Employees are entitled to request reasonable accommodations. This is a protected right under both federal law and Ohio state law.
Reasonable accommodations allow certain employees to conduct their work activities more efficiently, without causing undue hardship to the employer. Here are some common examples of reasonable accommodations.
1. Changing the work schedule
One common reasonable accommodation is to request that the work schedule be altered. This may include allowing flexi-time or part-time work. Or, it may be a request to attend medical appointments throughout the week or certain breaks for prayer time.
Such requests should be allowed unless they cause undue financial hardship to the business.
2. Assistive technology
Technology has changed all workplaces, and it has provided equal access to some of the most talented employees. Employers should embrace technology where possible. For example, they may utilize voice-to-text software for those with visual impairments.
An accessible workplace is not only a legal requirement, but it can be highly beneficial to companies.
3. Job restructuring
The physical demands of some jobs may be too much for workers with physical or mental disabilities. Often, it is quite easy to restructure job roles to account for this. Workers should not be forced to carry out physical tasks if they are unable to, and they should not face repercussions for asking about job restructuring.
The only valid reason to refuse job restructuring is if it would cause undue financial hardship to the company.
An inclusive workplace benefits all parties. To find out more about reasonable accommodations or other employment rights, it may be beneficial to seek legal guidance.