Braille for an Inclusive Workplace
In today’s dynamic work environment, true inclusivity means empowering all employees.
For individuals who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision, braille is a powerful tool that can level the playing field.
Unfortunately, significant barriers persist in the workplace.
According to a 2018 study by CNIB, only 28% of working-age adults with sight loss are employed full time, compared to the national employment rate of 65.5%.
According to research by CNIB, Vision Australia and the Blind Foundation of New Zealand, people with sight loss are significantly less likely to be employed full time compared to their sighted counterparts.
The research underscores the urgent need for employers to adopt more inclusive attitudes and practices, creating workplaces that are truly accessible to people with vision loss.
These alarming statistics expose a critical gap in workplace accessibility, in both equitable employment opportunities and physically accessible work environments.
Our Commitment to Braille
At CNIB Beyond Print, we understand the transformative impact of braille.
As Canada’s leading provider of braille services and the only certifying body for Unified English Braille in Canada, we’re dedicated to supporting individuals who rely on this tactile language to navigate the world, including the professional landscape.
This blog post explores how braille empowers employees with sight loss, helps strengthen workplace inclusivity, and builds a more diverse and thriving workforce.
According to a research report from Accenture, companies that lead in disability inclusion drive more revenue, net income and profit.
Want to learn how to make your workplace more inclusive? Read on!
The Benefits of Braille in the Workplace
For many individuals who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision, braille offers a level of independence and efficiency that cannot be replicated through visual aids or screen readers alone.
Here are some key benefits of integrating braille into the workplace:
Information Access: Braille allows employees to independently access critical information, from company policies and procedures to training materials and meeting notes. This empowers them to take ownership of their professional development and stay informed about important workplace developments.
Increased Productivity: Relying on screen readers or verbal descriptions can be time-consuming and lead to information overload. Braille provides a direct, tactile means of absorbing information, leading to a more efficient and streamlined work experience.
Enhanced Confidence: Mastering braille creates a sense of self-reliance and confidence that translates into all aspects of an employee’s professional life. When people feel empowered to access information and complete tasks independently, their overall engagement and satisfaction levels rise.
Improved Communication and Collaboration: When braille is incorporated into the workplace, blind, Deafblind, and low vision employees can participate more fully in collaborative projects and discussions. The ability to share and review information directly through braille facilitates teamwork and strengthens communication.
Champions Diversity and Inclusion: Implementing braille accessibility sends a powerful message to all employees â your company values a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an equal playing field for everyone. This builds a more inclusive environment where talent thrives regardless of ability.
Creating a Braille-Friendly Workplace
Now that we’ve established the advantages of braille in the workplace, let’s explore some practical steps companies can take to become more accessible to people with sight loss:
Braille Transcription and Embossing: CNIB Beyond Print offers comprehensive services for transcribing and embossing documents, presentations, and other essential materials into accessible braille format. We utilize the latest technology and employ highly skilled specialists to ensure high-quality transcriptions and embossed copies.
Braille Displays and Refreshable Braille Notetakers: These innovative devices allow employees to access digital information and communications in braille format. CNIB SmartLife offers a diverse array of the latest in assistive technology such as braille displays.
Braille Signage and Labels: Providing essential information, such as meeting room names, equipment identification, and safety instructions, in embossed braille demonstrates a commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
Employee Training and Awareness: Empower your team by providing basic sensitivity training on working with colleagues who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision. Encourage open communication to understand individual needs and preferences.
Your Partner in Braille Accessibility
CNIB Beyond Print is a trusted resource for companies seeking to create a more inclusive and accessible work environment through braille.
Our dedicated team offers a wide range of services, including:
âą Braille Transcription and Embossing for documents, manuals, forms, and more.
âą Expert advice on braille integration into the workplace.
âą Educational resources, braille courses, and training programs.
Building a More Inclusive Future
By embracing braille, companies can tap into the full potential of a diverse workforce.
When employees are empowered to access information and complete tasks independently, everyone benefits.
Creating an accessible workplace demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, creates a culture of innovation, and allows talent to thrive.
Ready to Champion Braille Accessibility?
Contact us to schedule a consultation and explore how we can help you transform your workplace into an inclusive and empowering environment for all employees.
By embracing braille, we can empower employees with vision loss and build a more inclusive workplace.