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HRPOL Section 15 -- Workplace Accommodation
By Imm Yong
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Non-Public Funds recognizes the value of having a diverse and skilled workforce and is committed to providing a workplace that is free of employment barriers and discrimination. This commitment is accomplished in part by having a policy and process for employees and prospective employees to seek appropriate workplace accommodation.
Below are some frequently asked questions concerning Workplace Accommodation.
Q 1. What is the 'duty to accommodate'?
A 1. The duty to accommodate refers to the obligation of an employer to take measures to eliminate disadvantages to employees, prospective employees or clients that result from a rule, practice and physical barrier that has or may have an adverse impact on individuals or groups protected under the Canadian Human Rights Act or identified as a designated group under the Employment Equity Act.
Q 2. What is 'workplace accommodation'?
A 2. Workplace accommodation refers to the creation and maintenance of an inclusive and barrier-free work environment that caters to the needs of as many types of persons as possible to ensure that everyone is given the opportunity to perform to his or her potential.
Q 3. What are 'barriers'?
A 3. Barriers can be physical barriers as well as formal or informal policies and practices that restrict or exclude persons in the designated groups from employment opportunities in NPF.
Q 4. Is the Duty to Accommodate only linked to persons with disabilities?
A 4. Accommodation is based not only on individual limitations due to a disability, but also includes accommodation based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status and family status, or conviction for which a pardon has been granted.
Q 5. Do employees need to self-identify as a Person with a Disability in order to obtain accommodation?
A 5. The self-identification process is voluntary and the information obtained from it is confidential. No one can be forced to self-identify to receive accommodation or after he/she has been accommodated.
For more information on Diversity and Equity or the Workplace Accommodation Policy, please visit www.cfpsa.com/ee or contact Ms. Imm Yong, Director Diversity and Equity at (613) 996-6717, or by e-mail at ee@cfpsa.com.
