From jobops
Builds and navigates workplace accommodation requests for disability, religious, and medical needs under Ontario Human Rights Code, with US support via flag.
npx claudepluginhub reggiechan74/jobops --plugin jobopsThis skill uses the workspace's default tool permissions.
Read `.jobops/config.json`. If missing, stop with:
Prepares for unemployment/EI claims and employer contest defense using ROE codes, eligibility rules, and jurisdiction settings. Defaults to Canadian EI.
Provides ethical HR guidance, structured templates, checklists for hiring, onboarding/offboarding, PTO/leave, performance management, policies, and employee relations. Requires jurisdiction/context.
Provides ethical HR guidance for hiring, onboarding/offboarding, PTO/leave management, performance reviews, compliant policies, and employee relations in engineering teams.
Share bugs, ideas, or general feedback.
Read .jobops/config.json. If missing, stop with:
JOBOPS NOT CONFIGURED Run /jobops:setup to initialize your workspace.
Use config.directories.<key> for all file paths in this skill.
Use config.preferences.cultural_profile if this skill generates resume-style content.
Use config.preferences.default_jurisdiction if this skill has jurisdiction-sensitive logic (crisis/legal skills accept --jurisdiction=<ISO-3166-2> to override).
This command defaults to Ontario Human Rights Code accommodation framework.
Key Principles:
Protected Grounds Requiring Accommodation:
Key Differences from US:
Ontario-Specific Laws:
For US users: Specify --jurisdiction=US for ADA, Title VII, FMLA, PWFA frameworks.
CRITICAL: Read these disclaimers ALOUD to the user at session start:
Parse arguments to determine accommodation type and mode:
Accommodation Type (mutually exclusive):
--disability: ADA reasonable accommodations (default if no type specified)--religious: Title VII religious accommodations--medical: General medical condition accommodations--pregnancy: Pregnancy-related accommodations (PDA, PWFA)Mode:
--appeal: Focus on responding to denial and escalation optionsIf no accommodation type specified, default to --disability (ADA framework).
Ask the user:
"What type of accommodation are you seeking?"
"Briefly describe the accommodation you need."
"Have you already requested this accommodation?"
"Does your employer know about your condition/need?"
Based on the accommodation type, provide the relevant legal framework:
ADA REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION FRAMEWORK
======================================
WHO IS PROTECTED:
- "Qualified individual with a disability"
- Has physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities
- Can perform "essential functions" of the job with or without accommodation
- Includes history of disability or being "regarded as" disabled
EMPLOYER OBLIGATIONS:
- Must provide "reasonable accommodation" unless it causes "undue hardship"
- Must engage in "interactive process" in good faith
- Cannot discriminate based on disability
- Must keep medical information confidential
KEY DEFINITIONS:
- Reasonable Accommodation: Modifications enabling qualified person with disability to perform essential job functions
- Essential Functions: Fundamental job duties (not marginal tasks)
- Undue Hardship: Significant difficulty or expense (employer's burden to prove)
- Interactive Process: Good-faith dialogue between employer and employee to identify effective accommodation
IMPORTANT: You do NOT need to use specific words like "ADA" or "reasonable accommodation" to trigger employer's obligations. Simply communicating that you need a change due to a medical condition is sufficient.
TITLE VII RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION FRAMEWORK
===========================================
WHO IS PROTECTED:
- Employees with "sincerely held" religious, ethical, or moral beliefs
- NOT limited to organized religions or traditional beliefs
- Includes moral/ethical beliefs with religious-like importance
- Employer cannot question validity of belief (only sincerity)
EMPLOYER OBLIGATIONS:
- Must reasonably accommodate unless it causes more than "de minimis" cost
- Note: De minimis is LOWER threshold than ADA's "undue hardship"
- Must not discriminate based on religion
- Cannot force employee to choose between job and religious practice
COMMON ACCOMMODATIONS:
- Schedule modifications for religious observance (Sabbath, holidays)
- Dress code exceptions (head coverings, religious attire)
- Grooming policy exceptions (beards, hair length)
- Break time for prayer
- Voluntary shift swaps with coworkers
IMPORTANT: You do NOT need to prove your belief is part of an organized religion. Personal religious or moral convictions can qualify.
