Individuals with disabilities face multiple challenges in the workplace. Still, accommodations can relieve specific obstacles. If you have a disability, you can request reasonable accommodations to perform your duties without additional barriers.
Know your rights
Before asking for accommodations, you should understand your rights. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects individuals with disabilities. These regulations cover private employers with 15 employees or more, government employers, and other entities.
If your disability limits one or more major life activities, you might be entitled to reasonable accommodations. These adjustments aim to enable equal opportunities for all employees and candidates. You can request accommodations to perform your job adequately.
Additionally, the law prohibits employers from asking medical questions during the hiring process. Candidates must be evaluated for their qualifications without factoring in disabilities or medical conditions. Once you accept a job offer, you can discuss your needs with your employer.
Communicate your needs
Everybody is unique and requires different accommodations. Even if two individuals have the same disability, they may have distinct needs. Consequently, you must communicate specific requirements to your employer. They could provide accommodations that differ from your initial request but also cover your needs.
Additionally, an employer can legally deny an accommodation if it is not reasonable or if it creates undue hardship for the company. Still, you can discuss other options to cover your needs. Advocating for yourself can positively impact your workplace conditions.
Seek legal counseling
If your employer denies your disability accommodation request, you can contact a legal counselor. They can evaluate your options and guide you through the request process. Occasionally, an employer might fail to comply with the ADA. In this case, legal counseling can become the first step toward a legal proceeding.