Who pays the cost of workplace adaptions and assistive technology?

In some cases, the employer is obligated to pay for "reasonable accommodations [1][link opens in new window]" and adaptations; however, it's usually best for the employee to take the initiative in researching which adaptations and modifications are necessary to perform the job. Many of these changes can be inexpensive and relatively easy to implement, such as a magnifier [2] or better lighting [3] at your work station.

When you present your requests to your employer, it's important to emphasize your competence, initiative, and responsibility.Explain the problem, briefly outline the possible solutions, and describe how you arrived at your final recommendations:

• Did you consult with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor [4][link opens in new window]
• Did you schedule an evaluation at a community-based vision rehabilitation center? [5]
• Did you try out different types of adaptive equipment with a technology vendor?
• Did you arrange an equipment loan for yourself?

Some adaptations can be expensive, however. There can be substantial initial and ongoing costs if the adaptive or specialized technology must be programmed to coordinate with the company's specific system.

Although your employer may be obligated to pay for any reasonable costs, it may be possible, with the support of your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, to acquire adaptive technology and services through financial support or a loaner program from your local community-based vision rehabilitation center, Lions Club [6][link opens in new window], or similar community organization. It's likely that your employer will appreciate your investigation of all potential options. Enhanced Vision, a company that develops assistive technology, has a list of resources [7] where you may find grants to help pay for the devices you need.

As with all negotiations, it's important that you and the employer recognize that you are both working to achieve the same goal: to make you the most effective employee you can be for the benefit of the company.