Pregnant and breastfeeding employees

It is important for employees who are pregnant, have recently given birth, or are breastfeeding to inform their employer. The provisions established by the Swedish Work Environment Authority are not active until such time.

Some tasks are prohibited to carry out for employees who are pregnant or breastfeeding, e. g. working with lead or work that involves a risk of exposure to rubella or toxoplasma. Other tasks are unsuitable to carry out, e.g. heavy lifts.

The employer is responsible for the employees' health and safety at the workplace. An individual assessment of the work environment shall be conducted for this group. Risk factors shall be identified, and the extent of, for instance, heavy lifting and exposure to chemicals or biological agents shall be assessed. This assessment then determines the nature of the employee’s continued work.