Minnesota employers generally cannot discriminate against current or potential employees simply because they have certain disabilities. Instead, they must provide reasonable accommodations to ensure that individuals who have ADHD can do their jobs in a safe manner. There are a variety of considerations that employers are encouraged to take into account when determining how they can create a safe environment for everyone.
Make sure everyone is focused
One of the hallmarks of ADHD is an inability to focus on tasks for long periods of time. This may result in safety protocols being ignored or not being followed properly, which could put others in danger. Employers may be able to overcome this by allowing workers to take frequent breaks or by creating an environment that is free from loud noises, bright lights or other potential distractions.
Help workers stay calm
Those who have ADHD may also have trouble staying calm under pressure. This is because they may spend more time thinking of solutions as opposed to just picking one and following through on it. Therefore, they may be at a higher risk of causing an accident at work or causing a situation to escalate because of a lack of timely problem-solving skills. It’s worth noting that you may still be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if you’re hurt in an accident that you had a role in causing.
Make sure to get properly diagnosed
If you think that you might have ADHD, you are encouraged to see a doctor to obtain a formal diagnosis. Doing so may make it possible to obtain medication to help manage symptoms as well as accommodations at work that can make it easier to do your job effectively. Getting a formal diagnosis may also provide insight into why certain people or tasks might trigger you.
