The most common reasonable accommodations in the workplace can include:
- Modifying work schedules: Allowing employees to have a flexible schedule, or to work part-time, can be an effective accommodation for employees with disabilities.
- Providing specialized equipment or technology: This can include things like speech-to-text software, specialized keyboard, or other assistive technology that can help employees with disabilities perform their job duties.
- Making facilities accessible: This can include making physical changes to the workplace, such as installing ramps or elevators, or providing a sign language interpreter.
- Allowing remote work: Telecommuting or working from home can be an effective accommodation for employees with disabilities, particularly for those with mobility or chronic health conditions.
- Adjusting policies and procedures: Employers can make accommodations by modifying or waiving certain policies and procedures in the workplace, such as allowing more frequent breaks, or allowing an employee to take time off for medical treatment.
- Providing training or coaching: An employer may provide training or coaching to assist an employee in understanding and carrying out job tasks, to enable the employee to perform the essential functions of the job.
- Providing a qualified reader or interpreter: For employees with visual or hearing impairments, having someone read or interpret written or spoken information can be an effective accommodation.
- Allowing service animals or emotional support animals in the workplace: Allowing service animals or emotional support animals in the workplace can be an effective accommodation for employees with disabilities, particularly for those with mental health conditions or mobility issues.
It's worth noting that the specific accommodation will vary depending on the specific needs of the employee and the nature of the job, and not every accommodation that is mentioned here will be applicable to every situation. Employers should work closely with the employee to determine the specific accommodations that are needed and how they can be provided to ensure the individual is able to perform their job duties effectively and comfortably.