This guide outlines the different types of considerations and accommodations that can be implemented to ensure that a workplace is accessible to all employees. It covers physical spaces, communication methods, technology, and various accommodations to promote a diverse and inclusive environment.
Physical accessibility
- Office layout: Ensure that workspaces are designed with accessible pathways and clear signage. For neurodivergent employees, consider factors like lighting, noise levels, and comfortable seating.
- Access: Maintain accessible routes and provide ramps or elevators where necessary.
- Restrooms: Ensure that restrooms are wheelchair accessible. Consider installing features such as grab bars.
- Sensory-friendly spaces: Create designated sensory-friendly spaces where neurodivergent employees can retreat if they need a quiet or low-stimulation environment.
Communication
- Documents: Provide documents in accessible formats, such as large print, braille, or digital formats compatible with screen readers. Offer documents in a range of languages for employees from multicultural backgrounds.
- Communication tools: Use inclusive communication tools and acknowledge different communication styles and preferences. For those from multicultural backgrounds:
- Consider communication platforms that support multiple languages (e.g. Slack, Microsoft Teams)
- Offer translation services where needed.
- Encourage the use of translation apps (e.g. Google Translate, Microsoft Translator)
- Record meetings, with the option of providing transcripts for review purposes.
Technology and IT
- Accessible websites and applications: Ensure that digital platforms are accessible to people with varying abilities by:
- adhering to accessibility guidelines like WCAG
- using semantic HTML,
- providing alternative text for images,
- implementing keyboard navigation,
- ensuring proper colour contrast,
- offering adjustable text sizes, and
- testing with assistive technologies
- Assistive technology: Support employees in accessing and using assistive technologies, such as text to speech software and voice to text applications, by providing necessary training and resources.
Flexible work arrangements
- Remote work: Consider remote work options for employees with specific needs or preferences.
- Flexible hours: Allow flexibility in work hours to accommodate diverse needs, such as medical appointments or caregiving responsibilities.
Training and awareness
- Accessibility training: Provide company-wide training on the unique needs of neurodiverse people and people with disabilities, including accessibility awareness, etiquette, and the use of assistive technologies.
- Company culture: Foster a culture of inclusivity by promoting awareness and understanding among all employees.
- Promote inclusivity: Foster a culture of inclusivity by promoting awareness and understanding among all employees.
Assistance animals and support services
- Assistance animals: Allow employees with disabilities to bring assistance animals into the workplace where applicable. Provide the necessary accommodations for assistance animals.
- Support services: Provide support services or accommodations for employees who need them, such as sign-language interpreters or readers.
- External support: Collaborate with support agencies and consultants with expertise on disability and neurodiversity in the workplace (e.g. Autism Queensland).
Emergency evacuation procedures
- Evacuation plans: Develop and communicate clear evacuation plans that consider the needs of employees with disabilities.
- Emergency assistance: Appoint trained personnel to help people with disabilities during emergency evacuations.
Continuous improvement
- Feedback mechanism: Set up a system for employees to provide feedback on accessibility and inclusion.
- Regular assessments: Conduct regular assessments to identify areas for improvement and make necessary changes.
Contacts and resources
- Accessibility coordinator: Appoint a representative who will be responsible for addressing accessibility concerns and taking necessary action.
- External resources: Provide information on external resources and organisations that support workplace accessibility.
