Influence of built environment accessibility on work performance among persons with disabilities: a case of Moi Teaching and Referral hospital

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to establish the influence of built environment accessibility on work performance among persons with disabilities; A case of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The specific objectives of this study were: To determine the level of vertical accessibility and its influence on work performance among employees with disabilities; To determine the level of horizontal accessibility and its influence on work performance among employees with disabilities; To establish visual accessibility level and its influence on work performance among employees with disabilities and To explore government policy on the built environment and how it influences work performance among employees living with disabilities. The study adopted descriptive cross sectional research design. There are 50 employees with various disabilities at MTRH. Forty four respondents participated in the study. Questionnaires and interview schedules were utilized to collect primary data whereas books, journals and official documents were used to collect secondary data. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Tables were used to present the analyzed data. The study findings indicated that much is needed to be done in terms of the built environment accessibility to enable persons with disability to carry out their daily activities meaningfully and independently. The research findings further revealed the influence of visual, vertical and horizontal accessibility on work performance among employees with disability (Chi-square p-value < 0.01). Further, results indicate that the management of the institution is fully implementing government policies and legislations that relate to the built environment and persons with disabilities. The study recommends measures geared towards disability mainstreaming.