Description
Learn how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to employees with allergies and odor sensitivities.
With allergies and odor sensitivities on the rise and affecting millions of Americans, employers are increasingly confronted with the challenge of accommodating such conditions in the workplace. As a result of the ADA Amendments Act, many more employees are filing disabilityrelated claims for failure to accommodate, discrimination, and retaliation, causing employers to question how to properly accommodate such conditions. For example, a Michigan court determined that an employee for the city of Detroit with an allergy to certain air fresheners and perfumes could proceed with her ADA claim because, according to the court, her disability substantially limited the major life activity of breathing. The employee was awarded 100,000 and attorneys fees. This topic will provide you with the necessary information to determine if an employee or applicant claiming an allergy or odor sensitivity is covered by the ADA, as well as how to implement appropriate policies addressing allergies and odor sensitivities in the workplace, properly accommodate employees affected by these conditions, and otherwise comply with the requirements of the ADA, as modified by the ADAAA, especially after the COVID19 remote work experience.
Date: 2023-03-22 Start Time: 1:00 PM ET End Time: 2:05 PM ET
Learning Objectives
* You will be able to identify what allergies and odor sensitivities are protected under the ADA.
* You will be able to discuss how to determine whether an employee with an allergy or odor sensitivity is a qualified individual with a disability.
* You will be able to review what types of accommodations employers are required to provide.
* You will be able to describe best practices for employers.