Workplace Accommodation In Human Resources Development Canada

Human Resources Development Canada is committed to providing workplace accommodation for employees and job applicants.

Celebrate Our Diversity!
Celebrate Our Strength!

What is 'Accommodation'?

Accommodation refers to the removal of workplace barriers that can negatively affect an individual or a particular group within Canadian society. It provides individual adjustments in the workplace that responds to the needs of a specific employee or job applicant. Needs that must be accommodated result from such factors as disability (physical or psychological), family status, ethnic or national origin, and religious beliefs. Please see the Canadian Human Rights Act for a complete list of factors - prohibited grounds of discrimination

Can you give me some examples of accommodation?

Accommodation may include, but is not restricted to:

• Technical aids (e.g., specialized software, optical scanners, magnifiers or other equipment, etc.)
• Leave for religious or cultural observances
• Provision of work space and furnishings appropriate to the nature of the disability
• Information in alternate, accessible formats
• Flexible working arrangements
• Temporary or long term accommodation due to recuperation from injury or illness, changing family responsibilities, etc.

Why is Accommodation so important?

HRDC has a legal obligation under the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Employment Equity Act to accommodate employees and job applicants. In addition, as we quickly develop into a global economy, it only makes good business sense to ensure we are competitive by delivering quality services to our clients. At HRDC, we believe real quality comes from a work force built from all segments of Canadian society.

Will accommodation be provided to me in the hiring process, too?

Absolutely! Federal government selection processes frequently involve tests and interviews. If you have a disability that requires accommodation, you should discuss your specific needs with a Selection Board member or a Human Resources Consultant. Similarly, if you require special arrangements due to family responsibilities, religious or cultural observances, etc., you should notify the Selection Board as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.

Who is responsible for providing accommodation?

Supervisors and managers are responsible for ensuring appropriate accommodation for employees and applicants. The employee or applicant is generally responsible for requesting accommodation including identifying, where possible, the types of accommodation he or she considers appropriate. In some circumstances, requests for accommodation may be made by third parties, including family members, work colleagues, and unions. This possibility is most likely to arise where the employee is unable, because of a particular characteristic, such as a disability, to identify the need for accommodation, or to make the request. In these cases, accommodation will proceed only with the consent of the employee or applicant.

How do I request accommodation?

As a job applicant, you may speak with a member of the Selection Board or a Human Resources Consultant. If you are an HRDC employee, you should request workplace accommodation with your manager. You should be prepared to discuss your needs openly and honestly.

How would HRDC handle my request?

Your manager will work with you to help determine the most appropriate accommodation for your situation. Every effort will be made to provide reasonable accommodation in a timely manner and your request will only be denied if it causes undue hardship, as defined by the Canadian Human Rights Act.

Where do I find further information?

You may visit the following web-sites:

Intranet (Available to Department employees only)

Workplace Accommodation: A Guide
http://hr.hq-ac.prv/hrb/equity/guide/

Adaptive Computer Technology Center
http://intracom.hq-ac.prv/sys/crss-scrs/act-tia/act_e.shtml

Internet

e-ACT
www.act.gc.ca/

Canadian Human Rights Publications
http://www.chrc-ccdp.ca/publications/index.asp?l=e

Canadian Human Rights Act
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/en/H-6/index.html

This pamphlet is available in alternative formats (electronic, tape and large print) and can be obtained by contacting (204) 983-1754.