Diabetes Awareness Month

This November, Safety Stage is highlighting some key safety topics to reinforce awareness and urge companies and employees to take any necessary actions to keep your workplace safety training relevant. Staying vigilant with workplace safety training is key during the excitement of the holiday season that often causes many distractions at work. Another one of these topics is Diabetes and work performance. November is a big month for diabetes-related events as it is Diabetes Awareness Month, American Diabetes Month, Diabetes-Related Eye Disease Month, and World Diabetes Day. 

Diabetes is a group of diseases that result in too much sugar in the blood causing high blood glucose. There are four types: Type 1, Type 2, Prediabetes, and Gestational Diabetes with Type 1 and Type 2 being the most prevalent. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin and Type 2 is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar. 

Over 10% of the US population has diabetes, making the odds very high that someone in your workplace is affected by it. This is why it is important to get your colleagues familiar with the symptoms of diabetes and what to look out for. The most common symptoms include: constant urination especially at night, high levels of thirst, weight loss without trying, high levels of hunger, blurry vision, numb or tingling hands or feet, feeling tired, or having very dry skin. Type 2 diabetes is procured based one’s health and lifestyle where staying fit and eating healthily greatly reduces your chances of contracting the disease. Managing diabetes takes a lot of time and money, so it’s worth examining how to live a healthy life and knowing which habits are worth keeping or getting rid of.

In terms of the workplace, diabetes is not an occupational hazard or concern. However, if a coworker or member of your staff does have Diabetes, they will need access to insulin and a first-aid plan in case of any issues. You may also need to make reasonable adjustments to the working environment to ensure their safety. 

To learn more about Diabetes and how to stay healthy, please visit: https://safetystage.com/safety-topics/november-safety-topics/#Diabetes_and_work_performance. 

DII is your partner in workplace health and safety. Our team of experts can work with you to understand how to recognize the signs and symptoms of Diabetes and best safety practices. Please contact your DII representative for more information.  #Diabetes