Disabled individuals have certain rights in their Washington, D.C., metropolitan area workplaces. These rights include the ability to seek certain accommodations that allow them to do their jobs with a disabling condition. If you are a disabled individual in the workplace, it is in your interests to know your rights, including seeking reasonable accommodations.
There are federal laws that prohibit discrimination against disabled individuals. If you need certain types of support and help during the hiring process or as you do your job, your employer should provide those to you. Failure to do this may qualify as discrimination, and you could have grounds to pursue legal action as a result of the mistreatment you experienced.
Who qualifies for reasonable accommodations?
Individuals who have genuine disabilities have the right to seek reasonable accommodations in their places of work. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the state/local disability laws, this includes you if you have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits your abilities and actions. If your disability is not obvious, an employer may ask for medical documentation. Reasonable accommodations only apply to essential functions of the job.
What counts as a reasonable accommodation?
Every situation is different, and what qualifies as a reasonable accommodation for you depends on your abilities and your job. Examples of reasonable accommodations may include:
- Reserved parking closer to the building
- Permission to remain seated while doing certain tasks
- Improved accessibility in your work area
- Provision of support equipment
- Flexibility in your work schedule
- Reassignment to another position
These are only examples of ways employers can provide support to those in the workplace who may have disabilities. With the right types of help, you can have a successful and fulfilling career. The requirement is for the provision of reasonable accommodations, so if what you need results in financial hardship or negatively impacts company operations, employers may not have to provide it.
What if there is a violation of your rights?
If you experienced a violation of your rights, you may have grounds to pursue legal action. It could be in your interests to learn more about the protections available to you under the law and what you can do if you believe you are experiencing some form of disability discrimination. The civil justice system provides victims of discrimination the opportunity to seek justice and compensation from the liable parties.
