07 Nov 2024
Towngas wins EOC’s Universal Design Award Scheme Special Recognition Award and Gold Award for enhancing HQ accessibility to create inclusive workspace
(7 November 2024) In pursuit of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles, The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited (Towngas) has been actively creating an inclusive and barrier-free work environment. In recognition of its continuous enhancement of the universal design features of its headquarters building, Towngas has been awarded both the Special Recognition Award and Gold Award in the Equal Opportunities Commission’s (EOC) Universal Design Award Scheme 2024/25. These accolades highlight the Company’s dedication to creating an inclusive and accessible environment through universal design principles.
Mr Felix Lee Kin-ming, Towngas Head of Group ESG / Head of Group Corporate Affairs, stated that the Company has always placed great emphasis on implementing ESG principles and building a sustainable corporate culture that enables diverse talents to excel in their respective roles. “We hire based on merit, actively recruiting persons with disabilities, individuals from different ethnic backgrounds, age groups, and family situations. By understanding our employees’ needs and creating an accessible workplace, we not only enhance staff belonging but also attract a broader talent pool.”
Towngas has continuously enhanced the universal design features of its headquarters to increase accessibility. Following a complete renovation of the lobby in 2023, a wheelchair lift has been installed, along with new automatic doors, projection lighting, and wider gates to optimise the entire route, enabling wheelchair users among staff and visitors to access the building barrier-free.
The building’s washrooms have undergone renovation, with accessible facilities on every floor meeting the latest design standards. Smart management systems have also been introduced – besides monitoring air quality, sensors have been installed to ensure users’ safety.
Beyond hardware improvements, Towngas also provides a range of support for its employees, including a buddy system where each new employee with disabilities is paired with a mentor from the same department to help them integrate into the Company more quickly. Sign language classes are offered to enable staff to conduct basic conversations with hearing-impaired colleagues. The Towngas Diversity & Inclusion Day allows staff to experience various scenarios including complete darkness, wheelchair use, and silence, promoting mutual understanding and cultural inclusion. Towngas also implements family-friendly measures such as work-from-home arrangements and flexible working hours for staff in need, helping employees balance their family and work commitments.
The EOC’s Universal Design Award Scheme aims to promote the values of equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion in order to create an environment that is accessible and usable by everyone, regardless of age, ability and status in life. The Scheme recognises companies and organisations with outstanding performances and contributions in providing an accessible built environment and encourages the wider adoption of universal design for people with all abilities.
- END -
Press photos:
Photo 1:
Mr Felix Lee Kin-ming (centre), Towngas Head of Group ESG / Head of Group Corporate Affairs and Mr Cheung Pak-kin (left), Towngas General Manager - Group HSE & Property Management, receive the certificates at the EOC’s Universal Design Award Scheme 2024/25 Award Presentation Ceremony, where Towngas has been awarded the Special Recognition Award and Gold Award.
Photo 2:
A wheelchair lift has been installed at the entrance of Towngas headquarters to enhance accessibility, enabling wheelchair users among staff and visitors to access the main entrance barrier-free.
Photo 3:
The headquarters’ lobby is now equipped with automatic doors and projection lighting to create a more accessible route for wheelchair users.
Photo 4:
Towngas organises the Diversity & Inclusion Day for staff to experience scenarios such as complete darkness and wheelchair use, promoting better understanding of colleagues with disabilities and fostering cultural inclusion.
For media enquiries, please contact:
The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited