They obviously don't know what they are talking about. Proper ESD technique goes something like this:
1) Only work on equipment at an approved ESD handling station (grounded mat at the very least) 2) Wear a wrist strap to dissipate your body to ground 3) Only use anti-static or conductive bags, bins, trays etc within the ESD safe area. 4) Transport all items in ESD-safe bages AND conductive boxes. 5) Wear anti-stat coat if there is a chance of clothing coming in contact with the ESD sensitive item.There are various levels and techniques above this, but that's a general situation.
One of the biggest misunderstandings is that "anti-static" bags and IC tubes protect a device from damage - they don't. Only static-shielding or conductive materials can do that. That is why when you get an IC from Farnell it comes in its anti-staic tube (or whater) inside a conductive bag.
Dave :)