Health and safety at work

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and your working conditions are potentially dangerous to your health or that of your baby, or if you simply have concerns about this matter, discuss it with your prenatal care provider. Depending on your work situation, certain measures may be available.

For example, most workers in Québec are eligible for the For a Safe Maternity Experience (PMSD) program from Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST). An occupational health team in your area will assess your situation and submit their findings to your prenatal care provider. CNESST will then determine whether you are eligible for the program. If so, your employer may have to adapt your position or working conditions, or you may be reassigned or remove you from the workplace with financial compensation.

Workers employed by companies under federal jurisdiction have slightly different provisions that may be included in their employment contract. In such cases, the rules of the Canada Labour Code apply. You can ask your employer or union for more information.

For information about the For a Safe Maternity Experience program, visit www.cnesst.gouv.qc.ca/en/life-events/i-am-expecting-child.

cnesst.gouv.qc.ca/en/life-events/i-amexpecting- child.

For information about the Canada Labour Code, visit www.canada.ca/en/services/jobs/workplace/federally-regulated-industries/canada-labour-code-parts-overview.html.