Final answer:
A requirement that all firefighters be at least 6 feet tall could be seen as indirect discrimination against females, likely failing the tests for a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification. Such standards could unjustly disqualify many capable women, violating federal anti-discrimination laws enforced by the EEOC.
Step-by-step explanation:
A requirement in a job advertisement that all firefighters be at least 6 feet tall might be indirect discrimination against females. This is because such a requirement could potentially disqualify many female candidates, not because of their ability to perform the job, but simply due to a physical characteristic that is statistically less common among women. In legal terms, this could be challenged as not being a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification (BFOQ).
The concept of a BFOQ permits discrimination under certain circumstances, but the criteria must pass certain tests. The first is whether the job requirement is necessary as all or substantially all individuals excluded would be unable to perform the job duties. For example, while most women can lift 30 pounds, setting a much higher standard without a legitimate justification could be discriminating. The second test assesses whether the requirement is essential to the business operation and cannot be modified without undermining the business itself—this is the "essence of the business" test. Lastly, the requirement must be such that there cannot be a reasonable accommodation made that would allow the individual to perform the job.
Discrimination based on group characteristics that don't affect job performance is illegal under federal law in the United States and is monitored by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Prohibiting discrimination in job markets and housing on the basis of race, gender, age, and disability represents a commitment to equal opportunity for employment and housing regardless of these attributes.