Lockton Health and Safety Manual

The layout of workstations  The layout of workstations may need to be re‐assessed for expectant  mothers to make working arrangements more comfortable.   Repetitive twisting movements should be avoided to prevent back  and shoulder ache.    Manual handling  Due to the hormonal changes which affect the ligaments during  pregnancy, pregnant mothers are at a greater risk of manual  handling injury.  They may also experience postural problems as  pregnancy progresses.   There are also risks for women who have recently given birth, for  example, after a caesarean section there is likely to be a temporary  limitation on lifting and handling capability.  Managers should consider the following hierarchy of control  measures when assessing manual handling risks for pregnant  workers, the Manual Handling Guide earlier in this Health and Safety  Manual must be followed.   where ever practicable, manual handling should be avoided by  pregnant workers;   where this is not possible, is there any lifting equipment which  can be used to assist handling operations;   can loads be reduced or tasks changed to make handling easier,    is the manual handling environment clear of obstructions.  Working at height  Expectant mothers may experience problems with low blood  pressure, which can cause dizziness and fainting.  In addition as the  baby grows, postural problems and a changing centre of gravity can  affect balance and agility.

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V7 01/12/2017 uncontrolled Document when printed