MEDICAL ACCOMMODATION FRAMEWORK
===============================
LEGAL PROTECTIONS:
- ADA (if condition qualifies as disability)
- FMLA (for leave-related accommodations)
- State disability laws (often broader than ADA)
TEMPORARY VS. PERMANENT:
- Temporary conditions may qualify for accommodation
- Even short-term impairments can require accommodation
- Post-ADA Amendments Act (2008) broadened coverage significantly
COMMON ACCOMMODATIONS:
- Modified work schedule during treatment/recovery
- Leave for medical appointments
- Remote work during recovery
- Light duty assignments
- Modified break schedules
- Temperature or environmental adjustments
FMLA INTERSECTION:
- 12 weeks unpaid leave for serious health condition
- Intermittent leave may be available
- Job protection during leave
- Separate from ADA reasonable accommodation
PREGNANCY ACCOMMODATION FRAMEWORK
=================================
KEY LAWS:
- Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA): Cannot treat pregnancy less favorably than similar conditions
- Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA, 2023): Requires reasonable accommodation for pregnancy
- FMLA: 12 weeks leave for birth/bonding
PWFA REQUIREMENTS (Effective June 2023):
- Employers with 15+ employees must accommodate "known limitations"
- Covers pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions
- Similar to ADA framework but specifically for pregnancy
- Cannot require leave if another accommodation is available
COMMON ACCOMMODATIONS:
- More frequent breaks
- Modified work schedule
- Light duty or modified duties
- Permission to sit/stand as needed
- Closer parking
- Time for prenatal appointments
- Temporary transfer to less hazardous position
- Leave for recovery as needed
PROTECTION PERIOD:
- Entire pregnancy
- Childbirth and recovery
- Related medical conditions (lactation, postpartum)
IMPORTANT: PWFA explicitly prohibits forcing employees to take leave if another reasonable accommodation exists.
You do NOT need "magic words" to request an accommodation. Courts have held that any communication conveying the need for an adjustment due to a condition can trigger employer obligations.
Ways to initiate:
Recommended approach:
Once you request accommodation, employer MUST:
EMPLOYER'S INTERACTIVE PROCESS OBLIGATIONS
==========================================
1. ENGAGE IN GOOD FAITH DIALOGUE
- Cannot ignore or delay response unreasonably
- Must discuss your functional limitations
- Must explore possible accommodations
- Must explain reasons if declining specific request
2. CONSIDER REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES
- If your requested accommodation isn't feasible
- Must work with you to identify alternatives
- Cannot simply say "no" without exploration
3. TIMELINE EXPECTATIONS
- No legal deadline, but "prompt" response required
- Interim accommodations may be appropriate
- 2-4 weeks for initial response is typical
- Complex situations may take longer
4. WHAT EMPLOYER CAN DO:
- Request documentation of condition and need
- Verify functional limitations
- Propose alternative accommodations
- Deny if true undue hardship (must prove it)
5. WHAT EMPLOYER CANNOT DO:
- Demand complete medical records
- Ask about diagnosis beyond what's needed
- Retaliate for requesting accommodation
- Ignore or refuse to engage
- Automatically deny based on policy
What employer CAN request:
What employer CANNOT demand:
Healthcare provider documentation should include:
HIPAA Considerations:
DISCLOSURE GUIDANCE
===================
MUST DISCLOSE:
- That you have a condition requiring accommodation
- How the condition affects your ability to perform job functions
- What accommodation(s) you need
SHOULD DISCLOSE (if helpful):
- General nature of condition (e.g., "mobility impairment")
- Permanence or expected duration
- Any limitations on alternative accommodations
MAY KEEP PRIVATE:
- Specific diagnosis (in most cases)
- Cause or origin of condition
- Treatment details
- Prognosis or other conditions
- Personal feelings about condition
STRATEGY: Share the minimum necessary to support your request. You can always provide more information if needed.
