May an employer ever disclose the fact that someone has a disability?

Yes. The Americans with Disabilities Act’s confidentiality requirements include limited exceptions. An employer may disclose the fact that someone has a disability:

• to supervisors and managers where necessary to provide a reasonable accommodation or to meet an employee’s work restrictions;

• to first aid and safety personnel if an employee would need emergency treatment or require some other assistance in the event of an emergency;

• to individuals investigating compliance with the ADA and similar state and local laws; and

• where required for workers’ compensation or insurance purposes, for example, to process a claim.