5 Tips for Improving Accessibility in the Workplace
No employee should have physical struggles or restrictions inside their workplace. There may be some closed-off areas, but operating inside the office should not feel like a chore. It definitely shouldn’t feel like an obstacle course to maneuver. We’ve got five tips for improving accessibility in the workplace.
Ask Questions
You’ll never know what your workplace lacks if you don’t ask. The ADA constantly updates accessibility regulations for people with disabilities and what companies must do to accommodate them.
Be curious about the ADA’s different laws, and if there is any confusion about them, reach out to document accessibility partners for clarification. They can also provide feedback about the customer’s experience and marketing ideas for ADA-compliant materials.
Clear Pathways
No one likes a narrow hallway. Cramped pathways that employees need to travel through daily get uncomfortable really fast. Make sure the hallways are clear and adhere to ADA requirements in width. The ADA requires 60 inches minimum width for passing with spaced-out passage intervals.
Wheelchair users need to navigate spaces without any problems, so reduce the number of obstacles in rooms and pathways. A plant here and there tucked into a corner is fine, but there shouldn’t be more than that. Never resort to using the hallway as a storage space. Keep all filing cabinets in a closet, office, or common area.
Accessible Materials
Everyone needs to access the documents and materials necessary for work. Instead of solely paper, provide employees with accessible PDF documents, large print documents, or braille documents.
These formats help people who are seeing impaired, have low vision, or have dyslexia. Not everyone is comfortable with admitting to these disabilities, so providing options makes it easier for employees to stay productive and informed.
Building Upgrades
Depending on the workplace or industry, you might want to consider some upgrades. Consider removing wall obstructions and decorative pillars to open the floor plan. Doing so could promote a more collaborative work environment.
Think about the entrance of the building. Instead of the traditional door, consider upgrading to a
commercial sliding door system. At Pacific Entrance LLC, we know the right design for your business, and your employees will thank you for the upgrade.
Promote Inclusivity
At the end of the day, it’s all about promoting inclusivity. Encourage your employees to do the same. Everyone should feel involved and comfortable inside their workplace. The promotion will also encourage staff members to make suggestions for improvements.
They might recognize a problem you didn’t notice. Enabling them to point it out creates a level of comfort that some offices never achieve.
We can help improve the accessibility of your workplace and so much more. For more information, visit our website.
