Spotlight

Finding Solutions that Enable Accessibility in the Workplace

July 2, 2024

I'm from the government and I am here to help – a line that often elicits laughs and sometimes, disbelief. That is not the case where the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is concerned. This is a government organization that truly helps everyone, from people with disabilities and/or their families to business owners who want to do the right thing.

A leading source of free, expert and confidential guidance on job accommodations and disability employment issues, JAN is a service of the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy. JAN's experts serve customers across the United States and around the world.

For individuals with disabilities, JAN helps them understand what accommodation ideas to consider and offers suggestions for requesting and negotiating accommodations with their employer. A reliable source of information about the employment provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), JAN does not provide legal advice or advocacy and does not have authority to enforce the law. The information provided is based on resources available through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

For employers and their representatives who are seeking guidance on practical ways to provide accommodation for people with disabilities, JAN offers free guidance and technical assistance related to job accommodation solutions, including the use of automatic doors. According to a JAN spokesperson, "JAN does not endorse products or recommend specific solutions.

We give as many ideas as we can based on the situation presented by the person contacting JAN. We do provide information on automatic doors as one possible solution for opening doors when employees are experiencing difficulties doing so, when appropriate. Other options would depend on the specifics of the situation as described but may include having a security guard open the door if appropriate."

Recognizing the value of qualified workers with disabilities contributes to the productivity of U.S. businesses. JAN helps both workers with disabilities and their employers achieve their personal and professional goals by facilitating decision making when it comes to accessibility for all.

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