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People with disabilities are one of the most excluded groups in our society. This is particularly true when it comes to employability.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2021 unemployment rate among those with a disability was 10.1%, compared to just 5.1% for those without a disability. Almost double.
Unfortunately, it’s a common misconception that people with disabilities can't contribute to the workplace with the same efficiency and effectiveness as people without disabilities. Similarly, there are often concerns that people with disabilities will result in extra corporate expenses or requirements.
However, people with disabilities benefit companies in many ways, including providing diversity of thought – especially when it comes to making your product or service inclusive.
When is International Day of Persons with Disabilities
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated each year on December 3 with an aim of raising awareness of the importance of breaking down barriers, advocating for the rights of people with disabilities and promoting cultures of inclusion.
Breaking down workplace barriers for people with disabilities
According to the United Nations, 15% of the world’s population has some kind of disability. That’s approximately one billion people.
Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes – some disabilities are obvious, because a person requires a wheelchair or has a noticeable physical attribute. However, many disabilities are not visible, such as conditions related to mental health, debilitating pain, learning or attention.
Likewise, some people have disabilities from birth, while others acquire them due to an accident, aging, injury, illness or some other cause.
No matter what their disability, how long they’ve had it or how they got it, a person with a disability should have the same opportunities as everyone else.
How can you make your workplace more accessible and more inclusive for people with disabilities?
An accessible and inclusive workplace is one where all people – including those with disabilities – feel welcomed and respected, and where everyone has equal access to resources and opportunities to progress.
There are lots of considerations, including the 6 listed below, that you can make to help ensure your workplace is accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities. As you’re working through this list, it’s a good idea to also ask employees how their working environment can be made better.
1. Remove physical barriers for people with disabilities.
Think about how people with mobility disabilities can access the workplace and move around when they’re at work. Consider factors like:
- Disabled parking spaces close to the entrance
- Step-free access into buildings (e.g. ramps)
- Disability-friendly restrooms
- Doorways and corridors that allow space for wheelchair users
- Access to all levels of the building (e.g. elevators)
2. Give employees the tools needed to do their jobs effectively.
Deaf and blind people, especially, benefit from special tools, such as:
- Braille keyboards and devices
- Assisted listening devices
- Screen reader software
- Noise canceling headphones
3. Implement a disability etiquette.
Have open dialogues about types of disabilities, including neurodiversity, and how to talk about the many disabilities that may exist in the workplace. Bring in educators that help employees learn to:
- Think before they speak, as certain words and expressions can suggest prejudice towards people with disabilities
- Refrain from showing pity or suggesting that people with disabilities are suffering
- Understand disabilities and how they may factor into workplace relationships, work styles and more
4. Offer flexible and/or remote working.
Allowing people to work where they’re most comfortable (and productive) and to attend medical appointments, when necessary and without barriers, can be very valuable to people with disabilities
5. Don’t forget about digital accessibility.
Ensure your website, intranet, internal tools and electronic documents can be easily accessed, navigated and understood by everyone – including those who may have visual, auditory, motor or cognitive disabilities. This is important both for your employees and for your customers.
6. Create a safe space.
Create an inclusive environment that allows people with disabilities to speak up if they have any concerns or feel discriminated against.
This is just the beginning. It’s important to continually strive to improve accessibility and inclusion in your workplace and ensure everyone is involved in the journey.
Educating employees on disability inclusion in the workplace has significant benefits — for the entire team.
Disability inclusion should be part of your organization’s DNA. Everyone – from your board chair and CEO to your senior leadership and frontline employees – should understand the importance of being inclusive of all people, including those with disabilities.
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