Is claustrophobia covered under FMLA?

Question

The reason I am asking is, a friend works in the law enforcement field. He had fire training last week and he had a hard time with the fire mask. He put it on, left it on for a few minutes, then took it off. He did that 3 times. The fireman that was doing the training talked with the friend's sgt. and it has now gone as far as the major. They told him today that it is a job requirement to wear the mask for training and if he did not like it, he could find a new job or be demoted. I don't think that is fair. That is why I am asking.

Answer 1

No. Claustrophobia is too narrow small and tight a condition to be covered ..... you would have to get out of it ... cant stay in it ..... going crazy to get out of it ..... omgg just need some AIR from this question!!

Please award Best Answer points to me right now because I deserve them, as you can now plainly see and must agree. I do not want to wait because I am not at all patient with you.

Answer 2

Under the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA), most Federal employees are entitled to a total of up to 12 workweeks of unpaid leave during any 12-month period for the following purposes:
*the birth of a son or daughter of the employee and the care of such son or daughter;
*the placement of a son or daughter with the employee for adoption or foster care;
*the care of spouse, son, daughter, or parent of the employee who has a serious health condition; or
*a serious health condition of the employee that makes the employee unable to perform the essential functions of his or her positions.
Claustrophobia could possibly fit under the last category, but a doctor would have to sign off on it and it would only be for 12 weeks maximum per year.

Answer 3

I doubt it. There's no treatment except to stay out of tight places.
If the guy can't wear the safety equipment he can't save your life in an emergency. I wouldn't want him on my fire department. Tell him to be a man and get over it.

Answer 4

Only if you are treating with a psychologist or doctor and they request you take the time off for treatment and outline a treatment plan and how long you would need.

Answer 5

Family Medical Leave Act usually applies to your taking a leave to care for a family member. Unless your family member is confined to a tight space unless you are there, I can't see how this would apply.

Answer 6

My phobia and anxiety disorder is covered under FMLA.

Answer 7

If a doctor certifies you unable to perform your job --yes,

But they may put you in another position that is not claustrophobic

Answer 8

here's the GOV website
http://www.dol.gov/esa/regs/compliance/whd/1421.htm

Answer 9

It's all in your mind. Conquer your fears.

Answer 10

What is FMLA? I have claustrophobia also. I know this doesn't answer you question, but could you answer mine. Thanks.