This website is a place where Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind people can learn skills and get connected to the world of work

Information for Employers

Are there benefits to hiring Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind people?
ASL

There can be definite advantages to hiring Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind people. They tend to have a strong work ethic, be punctual, and are not easily distracted by things happening around them in the workplace environment.

What types of communication skills do Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind people have?
ASL

Many Deaf people can use American Sign Language (ASL,) they can fingerspell, they can write their thoughts on paper, use text or instant messaging, and some can read lips.

Are there safety issues with having Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind employees?
ASL

Deaf employees are no more of a safety risk than any other employees. Emergency exits and buttons, fire alarms, and machinery should be equipped with flashing lights, emergency pagers should be capable of vibrating, and buddy systems can be used.

How do you prepare co-workers for a new Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind employee?
ASL

Methods can be used for communicating with a Deaf employee, such as texting, emailing, writing notes, and gestures. Making employees aware of the proper use of interpreters, general knowledge of Deaf culture, and even perhaps advertising local classes in ASL are all good ways to prepare co-workers.

Can Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind people read lips?
ASL

Some can. It is a skill that can be taught in special classes, but it is a difficult skill to learn and you should not assume that every Deaf person can read lips. If the Deaf person can read lips, you should speak clearly but at a normal speed, and be sure not to cover your mouth.

What services do Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind people need for the work environment?
ASL

It depends on the Deaf person. Their needs are very individual. Some might require note takers or interpreters; some may need specific seating locations or good lighting so that hands and lips can be seen; still others are Hard of Hearing and require FM loops or other equipment. Generally all Deaf people will need emergency alarms, phones, and doorbells to be equipped with flashing lights as well as sound. They appreciate being able to communicate with people who do not know ASL through text or instant messaging. In the event of emergencies, it is a good idea to supply them with vibrating pagers and implement a buddy system.

Is it expensive to employ Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind people?
ASL

There may be some expenses in the beginning, such as installing flashing light systems, FM loops, or other accommodations. However, employers should be aware that many of these items are tax deductible or can be bought with funds from government grants. By making the workplace more accessible to employees, the company is also making it more accessible to clients as well.

How does a Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind person apply for a job?
ASL

Deaf people can apply for jobs in the same way as other people. Newspapers, wanted signs, and internet job sites are all common ways to apply for a job.