Inclusion, Autism, and Universal Design

If you’ve ever walked or pushed a stroller on a sidewalk, you’ve probably reaped the benefits of universal design. Downward sloping ramps, often called curb cuts, were initially designed for people who use wheelchairs to get on and off sidewalks but have helped make things better and more accessible for everyone.

What is Universal Design? 

Universal Design is the design of buildings, products, or environments to make them accessible to all people, regardless of age, disability, or other factors. It follows seven core principles: 

  • Principle 1: Equitable Use
  • Principle 2: Flexibility in Use
  • Principle 3: Simple and Intuitive Use
  • Principle 4: Perceptible Information
  • Principle 5: Tolerance for Error
  • Principle 6: Low Physical Effort
  • Principle 7: Size and Space for Approach and Use

Universal Design and Autism

Autistic individuals can sometimes experience sensory challenges or sensory overload in the workplace due to environmental stimuli, including certain lights, sounds, and smells. As an employer, you can do things to help make your workplace more welcoming and universally accessible to autistic and other neurodivergent individuals. These changes can positively impact other employees too! 

Here are some examples of specific universal design ideas that can benefit autistic employees: 

  • Installing light switches that give users the ability to control the brightness within a space
  • Creating or designating a particular location as a quiet space
  • Providing furniture with kinetic movements such as rockers and swings
  • Permitting use or providing employees with noise-canceling headphones to reduce distractions 
  • Installing acoustic dampening or sound-proofing materials around loud equipment or noisy areas
  • Investing in modular, adjustable furniture, such as ergonomic chairs and standing desks

Looking for more information on Universal Design? Here are a few other articles to check out: 

 

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