The Health & Safety Executives’ advice has changed for pregnant workers and new mothers and an individual risk assessment must now be carried out.
Employers are responsible for providing a safe working environment while effectively managing risks to the health and safety of all workers, including women of a childbearing age.
You must carry out an individual risk assessment for pregnant workers and new mothers. This applies to workers who:
- are pregnant;
- have given birth in the last 6 months; or
- are currently breastfeeding.
HSE said this guidance applies to all new and expectant mothers.
HSE said: “It’s important for employers to support them all equally. The legal protections outlined also apply to some transgender men, non-binary people and people with variations in sex characteristics, or who are intersex.
“Once a worker has informed you in writing that they are pregnant, you must complete an individual risk assessment and make any necessary changes to support them.”