Accommodations in Employment for Persons with Disabilities, Procedures

Definitions and Explanations

1. Disability
2. Accommodation
3. Work Hardening
4. Ergonomics
5. Essential Duties

General Guidelines

• Accommodation addresses current employment limitations.
• Accommodation addresses needs disclosed by the employee or applicant.
• The employee participates in the accommodation process.
• The employer attempts to re-employ workers under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act.
• Types of accommodation include communications services, human support services, technical aids and devices, position redesign, employment policy and practice modifications, and workstation modifications.

Hiring Process and Job Applicants with Disabilities

• Applicants may request accommodation at any time.
• Requests for assistance are directed to DHR/ER or DOHS.

Short-Term Accommodation of Employees

• Requests for short-term accommodation are directed to DOHS.
• DOHS prepares an accommodation plan for approval.
• Options include extensions, new plans, work hardening, leave, and assessments.

Long-Term Accommodation of Employees

• Requests for long-term accommodation are directed to DOHS.
• DOHS provides an assessment for determination of accommodation possibility.
• If immediate accommodation cannot be provided, interim methods may be considered.
• If accommodation cannot be made by the unit/department, an independent medical assessment may be arranged.
• The University continues to place employees in alternative positions as needed.

Application to the Accommodation Fund

• The Fund administers funds for One Time Only expenditures.
• Funds can be applied for by employees or through collective bargaining units.
• Additional funding may be requested by the Director of Occupational Health and Safety.

Summary of Operational Responsibilities

Operational responsibilities are shared by all members of the York University community, with specific accountability for certain segments of the Policy.