DEFINITION: Reasonable accommodation process refers to the systematic approach taken by employers to provide necessary modifications or adjustments to the work environment or job requirements to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential job functions.
FAQs:
1. What is the purpose of the reasonable accommodation process?
The purpose of the reasonable accommodation process is to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to employment opportunities and can perform their essential job functions with appropriate modifications or adjustments.
2. Who is responsible for initiating the reasonable accommodation process?
Both the employer and the employee have a shared responsibility to initiate the reasonable accommodation process. However, it is generally expected that the employee will request accommodations, and the employer will evaluate and implement them as per the legal requirements.
3. What types of accommodations can be provided through this process?
The types of accommodations that can be provided through the reasonable accommodation process vary depending on the individual’s needs and the nature of the job. It can include modifications to the physical workspace, flexible work schedules, job restructuring, acquiring assistive technology, providing interpreters or readers, and more.
4. How does the reasonable accommodation process work?
The reasonable accommodation process typically involves an interactive dialogue between the employer and the employee to identify the limitations or barriers faced by the employee in performing their job and explore possible accommodations. It also involves assessing the effectiveness, feasibility, and potential impact of each accommodation option before implementing them.
5. Are employers required by law to offer reasonable accommodations?
Yes, employers are legally obligated to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities under various laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States. Failure to provide reasonable accommodations can be considered a form of disability discrimination.