Glossary > Employment Law > Employment Discrimination > Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)

Essential Job Functions

Essential job functions are the fundamental duties that a person must be able to perform in a specific job. These functions are crucial for the role and cannot be easily reassigned or eliminated without changing the nature of the job.

Example #1

For a firefighter, essential job functions may include carrying heavy equipment, climbing ladders, and rescuing individuals from burning buildings.

Example #2

In a customer service role, essential job functions may involve answering phones, responding to inquiries, and resolving complaints.

Misuse

Misusing essential job functions could involve unfairly adding tasks that are not truly necessary for the job, thus creating barriers for qualified individuals, especially those with disabilities, to enter or remain in a position. This could lead to discrimination and exclusion of capable employees.

Benefits

Defining essential job functions appropriately helps ensure that all candidates are evaluated fairly based on the core requirements of the job. It promotes inclusivity and prevents discrimination, making the selection process more transparent and equitable.

Conclusion

Understanding essential job functions is crucial for employers to create job descriptions that accurately reflect the tasks necessary for a position. By adhering to the concept of essential job functions, businesses can promote fairness in hiring practices and maintain compliance with anti-discrimination laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Last Modified: 4/30/2024