Supporting Employees
Accommodations Overview
Though rarely needed, accommodating employees who have disabilities yields high returns
According to the Job Accommodations Network (JAN), 70 percent of employees who have a disability do not need any accommodations or adjustments to their work environment.
For the minority of employees who do, accommodations typically yield high returns. In a survey of employers JAN found that every dollar invested in an accommodation yielded a little over $10 in benefits such as improved performance, productivity and efficiency. In fact, most accommodations are "high yield," including:
- Ergonomic keyboards and mice
- Optical character recognition
- Word prediction/completion
- Anti-fatigue matting
- Document holders
- Ergonomic chairs
- Non-fluorescent lighting
- Door openers, handles, grips
- Reorganized workspaces
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Studies also show that familiarity with the accommodation process lowers risk for increased legal and turnover costs.
For complete information about accommodations visit JAN (www.jan.wvu.edu) and use keyword "accommodations."
Some Accommodations Involve Assistive Technologies
Assistive Technologies are devices and services that increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of a person who has a disability. Examples of assistive technologies include:
- Writing aids, adaptive keyboards
- Talking computers, TDDs
- Programming such as speech recognition
For complete information, visit Minnesota STAR (www.starprogram.state.mn.us) or contact Assistive Technology of Minnesota (www.atmn.org).
Find out more about Supporting Employees and read the business case story, No Difference.
For consultation and support, contact your regional Disability Employment Specialist (800-328-9095).
View/download a PDF of this information.