Claudette has chronic pain syndrome. The paint causes her to have a contorted facial expression that disturbs to some of her co-workers who are secretly avoiding working with her. Claudette is an average performer. Oscar, one of the best performing workers, is particularly upset by Claudette's expressions, and he told you (his manager) that he intends to quit unless you discharge Claudette. Claudette can be easily replaced. Oscar cannot. What is your response?

A) Restructure Claudette's performance standards to include a "pleasant facial expression."
B) Discharge Claudette because it is unfair to hinder the performance of the department.
C) Document any performance problems caused by employee unwillingness to work with Claudette. Once these performance problems have reached a certain level, you can make the decision whether to keep or to discharge Claudette.
D) Claudette's facial expression is not a job-related performance issue for which you can discharge her.
E) All of the above are legal options.

Question

Zybrea Knight · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : D, Explanation :  Claudette's chronic pain syndrome and the resulting facial expression are not a job-related performance issue, and therefore cannot be used as a reason to discharge her. It is important to educate Oscar and any other co-workers about the condition and its effects, and to ensure that they treat Claudette with respect and understanding. If performance problems arise due to their unwillingness to work with Claudette, these can be addressed through documentation and standard HR procedures. It is important to prioritize a respectful and inclusive workplace, and to accommodate employees with disabilities to the best of the company's ability.

Definitions

Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives

Related questions