A Study of Physically Disabled Employees in the Pre-Press Printing Sector

Abstract

This study examines workplace accessibility for physically disabled employees in the pre-press department of the Malaysian printing industry. Although government policies and incentives encourage the employment of people with disabilities (PWDs), their participation remains limited, primarily due to insufficient facilities and low employer awareness. The research seeks to identify the specific needs of physically disabled workers in pre-press departments. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative data from an online survey distributed to printing companies under the Persatuan Pengusaha Pencetakan Melayu Malaysia (PPPMM) with qualitative insights from interviews involving HR managers, expert architects, representatives from the Disability Services and Development Division, and disabled workers themselves. Findings revealed that only 4.8% of the companies surveyed employed individuals with disabilities, and only a minority provided suitable toilets, ramps, desk arrangements, or lifts. The study identified the needs of physically disabled workers for prepress departments, including minimum workspace width, ergonomic furniture, door dimensions, and accessible toilet designs. Therefore, these recommendations can remove physical barriers and improve the functionality, safety, and dignity of disabled workers. They can also contribute practical solutions for employers and policymakers to promote workplace inclusion and the participation of disabled people in the printing industry.