U.S. DOL Launches Web Portal on Accessible Workplace Technology

11.07.2014
HR & Safety

Includes an action guide for employers

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy announced the launch of PEATworks.org, a comprehensive Web portal spearheaded by ODEP’s Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT). From educational articles to interactive tools, the website’s content aims to help employers and the technology industry adopt accessible technology as part of everyday business practice so that all workers can benefit.

PEATworks.org will be the central hub of PEAT, a multifaceted initiative to improve the employment, retention and career advancement of people with disabilities through the promotion of accessible technology. PEAT conducts outreach, facilitates collaboration, and provides a mix of resources to serve as a catalyst for policy development and innovation related to accessible technology in the workplace.

“PEAT is the only entity of its kind bringing together employers, technology providers, thought leaders, and technology users around the topic of accessible technology and employment,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Employment Policy Kathy Martinez. “Given the critical role that accessible technology plays in the employment of people with disabilities, ODEP is delighted to announce the launch of PEATworks.org, with its rich array of tools and resources.

Features of PEATworks.org include an action guide for employers and informational articles, and it will serve as a platform for collaboration and dialogue around accessible technology in the workplace. Also featured is “TechCheck,” an interactive tool to help employers assess their technology accessibility practices and find resources to help develop them further.

PEAT is managed through an ODEP-funded grant to the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America. For more information, visit PEATworks.org.

If you are interested in more information on a local level, possibly HR colleagues who you can meet with in person and share problems, solutions and resources, consider joining the CT Business Leadership Network (CT BLN), a coalition of Connecticut employers that are working together to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities. CT BLN quarterly meetings are dynamic presentations and forums on best practices, ADA accommodation and compliance strategies, and how to enhance work environments to tap the potential of skilled workers with disabilities to more effectively meet your employment needs.

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