Society For Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certified Professional Practice Exam

What is a common requirement for a company when dealing with workplace disability regulations?

1. To provide all employees with the same treatment

2. To minimize costs related to employee accommodations

3. To avoid undue hardship for the employer

4. To enhance company profits

The correct answer is: To avoid undue hardship for the employer

A common requirement for a company regarding workplace disability regulations is to avoid undue hardship for the employer. This principle is rooted in laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates that employers must make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the operation of the business. Undue hardship is defined as significant difficulty or expense relative to the size, resources, nature, and structure of the employer's operation. This means that while companies are encouraged to support employees with disabilities through accommodations, they are not required to make changes that would be excessively costly or fundamentally alter the nature of their business operations. Understanding this concept is crucial for HR professionals, as it helps balance the needs of employees with disabilities and the operational capabilities of the employer, ensuring compliance with legislation while maintaining business viability.