Working at the hospital during pregnancy: a descriptive national cross-sectional study in France

Objective: The objective of the article is to describe the follow-up of pregnancies at work and occupational exposure to potential risks for pregnancy. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed from April 1, 2017 to October 31, 2017 in the occupational health departments of French hospitals. After delivery and at the time of returning to work, 1,165 eligible workers were interviewed by occupational health physicians (OHPs). Socio-demographic information was self-reported. Occupational exposures were assessed by an ONP. Birth weight, gestational age, and sick leaves were also collected. Results: Among recruited workers, 51.8% were exposed to more than 5 occupational hazards. Biological and physical hazards were the most common hazards at the workplace. Note that heavy lifting >= 15 kg concerned 9.5% of workers. Only 20.1% of workers had a specific "pregnancy at work" medical visit with OW during pregnancy; 26.8% benefited from workstation adjustments. In contrast, the level of sick leaves was high (86.7%). Conclusions: Our data suggest that pregnant workers in hospitals must be strictly supervised.