T-TAP: Training

Step 4: Redefine the Situation
* Was a step overlooked?
* Has an accommodation team been assembled?
* Has there been an attempt to make a good faith effort?
* Has the employee been notified?

Transcript - Slide 7

The Job Accommodation Process does not always end with a successful accommodation outcome. If you have reached Step 4, it may be necessary to redefine the accommodation situation. Let's consider some questions in step 4.

Was a step overlooked during the accommodation process? It may be helpful to seek out additional resources that can provide further insight regarding potential accommodation options. Resources such as the Job Accommodation Network, state and private vocational rehabilitation services and assistive technology agencies may be of help.

Next, has an accommodation team been assembled? An accommodation team can consist of any number of individuals who understand functional limitations, job functions and accommodation concepts. Members of the team might include rehabilitation engineers, assistive technology specialists, occupational therapists, and others with the appropriate knowledge.

Another question, has there been an attempt to make a good faith effort?" When redefining the situation, an employer will want to be sure that accommodation ideas have been exhausted and that a good faith effort has resulted. There are certainly situations when a successful accommodation outcome may not occur. If the employer and the employee have worked collaboratively to identify possible accommodations, it is likely that a good faith effort has resulted. Employers are encouraged to document their accommodation efforts.

Lastly, has the employee been notified? If an accommodation cannot be identified and the employee is no longer able to perform essential job functions, the employee may no longer be qualified to retain the position. The employer should notify the employee of their employment status and provide any available options, such as long term disability benefits, if applicable.

Now, if situation has been redefined in step 4 and a successful accommodation outcome has not been achieved, the accommodation process will come to an end. However, if an accommodation has been successfully provided at this point in the accommodation process, move to step 5: Monitor Accommodations.

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