COMMON REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
================================
WORK SCHEDULE:
- Modified start/end times
- Part-time or reduced hours
- Additional breaks
- Compressed work week
- Flexible scheduling for appointments
WORK LOCATION:
- Remote work / work from home
- Closer parking space
- First-floor office assignment
- Quieter work area
MODIFIED JOB DUTIES:
- Reassignment of "marginal" (non-essential) functions
- Modified performance standards (with caution)
- Job restructuring
- NOTE: Cannot eliminate "essential" functions
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY:
- Screen readers or magnification
- Speech recognition software
- Ergonomic equipment
- Specialized keyboards/mice
- Hearing aids or amplification devices
PHYSICAL WORKSPACE:
- Accessible workstation
- Standing desk or adjustable furniture
- Improved lighting
- Temperature accommodation
- Reduced noise environment
LEAVE AS ACCOMMODATION:
- Additional unpaid leave beyond FMLA
- Intermittent leave for treatment
- Return-to-work transition period
- Leave for service animal training
POLICY MODIFICATIONS:
- Exception to attendance policy for medical appointments
- Exception to no-food policy for diabetes management
- Modified dress code for medical devices
REASSIGNMENT:
- Transfer to vacant position (if cannot accommodate current role)
- Last resort after other accommodations considered
- Must be qualified for new position
- Not required to create new position or bump other employees
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION EXAMPLES
================================
SCHEDULING:
- Time off for religious holidays
- Schedule adjustment for Sabbath observance
- Prayer breaks during workday
- Flexible scheduling for religious services
DRESS/GROOMING:
- Hijab, turban, yarmulke, or other head coverings
- Religious jewelry or symbols
- Beard or unshorn hair
- Modest dress requirements
FOOD/DIETARY:
- Break time for religious fasting
- Dietary accommodations at work events
- Exception from food-handling if against beliefs
VOLUNTARY SHIFT SWAPS:
- Trading shifts with willing coworkers
- Employer must facilitate but coworkers not required to swap
PREGNANCY ACCOMMODATION EXAMPLES
================================
PHYSICAL ACCOMMODATIONS:
- Seating for jobs typically standing
- Closer parking
- Assistance with heavy lifting
- Temperature-controlled environment
- Frequent bathroom breaks
SCHEDULE MODIFICATIONS:
- Time for prenatal appointments
- Modified hours for severe morning sickness
- Gradual return from bedrest
- Lactation breaks and private space
DUTY MODIFICATIONS:
- Temporary transfer from hazardous work
- Light duty assignment
- Removal of specific physical tasks
- Work from home during high-risk period
LEAVE:
- Time off for pregnancy-related conditions
- Recovery time as needed
- Cannot force leave if accommodation available
Generate a customized accommodation request letter based on user's inputs:
ACCOMMODATION REQUEST LETTER TEMPLATE
=====================================
[Date]
To: [HR Contact / Manager Name]
From: [Your Name]
Re: Request for Workplace Accommodation
Dear [Name],
OPENING (Identify need without oversharing):
I am writing to request a workplace accommodation related to [general description of condition - e.g., "a medical condition," "my religious beliefs," "my pregnancy"]. I am committed to my role at [Company] and believe an accommodation will allow me to continue performing successfully.
SPECIFIC ACCOMMODATION REQUESTED:
I am requesting the following accommodation(s):
1. [Specific accommodation - be clear and concrete]
2. [Additional accommodation if applicable]
HOW THIS ENABLES JOB PERFORMANCE:
This accommodation would enable me to [explain how it addresses the limitation and allows you to perform essential functions]. [If applicable: I have successfully performed these duties with similar accommodations in the past.]
OFFER TO DISCUSS ALTERNATIVES:
I understand that accommodation is an interactive process, and I am open to discussing alternative solutions that would address my needs while meeting the company's operational requirements.
DOCUMENTATION:
[If applicable: I am attaching documentation from my healthcare provider / religious leader supporting this request.]
[Or: I am happy to provide documentation as needed to support this request.]
REQUEST FOR RESPONSE:
I would appreciate confirmation of receipt of this request and a response regarding next steps within [reasonable timeframe - typically 2 weeks]. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Contact Information]
cc: [Personal email address for your records]
ACCOMMODATION REQUEST DOCUMENTATION
===================================
BEFORE SUBMITTING:
[ ] Written request (email or letter)
[ ] Specific accommodation(s) identified
[ ] Connection to condition explained (without oversharing)
[ ] Healthcare provider letter (if applicable)
[ ] Copy saved to personal email/records
HEALTHCARE PROVIDER LETTER SHOULD INCLUDE:
[ ] Confirmation of condition requiring accommodation
[ ] Relevant functional limitations
[ ] Recommended accommodation(s)
[ ] Expected duration (permanent/temporary)
[ ] Provider credentials and contact info
AFTER SUBMITTING:
[ ] Note date/time submitted
[ ] Note who received it
[ ] Set reminder to follow up if no response in 2 weeks
[ ] Document any verbal communications
If --appeal flag is present or user indicates their request was denied:
Ask the user:
"Did you receive the denial in writing?"
