Employment law is one of the most complicated areas for employers. They must follow many rules to keep from violating the rights of their personnel. Some employer errors do not harm workers, but others can pose immediate hardships.
Those with a disability often feel mistreated in the workplace, which is a valid concern for many. If your disability never posed problems in your other jobs, your employer might not understand their obligations.
Time off as a reasonable accommodation
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers must accommodate those with a disability if it does not cause undue hardships. It is safe to assume that allowing disabled workers time off for necessary appointments would not pose employers any real adversity.
A specific accommodation in the ADA says that employers must adjust work schedules to allow for medical appointments. They may offer workers the option to complete their missed assignments from home or elsewhere as an alternative to time off.
Other reasonable accommodations
Perhaps you are the kind of person who doesn’t like to complain or make waves. Of course, this is your right, but requesting accommodations for your disability could increase your productivity and make your job easier.
Examples to consider:
- Ramps, accessible restrooms and workspace changes for physical disabilities
- Computer devices and software for the hearing or visually impaired
- A workplace service dog policy to assist disabled employees
You have a right to ask your California employer for reasonable workplace accommodations. The worst they can do is refuse your request and risk a workplace discrimination claim. Someone with experience in California employment law can explain your legal options if you continue facing mistreatment.