Reasonable Accommodation Procedure
Creating an Accessible, Positive, and Welcoming Environment for the CDC Workforce
CDC adheres to all applicable federal laws, regulations, and guidelines with respect to providing reasonable accommodation (RA) to provide equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities. CDC uses a flexible, interactive process that involves both qualified individuals with a disability and CDC officials to identify the appropriate reasonable accommodation. Where possible and appropriate, CDC will provide reasonable accommodations in a timely and cost-effective manner.
CDC provides reasonable accommodations when:
- An applicant with a disability needs an accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process in order to be considered for a job
- An employee with a disability needs an accommodation to enable them to perform the essential functions of the job or to gain access to the workplace
- An employee with a disability needs an accommodation to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment
Where appropriate, CDC processes requests for reasonable accommodation and provides reasonable accommodations in a prompt, fair, and efficient manner. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) also provides guidance for enforcement of these accommodations. CDC may take steps, as appropriate, beyond those required by the reasonable accommodation process.
What is Reasonable Accommodation?
A reasonable accommodation is a request or statement for an adjustment or change at work, in the application process, or to gain equal access to a benefit of employment.
Reasonable Accommodation can be anything from a change in a person’s work schedule to a request for removal of architectural barriers, including reconfigured workspaces. Examples of accommodations include:
- Special equipment, readers, interpreters, or other assistive devices
- Altering the work environment to increase accessibility
- Job restructuring
- Part-time or modified work schedules
The individual must present a nexus between the accommodation requested and their limitations/restrictions in performing an essential function of their position related to a physical or mental disability.
Who is Eligible for Reasonable Accommodation?
Any applicant or employee with a disability who satisfies the requisite skills, experience, education, and other job-related requirements of the position, and who can perform the essential functions of the position, is eligible for reasonable accommodation.
The ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) defines individuals with a disability as a person who:
- Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities
- Has a record of such an impairment
- Is regarded as having such an impairment
Any request for reasonable accommodation that is submitted will be assessed for eligibility on a case-by-case basis.
To request a reasonable accommodation, email RAinquiry@cdc.gov or call the Reasonable Accommodation hotline at (770) 488-1525.