I am an EA at a large multinational. Late last year, the EA leader emailed that EAs are “strongly encouraged” to be in person once per week. The managers then verbally (no written trail) informed us that this mandatory and if you need an exception then put in a request. I requested the exception due to medical reasons and was approved, however they are asking for my doctor to fill out a form every three months detailing my functional abilities. My doctor does not want to see me and fill this out every three months. It is not a curable condition, it is a pain management condition. Can I demand my employers provide in writing that the work from office mandate is mandatory? If they do not provide this can I avoid repercussions while working from home?

Employers have an obligation to accommodate employees with disabilities to the point of undue hardship. Likewise employers cannot reprise against an employee for attempting to enforce their rights. However, employees must also participate and cooperate in the accommodation process, which may include providing your employer with supporting documentation.

More information is required about your requested accommodation, the supporting documentation, and your employer’s stance with respect to your requested accommodation. We strongly encourage you to contact us to set up a consultation with one of our employment lawyers, who can fully review your circumstances, provide you with guidance and advice regarding your workplace rights, and assist you in navigating the situation in a manner that best suits your goals.