I work in hotel so they like that people are standing. I feell that there will be opposition from my HR departments or hire ups because it’s hotel tradition. My Director wants to interview me how should I prepare?
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I Have Knee Problems Because I Stand All Day, If I Request A Chair How Will The Law Protect Me?5 comments to I Have Knee Problems Because I Stand All Day, If I Request A Chair How Will The Law Protect Me? |
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If you’re in the US, the Americans with Disabilities Act requires employers make REASONABLE accommodations for persons with disabilities. First, you should have documentation (preferably a letter) from your doctor evidencing your knee problems and suggesting a remedy, such as a special mat to stand on to reduce pressure on your knee or a chair/stool to sit on when not waiting on customers. You can also suggest that you would be willing to stand up when waiting on customers, but for the “down time” between customers, it would really help if you had a chair.
It depends on what you were hired to do, and whether you are still able to fulfill those duties. Some companies are required (by federal law) to make “reasonable accommodations” for those who have a significant, medically diagnosed disability. However, these laws often do not specify the extent to which they must accommodate employees. Furthermore, there are many state laws regarding disability accommodations, that vary depending upon the size of the organization, and the type of funding they receive (federal, state, or private funding). Before your meeting with HR, you should obtain written verification of your knee problems from your doctor, and it should include recommendations for improving the situation (such as an ergonomic chair, more comfortable shoes, etc). Good luck!
Well there is a law on the books called the Americans with disabilities act. It states that an employer must offer “reasonable accommodation” for a disability. If a chair would leave you under the counter, perhaps you could sit on something taller such as a bar stool. You can also buy shoes with 2″ springs inside them
( http://www.zcoil.com/ )
You don’t want to come across as frivolous or throw any legal terms at them. Avoid mentioning this act specifically, the manager probably knows about it anyways. Be prepared with a note from your doctor, be polite and professional about it, and state that you can do the job but you will require some accommodation. In an interview, the hiring manager will ask you questions about you doing the job. Don’t bring it up, wait until they bring up the job requirements and ask the question first. That way they’ll remember you for your qualifications, and your accommodation won’t be part of the “first impression”
You may have to decide which is more important, your health or your job. If you are in one of the third world countries with poor protection laws. I assume you are and do not have the benefit of the NHS so can not afford to have your knee problem treated.
You realise that your knee problems may cause you to be absent if you are in severe pain, that your ability to deal with guests can be affected too if you are in pain.
In British Law, a suitable seat has to be provided. It is up to the employee to choose if they prefer to stand.
You might want to get better shoes. If you don’t have good arch supports you can hurt your knees and back.