Case studies

Regular work pattern for an operative with epilepsy

A machine operator on shift work developed epilepsy. Her employer was concerned that this might increase her risk of personal injury or put others at risk.

The company involved the employee and, with her consent, her GP. They found the operative was more likely to have seizures if her sleep pattern was disrupted, so a move to day shifts gave her a regular work pattern and she was better able to manage her condition.

• Epilepsy Action advice on employing people with epilepsy

Fire-fighter with diabetes

A fire-fighter who developed insulin-dependent diabetes was seen by an occupational health (‘work’) doctor to help make arrangements for him to return to work.

Once the fire-fighter could show he was managing his diabetes, he was carefully tested on some key tasks (eg using breathing apparatus) to check he could do so safely. Blood tests confirmed his sugar levels were stable and he was no more at risk of collapsing than any other fire-fighter. He returned to work with the following reasonable adjustments:

• restrictions on the emergency vehicles he could drive;
• regular checks by the work health service;
• the provision of a fridge to store his insulin.

• DVLA medical rules for drivers

Supporting a colleague with mental health problems

An IT worker wanted to return to work after being off sick with mental health problems. Her employer helped her to manage and avoid work-related stress by:

• helping her to speak openly, so they could work together on making adjustments and checking her well-being;
• allowing her to work a three-day week until she was ready to return to full-time work;
• arranging for her colleagues and supervisor to attend mental health awareness training so her team understood.