Ask an Expert – September 2022 – What Makes a Workplace Accessible?

Donna Jodhan, a woman with short dark hair and glasses, sits at a table with a laptop in front of her.

Before you say no or turn thumbs down on these suggestions; consider these thoughts.
You can definitely increase your revenue and reduce both your internal and external costs and here’s how.

Take it from me! I have been an accessibility awareness consultant and advisor since 1998 and I continue to help companies to increase their revenues, reduce their costs, and reach hidden consumer markets!

Now as a sight loss coach I am helping consumers with sight loss to become more aware of their environment and their requirements, and this is helping companies to have a better understanding of how they need to plan and execute their initiatives.

It really does not take too much to make a workplace accessible and by this I mean that one’s workplace should be made accessible to all employees no matter what. From the mainstream person to those with any sort of challenge or difficulty.

So here are some very useful thoughts to keep in mind:

  • Design your workplace so that both mainstream and non-mainstream employees can access. This would bring tons of benefits to both the employer and the employee.
    A propensity for the employee to help generate more revenue and to reduce costs to the employer. Example: health care costs.
  • Spacious so that an employee can move around in comfortably. From the person with the wheelchair and/or walker to the one who just needs to have enough space to move around.
  • Desks and chairs that are comfortable for everyone.
  • Equipment that can be used by all. From keyboard to screen, scanner to iDevice, etc.
  • Filing cabinets that are easy to reach and access. Easy to open and close.
  • Workplaces that are well lit and pleasant to look at. Floors that are carpeted in such a way that employees would not trip on.

Of course, there are many more tips but this is a good start.


To contact me please send an email to info@sterlingcreations.ca!
I’m Donna J. Jodhan (award-winning sight loss coach and accessibility advisor)

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