Unsure of compliance? Revise your policies

Unsure of compliance? Revise your policies

Kathleen Liever, an employment law associate at Fowler White Boggs in Tampa, FL, says to make these changes to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008:

1. Review and update job descriptions so that the essential functions for each position are accurately described.

"Not all job functions are essential," notes Liever.

2. Develop customized pre-employment physicals to make sure that the company you work with is hiring the right employees.

"This means those who can meet the physical requirements of each position," says Liever.

3. Develop and implement a reasonable accommodations policy, and provide it to employees.

"Focus attention on the interactive process used to address applicant or employee requests for reasonable accommodations," says Liever.

4. Promptly address applicant and employee requests for accommodation.

"Engage in a thorough interactive process in response to accommodation requests," says Liever. "Remember to document the interactive process, all potential accommodations considered, and all offers of reasonable accommodation."