"What reason was given for the denial?"
"What was the interactive process like?"
CHALLENGING ACCOMMODATION DENIAL
================================
1. REQUEST WRITTEN EXPLANATION
"I would like a written explanation of the reasons for denying my accommodation request, including what alternatives were considered."
2. PROPOSE ALTERNATIVES
If they rejected specific accommodation, propose others:
- Less costly alternatives
- Different scheduling approach
- Temporary trial period
- Modified version of original request
3. CHALLENGE UNDUE HARDSHIP CLAIM
Undue hardship is employer's burden to prove. Ask:
- What specific costs were identified?
- What impact on operations was calculated?
- Were all alternatives considered?
- How does company size factor in?
Note: Large employers rarely succeed with undue hardship claims.
4. REQUEST CONTINUED DIALOGUE
"I would like to continue the interactive process to identify an accommodation that works for both of us."
5. ESCALATION PATHS:
Internal:
- HR leadership / VP of HR
- Company disability/accommodation specialist
- Legal/compliance department
- Employee assistance program
- Union representative (if applicable)
External:
- EEOC complaint (must file within 180-300 days)
- State civil rights agency
- Department of Labor (for FMLA issues)
- Private employment attorney
EEOC COMPLAINT PROCESS
======================
TIMELINE:
- Must file within 180 days of discriminatory act
- Extended to 300 days if state agency handles discrimination
- Don't wait - start early
HOW TO FILE:
1. Contact EEOC: www.eeoc.gov or 1-800-669-4000
2. File online, by mail, or in person at EEOC office
3. EEOC will notify employer
4. Investigation process begins
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT:
- EEOC investigates or offers mediation
- May issue "Right to Sue" letter
- Can file private lawsuit after receiving letter
- EEOC may litigate on your behalf (rare)
STATE AGENCIES:
- Many states have fair employment agencies
- May offer additional protections
- Often work with EEOC
INTERIM ACCOMMODATIONS:
- Request temporary accommodation pending appeal
- Document all hardships from lack of accommodation
- Continue performing to best of ability
APPEAL/FOLLOW-UP LETTER TEMPLATE
================================
[Date]
To: [HR / Decision Maker]
From: [Your Name]
Re: Follow-Up on Accommodation Request - [Date of Original Request]
Dear [Name],
I am writing to follow up on my accommodation request dated [date], which was [denied / not yet responded to].
[IF DENIED:]
I received your response indicating that my request for [specific accommodation] was denied due to [stated reason]. I would like to continue the interactive process to identify a reasonable accommodation.
ALTERNATIVE PROPOSALS:
I would like to propose the following alternative accommodation(s):
1. [Alternative 1 - address employer's concerns]
2. [Alternative 2 - different approach]
3. [Alternative 3 - trial period option]
ADDRESSING STATED CONCERNS:
Regarding [employer's concern], I believe [explanation of how alternatives address it, or why concern may be overstated].
[IF UNDUE HARDSHIP CLAIMED:]
I request documentation of the specific costs or operational impacts that support the undue hardship determination, so I can better understand the constraints and propose viable alternatives.
[IF NO RESPONSE:]
I have not received a response to my accommodation request submitted on [date]. I request a status update and timeline for the interactive process to proceed.
CONTINUED COMMITMENT:
I remain committed to finding a solution that allows me to perform my job successfully while addressing any legitimate business concerns.
REQUEST FOR MEETING:
I request a meeting to discuss these alternatives within the next [timeframe]. Please confirm a convenient time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
cc: [Personal email]
[Higher authority if escalating]
RETALIATION WARNING SIGNS
=========================
PROTECTED ACTIVITY:
Requesting accommodation is legally protected. Employer CANNOT retaliate for:
- Making an accommodation request
- Providing documentation
- Filing EEOC complaint
- Participating in investigation
- Opposing discriminatory practices
WHAT RETALIATION LOOKS LIKE:
- Sudden negative performance reviews
- Denial of promotion or opportunity
- Reduction in hours or responsibilities
- Hostile treatment from management
- Termination or demotion
- Exclusion from meetings or projects
- Increased scrutiny or micromanagement
- Negative references
- Creating hostile work environment
TIMING MATTERS:
Close proximity between protected activity and adverse action supports retaliation claim. Document everything.
