Seizures

A seizure can happen to anyone, with or without a history of epilepsy. Head injuries, heat stroke, low blood sugar, alcohol withdrawal and some poisonings can all cause them. On a jobsite, the biggest danger is often what’s around the person: ladders, machinery, traffic and edges.

• Everyone

During a seizure

• Stay calm and stay with them. Time the seizure.
• Make the area safe: stop nearby machinery, move tools and hard objects away, and keep traffic and equipment away.
• Protect the head with something soft, like a folded jacket.
• Loosen anything tight around the neck, and remove safety glasses.
• Turn them gently onto their side once the jerking eases, to keep the airway clear.

• Don’t hold the person down or try to stop their movements.
• Don’t put anything in their mouth. People can’t swallow their tongue.
• Don’t give food, water or pills until they’re fully awake.

Call 911 if

• The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, or another one follows
• It’s the person’s first seizure, or you don’t know their history
• They’re injured, pregnant, diabetic, or had the seizure in water
• They have trouble breathing or don’t wake up afterward
• It may have been caused by a head injury, heat illness or poisoning

After the seizure

People are often confused, tired or embarrassed for a while. Stay with them, speak calmly, give them privacy, and don’t let them drive, climb or run equipment. Someone should go with them for medical care if needed.

Workers with epilepsy

Many people with epilepsy work safely in the trades. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires an individual assessment, not a blanket ban. Reasonable accommodations might include avoiding certain jobs at height or with dangerous machinery during a period when seizures aren’t controlled. Commercial drivers must meet DOT medical standards. Workers can choose to share a seizure action plan with their crew.

Last updated: October 2, 2026