Through the efforts of an employee-led Unlimited Business Resource Group (BRG), a Cork-based Occupational Therapist, and the support of the company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) team, the company made changes to its Cork headquarters to create an environment that is more inclusive for all employees with dedicated zones that are more private and welcoming. Neurodiverse employees frequently perceive noises, images and smells differently than other staff members, and research demonstrates that while open plan office spaces allow for a sense of community and collaboration, privacy can be just as crucial for some employees that find it to be distracting and overstimulating.

“Having an inclusive environment empowers all individuals to contribute their unique skills and perspectives,” said Karen Clay, vice president of Talent Management and executive sponsor of the Unlimited BRG. “I commend the Cork team for their cross-functional action on this initiative to make the workplace more inclusive for all.”

The initiative stems from feedback received from the Unlimited BRG, which advocates for employees with a disability, and their allies. With an interest in being best-in-class, Johnson Controls invited Gina Evans, a senior Occupational Therapist and Advanced Sensory Integration Practitioner, to examine the work environment at One Albert Quay, Cork. Evans recommended inclusivity-based changes and work started on zones with focused on quiet, work and eating. Changes included:

Quiet Zones: A dedicated quiet room was repainted, had adjusted lighting, with a choice of fidget tools and furniture with tilt/rock movement. Signage was added to the door, to show it was free or engaged. A second dedicated quiet space was created in the outside terrace. A cabin located outside on the fifth floor was decorated with calming artwork and soft furnishings and fidget tools. Wifi, power cables and sockets are all operational in this cabin. With the help of the Global Sustainability Network BRG, the external terrace was populated with specially-chosen plants and trellis to promote sensory safety.

Work Zone: A dedicated space was created for quiet, private work, where existing furniture and equipment was removed, standing desks were installed, and the wall was painted a neutral colour. Dimmable lighting was installed, plants placed around the area, flexible partitions installed, and fidget tools and noise-cancelling headphones are available at this space.

Eating Zone: A dedicated space for private eating. Partitions were installed at the rear of canteen to ensure privacy when eating.

“We're thrilled to contribute to this important project,” said Chris Galewski, Service Operation Inventory Manager and President of the Unlimited BRG. “By prioritising inclusion, we’re empowering our workforce.”

Recommendations from Gina Evans were critical to making the changes in the Cork office.

“These changes contribute toward the development of a more inclusive work environment for employees", explained Evans. “DE&I in the workplace is demanding more attention by employers and I commend Johnson Controls for taking these steps in creating a better physical and sensory environment for their employees. Understanding sensory preferences at work is a key issue for organisations in supporting neurodiversity.”

This work is evolving and continuing on an ongoing basis with the DE&I team.