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Creating an autism-friendly workplace is not just about accessibility—it’s about unlocking talent,
increasing retention, and cultivating a respectful culture where everyone can do their best work. It
benefits not only autistic employees but the entire organisation.

3. Sensory accommodations

In the fast-paced and often noisy world of hospitality, sensory overload can be a serious
challenge for autistic employees. For many autistic individuals, sensory overload in the workplace can

seriously impact performance and overall well-being. Loud noises, bright lights, strong smells, or
crowded spaces may trigger anxiety, physical discomfort, or in severe cases, lead to meltdowns or
shutdowns. That’s why it’s essential for managers to recognise the signs of sensory overload and offer
reasonable accommodations.

While sensory sensitivities vary widely, this report focuses on three of the most common ones
within the areas of: tactile (touch), auditory (sound) and visual (sight) processing.

3.1 Tactile Inclusion

Tactile sensitivity—an altered response to touch and texture—is a common but often
overlooked challenge for many individuals on the autism spectrum. Tactile issues vary widely between
individuals. Some are hyper-responsive, meaning they are overly sensitive to touch, while others are
hypo-responsive and may not register physical sensations in a typical way.

Hyper-responsiveness (Over-sensitivity to touch)

A person with hyper-responsiveness may:

• Avoid or feel distressed by light touch
• Be irritated by certain fabrics or clothing tags
• Find normal physical contact—like handshakes—unpleasant or even painful

• React strongly to small injuries, like minor bruises or scratches
• Be resistant to wearing safety equipment or protective clothing due to discomfort

Hypo-responsiveness (Under-sensitivity to touch)

A person with hypo-responsiveness may:
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Project Number 2023-1-IT01-KA220-VET-000152721