Create Space
A small, private space can be set up for a lactation room. A mother needs to express milk approximately every three hours to maintain a healthy milk supply. Milk can be refrigerated or stored in a personal cooler or small refrigerator.
Crafting Your Policy
Policies are important so your business can set boundaries protecting both the business and it’s employees.
In 2009, North Dakota legislation established an “infant-friendly” designation for workplaces that adopt breastfeeding support policies that include:
- Flexible break times for milk expression
- Providing a clean, private space (not a bathroom) for pumping
- Access to a clean water source for washing hands and cleaning breast pump equipment
- Providing a place for storing breast milk
- The “infant-friendly” designation is free and an excellent way for your business to be recognized for its support of breastfeeding employees.
For Employers Color
Finding Balance for Your Company & Employees
Becoming an Infant Friendly Workplace is easier than businesses think. Many businesses already have the pieces in place ready to do it.
Crafting Policy
Supporting breastfeeding through policy is an important part of being Infant Friendly. Policies should include guidelines for breaks, space, a water source and what is provided for breast milk storage. This also includes some effort to inform and educate employees and managers about the policy.
Apply for Infant Friendly Designation
Once the business space and policy is ready, apply online to become an Infant Friendly Workplace. The application requires simple contact information and responses for less than 10 questions. Upon designation, the business will receive a packet of materials to promote your business as Infant Friendly as well as be listed online Infant Friendly.