Alan Sage – Production Operator

“ I get frustrated if I’m not able to work. I’m not used to being out of work”

“Are you still able to work?” That was the question Alan Sage had to answer after having a heart attack in 2006. However, the answer to his GP’s question wasn’t that simple. Alan had all the motivation he needed to work, but knew that physically, he couldn’t continue to do his job the same way as he’d done for the previous eight years or so.

Alan’s job as a production operator for Makefast Ltd, in Newtown, Wales, involves lifting heavy metal sheets and his heart attack left him unable to lift heavy equipment or parts without assistance. However, after three months off work on sick leave, he made a successful return to work. Minor adjustments were made to his working methods and as a result, he was able to keep both his job and maintain his health.

Employer's story

Makefast Ltd didn’t win its Jobcentre Plus Employer Diversity Award for nothing. The company which makes safety hardware for the marine industry, is committed to looking after its employees and values their capabilities, especially when as in Alan’s case, they develop long term health problems. “Alan is one of our key players in the company and we wouldn’t want to lose the expertise and experience he has” says Mike Mills, a production engineer and manager at the company. Mike believes that employees with the length of experience that Alan has to offer, deserve particular recognition because of what they can contribute.

When Alan felt fit enough to return to work, he made a phased return to work until he felt able to resume his normal full time hours. His duties are adjusted when necessary and assistance is organised to help him lift equipment if required. Managers keep a record of his medication requirements so that they know what action to take, should any medical emergencies arise.

Additional support

Maintaining the health of employees is an integral part of company policy at Makefast and periodic health checks are offered to all employees as are subsidised health benefits. Managers are responsive to suggestions from employees who need additional support to do their job. For example, after carrying out the necessary health and safety checks, the company responded positively to Alan’s request for a hand-held suction pump that he now uses to carry heavy metal sheets.

Employee's story

Alan probably holds the record for spending the shortest period of time out of work. He says: “I was once made redundant from one job and three hours later I’d found another job.” He puts his strong work ethic down to his upbringing and says: “My dad always said that you should always do your best at work and work to the best of your ability. That’s what I’ve always tried to do ever since leaving school.”

Alan knows his commitment to his job is valued and after his heart attack, felt confident that even if he couldn’t return to his job as a production operator, managers would find another job for him to do within the company. He says: “I’ve worked in places where you’re just a number, but here at this company I’m a person.”

Unfailing support

Since his heart attack, the adjustments Alan has had to make at work have been minimal. If he needs help, he asks for it. In addition to the suction pump that he uses to carry heavy metal sheets, he also uses a ‘dolly trolley’ for carrying components or parts needed for production.

Throughout his heart illness and his recovery, Alan has had the unfailing support of managers. The company paid 95% of his wages whilst he was on sick leave and this relieved any financial pressure he could have had because of being unable to work. The confidence he has in the company is reciprocated with its confidence in him and this mutual trust was effective in helping Alan make a successful return to work.

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