Creating an accessible and inclusive workplace for employees with disabilities starts with making reasonable accommodations and implementing the right accessibility solutions. Here are some tips:
- Entrances and Exits: Ensure at least one accessible entrance with an automatic door or ramp. Wide doors and level thresholds reduce barriers.
- Parking: Reserve designated accessible parking spots close to entrances for employees with mobility issues. Clearly mark and sign parking areas.
- Seating and Desks: Offer adjustable height desks and chairs that can be raised or lowered. Provide stools or options for standing desks.
- Washrooms: At least one accessible washroom is required with grab bars, wider stalls, and lever handles. Place accessibility aids like a changed table.
- Technology: Invest in accessibility features and applications that can be used with assistive technology like screen readers and voice recognition software.
- Training Materials: Provide course materials in accessible formats like large print, audio, braille, and electronic files for employees with disabilities.
- Support Systems: Offer peer support groups, mentoring programs and employee resource groups for inclusion and a sense of community.
- Policies: Review and update HR policies to ensure they accommodate for disabilities in areas like scheduling flexibility, leave and work-from-home options.
- Mobility Aids: Consider supplying mobility equipment like crutches, canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and lift chairs based on employee needs.
Making your workplace truly accessible goes beyond the physical environment to include technology, resources, policies, and support. An accessibility assessment can identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. Contact Accessible Places to recommend solutions tailored to your organization and employees’ needs.
