Protecting the rights of employees while also maintaining the requirements of the business environment can be very difficult at times. As a manager, you will be faced with some very difficult decisions. When confronted with a notice of a religious conflict, it should always be taken seriously. How do you determine whether or not you have the responsibility to accommodate the religious conflict request by an employee? Sometimes that can be a tough call...

An employee approaches you and says they can't work on Saturdays due to their religious beliefs. Assume your company operates (and is busy)7days per week. They are willing to work any other day without restriction.

• Can youtell whether they have a right to be protected under the law or are simply trying to get out of work?Is there a way to know?
• How would you handle the request?
• You've never heard of their religion before. Should that factor into your decision?
• Discuss your ideas and experiences with your classmates.

Explain your answer