Employees who are nursing mothers will be provided reasonable periods of time and a private space to nurse an infant and/or express milk as often as necessary for up to one year following the birth of a child.
Purpose/Reason for Policy: To provide for lactation support for breastfeeding mothers in accordance with the The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (known as the “Affordable Care Act”) amended section 7 of the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”).
Scope/Covered Persons: All members of the Guilford College community
The Policy:
An appropriate room will be provided by the employing department (in consultation with the College Space Committee as necessary) where nursing employees can either nurse an infant brought in during lunch or breaks, or pump breast milk to be stored for later use. In many cases, a private office can be used if it meets the following criteria; otherwise the department employing the nursing employee will provide an alternative space that meets these criteria:
- The room will be a completely private area (windowless, or with covered windows, with a closeable lockable door) for breastfeeding or pumping located in an area easily accessible to employees.
- The room will have accessible electrical outlets for electric breast pump use and a sink close by with a clean, safe water source for hand washing and rinsing out breast pump equipment.
- The room will contain a comfortable chair with arms for nursing, a nursing stool could be optional, a table or desk and a chair for pumping.
- A small refrigerator will be available in the department for safe storage of breast milk. Breastfeeding employees will provide their own containers and milk stored in the refrigerator will be clearly labeled with name and date.
If needed, scheduling will occur to ensure that all those needing the room will have the opportunity to use it.
Roles and Responsibilities: Department heads are responsible for designating an appropriate space in consultation with the College Space Committee.
Other related Policies, Regulations, Statutes and Documents: U.S. Dept. of Labor Frequently Asked Questions – Break Time for Nursing Mothers
Approval Authority: College President
Responsible Office: Office of Human Resources, King Hall 101, hr@guilford.edu
Revision History: Updated in the Employee Handbook revision of 2018