Version: 1
Last Updated: January 2020
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Introduction

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar; during Ramadan, Muslims won't eat or drink during daylight hours; this is called fasting.

Guidance

Lifeguards observing a fast should generally be able to carry out their duties as usual; however, managers should be aware of the potential effects of hunger and dehydration, particularly dizziness and difficulty concentrating.

Lifeguards should be encouraged to notify managers voluntarily if they are fasting. Lifeguards should understand that they must notify their manager if they struggle to maintain their normal level of vigilance.

Changing lifeguard rotations or break times may also be appropriate to enable lifeguards fasting to continue doing their job to the best of their abilities and consider if changes to the standard shift pattern may be beneficial. A brief risk assessment may help to identify areas where lifeguard activities can be adjusted to maximise performance without affecting the running of the pool.

All lifeguards should be informed about what fasting entails and what effect this may have on swimmers and other lifeguards.

You should encourage lifeguards to:

1. Inform their manager of their intention to.
2. Discuss with their manager to see how they can be.
3. Participate in full for any risk assessment.
4. Do be honest about how they are feeling during your shift. 

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