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What is a reasonable accommodation? 

On Behalf of | Jul 30, 2024 | Disability Discrimination |

In some cases, a worker will develop a disability, perhaps through injury or illness. This will change their ability to do their job. They may have limitations that they did not have when they took that position.

Employers may be tempted simply to fire the worker and hire someone else. But this could be a form of disability discrimination. Employers need to see if there’s a way for them to make reasonable accommodations. With minor changes to the workplace, the person may still be able to do their job, even if they have to work slightly differently than they did before.

Disputes over changes

Reasonable accommodations are going to depend on the specifics of the job, but they could include things like:

  • Creating a more accessible work area 
  • Modifying equipment or acquiring new equipment 
  • Reassigning some of the tasks the worker had if they are not essential to that position 
  • Changing the work schedule so that they can work shorter hours, go to rehabilitation or something of this nature.

That said, disputes occur when a worker claims they were discriminated against because they were fired. Reasonable accommodation should’ve been provided. Their employer, on the other hand, says that the necessary accommodations were certainly not reasonable and would’ve been very difficult to implement. They may claim that it would’ve created a financial hardship for the business and that they had no choice but to replace that employee.

In a case like that, the court may need to get involved to determine if discrimination occurred and what next steps should be taken. Those facing discrimination need to know what options they have at this time.

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