How to create an “accessible” environment in a work setting for people with visual disabilities

Photo of Woman Assisting A Blind Man

Every time we have to visit a certain public institution, we pass from one desk to another while we are being “kindly” yelled at, until we finally reach the one we need. From there, we are not so kindly directed to orient ourselves about the information written on randomly thrown papers upon us and then to not so calmly take our time to fill up the required information. After we sign, and with some luck, we might be able to submit the document to the same desk. Visiting such a place leaves a particular sensation in each of us, as we weren’t seen as humans and therefore were treated inhumanely… 

And would that cost a person with visual disability? Of course, not in terms of financial costs, but physical and mental ones. 

When we think about creating an accessible environment for people who cannot see, we think about the space we provide, the attention we give, the empathy we keep and most importantly, the freedom we attribute to that person in order for they to decide what is best. An accessible environment in a work setting is not necessarily linked to the possibility to create friendships for life, to profit from discounts or benefits, to go to team buildings for which you pay nothing or to wait another month before you quit, so that you could attend that Christmas party. It is rather the joy and excitement with which you take the public transport and travel one hour to your working place, because the people you are going to meet and work with are also very much eager to meet and work with you. It is in the few short breaks which allow you to ask freely for something and then unconditionally receive what you need, it is also in the freedom of expression, of thoughts, emotions, struggles and if the coffee tastes better with sugar. 

The process of creating an accessible environment includes the participation of cross-structural team members, as the level of accessibility should be stable through all sectors in the company. 

Tips

Always present yourself

  • When you enter and when you leave the room.
  • Share your reasons of presence.

Talk directly to the person

  • Do not use third parties (e.g. your colleague, person’s companion or other present figures).

Promote and maintain safe environment

  • If objects are to be moved or new are being arranged, inform everyone.
  • Explain silences and noises.
  • Help people who have no vision to explore object throughout tactile and sensory interaction.

Avoid sensational language

  • Do not pity or over exaggerate the achievements.
    Instead of “This must have been very hard!” try
    “How did you feel going through all of this?”
  • Compliment moderately.
    Use your own authentic way of acknowledge and praise someone’s efforts and achievements.
  • Be patient. Mainly with yourself.

Do NOT presume!

  • If you don’t know or doubt what kind of language to use, how close to position yourself or how to assist in any way – ask. The person with disability is your best and only resource.
  • Be honest – if you are nervous and you feel lost in the communication, share with him/her.

Approach and attitude

  • Shake hands if a hand is being offered.
  • Look at the person when you are talking to him/her.
  • Position your body at the same level with the other, e.g. sit, stand up.
  • If  help is requested or accepted to be taken, hold the arm or the elbow. Go with his/hers pace and give clear and precise instructions.
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