What elements of the Jewish faith might require accomodations in the workplace?

Answer 1

potentially sabbath observance, a Jewish employee may need to stop work in time for sunset Friday evening; normally Jewish holidays should need no special accommodation providing the employer understands their priority nature, as a Jewish employee would simply arrange his statutory holiday entitlement to fit in. Aside from that, highly observant Jewish people would need some tolerance of their dress custom, possibly prayer during lunch hour, etcetera

Jewish Answer

Elements of Judaism that might require accommodation in the workplace are:

• Religiously observant Jews do not work during Shabbat (Friday sundown to Saturday sundown). This means that depending on where the individual lives, they might have to leave work several hours early on Fridays. This is a major issue in some workplaces, some Jews will not work for a company that cannot accommodate this requirement.
• Most Jews do not work on major Jewish holidays, especially Rosh Hashanah (New Years), Yom Kippur, Pesach (Passover). This is a major issue in some workplaces, some Jews will not work for a company that cannot accommodate this requirement.
• Many (but not all) religiously observant Jews do not touch people of the opposite sex to whom they are not directly related, therefore, no handshakes between men and women.
• If the business in question ever orders meals for its staff, they would need to order kosher meals for observant Jews.
• If a direct family member of a Jewish employee passes away, the employee will not be able to work for 7 days immediately following the funeral. Also, the funeral will most likely take place within 24 hours of death.

These are the standout issues. No accommodation for things such as dress need to be made. Neither should there be an issue regarding prayer as this can be done at the individual's desk or during a break if necessary.