Workplace Accommodations

ADA Compliance takes pride in developing unique, practical solutions tailored to each employee's specific situation. Accommodations can take many forms — schedule modifications, specialized equipment, software, transcription services, changes to physical workspace, and more. 

Every accommodation is built around two things: the individual's disability-related limitations and the operational needs of their department. No two accommodations are identical, and that's by design. ADA Compliance works directly with employees, their medical providers, and their supervisors to arrive at a solution that works for everyone whenever possible. 

To begin the process, contact ADA Compliance at adacoordinator@colorado.edu. You will receive two documents from our office: 

• Employee Accommodation Request Form — completed by the employee
• Medical Information Request Form — completed by your medical provider 

Both forms are also available online. While the forms are not required, they are a convenient way to ensure we have the essential details needed to engage in an effective interactive process. We will receive and consider information provided in any format. 

Every interactive process is unique, and the steps and timeline can vary. Here is a general outline of what to expect: 

1. Submit your request. The interactive process begins when ADA Compliance receives your accommodation request and supporting medical documentation from your provider. 
2. Connect with a Case Manager. A Case Manager will contact you to schedule a conversation — available in person, virtually, or by phone. They will walk you through the process in more detail, clarify any missing information, and answer your questions. 
3. Interactive process. Your Case Manager will likely speak with your supervisor about possible accommodations — but not about your medical condition. They may also follow up with your medical provider for additional or clarifying information. 
4. Notice of Determination. At the conclusion of the process, your Case Manager will issue a Notice of Determination to both you and your supervisor, outlining any approved accommodations. 

Throughout this process, you can expect clear and timely communication from ADA Compliance and your assigned Case Manager. 

A note on ongoing accommodations: Accommodations are not permanent and fixed. They can be reassessed if they are not meeting the needs of the employee or the department, and they can be adjusted as an employee's disability-related limitations evolve or change over time. 

ADA Compliance handles accommodations for disabilities and long-term medical conditions — not temporary situations. If you are dealing with a short-term illness, minor injury, or a family member's medical condition, ADA Compliance is not the right resource. 

For temporary needs, please utilize: 

• Accrued sick leave
• FMLA leave
• FAMLI leave 

Your supervisor and Human Resources can help connect you with the appropriate options. 

ADA Compliance works closely with supervisors throughout the accommodation process and beyond. Whether you are new to supervising an employee with an existing accommodation or navigating an unforeseen challenge with a current one, our office is available as an ongoing resource. 

When to refer an employee: If you notice a connection between an employee's medical condition and challenges they are experiencing in the workplace, refer them to ADA Compliance. The most effective referral involves two steps: directly informing the employee that ADA Compliance is available as a resource and sending the employee's name to ADA Compliance so we can initiate outreach. 

Supervisors in transition: When a new supervisor steps into a role overseeing employees who already have accommodations in place, ADA Compliance will work with you to ensure continuity and clarity — for both you and the employee. 

Your own accommodations: All employees are entitled to workplace accommodations, including supervisors and managers. If you have a personal need, please reach out to discuss your options. 

Contact ADA Compliance to begin your accommodation request or to ask a question before you're ready to formally apply. 

  E-mail:adacoordinator@colorado.edu 
  Phone: 303-492-9725