Epilepsy in the Workplace: A Comprehensive Guide for UK SMEs
- Steven Harrison CMgr MCMI
- Aug 15
- 3 min read
Epilepsy affects around 600,000 people in the UK—roughly 1 in 100 individuals—so it's highly likely that your SME already employs someone living with the condition. Yet epilepsy often remains misunderstood or overlooked in workplace safety planning.
You may wonder: What are the risks? How do we respond during a seizure? How do we stay both compliant and supportive? As an employer in the UK, understanding epilepsy isn’t just compassionate—it’s a legal necessity under the Equality Act 2010.
At SJH Safety Solutions, we believe that inclusive safety isn’t optional—it’s essential. This guide provides UK SMEs with a clear, practical framework for understanding epilepsy at work, making reasonable adjustments, and building a genuinely inclusive, safe environment for all staff.
Understanding Epilepsy: Facts Every Employer Should Know
Definition & Prevalence
Epilepsy is a neurological condition defined by recurrent seizures, affecting electrical activity in the brain. Seizures vary widely—from brief lapses in awareness to dramatic convulsions.
Types of Seizures
Generalised tonic-clonic: Full body convulsions and loss of consciousness.
Focal seizures: Affect a specific part of the brain—may involve twitching or altered emotion.
Absence seizures: Brief, sudden lapses in awareness.
Misconceptions
Not all seizures are obvious—you may not even notice someone having one.
Not all individuals with epilepsy have severe conditions; many manage their symptoms well.
Why Awareness Matters
Understanding epilepsy demystifies it, reduces fear, and encourages respectful, effective support in the workplace.
Legal & Ethical Responsibilities
Equality Act 2010
Epilepsy is protected under this Act as a disability—regardless of how the individual identifies.
Employers must avoid discrimination and provide reasonable adjustments.
Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
Employers must ensure workplace safety adapting to individual needs.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Legal penalties, reputational harm, and—most importantly—compromised safety for employees.
Practical Steps for Employers
a) Individualised Risk Assessment
Speak directly with the employee to understand:
Their seizure type, frequency, triggers (e.g. stress, bright lights, tiredness)
Medication effects, fatigue levels, and preferred methods of support
Document the outcome and keep updates where necessary.
b) Seizure Response Plan
Clearly define:
Who responds and how
When to call 999
Safe recovery steps post-seizure
Return-to-work considerations
Share with relevant personnel—confidentially.
c) Staff & First Aider Training
Provide colleagues with training on seizure recognition and response.
Emphasise “dos and don’ts”: no restraint, protect from harm, stay calm.
Practice scenarios so responses are second nature.
d) Workplace Adjustments
Mitigating triggers: shield workers from strobe lighting; adjust screen usage.
Avoid lone working if seizure risk is high.
Allow flexible schedules or rest breaks for recovery or medication routines.
e) Promoting an Inclusive Culture
Encourage open, respectful dialogue around health conditions.
Normalize support—show that disclosing a condition leads to help, not stigma.
Ensure confidentiality and privacy during discussions.
Case Study Snapshot
Case Study: A regional SME in construction noticed a first aider had an absence seizure during a quiet shift.
A quick, well-rehearsed response prevented injury.
Adjustments included monthly check-ins, updated risk assessments, and additional training for site teams.
The employee was more confident, and the overall site culture improved—team members began sharing other health concerns too.
Benefits of Inclusivity for Business
Staff Retention & Engagement
Employees stay where they feel supported.
Stronger Morale & Culture
Trust builds when you demonstrate empathy and inclusion.
Better Reputation
Clients, partners, and future employees notice firms that lead with compassion.
Enhanced Safety Standards
Planning for individuals elevates health and safety for everyone.
Resources & Tools
Use Epilepsy Action UK for guidance, posters, and sample policies.
Leverage internal templates:
Risk Assessment
Seizure Response Plan
Staff Training Materials
SJH Safety Solutions can provide ready-to-use examples and tailored consultancy to implement these systems.
Supporting employees with epilepsy isn't only about compliance—it’s about creating safe, caring environments where everyone can thrive.
Key steps recap:
Ask about needs → Document a risk assessment → Plan for emergencies → Train teams → Adjust the environment → Support inclusively.
Need help? SJH Safety Solutions offers bespoke risk assessments, training materials, and consultative support to make your workplace inclusive, compliant, and fundamentally better.
Let’s take transformative steps—from awareness to action.
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