Sometimes during pregnancy, a woman needs to be accommodated by her employer in order to maintain a healthy pregnancy.  This may range from asking for time off for a doctor's visit to requesting a change in work assignment.

The pregnant employee needs to know how she can approach her employer with a request.  Some employers do not have a lot of information about, or experience with pregnancy and may need more detailed information.

Inform your employer as early in your pregnancy as possible that you are pregnant.  When employers are aware that you are pregnant they are better informed to anticipate your needs.  Communicate your long-term plans, and any requests you may make during your pregnancy.

Get ideas from co-workers or supervisors who have recently been expecting.  They may be able to provide you with more information on how pregnancy affects work and the effects of work on pregnancy.

Let your employer know, as soon as possible, if there are changes in your health status that may affect your work.

Remember to go to your employer with solutions, not just a list of your problems.  Develop a plan that is positive and manageable.  Solve requests one at a time.

Step One:
Explain why your request is important.

• Be clear about the reason for your request.
• Help your employer understand how your request will benefit your health, the health of your baby, and your productivity in your job.

Step Two
Explain how you will use the help requested and be specific.

• Help your employer understand how your request will meet workplace goals.
• Be flexible and willing to negotiate.
• If needed, provide information from your health care provider to show that your needs are medically supported.
• Provide exact dates and times e.g. medical appointments and equipment e.g. foot stools needed.

Step Three
Once you secure your request, keep your employer and others informed about the importance of their help.

• Provide your employer with names and telephone numbers of organizations that can provide them with additional information or support.

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Examples

1.  A common need during pregnancy is time to attend medical appointments for prenatal care.  These appointments may need to be scheduled during work hours.

  Step One:

• Check company policies and procedures.  In some workplaces you can use sick time for medical appointments.  In other workplaces you may be able to flex your time.
• Find out about previous practices and experiences from employees and/or managers who have been pregnant or had a pregnant employee.
• Prepare your suggestions considering all of your options.

  Step Two:

• Present your case to your manager.
• Explain the reasons for your request.
• You may provide your manager with a doctor's note.

  Step Three:

• Work with your manager and co-workers to design a work arrangement that is positive, effective and manageable.
• Modify your request as appropriate.

2. Many women work rotating shifts.  They may find this especially tiring towards the end of their pregnancy, and want to change shifts.

  Step One:

• Check company policies and procedures for options of alternative work arrangements.

  Step Two:

• If you have to work shifts, rotating shifts forward is less tiring than rotating backwards.
• Discuss possibilities to work straight day shifts with your manager and/or colleagues in order to reduce stress and fatigue.
• Discuss the need to take short breaks every two hours.  Your physician may be able to provide you with a note.

  Step Three:

• Once you secure your request, keep your employer informed of its benefit.
• Openly and honestly evaluate the arrangement.

What If There Is Resistance?

Talk about your concerns, and let management know about successful ideas from other workplaces.

• Maintain open communication lines.
• Communicate and demonstrate your commitment to your job.
• Suggest other options.

Where To Go Next?

• Discuss your issues with your Health and Safety Representative, Occupational Health Nurse or Union Representative.
• Don't be discouraged if your workplace isn't yet as progressive as other workplaces.
• Consult with a Public Health Nurse at the Health Unit.
• Be knowledgeable about your rights under the Ontario Human Rights.  As a last resort you may file a complaint.

For More Information...

Motherisk Program - Environmental Exposures 1-416-813-6780

Peterborough County-City Health Unit
1-705-743-1000
pcchu.peterborough.on.ca

Ontario Human Rights Commission
Pregnancy Before, During & After:  Know Your Rights
http://www.ohrc.on.ca