Rates of disability are increasing worldwide so accessibility should be a consideration for your office. If you’re designing an office from the ground up, make sure you’re working with your architect to allow for widened doorframes for wheelchair access, ramps, and raised light switches and plug sockets. If you’re moving into an existing space, you should make those adjustments if you have the necessary permissions. Then it’s time to invest in some accessible office furniture.
If you’ve been looking into ergonomics for your office, you’ll know it’s all about adjustability. The same goes for accessible furniture. For example, investing in desks with a varying height setting means they will be accessible to all. The height can be changed to accommodate various sizes of mobility aids comfortably underneath and in some cases, can be raised to standing height for those employees with a bad back. These options work for those employees who don’t have accessibility needs as they can arrange their workspace at a comfortable height. Combine these desks with fully adjustable chairs to help create desks that promote good posture and support joints. This helps reduce the risk of workplace strains and injuries which are more common in those with underlying health conditions.
If you need a little more flexible storage in your office, such as to move a laptop or projector into the meeting room, that can be height adjustable too. Trolleys like this are easy to roll into different rooms and the adjustable height lets anyone present at the meeting without having to rush to find a suitable piece of furniture and disrupt the flow.
We’ve discussed desks and meeting areas, but we can’t forget storage. Having to bend or stoop to reach files isn’t an option for everyone. You likely can’t replace every file and shelving unit but including some with file drawers at a raised height will ensure that organization is available for all.
Other than furniture, you should consider upgrades such as offering dictation software for those who struggle with typing, one-handed keyboards, and acoustic dampening to help with sensory issues.
Why Accessibility is Important in Your Office
According to the Building Act 2004, if your office is a new building then you must make ‘reasonable and adequate’ access for disabled people who would visit. This includes things like disabled toilets and ramps to enter and leave the building. The Human Rights Act 1993 prevents discrimination meaning that as an employer you must make ‘reasonable accommodations’ for your disabled employees.
Besides being your legal responsibility, being accessible brings benefits to your business too. Employing a diverse range of employees with varied life experiences brings fresh ideas and perspectives to problem-solving at your business which can only ever help. It also ensures you can relate to your customer base and if you have clients who attend your office you won’t have to put extra thought into whether you’re accessible for them. Being an accessible workplace fulfils your moral obligation and makes your company more attractive to customers. More people are looking for companies who care about others rather than just the bottom line and ensuring you’re accessible to all is a big step towards this.
Embrace Inclusive Workspace Design
Not only is accessible furniture great for your employees but you can also match it to your office’s style as it looks just like traditional office furniture. There are stylish reception desks for example which just happen to have room for wheelchairs behind them. This lets you interview a diverse range of talent for the role without the worry of adjusting furniture if someone with accessibility needs gets the role. Incorporating accessibility into your workplace is only ever an advantage to your business and staff. Accessibility is multi-faceted so if you’re unsure, reach out to disability charities who can help with more tips to make your office suitable for all.