The Maternity Protection Act protects the health of the expectant or nursing mother and her child at the place of work, training and study during pregnancy, after childbirth and during the breastfeeding period. The Act enables women to continue their employment or other activities during this time without endangering their health or that of their child and counteracts discrimination during pregnancy, after childbirth and during breastfeeding. Regulations in other occupational health and safety laws remain unaffected. The Maternity Protection Act applies to both employees and students.

Here you can find the BMFSFJ's Maternity Protection Guide brochure with useful information on rights and obligations and health protection in the workplace during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The Maternity Protection Act stipulates that a risk assessment must be carried out for the pregnant woman's workplace at the latest when she becomes pregnant. The respective supervisor is responsible for this. Further information on this can be found on the page for line managers.