DOL Releases Workplace Flexibility Toolkit

Author: Melissa Burdorf, XpertHR Legal Editor

The US Department of Labor (DOL) is promoting flexibility in the workplace with the release of an online Workplace Flexibility Toolkit. The toolkit supplies employers, job seekers, employees, policymakers and researchers with over 170 resources - all targeted at the legal and logistical aspects that come along with providing or not providing workplace flexibility. Many resources focus on complex employment situations - such as single parents working, family caregiver situations, ex-offenders, individuals with disabilities and people living with HIV/AIDS.

The information is presented through fact and tip sheets, case studies, issue briefs, reports, journal and news articles, slides, websites with additional resources, frequently asked questions and more - each searchable by the type of resource, the intended audience and the form of workplace flexibility provided.

The fact that the DOL (through the Office of Disability Employment Policy) is arming employers and others with this information highlights its importance. Therefore, employers should explore the information provided in the toolkit and should remain open to exploring workplace flexibility where it is mutually beneficial to the employer and the employee - flexibility can be an effective strategy to give an employer a competitive edge while allowing employees to better manage their work and family responsibilities.

Additional Resources

Employee Management > Disabilities (ADA)

Employee Management > Managing Employees in Special Situations

Employee Management > EEO - Discrimination > Employees and Applicants With Caregiving Responsibilities

How to Manage Employees With Caregiving and Family Responsibilities

How to Assess Whether an Employee's Request for Accommodation Is Reasonable

How to Manage Telecommuters

How to Prevent Family Responsibility Discrimination Claims

Managing Job Sharing - Supervisor Briefing

Managing Telecommuters - Supervisor Briefing

Work-Flex Event Starter Kit - Resources (White House)