Creating an Accessible Workplace: A Checklist for Employers

22 October 2024

Creating an Accessible Workplace: A Checklist for Employers

Creating an accessible office is an ongoing process that requires commitment and regular review. By following this checklist, you’ll be well on your way to creating an inclusive workplace environment that complies with Australian standards and laws.

Why Office Accessibility Matters

Before we dive into the checklist, let’s briefly touch on why accessibility is crucial:

  1. Legal Compliance: The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and various Australian Standards mandate accessibility in workplaces.
  2. Diverse Workforce: An accessible office allows you to tap into a broader talent pool.
  3. Increased Productivity: When all employees can navigate the workplace easily, overall productivity improves.
  4. Enhanced Reputation: Commitment to accessibility demonstrates corporate social responsibility.

Remember, every workplace is unique, and individual employees may have specific needs not covered in this general checklist. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your team and be ready to make reasonable adjustments as needed.

Entrances and exits

☐ Ensure main entrances are accessible via ramps or level access
☐ Install automatic doors or provide easy-to-use door handles
☐ Maintain clear, obstacle-free paths to emergency exits
☐ Provide visible and tactile emergency signage
☐ Consider installing sliding doors at main entrances for easier access.

Internal navigation

☐ Maintain wide, clear pathways throughout the office
☐ Ensure flooring is slip-resistant and free of trip hazards
☐ Provide handrails in corridors where necessary
☐ Install clear, high-contrast signage at appropriate heights
☐ Use colour coding or themed areas to assist with wayfinding, especially in larger offices.

Workstations

☐ Offer adjustable desks and chairs to accommodate various needs
☐ Ensure adequate space around workstations for wheelchair users
☐ Provide ergonomic accessories like footrests, document holders, and adjustable monitors
☐ Install task lighting to supplement overhead lighting
☐ Consider providing sit-stand desks as a standard option for all employees.

Meeting rooms and common areas

☐ Ensure at least one meeting room is fully accessible
☐ Provide space for wheelchair users at tables
☐ Install hearing loops in larger meeting rooms
☐ Ensure kitchen and break areas have accessible counters and appliances
☐ Implement a booking system that allows employees to reserve accessible meeting rooms when needed.

Bathrooms

☐ Provide at least one accessible toilet on each floor
☐ Ensure accessible toilets meet Australian Standard AS 1428.1-2009 specifications
☐ Install emergency call buttons in accessible toilets
☐ Provide clear signage to accessible toilet facilities
☐ Consider installing adult changing facilities if your office can accommodate them.

Elevators and stairs

☐ Ensure elevators meet accessibility standards
☐ Provide audible announcements and tactile buttons in elevators
☐ Install handrails on both sides of staircases
☐ Use high-contrast, non-slip nosings on stair edges
☐ Regular maintenance checks on elevators are crucial to ensure they’re always operational for those who rely on them.

Lighting and acoustics

☐ Provide adjustable lighting options where possible
☐ Ensure consistent, glare-free lighting throughout the office
☐ Use materials that reduce echo and background noise
☐ Offer quiet spaces for employees who are sensitive to noise
☐ Consider installing sound-absorbing panels in open-plan areas to improve acoustics.

Technology and communication

☐ Ensure company software and internal websites meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1
☐ Provide assistive technology like screen readers or magnification software as needed
☐ Use multiple communication channels (e.g., email, instant messaging, phone) to cater to different preferences
☐ Ensure emergency communication systems cater to various disabilities (e.g., visual and audible alarms)
☐ Regularly train staff on using and creating accessible digital content.

Evacuation procedures

☐ Develop Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for employees who need assistance
☐ Ensure evacuation chairs are available and staff are trained in their use
☐ Conduct regular evacuation drills, including scenarios for assisting people with disabilities
☐ Clearly communicate emergency procedures to all staff, including those with disabilities
☐ Appoint and train fire wardens on each floor who are responsible for assisting employees with disabilities during emergencies.

Ongoing assessment and improvement

☐ Conduct regular accessibility audits of your office space
☐ Seek feedback from employees with disabilities about their experiences
☐ Stay informed about changes to accessibility standards and laws
☐ Foster a culture where employees feel comfortable requesting accommodations
☐ Consider establishing an accessibility committee with diverse representation to drive ongoing improvements.

Need expert guidance on making your workplace more accessible? The CoAct employment team is here to help. Our specialists can provide tailored advice on creating an inclusive work environment, connecting you with diverse talent, and ensuring your office meets all necessary accessibility standards. Reach out to CoAct today.

Tagged:   Employer support
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