Working during pregnancy may be a challenging experience, especially as your body undergoes significant changes. One way to maintain your well-being during this time is by requesting light duty at work. This will allow you to continue working while accommodating your changing physical needs. 

Below are some tips on how to get light duty at work while pregnant. If you have issues obtaining accommodations and suspect your employer is violating your workplace rights, speak with an employment attorney right away. 

Understand Your Rights

Before approaching your employer, it’s essential to understand your rights as a pregnant employee. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) prohibits employers from discriminating against pregnant employees in any aspect of employment, including assignments and tasks. 

This means that if you request lighter duties due to pregnancy-related health concerns, your employer should consider these requests fairly. 

Therefore, your employer cannot discriminate against you by denying employment privileges due to your pregnancy. You can continue to do your job even if you require certain accommodations. 

According to the law, an employer cannot single you out and prevent you from working solely because you’re pregnant.  

Consult with Your Healthcare Provider

Your healthcare provider plays a pivotal role in determining whether you need light duty at work during your pregnancy. 

Speak with them about your job responsibilities and any health concerns you may have related to these tasks. If they agree that lighter duties will benefit both you and your baby, ask for a written recommendation detailing the adjustments you need.

Prepare a Well-Thought-Out Proposal

When discussing light duty with your employer, it’s essential to present a well-thought-out proposal. Clearly outline the reasons for any adjustments.

Highlight specific aspects of your job that may carry risks during your pregnancy, especially if you’re not given accommodations. 

Also, include suggestions for alternative tasks or ways to modify existing tasks to meet your needs until and after childbirth.

With the help of an employment attorney, you can draft a clear outline of the proposal and support the document with the findings or recommendations of your doctor.

Schedule a Meeting with Your Employer

Schedule a meeting with your supervisor or human resources department to discuss your request for light duty. 

Be open and honest about your situation. Again, share the recommendations provided by your healthcare provider. 

Remember that it’s in the best interest of the company for you to continue working productively. This should be done, keeping in mind that maintaining your health and the health of your unborn child is of paramount importance.

Remain Open to Compromise

While it’s essential for employers to consider pregnancy-related requests reasonably, they may not always be able to accommodate all of them immediately. 

Be open to negotiation and compromise if your employer proposes alternative solutions to ensure your well-being during pregnancy. These solutions may involve assigning you substitute tasks or responsibilities that relate to your experience and training.

Follow Company Procedures

In some cases, there might be specific company procedures you need to follow to request light duty. Make sure you’re aware of these requirements by reviewing your employee handbook or speaking with a human resources representative. Do your best to adhere to these processes when making your request.

Summing Everything Up –

Getting light duty at work while pregnant involves understanding your rights, consulting with your healthcare provider, presenting a well-thought-out proposal, and communicating openly with your employer. By taking these steps, you can work while you’re pregnant and prioritize what you need medically and professionally.

Contact an Employment Attorney About Your Rights as a Pregnant Employee

To learn more about your rights in the workplace, contact the Mara Law Firm now. Whatever your concerns, seeking legal guidance will give you the support you need on the job. 

Whether you have questions about taking time off work, receiving fair compensation, or receiving proper accommodations, you can get all your questions answered by scheduling an appointment with an employment legal professional.