Breastfeeding Worksite Solutions Program NMB recognizes the challenges that breastfeeding mothers face when returning to work. Finding a comfortable and private place to in the workplace can be difficult. We hope that the following programs will provide working mothers with facts and suggestions for approaching employers about pumping at work.

Employer Concerns:

• Cost
• Required supplies
• Time needed away from work
• Other employee reactions
• Managing the use of the room and supplies

Benefits to Employers:

• Cost savings of $3 per $1 invested in program
• Less illness among breastfed children of employees, resulting in reduced absenteeism to care for ill children
• Lower health care costs in breastfed children
• Higher employee productivity
• Higher morale
• Greater Company Loyalty
• Ability to retain valuable employees
• Family-friendly image in the community

Breastfeeding Mothers Programs:

• All-Inclusive Program
  • Mother's Pumping Room(s) close to work area and large enough to comfortably accommodate several users
  • Employer-provided multi-user electric breast pumps
  • Employer-provided collection kits
  • Sink with soap and paper towels available in or near the pumping room
  • Employer-provided refrigerator in the room for storage of human milk as well as labeling materials
  • Employer-provided educational entertainment for Mother's to enjoy while pumping
  • Employer-provided lactation consultant services before and after birth
• Intermediate Program
  • Mother's Pumping Room used only by breastfeeding or pumping women
  • One multi-user electric breast pump provided by employer
  • Employees provides their own collection kits
  • Comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment to promote relaxation
  • Sink with soap and paper towels available near pumping room
  • Employer-provided space in food designated refrigerator near pumping room.
• Basic Program
  • A clean, private, comfortable multipurpose space (not a restroom) with an electrical outlet in order to pump milk or to breastfeed.
  • Table and comfortable chair
  • Sink, soap, and paper towels (not necessarily in the pumping room)
  • Employee provides breast pump
  • Employee supplies cold packs for storage of milk

Tips for approching employers:

• Inform all employees about the breastfeeding policy - spelling out details of the program and prohibiting harassment and discrimination.
• Consider more flexible schedules:
  • Part-time work
  • Job-sharing - two part-time employees share responsibilities of one position
  • Phase-back over several weeks or months
  • Flex-time - working unusual hours
  • Compressed work week
  • Telecommuting - part or all of job worked from home
    
• Allow sufficient break time to breastfeed or express milk on the job
• Provide education and arrange breastfeeding support groups
• Support and be aware of legislation and policies promoting breastfeeding and the workplace
• Allow for creative solutions such as pumping in the car, office or cubicle if possible