Handicapped workers

 

The term “handicapped worker” means any person whose employment capacity is diminished by more than 30%. Applications for recognition of the status of handicapped worker must be made to the Medical Commission of the Employment Administration.

Each employer is in fact required by law to employ handicapped workers on the basis of the following quotas:

• if the number of full-time employees is between 25 and 49, at least one handicapped employee;
• if the number of full-time employees is between 50 and 299, at least 2% handicapped employees;
• if the number of full-time employees is equal to or greater than 300, at least 4% handicapped employees.

In the event of refusal by the employer, a levy equivalent to 50% of the minimum social wage is payable each month by him to the public Treasury as long as he refuses; this levy will be charged in respect of each handicapped worked who is not duly recruited.

A contribution by the State towards the salary of the handicapped worker may be made to cover the lower output achieved by the handicapped worker. Similarly, some or all of the training expenses, workplace adaptation or provision of suitable professional equipment will also be paid for.