Lesson 1.1: What Are Reasonable Adjustments?

Introduction: Reasonable adjustments are modifications or changes made by employers to ensure that employees with disabilities can perform their jobs effectively, just like their non-disabled colleagues. These adjustments help to eliminate or reduce disadvantages that people with disabilities might face at work, creating a more inclusive and accessible environment.

In simple terms, reasonable adjustments make sure that employees with disabilities have an equal opportunity to succeed in the workplace. They are about providing the support needed for employees to carry out their work without being hindered by their disability. These adjustments are not meant to give an employee an unfair advantage, but to level the playing field.

Purpose of Reasonable Adjustments: Reasonable adjustments aim to ensure that employees with disabilities are not unfairly disadvantaged in their work environment. Disabilities can come in many forms—physical, mental, sensory, and neurological—and they can affect people in different ways. Some employees might find it hard to attend work regularly, others might struggle to complete specific tasks, or some might find it difficult to work with certain equipment. Reasonable adjustments address these challenges by making appropriate changes.

Examples of Reasonable Adjustments: Reasonable adjustments can vary greatly depending on the needs of the individual and the nature of their disability. Here are some common examples:

1. Adjustments to the Work Environment:

   • A person with a physical disability might need a wheelchair-accessible workstation or ramps instead of stairs to enter the building.
   • An employee with a visual impairment may need large print documents or screen reader software.

2. Adjustments to Work Schedules:

   • Flexible working hours could be offered to someone with a mental health condition who experiences difficulties with regular 9-5 hours.
   • An employee who has chronic pain or fatigue might need the ability to take regular breaks to rest.

3. Adjustments to Job Duties:

   • A worker with a learning disability may benefit from a simplified version of a task or written instructions to help them understand their duties more easily.
   • An employee with autism might require a quieter workspace to reduce distractions and sensory overload.

4. Changes in Communication:

   • Providing an interpreter for an employee with hearing loss or offering training materials in audio format for someone with dyslexia.

Reasonable adjustments are not one-size-fits-all. The key is to provide support tailored to each individual, considering both the employee’s needs and the nature of their job.