HSBC
Investing in Good Design
When HSBC Bank moved into its new Headquarters in Canary Wharf, London, Occupational Health (OH) took the view that there would be an increased reputational and moral risk if the Bank didn't make reasonable accommodation in the area of ergonomics.
As part of this it was decided to invest in the 'Aeron chair', which is considered the 'Rolls Royce' of seating, for all employees. The original chair spend was £1,976,590.00 (8,500 chairs were purchased meaning that they could be purchased competitively at virtually half list price)
Musculoskeletal disorders/back problems make up 28% of referrals to OH (muskuloskeletal disorders affect 40% of the population). Upper Limb Disorders symptoms make up 15% of referrals to OH.
These figures would undoubtedly be higher if high quality workstations had not been installed at GHQ.
Taking a reasonable adjustment approach to this issue ensured that HSBC is able to accommodate staff with a range of upper limb disorders and prevent others from becoming disabled, while at the same time enhancing productivity and reducing sickness absence.