17. Can an employer refuse to employ me on the basis of my visual impairment because the workplace is considered to be of high risk?

In a high risk workplace, the employer is obviously concerned about the health and safety of all employees. Nevertheless, this does not automatically rule out people with a visual impairment. There is sometimes an assumption that people with a visual impairment would be a danger to themselves and to others. This may not be true as it depends on the extent of the impairment and the nature and location of the work.

The same principles apply here in that the employer cannot refuse to employ you with the reason of your visual impairment alone. The employer still has to consider the issues of inherent requirements and reasonable accommodation.