There are a number of strategies you can use to overcome your accessibility challenges in the workplace, including:
Seeking an alternative point of access
If the main access route poses too many challenges for you on a daily basis, consider speaking with your manager or the workplace security team about gaining access to the building another way (perhaps via a back or side entrance that’s wider, or monitored by security guards that will be able to assist you).
Installing rails for additional support
Installing safety rails along the main access route may be a solution if you find it difficult to maintain balance and would benefit from some extra support. There are, however, a few key things to consider before installation can take place:
- Are the walls able to support a rail?
- Will the rails pose any obstacle or risk to others using the access route?
It’s important to take these factors into account to make sure installing rails wouldn’t put anyone else at risk or make the access route narrower for other people using the building.
If you feel rails would make your workplace more easily accessible, be sure to speak with the maintenance team or the building manager.
Adjusting the weight of fire doors
If an internal fire door is particularly heavy, speak to your manager about adjusting its weight through the closing mechanism to help make your movements around the workplace that bit easier.
Buddying up
Is there another team member who arrives to work at the same time every day? If getting into work is proving to be a challenge, buddying up with a colleague could be the solution — someone who can help you with carrying bags/equipment, navigating steps or ramps and operating doors or lifts.
