Workplace Accommodations

The university is committed to ensuring an inclusive working environment that is free from discrimination. 

A workplace accommodation is an arrangement that eliminates barriers to ensure those who are otherwise able to work are not excluded from doing so based on a Protected Ground. An accommodation might involve changing a rule, standard, or physical workplace such as:

  • modification of work or break schedule
  • modification of job duties, or bundling of job duties
  • changes to the work station or equipment used
  • altering the premises to ensure accessibility
  • adjusting policies (such as altering a uniform requirement).

The Workplace Accommodation Policy and Workplace Accommodation Procedure support our continued efforts to arrange meaningful workplace accommodations. They were developed to ensure that all employees understand their rights and responsibilities in respect of workplace accommodations and to streamline our accommodation processes.

How to request a workplace accommodation

  1. Request

    Submit your request for a medical accommodation by e-mail to your direct supervisor (Dean, Department Head, or Manager, as applicable) and cc Ability Management.

  2. Medical documentation

    If you require a medical accommodation, Ability Management will refer you to TELUS Health. 

    TELUS Health will connect with you directly within 1–2 business days of the referral going in, and provide you with a medical package for your physician to complete. 

    TELUS Health will collect and review your medical information and provide Ability Management with your functional limitations and abilities. Please note that follow-up information or clarification may be requested from your healthcare provider, if needed. 

    All medical information is kept confidential by TELUS Health and is not shared with UCalgary. Only recommendations needed to support workplace accommodations are provided.

  3. Reasonable accommodation

    Your supervisor (Dean, Department Head, or Manager), together with your HR Partner, will review the functional abilities provided by TELUS Health and work with you to identify accommodation options that support your ability to work safely and successfully. 

    Accommodation decisions are based on the functional limitations and restrictions provided by TELUS Health, not your specific medical information. 

    Once accommodations are identified, a plan will be developed and implemented in collaboration with you and your supervisor. The plan may be updated over time as your needs or abilities change.

  1. Request

    Submit your request for a non-medical accommodation by e-mail to your direct supervisor (Dean, Department Head, or Manager, as applicable).

  2. Reasonable accommodation

    Your supervisor (Dean, Department Head, or Manager) will review the request for accommodation with People and Culture to determine and document a reasonable accommodation. They may request additional information or documentation to support your request.

Questions? Contact Ability Management and Employee Well-Being