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• Frequently touch people or objects, sometimes in ways that seem socially inappropriate
• Seek out different textures or surfaces

• Show unusually high or low sensitivity to pain
• Be less aware of physical risks, increasing the chance of injury

Differences in how individuals process touch can influence not only comfort and concentration for

the individual, but also affect workplace interactions, as discomfort with touch or being close to others
may be misunderstood by colleagues and lead to confusion or tension.

3.1.1 Practical ways to support Tactile Needs

Employers and managers can make a big difference by understanding and accommodating
these needs. Overall, these accommodations can be the first to consider for what an autistic employee

might need:

Having open, one-on-one conversations to understand specific sensitivities and tailor
accommodations based on the individual’s role—such as adjusting uniform requirements or assigning

tasks that avoid known discomforts.

Modifying roles or shifts when possible to reduce exposure to high-contact environments (e.g.
placing someone in back-of-house tasks rather than front-of-house if preferred).

Providing access to quiet staff areas where employees can take sensory breaks if feeling

overwhelmed, especially after busy service periods.

Avoiding unnecessary physical contact during communication (e.g. replacing handshakes with
verbal greetings) and ensuring team norms are inclusive of different comfort levels.

Offering alternative uniform options made from softer, breathable, or tag-free materials that still
meet brand standards but feel more comfortable for the employee.

3.2 Auditory inclusion

Many autistic individuals experience hypersensitivity to sound, meaning they may find everyday
noises—like clinking dishes, loud voices, music, or even air conditioning—distracting, painful, or anxiety-
inducing. Others may be under-responsive, having difficulty picking out important sounds from

background noise or struggling to interpret spoken instructions in busy spaces.

Auditory Hyper-Responsiveness (Over-Responsive to Sound)

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Project Number 2023-1-IT01-KA220-VET-000152721