Have you ever seen or heard of instances of casual sexism at work? I think I hear a loud, unanimous “yes.” The workplace environment in our society is strongly patriarchal, with barriers specifically designed to disadvantage women.
Bias is clearly present everywhere, from task allocation to work systems to performance metrics to the understanding of our biological needs. It is critical that women understand their rights as workers, what they are entitled to, and what obstacles they may face.
Being aware of your rights as a working woman is crucial because, in the absence of awareness, it will be simpler for others to violate them.
Maternity benefits also apply to single women.
Although many groups in our culture stigmatise unplanned pregnancies, a single, unmarried mother legally has the same rights as a married mother. All maternity benefits are still available to single mothers since they are independent of marital status. Never listen to what a management or employer says.
Legal action against salary disparities based on gender is an option.
According to the Equal Remuneration Act of 1976, two employees should be paid equally for work that they accomplish. This implies that you can file a legal complaint if a man is paid significantly more for performing the exact same employment that you are doing.
The act further declares that women shall not be subjected to discrimination in the workplace, in promotions, or in job offers.
You are free to decline a demanding job in the final month of your pregnancy.
In the final month of their pregnancy, many women experience anxiety because they worry that if they abdicate their obligations, they will be viewed as expendable or obsolete. Even though you are pregnant, a lot of abusive bosses believe you should devote all of your time and energy to them as an employee. To make workplaces more welcoming to women, many businesses need to implement gender sensitization.
That being said, you are free to turn down any physically demanding or laborious work during your final month of pregnancy, and it won’t be used against you.
It is your employer’s responsibility to handle allegations of sexual harassment.
In the workplace, many women experience sexual harassment. Anything sexual that is non-consensual and unsettling to a woman can fall under this category. The Prohibition of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act of 2013 mandates that an internal complaints committee (ICC) be established within every organization. Employers who manage small businesses with less than ten employees are required to take the matter up with the Local Complaints Committee (LOC). Remind the employer of their legal obligations if they attempt to downplay your concerns. Employees are actually expected to lead courses and orientations and take all other necessary steps to ensure that women feel safe working there.
Industrial safety is an essential for women who work in industries.
Employing companies for women must guarantee their safety at work. They must provide a separate restroom just for ladies. A creche facility must be available if there are more than thirty female employees. Women who work the night shift need to feel secure in their surroundings. If a company does not supply these to their female employees, they risk a two-year jail sentence or a fine.
Throughout your maternity leave, you cannot be fired.
There has always been discrimination against women. Many people view our biological characteristics as a liability. As though women becoming pregnant is unrelated to the survival of the human race and requires a significant commitment from men. Gender coexistence is made possible by this shared, humanitarian obligation. However, when it comes to prospects for job and advancement, women are stigmatised because of their menstruation and pregnancy.
Although many women struggle to keep their jobs and opportunities for advancement, the law says an employer cannot fire a pregnant employee. Women now have the legal right to take maternity leave without fear of losing their financial security thanks to the Maternity Benefit Act of 1961.
