Director Public Fire Safety Services Asheville, North Carolina, United States
JUST IN TIME FOR THE NEW 2023 LAWS!! Preparation - a task that occurs even before you board the apparatus. You know the rules, you know how to execute, and you know how to maneuver when circumstances require. Agencies should be preparing the same way do deal with firefighter pregnancy and understand their legal obligations in the wake of pregnancy, childbirth and the firefighter's return to work. This express session will provide you with the basics to develop your plans and policies, or update them as needed. Never had a pregnant firefighter working with you before? Do not wait to prepare until you learn of the pregnancy - you planned how to attack your first high rise fire before you entered the burning building - this is no different. Topics will include: (1) What to do when pregnancy is reported (2) Understanding light duty options and requirements (3) Education on risks to the woman and fetus (4) Accommodations (5) Leaves of Absence (6) Return to work (7) Lactation and breastfeeding We will hit the highlights, provide you resources and hopefully food for thought as well. Be prepared to bring your questions.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participants will be able to list the steps to follow when learning a firefigher is pregnant.
Upon completion, participants will know how to have an interactive discussion with a pregnant firefighter, or one returning from childbirth, with respect to possible accommodations.
Upon completion, participants will know how to preplan for firefighter pregnancy without operations being adversely impacted