Understanding Workplace Accommodations
- Dylan Laliberte
- Apr 2
- 4 min read
Workplace accommodations not only provide support to employees with disabilities and unique health challenges in their jobs, but also help businesses thrive. In fact, research shows that companies that prioritize disability inclusion outperform competitors by up to 30% in profit margins.
On average, for every $1 spent on accommodations, businesses see a $30 return in productivity and retention. But what exactly are workplace accommodations, and how do they work? Let’s break it down.
What are Workplace Accommodations?
Workplace accommodations are supports that help employees do their jobs effectively. These adjustments can be tangible, which are physical accommodations that can be done to modify equipment, tools, or their work environment.
Or, intangible, which are non-physical adjustments to areas of the workplace such as workplace policies, communication styles, or job expectations. Intangible accommodations focus more on flexibility, understanding and support in the workplace rather than physical changes.
For example:
Tangible accommodation: an employee with back issues may receive an ergonomic chair to reduce strain.
Intangible accommodation: a visually impaired worker is permitted to use their own screen reading software rather than the company's tools.
More examples of tangible and intangible accommodations can include:
Tangible:
Assistive technology
Ergonomic office furniture
Noise canceling headphones
Automatic doors and ramps
Lighting adjustments
Work from home technology
Intangible:
Flexible work schedules
Remote or hybrid work options
Extra time for training or task completion
Support animals in the workplace
Modified job duties
Clear deadlines
Workplace Accommodation - Scenario 1
Situation - Sarah, a graphic designer with a visual impairment, struggled to see small details on their screen.
Accommodation - Sarah’s employer provided a large high contrast monitor with a screen magnification software.
Result - With these tools, Sarah was able to work comfortably and efficiently, allowing her to increase productivity by 50%! This simple and low cost accommodation not only improved performance but also helped the company keep a skilled graphic designer.
Workplace Accommodation - Scenario 2
Situation - James, a data analyst experiences frequent migraines that made early mornings difficult which resulted in taking many sick days.
Accommodation - instead of forcing James to work a 9 to 5 schedule their employer allowed him to start later in the day and take breaks as needed.
Result - With this flexibility, James was able to reduce sick days by 80%, improve his focus, and continue to deliver high quality reports without the extra stress.
Why are Accommodations Important?
Accommodations help create equitable and inclusive workplaces. Whether tangible or intangible they play a crucial role in supporting employees and ensuring they can perform their best.
These accommodations enable individuals with limitations or barriers to thrive in their roles contributing to a more successful workplace. By making simple adjustments employers are able to do the following:
Support Employee Well-Being – Employees who get the support they need feel valued and motivated.
Increase Productivity – When barriers are removed, employees can work more efficiently.
Improve Workplace Diversity – A more inclusive environment benefits everyone.
Comply with Legal Requirements – Employers must follow laws that protect workers' rights.
When to Request Accommodations
Accommodation requests can surface at any point in the job searching process.
Third party referral
In the application or cover letter
When the interview is scheduled
When you meet the employer
During the interview
After receiving or starting a job
If you require accommodation for the job interview, make sure to bring this forward when the interview is scheduled so employers know how they can accommodate you.
How to Request Accommodations
If you require an accommodation, follow these steps:
Identify Your Needs – Think about what changes would help you work better.
Talk to Your Employer – Have an open conversation about your needs.
Provide Necessary Documentation – Some accommodations may require medical or professional documentation.
Work Together on a Plan – Find a solution that works for both you and your employer.
Common Myths about Accommodations
Some people believe that accommodations are costly or unfair. Let’s clear up a few misconceptions:
“Accommodations are expensive.” – Many accommodations are low-cost or free.
“Only people with physical disabilities qualify.” – Accommodations support people with mental health conditions, chronic illnesses, and more.
“Employers don’t have to provide them.” – Workplace laws require reasonable accommodations unless they cause undue hardship.
“Accommodations are only physical changes or special equipment” – accommodations can also be strategies or “intangible” many accommodations involve adjusting workplace policies, communication methods, or schedules.
Final Thoughts
Hiring is a two way street. As job seekers and employees, we bring both our time, energy, knowledge and skills to help an organization succeed. In return, employers must foster a supportive and inclusive workplace. One that acknowledges disabilities, barriers and the accommodations necessary for employees to thrive.
If you ever doubt whether an employer will be inclusive and supportive to your needs, it may be worth considering opportunities where you feel valued and empowered. A workplace that truly respects and accommodates its employees is one where people can do their best work and contribute meaningfully.
At the end of the day, hiring is a mutual commitment. Employers should be willing to provide the support and flexibility for you to succeed. When employees thrive, businesses do too.
We are Here to Help!
At TEAM Work Cooperative, we’re here to support you with navigating the world of workplace accommodations with confidence. Whether you need guidance on disability disclosure, assistance in requesting accommodations, or advice on your rights as an employee, we're here to help.
If you have further questions or need personalized support, contact us here. At teamwork we are committed to helping you succeed in an inclusive and supportive work environment.
Do you want to learn more about disclosure in the workplace? Sign up for our free workshop, Disclosure: Talking about your disability, where we discuss when, how, and why to disclose a disability to an employer.
Click here to visit our events page and register today!
About Dylan Laliberte
Born in Ontario but now calling Nova Scotia Home, Dylan Laliberte chose Dalhousie University with a focus on building real-world experience through their commerce Co-op program. Dylan decided to do his internship with TEAM WORK because he believes that everyone deserves a fair chance at success and wants to help people overcome their barriers to do so!
