An AI framework promoting inclusive employer practices for workers with disabilities

PEAT by the U.S. Labor Department promotes accessible technology. By mid-2024, its AI resources were accessed 130,000 times globally, aiding audits, certification, and scholarship programs.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy sponsors the Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT) initiative. PEAT aims for a future in which all technology is accessible. As part of this endeavour, it has established the PEAT Artificial Intelligence (AI) Initiative, which includes various resources such as an AI & Inclusive Hiring Framework and AI & Disability Inclusion Toolkit. From 2023 to mid-2024, PEAT’s AI resources have been accessed over 130,000 times by more than 54,000 users. Additionally, PEAT collaborates with globally recognized organizations, including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and the AAATE, a European association.

Problems Targeted

PEAT aims to remove biases and enhance AI hiring tools for disabled job seekers and workers.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy funds and oversees the Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT). PEAT’s mission focuses on promoting accessible technology in employment, particularly through the PEAT Artificial Intelligence (AI) Initiative. For many years PEAT, managed by the consultancy group Cadmus, has influenced accessibility policies and practices for traditional forms of technology, such as computers and websites. As technology has evolved, PEAT has developed resources that provide employers with practical guidance on disability inclusion when adopting AI. These complementary resources guide employers through each step of selecting inclusive technology, implementing it, and training staff on best practices. To create more effective materials, the PEAT team collaborates with policy makers, disability organizations, technology companies, employers, and researchers. The initiative targets three main areas: (1) the impact of AI on disability inclusion in the workplace; (2) AI innovation led by individuals with disabilities; and (3) independent audit frameworks to assess AI platforms. In addition to creating resources such as the recently launched AI & Inclusive Hiring Framework, PEAT contributes to such efforts as the For Humanity AI Disability Inclusion & Accessibility audit scheme.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

The Office of Disability Employment Policy funds the initiative with an annual budget of around $1.25 million. The PEAT AI Initiative continuously introduces new tools, including the release of an AI & Inclusive Hiring Framework in autumn 2024 and assisting organizations in implementing it. (Zero Project Awardee 2025)

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PEAT provides employers with practical guidance on disability inclusion when adopting AI.

PEAT provides employers with practical guidance on disability inclusion when adopting AI.

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