The ADA requires employers to make “reasonable accommodations” for qualified individuals with a disability. (“Disability” is a broadly defined term which can encompass a number of impairments. Determining whether some is disabled for the purposes of the ADA can be difficult. If you have questions whether an employee may be covered by the ADA you should contact your attorney). A reasonable accommodation can include the following:
· Making existing facilities used by employees readily accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities;
· Job restructuring, modifying work schedules, reassignment to a vacant position;
· Acquiring or modifying equipment or devices, adjusting or modifying examinations, training materials, or policies, and providing qualified readers or interpreters.
But what else can you do? How do you know what equipment or devices exists? Where do you find the materials you need? The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) was created to help assist employers, employees and other interested people in answering these questions. The JAN staff can help businesses by suggesting reasonable accommodations and assisting with the implementation of reasonable accommodations. Private businesses may access JAN services by telephone, email and on-line tools. It provides helpful and practical information and guidance for employing and retaining individuals with disabilities.