Accessibility Check: Is Your Workplace Summer-Ready?

Summer brings sunshine, vacations, and outdoor events—but it also introduces new challenges for workplace accessibility. For employees with disabilities, hot weather, unpredictable routines, and changes to physical spaces can create barriers that employers may not always anticipate.

Making sure your workplace is summer-ready isn’t just about comfort—it’s about maintaining inclusion, safety, and access for everyone on your team.

Let’s walk through a few key areas to review this season.

1. Review Temperature Sensitivities & Air Quality

Some disabilities or medical conditions make it harder to regulate body temperature or tolerate extreme heat.

• Is your office or worksite properly ventilated and climate-controlled?

• Can you provide portable fans, shaded areas, or flexible breaks for those who need them?

• Are employees able to work remotely or shift hours to avoid peak heat?

Even short commutes in high temperatures can be taxing. Offering flexibility shows your team that their well-being matters.

2. Re-Evaluate Transportation and Access

Public transportation schedules and paratransit services may shift in the summer, and construction season can disrupt accessible routes.

• Confirm accessible parking and drop-off areas are still clearly marked and not blocked by summer events or maintenance.

• Ensure entrances, ramps, and automatic doors are fully operational and free of obstructions.

• Touch base with your employees to identify any new barriers to their commute.

3. Plan Accessible Summer Events

Summer is full of team outings, barbecues, and picnics. But are they truly inclusive?

• Choose centrally-located event venues with ramps, accessible restrooms, and seating for all mobility levels.

• Provide sensory-friendly options, shaded areas, and non-alcoholic drink choices.

• Avoid requiring long walks, standing for long periods, or high-sensory environments unless alternative options are provided.

Accessible events allow everyone to participate, connect, and enjoy being part of the team.

4. Communicate & Accommodate Travel Plans

Summer schedules often involve time off, adjusted shifts, or short-term coverage needs. Communicating clearly with all staff—including those who rely on predictable routines or job coaching—keeps everyone supported.

• Offer written and verbal updates about scheduling changes

• Give ample notice for coverage plans

• Offer check-ins with support staff or job coaches if applicable

5. Ask, Don’t Assume

The most powerful accessibility strategy is communication. Regularly check in with employees to ask what they need—especially as seasonal conditions shift.