Making sure your office is wheelchair friendly can only be good for your business. Ensuring that your workplace is a suitable and accessible environment for people with disabilities, such as installing disabled access ramps, allows you access to a wider pool of talent, whether you only have a couple of staff members or run a large company employing hundreds of people. Employing people with a range of different skills creates a more productive and creative workplace. This demonstrates an inclusive and accessible workplace improves the public’s perception of your business.
Disabled access ramps and the Equality Act 2010
As an employer you have to be aware of the Equality Act 2010. It stipulates that everyone in the UK is entitled to the same level of service and can live and work free from discrimination regardless of characteristics. Disability is one of those characteristics, and the act enforces the rights of people living with a disability where they feel they have been treated less favourable because of their disability. Making your workplace accessible helps to confront discrimination and keeps your company in line with the Equality Act 2010. Installing disabled access ramps in appropriate places around your workplace is a great start. However, that isn’t all there is to it.
Appropriate equipment for your office
The physical environment of an office is very important for people with any type of disability. Adapting your workspace doesn’t have to mean huge structural changes. It can simply be a matter of having the right equipment. This equipment includes:
- accessible plug sockets
- height adjustable desks
- adjustable monitor arms
- good cable management to remove trip hazards
- underfloor power to remove obstacles
Enabling modifications to the work day
Having a disability isn’t just about needing an adapted physical environment. Disabled employees may need some changes or flexibility when it comes to working hours. Time may be needed for appointments, medications may affect ability at certain times and energy levels may be affected throughout the working day. Frequent breaks, flexible start times and time working from home are all possible methods for accommodating disabled members of staff.
Training for managers and colleagues
Educating managers and other staff members about disabilities in the workplace is crucial for creating an inclusive culture in your office and making disabled staff members feel comfortable and supported. You should consult with an external expert on how to do this, as well as ask your disabled employees where your company could improve when it comes to disabilities. Frequent communication with all employees will help you figure out whether current policies are fit for purpose or not and enable staff members to identify issues that have arisen.