Creating a Rheumatoid Arthritis friendly workplace: a guide for employers

Creating a Rheumatoid Arthritis friendly workplace: a guide for employers

Rheumatoid Arthritis is more than just a medical term, it’s a condition that profoundly affects the lives of individuals both in their professional and personal lives. As we observe Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Week, it’s crucial to shed light on what RA is and how it can impact employees in the workplace. In this blog we discuss how employers play a pivotal role in safeguarding the health and productivity of their staff members who grapple with this chronic illness.

Defining Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues, leading to pain, swelling and stiffness. The disease causes inflammation around the body and commonly presents in the hands, feet and wrists. However RA can also impact overall health, including vital organs like the heart and lungs.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

This is a complex disease that can manifest in a variety of ways. RA causes the lining of joints to become inflamed, which can make the joints red, swollen and hot to touch. Employees may also complain of experiencing pain and stiffness in the joints, causing them to struggle with mobility, affecting their ability to perform tasks efficiently. Chronic pain and the unpredictability of RA can also take a toll on mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. Rheumatoid Arthritis creates overwhelming fatigue, making it challenging for employees to maintain consistent energy levels throughout the workday. The disease can also lead to muscle weakness, further hindering an employee’s ability to carry out physical tasks.

Maintaining optimal health in the workplace

Employers can take several proactive measures to create a supportive work environment for employees:

Work environment

  • Flexible work hours: consider offering flexible work hours or remote work options to accommodate medical appointments and fluctuations in energy levels.
  • Ergonomic workspace: invest in ergonomic office furniture and equipment to minimise strain on joints and muscles.
  • Access to healthcare: ensure that employees have access to healthcare support, including medical evaluation, ergonomic assessments and psychiatric provision.
  • Clear communication: foster open communication between employees and supervisors, creating a safe space for employees to discuss their needs and challenges.

Work practices

  • Job flexibility: allow employees to modify their work tasks or switch to less physically demanding roles when necessary.
  • Regular breaks: encourage short breaks to help employees manage pain and fatigue effectively.
  • Task prioritisation: collaborate with employees to prioritise tasks and deadlines to ensure their workload remains manageable.
  • Assistive devices: provide assistive devices such as voice-activated software or ergonomic keyboards to facilitate comfortable working conditions.

Final thoughts

This Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Week let’s remember that a little compassion and proactive support can go a long way in ensuring that employees with RA can thrive in their professional lives. By implementing the tips and strategies discussed in this guide, employers can make a positive difference in the lives of their employees, promoting a healthier, more inclusive workplace for all. Take action today! Let’s work together to create a more compassionate and supportive workplace for employees battling Rheumatoid Arthritis.