Bnz Introduces A.I.D.S. Policy (Press, 12 November 1988)
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Summary: Bnz Introduces A.I.D.S. Policy (Press, 12 November 1988)
On 12 November 1988, the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) announced a groundbreaking employment policy aimed at preventing discrimination against staff and customers with A.I.D.S. The policy, named “A.I.D.S. and the BNZ,” was designed to protect employees who are antibody positive from adverse reactions from colleagues and patrons. Mr John Leonard, the public relations manager for the bank’s head office, explained that the initiative also sought to educate staff to not discriminate against customers living with A.I.D.S. Key aspects of the policy include that the BNZ will continue to employ individuals diagnosed with A.I.D.S. as long as they are capable of working. The bank will take measures to protect these employees from discrimination by co-workers and the public. An education campaign will be implemented to combat misconceptions and unfounded fears surrounding the disease. Additionally, the confidentiality of employees with A.I.D.S. will be strictly maintained, and their status will not be disclosed without their consent. The policy has been shared with more than 8,500 employees in New Zealand and is also applicable to BNZ branches overseas, including locations in Australia, Fiji, North America, the UK, Singapore, Seoul, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Dubai. Mr Leonard emphasised the bank's commitment to a high-profile strategy regarding A.I.D.S. to ensure staff are well-prepared to handle any related issues. Although no employees have been directly affected by A.I.D.S. thus far, any staff member who responds negatively to someone with the disease will be offered counselling and educational resources rather than facing disciplinary action. Leonard acknowledged the challenge of identifying someone with A.I.D.S. unless they choose to disclose their condition, but reported that initial responses to the policy from employees have been positive. This initiative is part of a broader “total health care policy” aimed at supporting the well-being of all BNZ staff.
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