Reasonable Accommodation
Scary Words for Many Business Leaders
"Accommodation," eh?
Sounds like money, doesn't it? Money flowing out. Extra costs. A hit to the bottom line?
Consider a different frame. "Reasonable Accommodation" is essentially no different than what an organization does for all its employees – provide the setting and tools that allow people to be at their best and make their contribution to the organization's goals.
But, the reaction goes, this is about disability so it's an extra expense, isn't it? And won't it be expensive!?
No, it won't be.
Consider this data from the Job Accommodation Network, a program of the U.S. Department of Labor. They provide services to employers and workers, and have very robust numbers.
Only 1% of Accommodations Cost More Than $5,000
| 50% of Accommodations Cost under $50 – or nothing at all |
| 69% of Accommodations Cost under $500 – or nothing at all |
| 88% of Accommodations Cost under $1,000 – or nothing at all |
Accommodations that cost nothing might include optimal assignment of a work area, lowering or raising a desk surface, or flexible scheduling.
Many technologies, such as voice dictation, have come down dramatically in costs since their original introduction. Many workers with disabilities are already owners of adaptive technologies and will simply bring them along.
Learn more about Assistive Technologies.
Begin with the spirit of adaptation that Workplace Disability Culture is all about. When people feel a commitment to getting what they need to be their best, then they are more likely to return loyalty and great performance.
A person with a disability who needs accommodation will certainly feel valued and recognized for what they can contribute to organization goals.
What's Changed | Wasted Human Potential | Stay-at-Work / Return-to-Work
Reasonable Accommodation | Assistive Technologies