Who Knows ADA Diasability/Labor Regulations, Laws, etc.?

Hi everyone!

I just got a job I LOVE. When I was interviewing I didn't mention a herniated disc/osteoarthritis in my spine, for obvious reasons. The job involved lots of bending and lifting books. Also, lots of stuff it stored low, under cabinets and the ergonomics are terrible! The place is staffed by very young people!

I need to know what my rights are in terms of accommodations. For example, lots of online work can be done seated at a computer in the back office, I really could use a cart for book shelving v. schlepping back and forth. And having incoming, heavy boxes placed on the floor is tough - having them on a table for opening, etc. is easier. How do I write these requests?

Also, I'm part time but I imagine ADA laws cover everyone, correct?

Thanks and mwah!

What state are you in?

I used to work with this company - I'll send you their link to their resources that include information, but some of it is state specific. Some states have more protection for employees above and beyond the ADA, so you might have to consult with a lawyer in your state. These links should be able to give you some idea though.

http://www.disabilityrightsca.org/issues/index.htm

It depends on if you are a qualified individual with a disability.  When you interviewed, if they asked if you could perorm the duties with or without accomodation, you probably said yes, which I believe you could.  It does not sound as if the things you are asking for are unreasonable, but there is a specific process to go through including documentation from your or your companies medical provider.

Title I of the ADA changed a couple of years ago back to the original intent.  If you are a qualified individual with a disability, you have many rights, but so does the employer.  I would not try to get on an adversarial footing, but try to show that this is a way for you to be more productive.  It may be they have never had to think about these things in the past.  You could really be helping them out!

Good Luck
Steve

Contact your local Vocational Rehabilitation Agency to see if they will help you with advocacy as well as evaluating your work site - with your employer's cooperation- for low cost accommodations.

Most employers want to do the right thing to keep good employees  Be honest from the get-go about limitiations that keep you from doing essential functions of the job.

 Thanks so much everyone.  I can't imagine an adversarial relationship and wouldn't touch the possibility of creating one.  I knew this business for a long time before I began working there.  It's so weird - I'm trained to advocate for others, and understand how easy it is to make fixes but for some reason I have this "high maintenance" fear - like I'm going to be perceived as needy, which in a way I am.  Actually I wasn't asked about any physical limits during any interview ... are they allowed to ask that question if one appears able-bodied and CAN do a lot (which is me)?  I'm trying to prevent 
further damage to a tender back and I also take care of it ... so I hope I can easily integrate the things I need w/out making it any kind of "issue."  Still, it's good to know that I have the right to some accommodations ...