Many employees around the world are currently observing Ramadan, a holy month in the Islamic calendar that involves fasting during daylight hours. This year, Ramadan began on 17th February and is predicted to end on 18th March.
For practicing Muslims, Ramadan may impact on day-to-day working life. Many employees will be fasting from sun-up to sun-down, taking time to pray, and possibly getting less sleep than usual. In certain circumstances, some may refrain from listening to music or traveling long distances during this time.
Top tips for employers
To support Muslim staff during this period, here are some of our top tips for facilitating employees during Ramadan.
- A dedicated space to pray: Many employers will choose to support their employees during Ramadan by providing a dedicated prayer room. If this is a possibility in your workplace, providing quiet and private space can be a great way to facilitate your Muslim employees.
- Break times and flexible working: Given the physical and logistical demands of fasting, some employees may require adjustments to their working routine during Ramadan. Employees may require breaks for prayer, and those working night shifts may need time for breaking their fast. Similarly, in order to facilitate fasting and breaking fast, some employees may request flexible working arrangements such as altering shift patterns or changing start and finish times.
- Annual leave: Some Muslim employees may wish to take annual leave during Ramadan, or for the Eid celebrations that follow. While some employers may be required to enforce their standard annual leave policies if multiple employees request leave on the same days, it is advisable to be as facilitative and supportive as possible in these circumstances.
- Health & Safety: While most fasting employees will not face any additional safety risks during this time, employers may need to carry out risk assessments if employees are carrying out strenuous physical activities as part of their work. Those who are fasting may face an increased risk of dehydration and fatigue, which should be taken into consideration when assessing risk and organising the distribution of tasks during this period.
- Equality and inclusion: One of the biggest ways to provide support is simply to be mindful and aware of the fact that Ramadan is taking place, and when. A crucial part of creating an inclusive environment is to be aware of the various cultures present in your workplace, and to acknowledge and celebrate them where possible and appropriate.
