Interested in Improving Your Lactation Practices? We Can Help!
The federal Break Time for Nursing Mothers law and PUMP Act requires employers covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) to provide basic accommodations for breastfeeding mothers at work. These accommodations include break time as needed to express breast milk in a private room, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from coworkers and the public. More information about the PUMP Act can be found in the PUMP Act Explainer.
Workplace Lactation Support
Employers who invest in employee lactation accommodations see a 3:1 return on investment (ROI) because of:
- Lower healthcare costs
- Lower absenteeism for both mothers and fathers
- Lower turnover rates
- Improved employee morale
The Ohio Department of Health, in partnership with Every Mother, Inc., developed the Ohio Workplace PLUS (Providing Lactation Upgrades and Support) toolkit. This is a free comprehensive resource for Human Resource professionals, supervisors, and employees. It helps businesses establish or enhance existing lactation accommodations. The Stark County Health Department can help educate employers on this program and provide additional materials. Please reach out to Stephanie Hann, RN at [email protected] or by calling 330-493-9928.
Ohio Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace Award
The Stark County Health Department is proud to announce they were awarded GOLD level designation as a Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace!
In partnership with Ohio Breastfeeding Alliance, Ohio Department of Health has launched the Ohio Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace Award Program to recognize Ohio businesses that offer lactation support to their employees. This includes having a breastfeeding policy established, offering break time to employees to pump in the workplace and having a space that is private, accessible and comfortable that is not a bathroom for nursing employees' use. Any Ohio business is eligible to apply for designation. For questions about the award program, contact [email protected] . Click here for the application.
Stark County Health Department also offers FREE breastfeeding support with a certified lactation specialist.