The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advice has recently changed, and employers 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 any general health and safety 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.

See: Protecting pregnant workers and new mothers – Overview – HSE