RETALIATION DOCUMENTATION PROTOCOL
==================================
DOCUMENT IMMEDIATELY:
- Date and time of incident
- Who was involved
- What was said or done (exact quotes if possible)
- Any witnesses present
- How it relates to your accommodation request
MAINTAIN RECORDS OF:
- All communications about accommodation
- Performance reviews before and after request
- Changes in treatment or assignments
- Any comments about your condition or request
- Comparative treatment of colleagues
PRESERVE EVIDENCE:
- BCC personal email on work communications
- Screenshot relevant messages
- Keep personal copies of performance documents
- Note verbal conversations same day
REPORT RETALIATION:
- To HR in writing
- Reference original accommodation request
- State you believe treatment is retaliatory
- Request investigation
- Copy to personal email
COMMON ACCOMMODATION VIOLATIONS
===============================
INTERACTIVE PROCESS FAILURES:
[ ] Ignoring accommodation requests
[ ] Failing to respond in reasonable time
[ ] Going through motions without genuine engagement
[ ] Not exploring alternatives when denying request
[ ] Making decision without discussing with employee
DOCUMENTATION OVERREACH:
[ ] Demanding complete medical records
[ ] Requiring diagnosis when not necessary
[ ] Sharing medical information inappropriately
[ ] Contacting healthcare provider without consent
IMPROPER DENIALS:
[ ] Blanket policies without individualized assessment
[ ] Claiming undue hardship without analysis
[ ] Assuming accommodation won't work without trying
[ ] Denying based on speculation about future limitations
FORCED LEAVE:
[ ] Requiring leave instead of providing accommodation
[ ] Sending employee home without exploring options
[ ] 100% healed policy before return to work
[ ] Treating pregnancy as disability for purposes of exclusion
FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ACCOMMODATION:
[ ] Withdrawing previously granted accommodation
[ ] Not honoring accommodation during reorganization
[ ] New manager refusing to continue accommodation
RETALIATION:
[ ] Adverse action after request
[ ] Creating hostile environment
[ ] Documenting performance issues after request
[ ] Denying opportunities available to others
For each violation type, document and respond appropriately:
ACCOMMODATION REQUEST TIMELINE TRACKER
======================================
REQUEST PHASE:
Date: _________
[ ] Initial request submitted
[ ] Copy saved to personal records
[ ] Acknowledgment received from employer
INTERACTIVE PROCESS:
Date: _________
[ ] Meeting scheduled to discuss
[ ] Meeting held - notes: ________________
[ ] Documentation requested
[ ] Documentation provided
[ ] Alternative accommodations discussed
DECISION PHASE:
Date: _________
[ ] Decision received (written)
[ ] If approved: Accommodation implemented
[ ] If denied: Written explanation received
FOLLOW-UP:
Date: _________
[ ] Appeal submitted (if denied)
[ ] Alternative proposals made
[ ] EEOC contact (if needed)
[ ] Attorney consultation (if needed)
ONGOING:
[ ] Accommodation effectiveness check-in scheduled
[ ] Any changes to accommodation documented
[ ] Retaliation monitoring ongoing
Based on the user's situation, generate appropriate documents:
For Initial Request:
For Denial/Appeal:
For All Cases:
Save comprehensive output to: {config.directories.crisis_management}/accommodation_request_{YYYYMMDD}.md
Structure:
# Workplace Accommodation Request Package
## Type: [Disability/Religious/Medical/Pregnancy]
## Date: [Date]
## Status: [Initial Request / Appeal / In Progress]
## Legal Framework Summary
[Relevant framework based on accommodation type]
## Your Request Documents
### Accommodation Request Letter
[Generated letter]
### Documentation Checklist
[Customized checklist]
## Interactive Process Guide
[Key points for their situation]
## Timeline Tracker
[Pre-populated timeline]
## If Denied: Appeal Resources
[Appeal template and escalation paths]
## Retaliation Protection
[Warning signs and documentation guidance]
## Next Steps
1. [Immediate action]
2. [Follow-up action]
3. [Monitoring action]
## Important Contacts
- Company HR: [To be filled]
- EEOC: 1-800-669-4000 / www.eeoc.gov
- State Agency: [Lookup based on state]
- Employment Attorney: [Consider if complex]
Begin by:
If --appeal flag present:
Now executing accommodation request assistance...