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At
HDB
Availing Woodlands flats for housing staff
from IMH |
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The Housing and Development
Board (HDB) made available some standalone and
isolated vacant rental blocks
in Woodlands for housing large numbers of persons
who have to be isolated or quarantined as a precaution
against a SARS outbreak, and to facilitate on-site
investigations.
At around 3 pm on 13 May, HDB was asked to activate
the blocks in Woodlands. HDB staff at the Headquarters
and Woodlands Branch Office responded immediately.
Together with the managing agent, they prepared
all the rental flats in Blocks 153 and 147 on Woodlands
Street 13.
By 7 pm (within 4 hours), all the flats were ready
to receive the staff from the Institute of Mental
Health (IMH) who had to be isolated. The HDB staff
worked late into the night to attend to the needs
of the IMH staff when they arrived at Woodlands.
By
Josie Kang, MOM |
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Managing
Loyang chalets as a quarantine facility
On 9 May 2003, HDB was informed that it had been tasked to manage the Aloha Loyang
chalets as a quarantine centre. Officers from the Headquarters and branch offices
sprang into action upon learning the news.
Within just one weekend, the staff managed to accomplish much. They developed
the management system, prepared the standard operating procedures, set up the
necessary infrastructure, worked out duty rosters, called for tenders, held discussions
with Public Service Division staff and the existing contractors that provided
services to Loyang chalets, trained staff on how to operate a quarantine centre,
and more.
It was the teamwork and strong camaraderie among HDB staff that ensured that
the Loyang chalets were ready for use as a quarantine facility by 10 am on Monday,
12 May.
The HDB staff who worked shifts to provide round-the-clock services at the Loyang
chalets did not raise any objections. They were mobilised readily and without
difficulty. The HDB Staff Union also provided strong support.
The Loyang chalets provided accommodation for those who were served the Home
Quarantine Order. To date, 32 guests have stayed there. A total of 84 HDB staff
have been involved in manning the quarantine centre. |
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By
Josie Kang, MOM
Next: At
AVA
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