Safe Work Australia has published a new online fact sheet to help workers suffering from endometriosis manage it at work.
Endometriosis is a disorder in which tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside it. It can cause pain, sometimes severe, and may lead to infertility.
The fact sheet includes general information about endometriosis as well as advice for employers with suggestions on how to support workers who suffer from the condition.
It also includes information for workers on managing endometriosis at work.
In a statement, Safe Work Australia said the information sheet had been prepared as part of the 2018 National Action Plan for Endometriosis.
“It is aimed primarily at employers to increase awareness of the prevalence and impact this chronic disease has on workers and its potential impact on workplace safety,” Safe Work Australia said.
“Informing yourself about endometriosis can lead to better workplace outcomes,” it said.
“Women, girls and other individuals with endometriosis say that having the disease recognised and acknowledged by people around them, such as their managers, can positively influence their experience.”
Safe Work said it was estimated that endometriosis affected one in 10 women, girls and other individuals of reproductive age, with the average diagnosis taking between seven to 12 years to be made.
“It is reported to cost more than $7.7 billion in healthcare, absenteeism and lost social and economic participation,” it said.
Safe Work Australia’s online fact sheet can be accessed at this PS News link.
