IDHR Introduces Training on Preventing Pregnancy Discrimination in the Workplace

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Human Rights’ (IDHR) Institute for Training and Development will present its first training aimed at preventing pregnancy discrimination in the workplace, following a measure providing job protection for pregnant women that went into effect this year. The training, to be held March 25th in Chicago, will be introduced as part of IDHR’s regular public training schedule and will be available to public and private entities.

“This training is highly recommended to both employees and employers who might be unsure about how to grant reasonable accommodations under the law,” IDHR Director Rocco Claps said. “It’s essential to know about the risks associated with working in certain conditions while pregnant.”

“The Pregnancy Factor: The Hidden Impact of Having a Child” will educate participants on best practices in complying with the recently implemented law concerning pregnant women in the workplace. Public Act 98-1050, which amended the Human Rights Act, requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations and safe working conditions for expectant mothers so that they can continue working without fear of endangering their health or the health of the child. Provisions to the amendment include limits on heavy lifting and assistance in manual labor, access to places to sit, more frequent restroom breaks, time off to recover from childbirth, and private break space for breast-feeding.

“The law aims to treat pregnant workers with dignity and respect, giving them the same accommodations as you would give workers with a disability or injury,” said State Representative Mary Flowers (D-Chicago), who sponsored the legislation. “Many employers and employees might be surprised by how these accommodations can increase productivity, retention, and morale in the workplace.”

Employers are also required to post a notice in a conspicuous location and to include in any employee handbook information regarding employee’s rights to be free from unlawful discrimination and methods of filing a discrimination charge. IDHR has prepared a poster and detailed fact sheets about the law, which can be found at www.Illinois.gov/DHR.

“Our department is dedicated to making compliance with the law as easy as possible for employers,” Director Claps said. “These trainings provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the risks associated with working in certain conditions while pregnant.”

To register for the March 25th training session or to request a customized session for your organization or business, please visit http://www2.illinois.gov/dhr/Training/Pages/default.aspx.

The Illinois Human Rights Act protects individuals from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age (40 and over), marital status, disability, military status, familial status, sexual orientation (including gender identity) or unfavorable military discharge.  Further information is available at www.illinois.gov/dhr