Punjab Prisons Introduce Mandatory Health and Mental Wellness Screening for Staff
Lahore: The Punjab Prisons Department has introduced a new policy requiring regular health check-ups and mental wellness assessments for prison employees across the province.
The initiative, announced by Inspector General of Prisons Punjab Mian Salik Jalal, aims to promote employee well-being and address health concerns associated with demanding work schedules.
Regular Health Check-Ups
Under the new policy, health screening of prison staff will begin this week in jails across Punjab, including Lahore.
Every prison will organize a health screening camp every three months, while all employees will be required to undergo a comprehensive annual medical examination.
The yearly health assessment will include:
- Blood pressure checks
- Blood sugar testing
- Cholesterol screening
- Weight assessment
- Other routine health evaluations
Mental Health Support
The policy also places emphasis on mental well-being.
Employees experiencing stress or emotional challenges will have access to free psychological counseling. In addition, prisons have been instructed to promote healthy lifestyles by introducing:
- Exercise programs
- Sports activities
- Meditation and relaxation sessions
These measures are intended to support the overall physical and mental wellness of prison staff.
Emergency Medical Response
According to the new guidelines, any employee showing symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, severe headaches, or other concerning health issues should receive immediate medical attention and be referred to a hospital if necessary.
Confidential Health Records
Each prison will maintain a confidential health record for every employee based on their medical and psychological assessments. Officials say these records will help monitor staff well-being while maintaining privacy.
Encouraging Healthy Habits
The circular also encourages prison employees to adopt healthier lifestyles by:
- Avoiding smoking
- Eating a balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
Officials noted that long working hours and demanding duty schedules can affect employees’ overall health, making regular medical monitoring and wellness initiatives an important part of workplace safety and staff care.
