Ramadan in the winter season: how Omar and his employer worked together

It is early February when I receive a call from Mark, an executive in a small manufacturing company. He asks me for advice on how to deal with Ramadan in relation to work, since there are a number of Muslim employees working in this company. Very good that Mark thinks from prevention, something I also give back to him directly. Prevention is better than cure!

I advise Mark to talk to his employees to find out what the needs and expectations are. Soon Mark returns with the results of his conversations, including one with Omar, one of the production workers.

Ramadan falls this year from Feb. 28 to March 29, a period when days are shorter and temperatures are low. For Omar, fasting in the winter months means different challenges than if Ramadan fell in the summer. "It's nice that the sun sets earlier, but the cold sometimes makes it harder to retain energy," he says.

For example, Omar indicates that he feels more tired in the afternoon during this period. Together with Mark, Omar finds a simple solution: he is allowed to adjust his working hours slightly. He can now start earlier and the extra heavy physical tasks are shifted to the morning, as far as possible. His colleagues are also informed about Ramadan, which helps create more understanding in the workplace.

"It makes such a difference when your employer thinks with you," he says. "Small adjustments can have a big effect, especially in the winter months when the body reacts differently to fasting."

Research shows that appreciation, self-direction and development opportunities are the most important motivators for employees. Every person likes to experience some level of control. Influence on what the workday looks like. Tasks, planning, how to cooperate with whom and on one's own development. And the latter does not just mean training.

This requires you as a manager to know what engages your employees, where their expertise lies and what the hidden talents are.

Open the conversation and offer customized solutions
Take the time to engage with employees and look together for solutions that will help for them to experience Ramadan in a healthy way, taking into account the interests of the organization naturally

Allow for lower energy in the afternoon.
Fasting can lead to fatigue, especially at the end of the day. Adjusting work hours or shifting physically demanding tasks can help maintain productivity.

Show understanding and encourage an inclusive work atmosphere
By showing understanding for employees who fast from a religious belief, you will create a positive and supportive work environment.

Engage with employees who are fasting during the period of Ramadan. This will ensure sustainable employability of your organization. Want to know more about our vision on absenteeism and sustainable employability of employees? Read here how we think about sustainable employability or contact us.

Juliette van de Bilt, Adviseur Arbeid & Gezondheid bij De Arbodienst