Risks and measures for an accessible work environment

There are sometimes obstacles at the workplace which bring with them risks, and which mean that the resources of the employees are not taken care of. Furthermore, an increased vulnerability in connection with disability can more quickly lead to different kinds of ill health, for example exhaustion and damaging stress. The risks naturally vary depending on the differences between people.

Examples of risks:

  • crowded and badly designed computer workstations
  • difficult to use computer systems and software
  • noise and other unwanted sound
  • allergenic substances, bad ventilation 
  • deficient accessibility, shortcomings for safe evacuation 
  • lack of information, and instructions which could be misunderstood
  • high work tempo with limited possibilities to take breaks
  • lack of clarity around working tasks: what, how and when they should be carried out
  • lack of support, time and knowledge.

Measures that increase accessibility

Examples that increase accessibility for everyone:

  • user-friendly tools and technical aids, for example adjustable desks
  • computer systems and software that are adapted to each other and easy to use
  • good lighting and the possibility of daylight
  • premises where the sound level is muted
  • good cleaning procedures, good ventilation
  • time for rest and recovery, as well as reflection
  • possibility for social interaction
  • an accepting and open work climate.

To take into consideration to everyone’s different prerequisites can also mean an assessment of whether an employee needs personal support efforts, or other individual measures taken in the work environment.

Examples of individual accessibility:

  • special instruction and supervision
  • adjustment of working hours
  • conversion of equipment and technical aids. 

A good opportunity to increase accessibility at the workplace is to plan in the long term during reorganisation, change of premises, new building and during the purchase of new systems.

Last updated 2015-09-10