Can an employer accommodate a custodian who has a no heavy lifting restriction if the essential job functions include taking out trash, vacuuming, mopping, and moving furniture? To get to a yes in this situation, employers need more information. What one person considers heavy lifting might not be heavy for another, which is why individual assessments are not only required but also helpful for creating understanding between the employee and employer. Employers need to understand what “heavy” means for the employee and should clarify other vague work restrictions, such as “repetitive” or “forceful.”
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The Disabled Workforce
The Disabled Workforce: Reasonable Accommodation Evaluation Tips
By Deb Hossli, Senior Consultant, Shaw HR Consulting
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