If you are an MPhil or PhD student and are planning to take part in fieldwork during your pregnancy you must inform your supervisor. It may be possible for you to organise your fieldwork to take place following your pregnancy. This is something that you can discuss with your supervisor.
If you wish to undertake the fieldwork during your pregnancy you will be expected to seek appropriate medical advice (particularly if you plan on travelling); and complete the Fieldwork Request Form, which includes a risk assessment section.
Risk assessments are not carried out as a standard for pregnant women, in line with guidance from the Health and Safety Executive. However, from the School’s point of view, the Health and Safety Team would wish to be contacted if you:
- May be unable to evacuate a building without assistance, in the event of an emergency.
- Will be carrying out or planning to carry out fieldwork during your pregnancy
The Health and Safety Team have posted some helpful tips about how to ease common problems experienced in pregnancy. These are aimed at staff members, but are easily transferable to students.