UK companies plan to implement microchips in their workforce as an "ultimate backup solution"

British companies plan to tap their employees into the micro-computer to enhance security and prevent staff from accessing sensitive areas of the company, the Sunday Telegraph learned.

Biohax, a Swedish technology company, has announced it is in talks with a number of UK legal and financial services companies to bring in workers with human-chip devices. A potential client who, according to the company, could not be named, is considered a large global audit firm with "hundreds of thousands of employees".

"These companies have sensitive documents with which they deal," said Jowan Osterlund, founder of Biohax and former professional body piercer. "[The chips] would allow them to set restrictions for anyone. "

French fries, which are about the size of a grain of rice, cost £ 150 and are similar to those used for pets. In addition to limiting access to controlled areas, microchips could be used to buy food in the canteen, enter the building or access printers.

"There is no loss, loss, forgetfulness. There will always be an ultimate backup, "said Osterlund. Microchips use near-field communication – the same technology used in contactless cards.

In Sweden, about 4,000 citizens are chipped, including 85 of the 500 employees of the Tui travel operator.

Mr Osterlund said that he was aware that not everyone would want to get an implant early.

"It's a learning curve," he said. "If it came from a government, I would say yes, you know what, no, it will not happen. We are a private actor, we do it with our community, for our community. "

Last year, Steven Northam, a Hampshire entrepreneur, became the first person in the UK to be equipped with a microchip.

Like Biohax, he offers this service to businesses and individuals through his company, BioTeq.

"It can have a huge impact on society and businesses," he said. "In the future, we are all likely to have one."