Manual Load Handling
Because of postural difficulties and a body that is more susceptible to injury, expectant mothers are at risk when they are performing manual handling tasks. Pregnant women should avoid all manual handling, especially heavy lifting. If heavy or repetitive lifting is the main part of the job, the pregnant employee should be re-deployed temporarily during the pregnancy and for a period of time after they have given birth.Vibration and Movement
Pregnant women should not be working in environments which involve whole body vibration, such as riding in an off-road vehicle. This could be hazardous because the abdomen is exposed to jolts or shocks. However, this type of vibration poses no danger to women who are breastfeeding.Ionising Radiation
Any employees who work with ionising radiation in their jobs should inform their employer as soon as the pregnancy is confirmed, as arrangements must be made to eliminate their exposure to radiation. However, when it comes to non-ionising radiation such as optical radiation, infra-red, ultra-violet, radio frequency and microwaves, pregnant women are at no greater risk from exposure than other workers.Heat Extremes
Pregnant women are more sensitive to heat and will be more likely to faint or suffer stress related to overheating. This will not be a problem in the average office, but might be an issue in workplaces that involve extremes of temperature such as catering. If a pregnant woman is working in a very hot environment, she should be allowed to have refreshment and rest breaks frequently.Movement and Postures
Due to fatigue, back pain and varicose veins, many pregnant women find it difficult to stand for long periods of time. This could be a problem in a position that requires employees to be on their feet throughout their shift. Accommodations should be made, such as frequent rest breaks or adapting the position so that the pregnant employee can use a chair.Breastfeeding Mothers
It is necessary to allow breastfeeding mothers a break throughout the day to express milk into a breast pump and to provide them with a private area in which to do this. This will usually be once or twice per day. Also, a fridge must be on the premises in which to store the milk until the end of the workday. These are just a few of the important health and safety considerations that need to be made in the case of expectant mothers in the workplace.Legislation Affecting New and Expectant Mothers at Work
- Management of Health and Safety Regulations 1999 (MHSW)
- Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
- Employment Rights Act 1996 as amended by the Employment Relations Act 1999
- Sex Discrimination Act 1975