If you struggle with a disability as an employee, it is pivotal to address any violations of your rights in the workplace. Regrettably, some disabled workers experience discrimination, which can lead to multiple hardships in their lives. From losing your job to dealing with a demotion, emotional hurdles such as anxiety or depression and having a hard time securing a job even though you are fully qualified, disability discrimination can lead to many consequences.
It is important to understand that disability discrimination takes many forms. In some instances, an employer’s failure to provide reasonable accommodations constitutes illegal discrimination.
Reasonable accommodations in the workplace
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission provides some examples of disability discrimination due to failing to provide reasonable accommodations. An employer covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or Rehabilitation Act must offer reasonable accommodations, unless implementing these accommodations is too difficult or costly.
If an employee has a hearing impairment or blindness, an employer can offer an interpreter or reader. Or, if an employee needs to use a wheelchair, an employer can make the workplace accessible for those who cannot walk. Reasonable accommodations involve modifications in the workplace that help disabled people perform their job duties and even apply for a position.
Addressing failure to provide reasonable accommodations
Sometimes, victims of disability discrimination worry that if they take action, they will lose their job. It is important to note that retaliation is also prohibited. Moreover, some victims do not even recognize that a violation of their legal rights occurred, which highlights the importance of understanding this facet of employment law. If your employer has failed to offer reasonable accommodations, you need to look over your options.
