2. CRS Australia How to negotiate Assistive Technology Options with Employers

3. What does CRS Australia Do? CRS Australia provides vocationally orientated services for people with a disability, injury or heath condition who are of working age (between 14-65 years old). CRS Australia will provide assistance in preparing an individual for work or helping them find suitable employment.

4. Who are CRS clients and what are their needs? CRS works with a large variety of individuals who have physical, mental or neurological disability issues. CRS will work with the client, employer and relevant health professionals to identify the barriers in the workplace, including issues related to the use of assistive technology.

5. How does CRS determine the need for Assistive technology A workplace assessment is conducted: 1. To identify the inherent job requirements and employer expectations 2. To determine the impact of the client’s disability in performing the job. 3. To make recommendations for the use of assistive technology & equipment.

6. CRS Considerations for Assistive Technology Should aim to reduce the client’s barrier to gaining or sustaining employment. All assistive aids should meet the individual needs of the client. It must be specifically related to the client’s disability. What is the cost & training requirements of the assistive technology? Have all alternative options been explored in regards to suitable duties or another vocational placement?

7. Benefits to the Employer: It promotes maintenance of valued employees which contributes to staff knowledge staying within the company. It promotes good will with other employees Reduces potential costs involved with recruitment and training to fill the position. It promotes & demonstrates the company’s commitment to EEO policies.

8. It can help prevent re-injury or aggravation of the presenting injury or disability. It demonstrates the company’s commitment to staff health & OH&S policies. The employee will be more productive and have an increased independence within the workplace. Not all aids cost a huge sum

9. Benefits to the client: It allows the client to remain in a familiar role within a familiar workplace. It can promote client loyalty with the employer. It allows clients to perform the inherent job requirements like those of their colleagues. It allows sustained employment and promotes community participation.

10. It reduces the vocational limitations already imposed by the client’s disability or injury. It increases the client’s productivity and hence their job satisfaction. It reduces the use of sick leave and therefore increases time in the workplace. Facilitates the client’s financial independence.

11. Examples of Intervention Issue: difficulty reading the computer monitor client’s feet were unsupported reduced chair mobility when seated at the desk. Recommendation: Client to always use increased font size & change to a 17 inch monitor. Implementation of a foot rest Chair matt to reduce friction between carpet & chair castors.

12. Issues & Recommendations Issues: Complaints of fluctuating environmental temperatures Recommendation: Implementation of individual climate control AC in an office. Redirection of airflow and outlets.

13. Issues & Recommendations Issue: Reduced finger dexterity when typing Recommendation: Reducing the sensitivity to keyboard strikes. Increased use of mouse. Use of a voice activated programs.

14. Summary A thorough individual assessment should be conducted prior to the implementation of any assistive technology. Ensure consultation with experienced health professionals and technicians prior to purchasing equipment. When negotiating, ensure the global benefits to the employer and client are equally considered in a collaborative manner. Do not discount alternative solutions.