IBM Research - Zurich awarded health and well-being prize

Rüschlikon, 12 March 2004—IBM Research - Zurich was awarded the 2004 Zurich Prize for the Promotion of Health and Well-Being at Work in the category of large enterprises. The Bächli Hospital in Bassersdorf was the winner in the small/medium-sized enterprise category. Human Resources manager Hans Hofmann accepted the prize on behalf of IBM Research - Zurich from Verena Diener of the Zurich Mayor's Office, and ergonomics officer Hugo Ritter presented health and well-being concept and policies at IBM Research - Zurich. The jury was represented by Prof. Felix Gutzwiller of the Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine at the University of Zurich, which had initiated the prize.

As stated on the certificate, the prize was awarded for: "Integration of the promotion of health and well-being in the company's policies and thus its commitment to a sustained effort in this area. The participation of the employees via the Personnel Commission, as well as the comprehensive approach on an organizational and individual level that extends to the environment (e.g. ISO 14001, Natural Park status), to social aspects (e.g. Kids Day, employee get-togethers), and to physical and mental health issues (e.g. ergonomic workplace, non-smoking working environment, work/life balance, conflict management)."