Workers across the country are facing rising heat and unsafe conditions on the job.
Heat is especially dangerous during pregnancy. Pregnant workers overheat and dehydrate faster than others. Working in extreme heat can make it more likely that the worker’s baby will be born too early or with other serious health problems.
You have rights that can help keep you safe. Under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), your employer must make changes at work to protect your health during pregnancy. These changes are called “reasonable accommodations.” It applies to most employers that have 15 or more employees.
You are protected from retaliation. It is illegal for your employer to punish you for being pregnant or for asking for changes at work. This includes: cutting your hours, reducing your pay, assigning harder work, and harassing or firing you.
These resources were developed jointly by WorkLife Law and the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.
What changes can I ask for?
To stay cool and safe:
- Shade structures or cool areas to rest
- Cool water and cups to drink from
- More rest breaks
- Permission to slow your pace
- Schedule changes to avoid peak heat
- Lighter or different job duties
For comfort and health:
- Permission to sit down while working
- More breaks for using the bathroom
- Help with heavy lifting
- Permission to eat or drink during your shift
- Remote work (if possible in your role)
- Not being around unsafe chemicals
- Being excused from job duties that are risky during pregnancy
Time off work:
- Days off to avoid extreme heat, or for morning sickness
- Unpaid leave to avoid risky working conditions or for bed rest
- Time off for medical appointments
- Reduced or part-time hours
Some states also offer paid leave. Contact our free helpline to learn what’s available.
Have questions about workplace issues related to pregnancy and extreme heat?
Anyone can call WorkLife Law’s helpline — regardless of income, language, or immigration status.
How do I ask for a change at work?
What words should I use?
Tell your boss that you need a “reasonable accommodation” for pregnancy.
- It’s best to make your request in writing
- Mention the law “Pregnant Workers Fairness Act”
- Your employer must respond and work with you to find a solution
Tips for talking to your employer.
If your boss hasn’t heard about the law, give them this.
Do I need to give my employer a doctor’s note?
Your employer is not allowed to ask for medical paperwork if you need extra water, food, or restroom breaks – or if you have some other need that is obvious.
For other requests, your employer is usually allowed to ask you for a medical note or form that includes:
- Confirmation that you need a change at work because of pregnancy
- What you need
- What job change would help
- How long you will need the change
Your employer is not allowed to ask for any more information than this. They also shouldn’t argue about whether you actually need the changes your healthcare provider says you need.
Doctors, nurse practitioners, midwives, doulas, and telehealth providers can all write this work note. Give your healthcare provider this document to help them write a note for you.
View or print this information as a two-page guide:
Worker safety and heat justice resources from National COSH:
