Pregnant workers and injury claims

Updated: 3 Oct, 2025
By Chris Salmon

If you are pregnant and injured at work, you may be entitled to claim compensation. UK law gives pregnant workers extra protection to ensure their health and safety. Employers must take steps to manage risks and provide a safe working environment for expectant mothers.

At a glance

  • Pregnant employees are protected under the Equality Act 2010 and Maternity & Parental Leave Regulations 1999 (Source: legislation.gov.uk)
  • Employers have a legal duty to protect pregnant workers from workplace risks.
  • Risk assessments must be carried out and adjustments made where needed.
  • Pregnant employees have the same right to claim compensation as other workers if an employer’s negligence caused the injury.
  • Financial support may include Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), maternity pay, and compensation.

Employer's duty of care

Employers in the UK owe all workers a duty of care. For pregnant workers, this duty is strengthened by specific legislation, including the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Employers must:

  • Carry out risk assessments tailored to pregnant workers.
  • Remove or reduce risks where possible.
  • Offer suitable alternative work or adjustments if risks cannot be avoided.
  • Provide paid leave if it is not possible to offer safe work.

If you are pregnant, tell your employer and ask for a risk assessment. If the job is unsafe, request changes or paid leave. Keep emails and notes. This protects you and any claim.

John Kushnick

Legal Operations Director
National Accident Law

Common risks for pregnant workers

Pregnant workers may be more vulnerable to certain risks, such as:

  • Slips, trips and falls caused by uneven floors or wet surfaces.
  • Lifting and carrying heavy loads, which may pose greater risks during pregnancy.
  • Exposure to harmful substances like chemicals, dust, or radiation.
  • Long hours or night shifts which may affect wellbeing during pregnancy.

Can I make a claim if I was injured while pregnant?

Yes. If your employer failed in their duty of care and you were injured at work, you may be able to claim compensation. This includes situations where:

  • Your employer did not carry out a proper risk assessment.
  • Reasonable adjustments were not made to your role or working conditions.
  • You were required to carry out unsafe tasks during pregnancy.

Compensation may cover general damages for pain and suffering, and special damages for financial losses.

Financial support if you cannot work

If your injury prevents you from working, you may be entitled to:

  • Statutory Sick Pay (SSP).
  • Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) or Maternity Allowance.
  • Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) if your injury leaves you unable to work long-term.
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Making a No Win, No Fee claim

Pregnant workers can start a claim on a No Win, No Fee basis. This means you will not pay legal fees if your case is unsuccessful. If you win, your solicitor will deduct a success fee (up to 25%) from your compensation.

Conclusion

If you are pregnant and injured at work, you have the same right to financial compensation as any other employee. Employers must take steps to protect expectant mothers, and failing to do so may amount to negligence. Seeking early legal advice ensures you get the support and compensation you are entitled to.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

More about Chris and WAAC

Last reviewed October 2025 by Chris Salmon

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