6 Telecommuting Tools for the Hearing Impaired
6 Tools People with Hearing Impairments Can
Use When Telecommuting
If working from home appeals to you, now's the
ideal time to interview. Increasingly, telecommuting has gained favor with
employers since they save substantially in recruiting costs. Just like working
in-house jobs for mildly disabled people, being
hearing-impaired doesn't limit your ability to work remotely. With the
following types of assistive technology, communication is simple.
1. TTY
TTY stands for teletypewriter, also known as a text phone. The device resembles
a typewriter, with a keyboard, display screen, and modem. TTY enables
conversing with both hearing and hearing-impaired individuals. Like
texting, the process begins with typing your message. When calling a person
without a TTY, your message is conveyed via the Telecommunications Relay
Service (TRS). To complete your call, a TRS agent delivers your message
verbally. TRS is available 24/7 by calling 7-1-1. There's no limit on call
length or number of calls placed. Plus, the TRS service is free to people with
hearing loss.
When receiving a message on a TTY, the characters
are converted to electrical signals, transmitted over a phone line. Once your
message arrives, the signals are converted back to characters and displayed as
text. Calls are announced by a flashing light on the machine or a
vibrating wristband. When the other TTY user sends a message, you'll see it on
your display.
2. Speech-to-Text Apps
Among the vast number of apps designed for the hearing-impaired, here are some
options well-suited to telecommuting:
Sprint Relay Mobile IP
Type your message, and the operator verbally conveys it to your recipient.
Then, the operator types the response back to you. To make text more legible,
you can adjust the font size and color. Plus, you can save conversations and
place calls in Spanish through a translating operator. Sprint Relay is free for
both Android and iOS devices.
Pedius
This app uses voice recognition and synthesis software to translate speech into
text. To place a call, type your message, and the app converts it to speech,
using a computerized voice. When your caller responds, the app translates the
spoken words into text. Pedius is free for Android and iOS devices.
Ava
You might use this app if your job requires you to split flextime between your
home and a corporate office. Ava is an on-demand translator for both individual
and group conversations, with privacy guaranteed.
3. iPhone Voicemail Transcription
With an iPhone 6s or later model, you can access Voicemail Transcription. This
default feature transcribes audio messages into text. Although the
transcription may not be entirely identical to the audio recording, you'll get
the gist of the message.
4. Videophone
If you use American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate, obtain a videophone.
When you place calls to individuals who can hear, a sign language interpreter
translates your messages. In return, the video interpreter signs responses back
to you.
Interpretation is provided free through government-funded Video Relay Services
(VRS). Interpreters are fluent in ASL, English, and Spanish. Regular telephone
users can contact you by calling a VRS Center, typically through a toll-free
number. To use a videophone, you need a computer with a high-speed
Internet connection and a video camera.
5. ClearCaptions
ClearCaptions is a free, nationwide captioning service for people with hearing
loss. Like television captioning, phone conversations are displayed as screen
text. ClearCaptions is available for use on Android and iOS smartphones,
tablets, web browsers, and the Clarity Ensemble, a company-issued phone. This
technology utilizes voice recognition software and a TRS operator who converts speech
into captions and sends them to your chosen device. ClearCaptions is free to
qualified hearing-impaired individuals in the U.S., paid by the Federal
Communications Commission. To be eligible for ClearCaptions, your hearing
loss must be certified by a healthcare professional, such as an
audiologist. After submitting the completed form and becoming registered,
you can download the app from Google Play or the App Store.
6. Phone Amplification Devices
Amplifiers raise incoming call volume while clarifying speech. With so many
kinds of amplifiers available, the guidance of an audiologist may be helpful in
making a choice. Here are some popular designs:
In-Line Amplifier
This small unit, equipped with two ports, works on a corded phone. One end
connects to the handset, while the other hooks up to the base. The amplifier
boosts specific frequencies, refining speech and making similar words more
discernible. Additionally, the device blocks background noises and
feedback. Some in-line amplifiers enable the user to adjust voice tone.
Portable Amplifier
This gadget accommodates corded and some cordless phones, and it straps onto a
handset earpiece, improving speech clarity and increasing volume. Portable
amplifiers are lightweight and battery-powered, with adjustable straps and
carrying pouches. Most units are inexpensive. Since a portable amplifier
can travel with you, it's handy if your job requires part-time work in a
corporate office. Some portables create a loop signal, making them compatible
with a hearing aid on a "T" setting.
Dedicated Amplifier Telephone
This is a complete phone, enabling you to adjust the volume and tone to your liking,
either with sliding levers, a dial, or handset button. Additional features may
include Caller ID, noise reduction, echo cancellation, and a speakerphone.
Flashing lights signal incoming calls. Dedicated phones are available in both
corded and cordless styles.
ADA Regulations
Several laws mandate that employers make reasonable accommodations for disabled
employees. Among the rulings are Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the
Americans with Disabilities Act. Accommodations include free assistive
technology and services that enable the performance of essential job duties.
The laws apply to companies employing 15 or more people.
You can request assistive devices when
applying for a job and any time after being hired. There are no stipulations regarding
types of equipment. To obtain equipment, present your wishes to your
supervisor. You can do this in person or in writing, or the request can be made
on your behalf by a coworker, family member, or healthcare professional. After
agreeing on what the firm will provide, document your discussion and the
agreement terms. Note that employers are exempt from buying equipment that
would cause them undue hardship, such as steep costs.
There are many jobs for individuals with disabilities such as hearing
impairments, and you may find just what you’re looking for among the job
listings provided by disABLEDperson, Inc. If you have any questions, don’t
hesitate to give us a call at 760-420-1269.