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Telework and Reasonable Accommodation

Telework is a flexible workplace option supported by the Department of Defense (DoD), with each agency responsible for establishing its own telework policies. For employees with disabilities, telework can also serve as a form of reasonable accommodation, enabling them to perform their essential job functions from an alternate location.

CAP supports telework by evaluating and providing necessary assistive technology to ensure employees with disabilities can work productively from their telework site.

CAP Support for Telework

CAP’s telework policy is designed to address both assistive and non-assistive technology needs:

1. Assistive Technology for Telework

CAP can provide assistive technology to employees with disabilities who:

  • Have a valid telework agreement in place through their DoD agency
  • Require accommodations to perform their job duties effectively while teleworking

This ensures that employees have the same tools and support available at their telework location as they do in the traditional office environment.

2. Non-Assistive Technology as a Reasonable Accommodation

In cases where telework itself is provided as a reasonable accommodation, CAP may also supply non-assistive technology—such as:

  • Computers
  • All-in-one devices (e.g., printer, scanner, fax machines)

This support is contingent on the employee’s approved telework agreement and determination that the equipment is part of the accommodation process.

Equipment Exclusions for Safety

Due to safety and liability considerations, CAP does not provide certain equipment for telework locations that fall outside DoD agency facilities. This includes items that require:

  • Installation
  • Mounting or attachment to furniture
  • Specialized assembly

Examples of excluded items include:

  • Keyboard trays
  • Monitor arms
  • Wall- or desk-mounted accessories

For these needs, employees are encouraged to coordinate directly with their local agency or facility services office.

Who May Qualify for Telework as a Reasonable Accommodation?

CAP may support telework as a reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities in the following circumstances:

Each request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, in collaboration with the employee’s agency.

Telework Training Resources

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) offers comprehensive training to help both employees and managers make the most of telework arrangements:

  • Telework 101 for Employees: Learn how to work efficiently from home, maintain communication with colleagues, and manage your schedule remotely.
  • Telework 101 for Managers: Guidance on selecting eligible teleworkers, creating telework agreements, and managing performance in a remote environment.

We strongly encourage both employees and supervisors to review these resources to ensure successful and sustainable telework arrangements.