Pregnant, Post Natal or Breastfeeding Employees

Pregnancy while Working

New or expectant mothers can be at risk from certain work hazards.  There is a legal requirement to assess such risks and to ensure that suitable control measures are in place to protect women and their babies who may be at risk.  This risk assessment requirement applies once the employee confirms in writing to their Line Manager/Supervisor that they are pregnant.  All Units must have procedures in place for this.  Managers must be aware of this requirement, of the guidance below and also within relevant Health and Safety Authority publications. 

A Pregnancy Risk Assessment Form is provided together with guidance in the University of Galway Safety Statement.
Please also see Pregnancy Risk Assessment Procedure and Flow Chart for additional information.

The risk assessment is completed by their Principal Investigator, Supervisor, Unit Safety Co-ordinator, other appropriate staff member familiar with the employee's work or by Health and Safety Office staff where required.