What must be demonstrated by employers to avoid providing reasonable accommodations?

Employers must demonstrate that a requested reasonable accommodation causes undue hardship to avoid providing it. Undue hardship refers to significant difficulty or expense incurred by the employer in making the accommodation. This standard is intended to balance the need for employee accommodations with the operational capabilities and financial considerations of the employer.

In determining whether an accommodation would impose an undue hardship, factors such as the nature and cost of the accommodation, the overall financial resources of the facility, and the impact on the operation of the business are considered. If an employer can show that providing the accommodation would be excessively disruptive or costly, they may be exempt from fulfilling the request. This ensures that while employees are supported in their needs, employers are also protected from accommodations that would unfairly burden their operations or financial stability.