Reasonable Accommodations based on protected characteristics
Gaining an understanding of reasonable accommodations based on protected characteristics is important for ensuring a workplace that is safe, equitable, and inclusive for all. In this chapter, we will explore the concept of reasonable accommodations in greater detail and discuss the appropriate steps to take when considering them.
Providing Reasonable Accommodations for Employees
Reasonable accommodations in the workplace are changes or adjustments made by employers to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities unless doing so would cause an undue hardship for the employer.
Providing reasonable accommodations can help ensure that all employees have an equal chance to succeed in their job, regardless of any physical or mental limitations. Reasonable accommodations in the workplace can provide numerous benefits for both the employee and the employer.
Reasonable accommodations lead to increased job satisfaction and morale, which can result in improved performance, job stability, and loyalty.
By providing reasonable accommodations, businesses can reduce their risk of legal liability for discrimination or failure to provide reasonable accommodations.
By providing reasonable accommodations, businesses can increase employee productivity by creating an environment that is more conducive to the employee's specific needs. This allows the employee to feel more comfortable and better able to focus on their work.
Lactation Accommodations
The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) prohibits discrimination against employees based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including lactation. Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations to lactating employees, including time to express milk according to their body's schedule, as well as a private place to express milk that is not a bathroom.
Examples of Reasonable Accommodations
Reasonable accommodations are changes employers can make to create an inclusive workplace and ensure equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. Here are some examples:
Here are some myths to look out for:
- -
Making physical changes to the work environment, such as installing a ramp or widening a doorway, to make it accessible to individuals with disabilities.
- -
Providing assistive technology, such as screen readers or specialized keyboards, to help individuals with disabilities perform their job duties.
- -
Allowing employees with disabilities to work flexible hours or modified schedules.
Ensure proper reasonable accommodations in the workplace with Employment Laws Training
Through training, employers and employees learn about their rights and responsibilities under the various employment laws that govern the workplace. Training helps employers understand their obligations to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities, such as providing access to facilities, modifying work schedules, and providing necessary equipment.
Helping over 8,000 organizations create a safer, more productive workplace
EasyLlama’s online training course helps prepare employees to navigate employment laws for supervisors and managers. Navigate through employee rights, protected characteristics, best practices for hiring and handling harassment complaints, preventing retaliation, and providing reasonable accommodations. The course covers:
Get more from EasyLlama
