Accommodations
The first steps to determining an accommodation are:
- What tasks are difficult for the individual? (essential or marginal functions of the job)
- What are the possible ways to accommodate? (tools, software, job restructuring, flexible schedule, extra time, etc.)
- How will the accommodation be made? (How will it be paid for?, Who will buy it?, Who will do the training?, etc.)
- Evaluation of its use (Is it helping the employee perform better?, Is more training needed?, Is a different solution needed?)
Sample accommodation request form or for additional guidance see http://www.jan.wvu.edu/media/accommrequestltr.html
General Guidelines
People with reading and writing difficulties can be greatly assisted by having forms and required documents available to fill out or read on the computer with the use of a screen reader, voice activation, literacy software or alternative keyboard tools.
Another way to assist customers with printed materials is to prepare it in more readable formats ahead of time such as increasing the font size and style, changing the paper color or changing the spacing between the lines. See the following document for more details:
Customers with visual impairments:
There are a few simple accommodations to make their participation in the One-Stop a little easier. For example, placing mats in front of the front desk, elevator, stairway or other designated areas provide customers who cannot see a tactile cue to know where they are. Provide all forms in electronic format to be filled out on the computer. Allow the use of a tape recorder during orientation or workshops. Provide a glare free screen . Set up the room in a logical and easy to navigate way. For instance, having tables squared against walls is a lot easier to navigate than having them in an open space or in any other design. Location of tactile signage must be uniform, placed in the same place (latch side of door, sixty inches from the floor). If possible, a tactile layout of the equipment in the Center is very nice to help customers navigate the Resource Room (printers, faxes, computers, front desk, doors, stairs, elevator, etc.).
Also visit the Center Equipment link for specific adaptive software or equipment available for those with disabilities.
Not sure if your consumer has a disability?
Contact Help Eliminate Learning Problems (HELP) at www.helpadd.com for learning disabilities or get a diagnosis from a doctor. Other great resources are IEPs from high school or records from Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors.
Make sure all barriers to employment have been addressed. Contact partner agencies to provide the services needed to address them. For example: Client has PTSD and is a returning Veteran. Talk with the psychiatrist about possible job opportunities and how they might affect symptoms or exacerbate the condition. Contact Veteran’s Affairs regarding assistance with job placement, etc. Assist customer in organizing and managing information and processes.
A Quick Reminder for Consumers
Remember that the employer is a partner in the process and make sure there is open communication with them about accommodation needs.
Remember that the employer’s goal is productivity and a safe and comfortable work environment for all.
Remember that the employer has the right to choose the least costly accommodation so help them make the most appropriate decision.
Suggested Documentation of an Accommodation Request
Some Resources
Access Technologies, Inc. can provide information on ergonomics and accommodations as well as selling and renting them. Call them at 800-677-7512 and ask about visiting their center. They are located at 3070 Lancaster in Salem. www.accesstechnologiesinc.org
Enablemart carries a line of products for every disability. They provide consultation as well as free technical support and training on all of their products. You can go to their web site at www.enablemart.com and browse products by categories or call them at 888-640-1999.
You can also visit Job Accommodation Network’s Searchable On-line Accommodation Resource at www.jan.wvu.edu/soar/ (where you can choose from a list of disabilities, functional limitations and work tasks to see what accommodations might be of assistance or you can call them directly at 1-800-526-7234 and ask a specific question.
The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services has many years of experience providing reasonable accommodations for school as well as employment settings. Some counselors also have expertise regarding certain disabling conditions and may be the best resource. You can call and ask for someone who can answer your particular question or visit their web site at www.oregon.gov/dhs/vr/
Updated September, 2009 by Cassy Polen, Region 3 Navigator.