PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Diversity can’t be limited to culture, race or ethnic backgrounds. People can be different from each other by their physical abilities.

A Disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.(Langtree, I., 2017)

Despite the disabilities, people can acquire the skills, education, and experience required for a job. Individuals with disabilities should be allowed to work in regular organizations among other employees.

(N.A.,2017)

Other coworkers can help them to overcome the barriers they face in the workplace. Following are some points to work efficiently with disabled co-workers.

•  Perception: limiting understanding of other colleagues can create additional barriers for people with disabilities. Other employees should not undercut an individual with disabilities by showing sympathy, making assumptions about their emotional behavior or treating them as a child.
• Provide assistance: a colleague may need a help of their employees, but they should not make assumptions when that is. They should avoid touching a person's equipment without their consent and permission.
• Communication: Employees with a disability may feel awkward when people treat them differently. Coworkers should always speak in a normal tone and directly to the person. They should not try to help the person by finishing their sentences.
• Events and meetings: social events, meetings, and training activities should be arranged at places, accessible to a person with disabilities.(Writer, L. G.,2011)

Several multinational companies are taking a step forward towards this issue. L'Oréal Paris, a well-known multinational corporation, has adopted several measures to create equal opportunities for people with disability.

(You Tube,2015)

As shown in this video there are several advantages of working with people with disability. Do you think there are some other benefits of working with people with disability? Share your views in comments.

References:

• Langtree, I. (2017, February 27). Defining Disability Diversity in Society. Retrieved March 17, 2017, from https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/diversity.php
• Writer, L. G. (2011, December 19). Tips on Working With Disabled Co-Workers. Retrieved March 17, 2017, from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/tips-working-disabled-coworkers-36629.html
• Look To Your Co-Workers Before Your Boss When Trying To Accommodate An Injury Or Medical Condition. (2017, February 20). Retrieved March 17, 2017, from https://workerscompensationwatch.com/2017/02/20/look-to-your-co-workers-before-your-boss-when-trying-to-accommodate-an-injury-or-medical-condition/
• Did you know? Top Facts about Disability in the Workplace | Disability at L'Oréal(2015, July 29). Retrieved March 17, 2017, from https://youtu.be/5gwSEOotuZo