NASA Policy – Reasonable Accommodations

A request for reasonable accommodation is a statement that an individual with a disability needs an adjustment or change at work, in the application process, or in a benefit or privilege of employment for a reason related to a mental or physical condition. A qualified individual with a disability may be entitled to a reasonable accommodation (RA) to perform the essential functions of the job. NASA may choose among reasonable accommodations as long as the chosen accommodation is effective.

RA requests can be initiated orally, in writing, or in any other format or medium that is convenient and practical for the individual with the disability.

 A request does not have to contain any special words, such as “reasonable accommodation,” “disability,” or “Rehabilitation Act.” An individual with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation at any time, even if the existence of a disability has not been previously disclosed. A family member, health professional, or other representative may also request a reasonable accommodation on behalf of a NASA employee or applicant.

Any NASA employee or applicant may consult with the Agency, Headquarters, or the Center’s Disability Program Manager (DPM) for further information or assistance with requesting or processing a request for reasonable accommodation.

The reasonable accommodation process begins immediately after management’s receipt of the request. A request may be made to a supervisor or manager in the employee’s organizational hierarchy, the Center Equal Opportunity (EO) Office or in the case of an applicant for a position, any Human Resources Specialist (HRS) with whom the applicant has contact in the Office of Human Resources. When a request for reasonable accommodation is made, the requesting employee’s immediate supervisor, or in the case of an applicant, the appropriate HRS receiving the request, shall immediately notify the installation’s DPM who shall, in turn, notify the EO Officer.

 If you have questions or concerns about RA or would like a brief on RA for your organization, please contact the EOPO Office at 301-286-7345.