5 Types of Reasonable Accommodations
To make the world more accessible, the ADA established a certain list of reasonable accommodation that businesses, organizations, and companies can do to better serve individuals with disabilities. Reasonable accommodation opens the world to everyone.
Legally, a reasonable accommodation refers to an adaptation to a job, such as day-to-day job tasks or modified work environment, that allows a qualified individual with a disability to work. An accommodation is considered “reasonable” if it doesn’t cause an unreasonable amount of work or money to make happen.
5 Types of Reasonable Accommodation
Reasonable accommodations come in different categories, such as no-tech, low-tech, and high-tech options. In general, a no-tech accommodation requires a change in how a job task is physically done, while low-tech or high-tech accommodation includes an incorporation of technology to make it easier to perform a certain task. Each of these accommodations may require different resources, but they all have the end goal of making the world more accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Quick List of Reasonable Accommodations
- Job task changes
- Reserved parking
- Work area accessibility
- Training tools and options
- Equipment adaptation
- Work schedule flexibility
- Work assistant or aid
- Job reassignment
When it comes to reasonable accommodation, businesses and organizations have a number of ways to offer accommodation to individuals with disabilities. While some accommodations are simple changes to the actual job, others can be to the physical environment to ensure safety and accessibility for all.
Job Restructure
For a job restructure, a reasonable accommodation can be redistributing marginal job tasks. In some cases, this may mean removing non-essential tasks from the employee’s work. For example, if someone has a disability that keeps them from performing certain tasks, he or she may be able to swap tasks with another coworker to ensure that all the work is done.
Equipment Adaptation
Simple equipment changes to more complex adaptations can make all the difference for a person with a disability to perform their job. Some solutions may include simple technology like the use of a rubber band to keep a pencil nearby or a machine operated by head or mouth. This can include:
- Teletypewriters
- Telecommunication devices
- Telephone amplifiers
- Tactile markers, such as Braille
- Adaptive light switches
- Adjustable-height desks
- Job Training
To help workers become better equipped for their jobs, many businesses include job training. It’s essential the job training be accessible to all trainees. This may include providing an accessible training site, training materials in alternate formats, and sign language interpreters.
Work Environment Modifications
The workplace must be a cohesive environment where employees of all abilities work together. This means that all architectural barriers must be removed or altered to create accessibility within the workplace. Structural changes should ensure that an employee with a disability is able to perform job tasks while being able to use the breakroom, restroom, or water fountain.
ADA Compliant Detectable Dome Tiles
For workers with low vision, ADA compliant detectable dome tiles offer navigational cues. These detectable dome tiles can warn about upcoming stairs or changes in the direction of walkways. On large business complexes, detectable dome tiles can make all the difference in creating an accessible work environment.
At StrongGo, our goal is to develop a more accessible world by developing and designing TekWay detectable dome tiles that fit your business style in every way. Speak with an industry expert today by emailing csd@stronggo.com.