“Skills and Abilities”

This part of the act requires that employers document (usually through job descriptions) the essential functions of the job to make sure that there is no discrimination against a person with a disability. For example, if a position requires heavy lifting, the employer should not just write “heavy lifting.” Specifics are needed, such as “unloading 150 lb. bags from the trucking dock and carrying them 10 feet to a conveyor system.” Also remember that the employer must consider whether the employee can perform the essential functions through reasonable accomodation. The employer should also review the employment application and eliminate any questions r elating to mental or physical impairment or disability. If there are exceptions, ...

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