There’s new microchip technology, and many employees will not be feeling chipper about it.
Some UK companies in the financial securities business are in talks with Biohax, a Swedish technology company, about offering microchip implants for employees.
The technology enables business to monitor employees for security purposes. Biohax defends its own technology, saying it is a way to secure documents and limit access to certain areas of the workplace. You can even buy food from a vending machine, and it tracks the cost of each purchase.
Click here to read an article about this electronic branding of humans.
Companies and employees that use this microchip technology – which is inserted between the thumb and forefinger – say it has the benefit of convenience, it is like a key fob you never lose, and you can buy smoothies with a swipe of your hand.
Click here to read about an America company that has embraced the microchipping of employees.
In today’s world of data breaches and the concerns of individual privacy, is micro-chipping employees really a trend HR departments want to implement? One notable breach last year, was where US Special Operation soldiers overseas could be tracked by the general public using their Fitbits.
Let’s face it: With all the problems we have with social media data breaches and some businesses acting unethical, do employees really want to give over that much power and control to their company just for convenience? Only time will tell.
Discussion Questions:
Research and investigate if in Canada:
- Is there any employment legislation that would prevent employers from forcing their employees to be microchipped?
- Is there any privacy legislation that would prevent employers from forcing their employees to be microchipped?
Outline your opinion if you think microchipping employees will become an accepted HR practice or not. Defend your position with a formal argument and provide supportive evidence.