Making the workplace more accessible isn’t as difficult or expensive as companies think either. Several state and federal programs pay companies to develop training programs to teach disabled employees the necessary skills to do their job and advanced training that will help them promote to higher positions.

You can also apply for government funding to help you make your workplace more accessible. These minor changes create a “you are welcome here” atmosphere, letting all employees know they are valued.

When deciding on your accessibility design, consider consulting a specialist who can offer helpful ideas and minimize costs.

7 Seemingly Helpful Acts That Really Don't Help...

  1. Sending a visually impaired person a handwritten note or anything handwritten. instead, send an email and with an attachment, their software will read.
  2. Playing with, petting or feeding a guide dog. guide dogs or any service dogs, as they are working.
  3. Touching or moving someone's wheelchair.
  4. Having no communication plan for the hearing impaired. in meetings, there should be visuals on screen or in print and ask how they would like things communicated.
  5. Pulling a visually impaired person and leading them without asking.
  6. Speaking extremely loud to a hearing impaired or deaf individual. speak in a normal tone unless told otherwise.
  7. Help without asking.

5 specific actions you can take to send the message of inclusiveness

  1. Make it fun–organize social events everyone can participate in
  2. Create opportunity –help employees grow resource groups
  3. Provide support–train non-disabled employees and encourage completeness
  4. Offer disability insurance-anyone can suddenly become disabled at any time
  5. Provide mentorship- match your employee to the right job and the right mentor so they can succeed and take pride in their work

Read the full article about disability inclusion in the workplace at Ulliance.