Pregnacy at Work Online Course Overview
Talk to most employers and they will agree that it’s in their interests to support new and expectant mothers. Looking after the rights and welfare of pregnant workers and new mothers is one of the main responsibilities of any employer. These rights are protected by various pieces of legislation, such as Health and Safety at Work law and the Equality Act 2010.
The Employment Rights Act defines the rights of new and expectant mothers and new fathers. The Equality Act makes it illegal to discriminate against someone because of a “protected characteristic”. Being pregnant at work or on parental leave count as “protected characteristics” – this means that an employee may not have her rights taken away from her just because she is pregnant.
So, if you are a manager who works with pregnant employees or employees on parental leave, you will need to ensure that you comply with the law and that you treat the employee fairly and protect her rights before, during and after her baby is born.
Examples may include maternity pay, “keep in touch” days, additional parental leave and a staggered return to work. This online course also goes into detail around informing the employee of possible promotion opportunities whilst she is on maternity leave.
There are two sets of Health and Safety regulations which oblige employers to provide appropriate facilities and carry out specific risk assessments. For example, a pregnant employee’s working environment may need to be altered or she may need to wear special protective equipment or clothing.
The course also covers practical health and safety responsibilities that an employer has in looking after the woman’s physical well-being.
