We all know that it’s important to be accessible for those with disabilities. But what many people don’t realize is that when we make small changes, it can have a big impact on the workplace.
Making sure that our office is accessible for everyone is not only the right thing to do, but it’s also good for business. When employees feel comfortable and included in the workplace, they are more likely to be productive and engaged. So, by making a few small changes to your office, you can create a more positive and inclusive work environment.
In this article, we’ll go over simple steps you can take to make your office more accommodating for people with disabilities!
Installing a ramp
If your office is located in a building with stairs, installing a ramp can make it much easier for employees with disabilities to get to and from their desks. A ramp can also be helpful for those who are using a wheelchair or have difficulty walking.
There are many different types of ramps that you can install, so be sure to do your research and find the best option for your office.
Adding grab bars
Adding grab bars is an easy way to make your office more accessible for those with disabilities. Grab bars can help employees who have difficulty walking or using the restroom.
Adding grab bars is not only important for those with disabilities, but it’s also important for older employees. As we get older, our bones become weaker, and we are more likely to fall. Adding grab bars can help prevent falls and make the office safer for everyone.
Increasing the amount of light in the office
When there is more light, we feel better and experience less eyestrain. One of the most popular problems working in office environments is eye strain. This occurs when looking at bright computer monitors for long periods or using large projectors in a small room with little ventilation.
Making your office brighter will increase your visual comfort and help to reduce eye strain. You can do this by adding more windows, installing higher wattage bulbs, or using reflective surfaces to reflect light back into the room.
Make sure that there is sufficient space between desks and chairs
Having enough space between desks and chairs is crucial for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s important for health reasons. When people are seated too close to each other, it can lead to tension headaches, neck pain, and shoulder pain.
In addition to health concerns, having enough space between desks and chairs also makes it easier for people to focus on their work. When people are crammed together, it can be difficult to concentrate on anything other than the person sitting next to you. Making sure that your office has enough space between desks and chairs is important for the health and productivity of your employees.
Invest in accessibility-improving software and tools
These apps also have other accessibility enhancing features, including speed voicings and hearing aid support. Hearing-improving programs can make it easier to look up words while typing without having to enlarge the font at the expense of the overall layout of the document.
Keyboard magnification tools make it possible to use the computer without a mouse, which can be extremely helpful for people with limited mobility.
Zoom solutions can also be very beneficial as they allow you to see more of the screen at once. This is especially helpful if you have difficulty reading small font sizes.
There are many other software and tools available that can help to make your office more accessible for employees with disabilities. Investing in these tools can make a big difference in the workplace.
Installing a handlebar on the door
Adding a handlebar to the office door is a quick and easy way to make the office more accessible for employees with disabilities. A handlebar can help individuals with limited mobility or dexterity to open the door without assistance. This small change can make a big difference for employees who struggle to navigate the office independently.
Creating a sensory-friendly space
Creating a sensory-friendly space can make a big difference for employees with disabilities. A sensory-friendly space is designed specifically for individuals who have difficulty processing sensory information. This can include individuals with ADHD, autism, and sensory processing disorder.
If your office does not have a designated sensory-friendly space, you can create one by adding some simple accommodations. For example, you can add noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, and soft lighting. These small changes can make a big difference for employees who struggle with sensory overload.
Making your office more accessible is important for the health and productivity of your employees. You can create a more inclusive and diverse workplace for everyone by making a few simple changes!
