HSE Guidance – Protecting Pregnant Workers and New Mothers

HSE advice has changed and you must now carry out an individual risk assessment for pregnant workers and new mothers.

There will be little practical change as you must already consider risks to women of childbearing age in your general risk assessment.

The difference is that you must also carry out an individual risk assessment that covers a worker’s specific needs when they inform you in writing that they:

• are pregnant
• have given birth in the last 6 months, or
• are breastfeeding

HSE updated webpages provide advice on talking to workers, and protecting them from common risks like working at height and lifting heavy loads.

There is dedicated advice for workers themselves.

There is also a video with practical advice on how to keep pregnant workers and new mothers safe.