Legal Definitions - Reasonable accomodation

Reasonable accommodation refers to the modifications or adjustments an employer is legally required to make to a job, work environment, or the way things are usually done, to enable an individual with a disability to apply for a job, perform the essential functions of their position, or enjoy equal employment opportunities. These adjustments are considered "reasonable" if they do not impose an undue hardship on the employer, meaning they are not excessively costly or disruptive to the business operations.

• Example 1: Physical Workspace Adjustment

  A graphic designer develops a mobility impairment and now uses a wheelchair. Their office building has steps leading to the main entrance, and their workstation is in a cubicle with narrow access. To accommodate them, the employer installs a temporary ramp at the building's entrance and reconfigures the cubicle space to allow for easy wheelchair maneuverability, potentially providing an adjustable-height desk.

  This illustrates reasonable accommodation because the employer made physical changes to the work environment to ensure the designer could access the building and their workspace, enabling them to continue performing their creative design tasks.

• Example 2: Modified Work Schedule

  An administrative assistant is diagnosed with a chronic illness that requires regular, recurring medical treatments during standard business hours, causing fatigue. To accommodate this, the employer allows the assistant to work a flexible schedule, perhaps starting earlier or later on treatment days, or compressing their work into four longer days instead of five standard ones, as long as their core responsibilities are met.

  This demonstrates reasonable accommodation by adjusting the work schedule, allowing the assistant to manage their health needs without sacrificing their ability to complete essential administrative duties.

• Example 3: Communication or Policy Modification

  A data analyst with a severe hearing impairment needs to participate in team meetings and training sessions, which often involve spoken presentations and group discussions. To ensure their full participation, the company provides a certified sign language interpreter for all essential meetings and training, or implements real-time captioning software for virtual sessions.

  This example shows reasonable accommodation through a modification in communication methods, ensuring the analyst can fully understand and contribute to critical team discussions and professional development, thereby performing their role effectively.