Ask the Lawyer received the following question (paraphrased for easier reading and clarity) from a reader on a legal matter that might be of interest to the entire audience.
Q:
I have been diagnosed with sensitivity syndrome, and perfumes, colognes and many cleaning products make me ill. I have been working at my current location for five years and had many problems with this illness with both co-workers and management. Last week my management and safety had a meeting and stated that everyone has a right to wear anything they want and I basically have a right to not get sick. I have three different letters from doctors stating reasonable accommodations should be given to me to get away from these fragrances. Management told me that they have tried many times to accommodate and now refuse to move me. What should I do?
A:
If your disability reasonable accommodation request has been denied, you may, within 45 days of the denial, file an EEO complaint. The issue in the complaint is whether an accommodation to help your medical condition would be an undue burden on the agency.
Bill Bransford is managing partner of Shaw Bransford & Roth PC.
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1 Comment
In what sane world would any agency or company require the majority of employees forego normal hygiene activity for the benefit of one afflicted person? How does this person live in a world with the assortment of smells emanating from just the environment? Perhaps this person would be better served by living inside a protective bubble because it sure makes it easier for the rest of mankind.