Workplace Resources for the Deaf

Based on the National Institutes of Health, approximately 15 percent of American adults (37.5 million) aged 18 and over report some trouble hearing. The ability to communicate defines us as human beings and forms a foundation for every day decision making and relationship building. Communicating with deaf individuals is an achievable goal in the workplace as outlined in the following resources.

Tips for Communicating with Deaf Individuals - This link from the National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes funded by the Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) provides concise background and tips that can facilitate communication with deaf and hard of hearing employees in the workplace.

Integrating a Deaf Employee in the Workplace - This link from the National Institute for the Deaf (NTID) within Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) lists strategies to help create mutually beneficial work relationships between deaf and hearing employees during the stages of pre-employment, new employee orientation, and on the job.

Accommodations - This link from the NTID within RIT lists accommodations for various communication situations involving deaf employees in the workplace.

Employment Toolkit - This link from the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) provides an Employment Toolkit, response to commonly asked questions, and employment resources. This is a good resource for both employees and employers.

EEOC Guidance - This link from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) outlines guidance and general information regarding hearing impairments, disclosing and handling medical information, and accommodations.