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Accommodation needs for persons with physical disabilities will vary from person to person. Assistive devices such as page turners, speech recognition software, alternative keyboards, and mouth sticks are only a few of the many aids available.
The ability to move and the speed and quality of movement can be affected by a number of conditions or disabilities. A partial list includes: amputation, heart conditions, cancer, cumulative trauma disorders (including carpel tunnel syndrome, bursitis and tendonitis), back impairments, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, arthritis.
The symptoms of impairment may fluctuate, and both mental health and physical mobility or agility may be involved. It is important to understand the condition causing the limitations, and discuss with your employee what accommodations and adaptations will be useful in accomplishing job duties.
Overall accessibility in your workplace (lighting, handrails, elevators, parking, etc.) is important for an employee with a mobility or agility impairment.
Other Considerations for accommodation may include:
- flexible work schedules or reduced work hours; work from home
- periodic rest breaks; self-paced workload
- ergonomic design in workstation; employee training in ergonomic principles including proper lifting, posture and use of equipment
- alternative computer and/or telephone access
- appropriate desk and chair height with materials in easy reach
- assistive devices such as arm support, page turner, book holder, writing and grip aids, foot rests
- note takers
Obstacles may be encountered for someone using a wheelchair in their workstation area, or in traveling into the work site. An accessibility audit will uncover what can be changed or adjusted such as table heights, parking space placement, etc.
Some people who use wheelchairs will require assistance with personal care while at work. As an employer, you are not responsible to provide this personal care assistance, but you may be required to make an accommodation related to personal care needs while at work.
Examples of accommodations related to personal care are:
- personal attendant present to assist person with toileting, eating, grooming
- rest breaks for repositioning, toileting, grooming
- flexible scheduling and use of sick leave for medical care
Other links and relevant information
The Canadian Paraplegic Association Ontario (CPA Ontario) offers a full range of employment services for employers and persons with disabilities
Working from our Toronto base, CPA Ontario provides Services For Employers by offering pre-screened, qualified applicants and on-site supports to assist you to accommodate employees with disabilities get the most from your investment.
CPA Ontario works hard to provide high quality Services For Persons With Disabilities .
This includes a full range of employment supports from; employment resource information, career counselling, job search, employment mentoring , assistive technology, and job placement and support.
To access any of our employment services or for more information, please contact us at:
Employment Services or call Diana Danilko, Employment Information Officer at (416) 422-5644 extension 245.
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