DECEMBER 3, 2024 |
When Kabir Bhagaria, Manager of Employee Health, Safety and Wellness, started his career, workplace accommodations were often seen as rare exceptions. They typically supported those with physical conditions like low back injuries and those who required special equipment, such as sit-stand desks. Accommodations weren’t commonly available and had to be specially ordered, reflecting the limited scope of support and recognition of the many types of disabilities at the time.
Today, the landscape of workplace accommodations has significantly evolved. Accommodations now extend to neurodiversities, such as ADHD, where individuals may request quiet spaces to enhance focus. This shift highlights a broader understanding and acceptance of diverse needs within the workplace. In organizations like First West, the contributions of workers with diverse-abilities are celebrated, along with greater support and awareness about the importance of inclusive employment practices.
The Accessible Canada Act of 2019 played a pivotal role in this transformation, mandating organizations to adopt more inclusive practices. As a result, by 2024, many organizations like ours have embraced these changes, making accommodations a standard rather than an exception.
Making authentic connections
Accommodations are individual and largely dependent on the person and their capability. We work with team members to satisfy their needs. The paths we take to support accessibility are broadly inclusive and hands-on. Some of the most common devices at First West today are:
- sit/stand desks;
- larger displays for visual concerns;
- ergonomic items (mouse, keyboard, etc.);
- quiet areas to work in (e.g. office) and lighting adjustments.
With an eye on the future, First West continuing to expand support with hearing loops, neutral colour palettes, and easily readable font sizes.
Kabir’s continual preparations for current and potential team members
Proactive planning is key to being there for people. Our modern workplace design anticipates the needs of all team members, not just the average worker. Accommodations are integrated into the planning and design phases of our spaces, benefiting everyone. Our facilities team is at the forefront of this movement, incorporating accessibility, ergonomics, and visual aids into new and renovated buildings. Features like soundproofing, LED lighting, and universally available sit-stand desks are now standard.
We’re also changing behaviours by having open conversations. With the shift in mindset and the work of the Poss-Ability Network (an employee-run network group at First West), we’ve increased openness and frequency of conversations about accommodations. Education and awareness initiatives have empowered team members to feel comfortable requesting the support they need. We encourage everyone to share, rather than struggle, and that starts with a conversation in a safe and welcoming environment:
- Lead with empathy: Approach the conversation with understanding and concern for the team member’s well-being.
- Provide specific observations: Kindly mention specific behaviors or situations you’ve noticed to make the conversation objective and realistic.
- Offer support: Ask if there’s anything you can do to help and assure them that the conversation is confidential.
- Avoid accusatory language: Frame the conversation in a supportive manner rather than making the team member feel defensive or blamed.
- Use regular check-ins: Schedule regular one-on-one meetings to build a strong, supportive relationship with your team members.
The future will continue to evolve how we support people with disabilities, and our focus will remain on creating a seamless and inclusive workplace for all. By integrating accessibility and accommodations into our core practices, we ensure that every team member feels valued and supported.
If a welcoming environment that considers your need would help you flourish, choose from one of our open opportunities to make a move!