A summary of recent developments in computer technology to aid the visually impaired in the workplace

In the UK, an estimated 75% of the visually disabled population of working age are unemployed. The EC is funding research into methods for assisting the visually impaired. One of the main areas of development involves the use of person computers (PCs).

Enlarged characters on a VDU screen can be achieved either by using a large monitor, or by running a Screen Magnification System. Large monitors vary in size from 17″ to 28″; a 20″ screen will give roughly 1.5 times magnification. A screen magnification system is a software package which increases the size of the characters by between 1.2 and 12 times.

A significant technological development is the amalgamation of CCTVs with PCs. Instead of displaying their information on an integral screen, new generation CCTVs can employ a VDU screen, magnifying by 2 to 60 times. A PC screen can be split between the computer display and input from an external CCTV camera. The proportion of the screen dedicated to the CCTV image can be varied, as can its position.

In some situations, audible rather than visual information is preferable. Speech synthesizers enable the text from a PC display to be read to the user. A Stand Alone Optical Character Reader converts printed text into speech via an integral microprocessor and speech synthesizer.

Despite the wide range of aids available, they are used by only a small proportion of employees with visual impairment. A responsibility of the Hospital Optometrist is clearly to promote awareness of the products available and to encourage liaison with Disability Employment Advisors. Full consideration of the individual's needs, together with an awareness of their entitlements through the Access to Work Scheme, will allow those with a visual disability to compete effectively in the workplace.