Navigating professional environments with hearing loss comes with its own unique set of obstacles. According to standard hearing examinations, one in eight people aged 12 or older in the U.S. experiences hearing loss in both ears. Colleagues and leaders can play a significant role in fostering a more inclusive workplace by advocating for individuals with hearing loss.
The initial step towards cultivating an inclusive work atmosphere for those with hearing loss is to understand the individual as a person, their career goals, degree of hearing loss and any required accommodations. Ascertain their preferred mode of communication and honor those accommodations.
It’s helpful to note that most individuals with hearing loss accept it as a part of their identity, positively shaping their self-perception and their approach to work. It’s vital to comprehend that being differently abled does not equate to being less able; appropriate accommodations pave the way for a more welcoming, inclusive environment for all.
Proactive Methods
Consider these methods to champion the cause of individuals with hearing loss in your workplace:
- Respecting requested communication styles could involve providing captions for meetings or supplying interpreters, assistive listening devices, or flexible work arrangements. These are all reasonable accommodations to cultivate an inclusive work setting.
- Make sure the employee with hearing loss has access to any necessary tools needed to fulfill their job duties, such as a quiet, distraction-free workspace.
- Ensure you face the person when speaking, allowing them to utilize any speechreading skills they may possess.
- As a leader, introduce inclusive health benefit packages, ensuring coverage for hearing aids and hearing exams. This health benefit is broadly inclusive, benefiting not only those with hearing loss.
- Promote understanding about hearing loss through online or on-site training.
- Provide written transcripts of corporate meetings.
- Integrate flashing lights into emergency alert systems to ensure those with hearing loss are promptly alerted during emergencies.
- Promote the use of hearing protection around loud noises for all employees, not just those with hearing loss.
- Engage your coworker’s attention non-verbally before initiating a conversation.
- Opt to send an email instead of phoning the person with hearing loss.
Individuals with hearing loss are safeguarded under the Americans with Disabilities Act and are entitled to reasonable accommodations. Beyond merely providing necessary accommodations, individuals with hearing loss also deserve to feel included and appreciate their time at work.
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