Frequenlty Asked Questions:

What jobs can I not do because of my epilepsy?

People with epilepsy can work in almost any occupation. Restrictions are constantly being modified as medications improve the control of seizures. It is a good idea to find out if there are specific restrictions on the work you want to do.

Sometimes, safety concerns may limit the opportunities for people with epilepsy, depending on how well seizures are controlled. Safety maybe of primary concern in public transportation, trades involving dangerous machinery, police work, the military, or fire fighting.

Can an employer ask about epilepsy when I apply for a job?

Human Rights Codes make it illegal in some provinces for an employer to ask medical questions on an application form. You can refuse to answer it. In other provinces, the question can be asked, but the employer cannot refuse to hire for that reason.

During an interview, the employer is allowed to ask you whether you have any medical condition that would interfere with your ability to perform the job. Contact the Human Rights Commission in your province for specifics.

Can an employer refuse to hire me because I have epilepsy?

Only if it would be dangerous for you to work with certain machinery necessary to perform the essential functions of the job, and this risk cannot be sufficiently reduced through a reasonable accommodation (see “Accomodating Epilepsy” on page 4).

How can I reassure a reluctant employer?

Employers are concerned about issues of safety, reliability and liability if a job applicant or employee has epilepsy. But research has shown that these concerns are not valid. In fact, studies have shown that the performance, cooperation, productivity and stability of employees with epilepsy are equal to or greater than that of employees without epilepsy. Absenteeism rates are lower too because workers with epilepsy practice good self-care and strive to avoid illness.

Accident rates for employees with epilepsy are lower too: 0.6% vs. 1.92% for other employees. Some studies have even revealed that employees with epilepsy work more attentively and productively than others, as they often try harder to prove themselves at work. As for an employer’s liability, people with epilepsy are covered by the Workers Compensation Board, whose rates are not tied to employee disabilities. It is not “expensive” to have people with epilepsy on staff.

Can I be fired because of my epilepsy?

Both federal and provincial human rights codes prevent employers from firing on the basis of disability. However, employers sometimes use other reasons to mask a discriminatory termination.

What are my rights if I am fired because of a seizure?

If you feel that you have lost your job because of your epilepsy, whether or not your employer admits to it, you have the right to use the Human Rights complaint process. Contact your local office of the Human Rights Commission.

What if I experience other workplace harassment or discrimination?

You can file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission or Employment Standards Branch of the provincial government.

What should I do if a seizure occurs in the presence of customers or clients?

If you have a seizure in the workplace, don’t dwell on it for too long. Ask your co-workers what happened. Address their concerns in a matter-of-fact way. If someone helped you during your seizure, thank the person. If they provided first aid that was unnecessary or inappropriate, explain what they should do the next time you have a seizure.

There is no reason to feel embarrassed. Epilepsy is not an uncommon disorder, but a fact of life. One in ten Canadians will experience some sort of seizure in their lifetime—you are definitely not alone.

Can the epilepsy association help with work issues?

Your local epilepsy organization is a good place to find help and support. We can help you find out what employment and vocational counselling services are available in your region. We can alleviate your employer’s fears, and help find solutions to accommodate your epilepsy. Your epilepsy association can also provide a teaching session that helps employers and colleagues learn how to respond to seizures in the workplace. You’d be amazed at how effective this is! Call 1-866-EPILEPSY!