When reaching the control takes more effort than the task itself

Most workplaces assume that reach is neutral.

Press the button.

Tap the screen.

Use the control in front of you.

If it is there, it is assumed to be usable.

But for many people, reach is not neutral at all.

It can require stretching, twisting, balancing, or relying on others before the task even begins.

The everyday moment

A person needs to use a counter, screen, button, or control that is positioned out of easy reach.

The setup looks tidy.

The equipment is installed where it has always been.

Nothing appears obviously inaccessible.

So the assumption is that everything is working as intended.

What often goes unnoticed

Controls that are too high, too low, or awkwardly positioned can require extra strength, flexibility, or balance.

That extra effort might look like:

• Stretching uncomfortably or standing on tiptoe

• Twisting the body to reach sideways

• Moving closer than feels safe or stable

• Asking someone else to do it instead

Most people will not comment.

They do not want to draw attention.

They do not want to lose independence.

They do not want to explain why something simple is difficult.

So they adapt.

They work around it.

Or they stop using the system altogether.

Why this matters for workplace experience

When basic interactions require extra physical effort, energy is spent managing the environment rather than doing the task.

That reduces capacity for:

• Working efficiently

• Staying focused

• Acting independently

• Feeling confident using the space

Over time, these moments add up.

People may avoid certain tools, counters, or systems.

They may rely on others more than they want to.

They may disengage quietly from parts of their role.

These behaviours are often misread as hesitation or lack of confidence, when they are simply practical responses to physical barriers.

What a small change looks like

Accessibility here is not about redesigning every space.

It is about noticing reach and offering flexibility.

Small changes might sound like:

• “We can reposition this if needed.”

• “I can help if that’s useful.”

• “Let me know what works best for you.”

Even acknowledging the issue matters.

It signals that independence and dignity are valued, without requiring anyone to ask or explain.

The bigger picture

Accessibility barriers are often built into everyday setups.

They are quiet.

They are physical.

They are cumulative.

When reach is considered, people can focus on the work rather than the workaround.

That is not special treatment.

That is good workplace design.

💥 Small change. Big impact.

Want more everyday moments like this?

This is one example from The BlindSpot Accessibility Playbook, a practical resource designed to help teams notice everyday barriers and respond in more thoughtful, respectful ways.

The playbook covers mobility, vision, hearing, neurodivergence, and mental health experiences across physical, digital, procedural, and cultural parts of work.

If you want a simple way to start better conversations about accessibility in everyday work, the playbook is a good place to begin.

Download your free copy here: The BlindSpot Accessibility Playbook