Reasonable Workplace Accommodations for Religious Purposes

Generally, the law requires that employers make “reasonable accommodations” for their employees’ protected religious beliefs. But what does that really mean?

A reasonable accommodation is an adjustment to the working environment (or to the mandatory job tasks) that will allow an employee to practice his or her religion, so long as the adjustment does not impose more than a minimal burden on the employer’s business operations.

If the accommodation is excessively burdensome, the employer has a defense to the request for accommodation.

Common examples of reasonable accommodation for religious discrimination include:

• Job reassignments.
• Modifying employment policies.
• Substituting or swapping assigned shifts.
• Flexible scheduling to allow for religious holidays, holy days, or observances.
• Modifying workplace practices (including dress codes and/or grooming guidelines).
• Allowing an employee to work during lunch or break hours so that he or she can leave early for a religious observance.

Employment Discrimination Based on Religious Beliefs

If your job is creating a conflict with your religious beliefs and your employer has failed to reasonably accommodate those beliefs, an experienced Atlanta discrimination attorney can help you enforce your civil rights and seek any compensation for the damages you’ve suffered as a result of employer violations.  Taking legal action may also be a very effective way to help other employees who may face the same types of workplace issues in the future.

It’s also a good business practice for companies to consult with an attorney to ensure that their existing policies and procedures do not violate state or federal laws. Taking proactive measures to comply with religious accommodation laws can protect your company against costly lawsuits in the future.

Determine Whether Reasonable Accommodation is Required in Your Case

Whether you’re an employee or employer, the skilled legal team at The Reddy Law Firm, P.C. can help you understand what the law requires in your case. We represent clients across the State of Georgia, including Atlanta, Cumming, Lawrenceville, Lilburn and Marietta.  To speak with a lawyer in our office, please call (678) 629-3246 or email us today.