Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), an employer must provide reasonable accommodations unless it would cause:
Correct Answer
A) Undue hardship on the operation of the business
The ADA requires reasonable accommodations unless they would cause undue hardship, which considers factors like cost, size of business, and impact on operations. Some cost and operational changes are expected.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Under the ADA, employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified employees with disabilities unless doing so would cause an 'undue hardship' on the operation of the business. Undue hardship is determined by evaluating factors such as the nature and cost of the accommodation, the employer's overall financial resources, the size of the business, and the impact on business operations. The law recognizes that some accommodations may involve costs and changes, but draws the line at accommodations that would fundamentally alter the business or create excessive burden.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: A change in the essential functions of the job
This is incorrect because the ADA does not prohibit ALL additional costs to employers. Reasonable accommodations often involve some cost, and employers are expected to bear reasonable expenses. The standard is 'undue hardship,' not any cost whatsoever.
Option C: Other employees to work additional hours
This is incorrect because requiring other employees to occasionally work additional hours or adjust schedules can be part of reasonable accommodation. The ADA does not exempt employers from making accommodations simply because it might affect other workers' schedules, as long as it doesn't create undue hardship.
Memory Technique
Think 'UNDUE = UNreasonable DUE to excessive burden' - the ADA expects some accommodation costs but not unreasonable hardship
Reference Hint
Look up ADA requirements in the employment law section or civil rights chapter of your construction law reference materials
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