Newton's Fire Department Had a Minimum Height and Weight Requirement

question 58

Essay

Newton's fire department had a minimum height and weight requirement for its firefighters.These requirements disqualified approximately 80 percent of all women,but only 5 percent of all men.Jane,a female who has wanted to be a firefighter all of her life,applied for a position on the Newton fire department but was not hired because she did not meet the minimum height and weight requirements.Jane sues the department for discrimination.Explain whether or not Jane has a valid claim under the antidiscrimination laws.

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Definitions:

Musculoskeletal Disorders

Conditions that affect the human body’s movement or musculoskeletal system, including muscles, bones, nerves, tendons, ligaments, and structures supporting the limbs, neck, and back.

Ergonomics

The study of people's efficiency in their working environment, focusing on the design of products and spaces to improve safety, comfort, and performance.

Range of Motion (ROM)

The full movement potential of a joint, usually its range of flexion and extension.

Flexibility

The quality of bending easily without breaking, often referring to the range of motion available in a joint or series of joints.