WORKING DURING PREGNANCY

For the majority of women with uncomplicated, low-risk pregnancies, there is no problem with working as long as you would like. There are a few situations that might make working hazardous for both you and the baby. If you work with certain chemicals, fumes, solvents or radiation, you might need to avoid contact with some of these workplace hazards. Your employer may have policies in place to protect pregnant women. Also, if your work if very physically demanding, it may not be possible to continue doing strenuous work. Talk to your health care provider and your employer if your work includes:

①Stooping or bending over more than 10 times per hour

②Standing for more than 4 hours at a time

③Climbing stairs more than three times per shift

④Working more than 40 hours per week

⑤Shift work

⑥Lifting more than 23 kg (50 lb) after the 20th week of pregnancy

⑦Lifting more than 11 kg (24 lbs) after the 24th week of pregnancy

⑧Stooping, bending, or climbing ladders after the 28th week

⑨Needing to stand still for more than 30 minutes of every hour after the 32nd week

⑩Working with chemicals, fumes, solvents or radiation