Creating a workplace where everyone belongs

At AtkinsRéalis, we believe that a truly inclusive workplace is one where every individual has the support and resources they need to thrive. Building this environment requires listening to and learning from the experiences of our employees.

We recently spoke with Molly Yeung, a Filing Clerk who joined our team in July, to hear her perspective on accessibility. Molly is responsible for maintaining document registers and handling correspondence for various projects. With a background in Translation and an interest in project management, she brings a valuable and unique viewpoint to our discussions on creating an accessible workplace for all.

What is an accessible workplace?

For Molly, accessibility is about being able to access locations and resources without obstacles. Professionally, it means being assigned tasks that suit one's physical condition, allowing for independence and minimizing the need for assistance. "An accessible workplace is knowing that you could go everywhere on your own without worrying," she explains. This includes practical considerations, like having enough space for walking aids or wheelchairs.

However, creating this environment requires moving beyond common misconceptions. One such misconception is that accessibility only benefits people with disabilities. "Accessible design benefits everyone," Molly points out. "For example, auto-doors are for everyone."

Another misunderstanding is assuming a space is accessible just because it's labeled as such. Factors like the weight of a door or the layout of a room are crucial. "A person needs to go to the place to practically see if it’s accessible or if any accommodation is needed, although the place is theoretically accessible," she advises.

Small adjustments, big impact

When Molly first started her role, she was concerned about tasks requiring physical strength, like carrying heavy documents. "As time went on, I realized that I can do part of the tasks on the laptop," she shares. Simple, thoughtful adjustments have made a significant difference in her work life.

Her colleagues place labels next to the printer so she can get them easily. She was given a chair without wheels, which makes it easier to stand up to get supplies like stamps and envelopes. Her team also collaborates seamlessly; after she packs documents, her colleagues carry the heavy boxes for sending out.

Company-wide policies also play a part. The option to work from home after a black rainstorm signal or typhoon No. 8 signal is cancelled allows her to work safely and avoid difficult travel conditions. These accommodations demonstrate how flexibility and proactive support can foster a truly inclusive environment.

How to be a better ally

Building an accessible workplace is a collective effort that relies on allyship and mutual respect. Molly offers some practical advice for colleagues:

• Respect privacy: Avoid asking personal questions about someone's disability out of curiosity unless they are willing to share. 

• Communicate clearly: Avoid sarcasm, rude words, and implied messages that might suggest someone is incapable of a task. 

• Offer help thoughtfully: Offer assistance when it's needed or asked for. "If a person with a disability can do something themselves, they may not ask, as seeking help also needs courage," Molly notes.

Ultimately, collaboration and focusing on abilities, not limitations, are key. "See what a person is good at instead of seeing what they can’t do," she urges.

A more inclusive future

Looking ahead, Molly envisions an ideal workplace where she can "go to every corner of the workplace, go in and out, and get what I need without seeking help." This can be achieved through thoughtful design, like incorporating more automatic doors and ramps, and embracing practices like going paperless, which is both sustainable and easier to manage.

For those hesitant to voice their accessibility needs, Molly offers encouragement. "Speaking up can be difficult," she acknowledges, "but only by speaking up about your needs, can changes be possible in the future—smoother roads, lighter doors, better designs."

Build your career with us

At AtkinsRéalis, we are committed to building a workplace where broad talent can flourish. We believe that by fostering mutual understanding and focusing on each individual's strengths, we can create a more inclusive and innovative future together. Explore our career opportunities today and join the AtkinsRéalis team.