Forum Pregnant and working

Physically demanding work

9 replies

BeaGuest ·
Can I refuse heavy physical work? I'm now 25 weeks pregnant and notice that after heavy work, I get a lot of hard contractions and really don't feel well.

Replies

  1. Nienke Guest #2

    I don't know if you're allowed to refuse, but I'd definitely be careful. Your body is telling you it's not good for you, so I'd definitely listen to it.

    Have you tried discussing it? I can't imagine they wouldn't listen!

  2. monique Guest #3

    yes, you can refuse, and your employer is required to take pregnant employees into account.

  3. Anonymous Guest #4

    Yes, if needed, request a consultation with an occupational health physician. I believe your employer is required to adjust your duties in case of physical complaints. If nothing else is possible, you can go on sick leave under the Sickness Benefits Act.

  4. Anonymous Guest #5

    anna

  5. mandy Guest #6

    Yes, at 25 weeks pregnant you can, but in principle you shouldn't lift more than 5 kg 10 times a day. You also have the right to extra breaks, and of course you can ask your midwife or gynecologist about everything.

  6. Emine Guest #7

    I also have to lift and pack heavy containers at work (20 to 25 kilos). I'm now 7 weeks along, and I went to my gynecologist today for a check-up, since my previous pregnancy ended in a miscarriage. I asked my gynecologist if it's okay for me to lift and pack heavy things, and she answered very briefly and clearly: it won't do any harm!!!

  7. Iza #8

    You can refuse it, yes. I think there's even a rule that they have to adjust your work when you're pregnant (no more night shifts, no more working with toxic substances, no heavy lifting). For safety, I'd call the midwife or discuss it with HR (and if they don't cooperate, consult the occupational health service or legal advice desk).

  8. yv #9

    If your body tells you, you MUST refuse for the health of you and the little one..
    Anyway, it's discussable.

  9. stefkietje #10

    I'm almost 11 weeks pregnant and I work in a nursing home, so I have to lift and carry heavy things more than 50 times a day. Sometimes I even have such bad belly pain that I can't even wear my pants comfortably. Is that normal?

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