Workplace Accommodations
What is a Reasonable Accommodation?
An accommodation is a modification or adjustment to a job, the work environment or the way things are usually done that enables an employee to do his or her job more productively and contribute to the efficiency of your business. DRS works with employers to identify and provide job accommodations for prospective and/or existing employees with disabilities.
Most people with disabilities actually require little to no accommodation to perform their job duties. The accommodations that are necessary are usually low-tech, inexpensive, and are common-sense types of adjustments. In instances where an employee has sustained a disabling condition or injury, providing reasonable accommodations is a cost-effective way for employers to retain that employee and reduce turn-over costs.
Here are some examples of types of accommodations businesses can offer their employees.
The Importance of Job Analysis
Job analysis provides employers an objective basis for hiring, evaluating, training, accommodating and supervising persons with disabilities, as well as improving the efficiency of your organization. Our Vocational Evaluators can help employers develop or revise position descriptions, as well as provide consultations to businesses in instances when a current employee is having difficulty performing their essential job functions and it appears that an accommodation may be needed.
Additional resources for making accommodations
- Job Accommodations Network - Information and tips on making accommodations
- Assistive Technology Loan Fund Authority - Loans for Employers
- Virginia Assistive Technology System - Information on Equipment and Assistive Devices
