For many people, their religion is a closely-held part of their identity, and they live each day in regards to the codes and traditions of their deeply-held faith. Our country is one where freedom to practice one’s religion is an important founding principle, and it is important for both employees and employers to understand their rights regarding religious accommodations in employment law.
Any issue of religious accommodation should be discussed between employee and employer first. Oftentimes, issues with accommodation can be traced back to a misunderstanding or a lack of communication, and if the issue can be solved with a discussion, it is better for both the employer and the employee. With most religious accommodation issues, it is not a concrete issue or decision that causes conflict. Employees need to feel protected against religious discrimination, and employers need to make sure that the requested accommodation does not interfere with their business operations or cause a safety issue. In cases where the two conflict, a negotiated compromise is often the best way to handle the situation.
Religious Accommodation for Work Schedules and Dress Are Common Requests
An employer needs to make sure that their work schedules are able to accommodate an employee’s religious practices and respect the employee’s schedule requests. For example, some religions forbid working after a certain hour on holidays, or ask that the devotee take time out of certain parts of each day to pray. These are reasonable accommodations that need to be met by the employer.
Generally, the trickier part of religious accommodations in the workplace stems from employer dress codes. If the employee’s religion requires a beard, for example, any dress code that forbids facial hair for the reason of professional appearance will have to bend to accommodate. However, if the employee works in a dangerous environment where having a beard would interfere with safety equipment, it is reasonable for the employer to enforce the no-beard policy.
Bucks County Religious Discrimination Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Work to Uphold Religious Accommodations
If you are an employee facing an issue of religious discrimination, you should contact an attorney with the experience needed to fight for your rights in the workplace. The Bucks County religious discrimination lawyers at Sidney L. Gold and Associates will help you handle your case and be sure that you are receiving the justice that you deserve. Call us today at 215-569-1999 or contact us online for a free consultation and to start the process of fighting for your rights.