Hearing Loss in the Workplace: Accommodations and Rights

People with hearing loss may face unique problems at work that can make them feel unwanted, less productive, lose confidence in their skills, or even damage their hearing further. But employers have a duty to make accommodations for workers with hearing loss and make the workplace a place where everyone is safe and empowered to do their best. In this article, we’ll discuss the rights of people with hearing loss at work and how employers can improve the workplace. Sometimes all it takes is an open conversation and education, but there’s no reason for anyone not to reach their full potential with the suitable accommodations in place.

Rights and Responsibilities Under the Law

People with hearing loss are protected from discrimination at work by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States and related laws in other countries. Employers must make reasonable adjustments so that people with hearing loss can do their jobs well unless doing so would put too much stress on the company. These accommodations may differ based on the person’s needs, and employers should work with the person to determine the best accommodations. While most of these things are in place, they might not be known to the employees, especially if they’re not actively used. If you are diagnosed with hearing loss and need assistance while on the job, talk with your supervisor about available accommodations. Some of the things that should occur under the law are listed below.

Access to Clear Communication

In any job, communication must be clear and work well. Employers should make appropriate accommodations for people with hearing loss to help them communicate. This might occur by using visual aids like written communication, sign language interpreters, or captioning services for meetings, speeches, and other important workplace interactions. Employees should feel comfortable talking with their supervisors about suggestions or ideas that can help.

Ensure a Safe Workplace

Employers should look at how the workplace is set up and make necessary changes so that people with hearing loss can safely maneuver in the space. This could mean putting up bright lights or visual alarms to replace audible alarms or alerts. In the same way, managers should think about making workspaces that are well-lit and have little background noise. This will improve communication and lessen the effect of hearing loss on job performance.

Programs For Training and Awareness

Employees must be aware of and understand hearing loss to create a welcoming work environment. Employers should give their workers training classes about hearing loss, how it affects people, and how to communicate effectively. Employers can help coworkers be more kind and helpful to their coworkers with hearing loss by getting the word out.

Provide Flexible Working Arrangements

People with hearing loss can gain a lot from having flexible work arrangements. Employees with flexible schedules or the option to work from home can better care for their hearing health, attend medical visits, or participate in rehabilitation programs without missing work. Companies can improve work-life balance and keep good workers by ensuring people with hearing loss have what they need.

Steps to Take For Creating a Better Workplace

There are several things that employees can do to make the workplace better for not only those with hearing loss but also for all employees.

Reduce noise in the background. People with trouble hearing can find it hard to concentrate and understand talks when there is a lot of background noise. Employers can take steps to lower noise levels in the workplace by using soundproofing materials, moving noisy equipment, or creating quiet zones where workers can go to have essential conversations or work.

Make use of technology: Technology improvements have made it easier for people with hearing loss to take part fully in the workplace in many ways. Employers should consider using communication tools that make it easier for people, like video conferencing platforms with built-in captioning, real-time transcription services, or texting apps that let people talk through text. These tools can make it easier for team members to talk to each other and work well together. For your part, consider talking with our team about your hearing aid options to help you understand the advancements that have been made and to ensure a good fit.

Set up clear communication rules: Employers should encourage clear communication that makes working together easier for workers with and without hearing loss. This will help make the workplace more inclusive. This could mean stressing how important it is to face the person when talking, speak clearly and at a reasonable pace, be patient, and be ready to repeat or rephrase information when needed. Employers can make their workplaces more supportive and understanding by setting standards and encouraging open communication.

Offer peer support and guidance: Peer support and mentoring programs can benefit workers with trouble hearing. When people with hearing loss are paired with experienced coworkers who might also have hearing loss or have done well at work with hearing loss, they can get helpful advice, support, and ideas. These programs can help people with trouble hearing feel more linked, confident, and able to do well in their jobs.

Gain Support From Our Team at Hearing Associates of Las Vegas

Employers must ensure that people with hearing loss can work in a welcoming setting, but it’s just as vital for you to ensure you’re doing all you can to understand your needs and enhance your hearing health. You can do this by first getting an evaluation from an experienced team.

At Hearing Associates of Las Vegas, we use state-of-the-art technology to help you understand your hearing needs. We also have multiple options for hearing aids and assistive devices to help you navigate your everyday life better. If you need more clarification about your rights in the workplace or what steps you can take to improve your hearing, talk with a team member today for support and options.