, and they are also advised to seek medical advice immediately in case of feeling unwell.
      
     Delivery service of GPO/DO will remain normal.

Ends/Saturday, January 23, 2021
Issued at HKT 22:48

NNNN