For most of us, going to work is among the ways we define ourselves. The same holds true for people with disabilities. They would like to work, and make contributions to society too.
Generally, disabilities will not have an affect on the work they do or prevent them from becoming great employees. Particularly if accommodations can be made that will enable the employee to perform at their highest possible potential.
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So just what exactly is a reasonable accommodation?
The US Department of Justice defines a reasonable accommodation as "any modification or adjustment to a job or the work environment that will enable a qualified applicant or employee with a disability to participate in the application process or to perform essential job functions". Reasonable accommodation also may include modifications to ensure that a qualified person having a disability has legal rights and privileges in employment equal to those of employees with out disabilities.
A couple of good examples of reasonable accommodations could include, permitting a job coach to help with the application process and job site training or permitting a service dog or therapy animal despite the fact that there's a "no pets" policy.
A business doesn't have to provide a reasonable accommodation if it will cause undue hardship on the company. A company isn't required to lower quality or production standards to make an accommodation.
Undue hardship is defined as an action requiring significant difficulty or expense when considered in light of factors such as an employer’s size, financial resources, and the nature and structure of its operation.
Most accommodations cost very little or nothing at all. According to the Job Accommodation Network (JAN), a service of the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy:
- 31% of accommodations cost nothing.
- 50% cost less than $50.00
- 69% cost less than $500.00
- 88% cost less than $1,000.00
In the majority of cases, the expense associated with an accommodation won't be a factor. It is simply a matter of a business supporting their workforce in a way that maximizes the potential of their employees.
Working with a company like the Virginia Supported Employment provider, Stand Up, Inc. can help businesses build a strong inclusive workforce. Your company should seek out and utilize the services of a professional organization that can help you build a great team.