Understanding Diabetes in the Workplace – A Human Approach to Health and Safety

When we think about health and safety on-site, we often picture high-vis, hard hats, and hazard signs. But there’s another layer to safety that’s less visible—ongoing health conditions like diabetes, which quietly affect a growing number of workers across the UK.

Diabetes—whether Type 1 or Type 2—is a serious condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar. It’s more common than many realise, and when unmanaged, it can have a real impact on someone’s concentration, energy levels, and ability to heal from even minor injuries. All of which are important considerations in a safety-critical environment like ours.

What makes this even more challenging is that, often, those dealing with diabetes aren’t keen to speak up. Whether it’s out of concern for stigma or not wanting to make a fuss, many workers manage their condition quietly—and alone.

That’s why awareness matters.

Recognising the signs of diabetes—unexplained fatigue, increased thirst, slow healing wounds—can help prompt early diagnosis. And being able to spot those signs in ourselves, or in a colleague, could make a meaningful difference.

Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed young, and requires lifelong insulin management. Type 2 diabetes, however, is closely linked to lifestyle. The good news? Many cases can be prevented or managed with changes to diet, weight, and physical activity. It’s not always easy—but it is possible. And it’s worth it.

On site, we all rely on one another. Whether you’re operating plant, on track, in a support role, or leading a team, your alertness and well-being matter—not just to you, but to everyone around you. That’s why it’s vital that anyone managing a condition like diabetes feels supported to do so. And why a little understanding can go a long way.

At McGinley, we’ve been working with partners to raise awareness of health conditions like diabetes and will soon be launching dedicated sessions for our workforce on customer sites. These initiatives are designed to spark open conversations, reduce stigma, and make it easier for people to get the support they need. Because we believe health and safety isn’t just about policy—it’s about people.

So, if you’re living with diabetes, or think you might be at risk, speak to your GP or occupational health provider. If you manage someone who has it, ask them what support they need. And if you're a colleague, just be aware. We all benefit when we look out for each other.

Because at the end of the day, health and safety isn’t only about the job. It’s about the humans doing it.