Disability.
Things to know.
Vision and Hearing.

If someone is using a guide dog, never distract the dog when in harness.
Do not cover your mouth when communicating with a person with a hearing impairment.

Vision Impairment.
A vision impairment may vary from some loss of vision to complete blindness.

Always greet the customer by saying your name, speaking first from a little distance to avoid startling them.
Always talk directly to the person rather than through a third party. Speak clearly always facing the person with sight loss.
In a group situation, introduce yourself and all others present.  Always keep the person with sight loss informed if someone leaves or enters the room or if information is circulated. It may be helpful to email this information to the person with sight loss in advance of the meeting.

Hearing Impairment.
A hearing impairment may vary from slight hearing loss to being totally deaf.

Find a quiet environment to conduct a meeting, so as to avoid the distraction of background noise. 
Do not assume that you cannot communicate with a customer with a hearing impairment. Having a pen and paper may be an option, however, remember to keep your writing and words simple and easy to understand.
When speaking through an interpreter always speak directly to the customer with the hearing impairment.

This information was produced as part of an Access Awareness Campaign by Galway City Council in conjunction with 'Access For All'