Breastfeeding In The Workplace

ML BF room cut

Have you stopped by the staff breastfeeding rooms at the Moses Lake Community Health Center (MLCHC) or the Quincy Community Health Center recently?


Both sites have designated space available for staff to nurse and pump.  You can either bring your own breast pump or use the WIC provided pump and get a pump kit to keep.  Each room has supplies for you to wash your bottles and tubing, as well as a refrigerator designated specifically for breastmilk.  The Quincy room even has a changing table!  So, take a moment and come check out these great rooms that MLCHC offers for staff and patients. 

Women with children are the fastest-growing segment of the workforce. Balancing work and family is an important priority for all employees. Today, more than 80% of new mothers in the United States begin breastfeeding, and 6 in every 10 new mothers are in the workforce.

Your business can take easy steps to support breastfeeding in any industry! Employers who provide a supportive environment for breastfeeding employees enjoy many proven benefits including:

  • Lower absenteeism
  • Lower health care costs
  • Better retention of employees
  • Higher productivity and company loyalty
  • Positive image in the community as a family-friendly business

See the "Additional Resources" section below to view solutions on how your business can support nursing mothers within your specific industry.

Employers

The following recommendations represent best practices for creating a breastfeeding-friendly workplace and complying with Washington State and Federal Law.

Quincy BF roomAppropriate Space

Employers are required to provide a place, "other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from coworkers and the public."

Adequate Time

Employers must provide reasonable break time to express breast milk as frequently as needed by nursing mother for 1 year after the child's birth

Implement a Breastfeeding Policy at Your Workplace Today:

  • Helps ensure company compliance with the law
  • Shows support for the health of your employees and their families
  • Clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of both supervisors and employees
  • Can help prevent harassment and other negative workplace behavior
  • Sample breastfeeding policy

Want to get involved? Join Moses Lake Breastfeeding Coalition