Reasonable accommodation: Overview, definition, and example
What is reasonable accommodation?
Reasonable accommodation refers to adjustments or modifications made by an employer or service provider to enable individuals with disabilities to fully participate in work, education, or public services. In employment, reasonable accommodations may include changes to the work environment, job duties, or policies to help an employee perform their job tasks despite a disability. These accommodations are intended to ensure equal access and opportunities without causing undue hardship to the employer or service provider.
Reasonable accommodation is a legal requirement in many jurisdictions, including under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the U.S., and is intended to support individuals with disabilities in achieving equality and participation in society.
Why is reasonable accommodation important?
Reasonable accommodation is important because it helps ensure that individuals with disabilities are not excluded from employment or public services due to barriers that could be easily removed or adjusted. By providing reasonable accommodations, employers and service providers foster a more inclusive environment, promoting diversity and equal opportunities.
It’s also crucial for legal compliance. Failing to provide reasonable accommodation when required by law can lead to discrimination claims and potential legal liabilities. For individuals, it ensures they can contribute fully to the workplace or public life without being held back by their disabilities.
Understanding reasonable accommodation through an example
Imagine you have a job interview, and the candidate has a hearing impairment. The company provides a reasonable accommodation by offering a sign language interpreter during the interview to ensure that the candidate can fully understand and respond to the questions.
In another example, an employee with a mobility impairment requests an accommodation to have an accessible parking spot closer to the office entrance. The employer agrees, as it does not cause significant disruption to the company’s operations and ensures the employee can access the workplace without difficulty.
Example of a reasonable accommodation clause
Here’s what a reasonable accommodation clause might look like in an employment contract:
“The Employer will make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws, including adjustments to work schedules, duties, or the work environment, to enable employees to perform their essential job functions. Employees requesting accommodations must submit their request in writing, and the Employer will work with the employee to determine appropriate accommodations.”
Conclusion
Reasonable accommodation plays a vital role in ensuring equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities, both in employment and in accessing public services. By making adjustments that allow these individuals to fully participate in society, businesses and service providers contribute to a more inclusive and equitable environment.
For employers and service providers, understanding and implementing reasonable accommodations not only ensures legal compliance but also fosters a diverse, supportive workplace or service offering. By including clear policies and procedures for reasonable accommodation, businesses can better meet the needs of all employees or customers.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.