Top of page
Law

EEOC releases updated guidance on ADA requirements for people with hearing disabilities in the workplace

deaf woman working

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) released an updated resource document, “Hearing Disabilities in the Workplace and the Americans with Disabilities Act,” explaining how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to job applicants and employees who are deaf or hard of hearing or have other hearing conditions.

The document outlines how certain pre- and post-job offer disability-related questions can violate the ADA, describes easy-to-access technologies that can make providing a reasonable accommodation for a hearing disability free or low-cost, addresses employer concerns about safety, and shares realistic scenarios of potential discrimination. In addition to adding information about discrimination against job applicants, the updated document provides new or updated examples that reflect available technologies.

“Employers have a legal responsibility to create fair workplaces for all employees and job applicants who need reasonable accommodations,” said EEOC Chair Charlotte A. Burrows. “The practical questions and answers and realistic scenarios in this updated document will help educate employers on those responsibilities and employees about their rights.”

Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have other hearing conditions can perform successfully on the job and should not be denied opportunities because of stereotypical assumptions about their hearing. The document clarifies that discrimination may occur when employers act on unfounded assumptions that workers with hearing conditions will cause safety hazards, increase employment costs, or have difficulty communicating. The document also discusses harassment and retaliation.

 

You might also like

Judge hits hammer, close up Judge hits hammer, close up

Osaka High Court awards equal compensation to family of disabled girl

The Osaka High Court ruled on January 20, 2025, that…

Professional caregiver is assisting old man at his home. Professional caregiver is assisting old man at his home.

New Aged Care Bill passes Parliament

A new Act was the number one recommendation of the…

Gavel and law books Gavel and law books

Disability Rights, Inclusion and Safeguarding Bill passes Legislative Council

Tasmania’s Legislative Council has passed a Bill that will play…