Breastfeeding-friendly workplaces

<h1>Breastfeeding - www.breastfeeding.org.nz</h1>

Businesses that support breastfeeding can expect the following benefits:

Save money
Supported breastfeeding mothers are more likely to return to work after maternity leave which reduces recruitment costs, training costs and sick leave. Clear Communications in 2001 estimated a saving of $75,000 per employee returning to work. They had a 100% retention rate .
Less absenteeism
Breastfed babies get sick less, which means mothers take less sick days off to care for them. A study in the USA of two corporations showed a 50% decrease in sick days off when babies were breastfed .
Better company image
Supported working mothers are more productive, happier and help build the company’s image. They are also loyal to the company - less likely to resign and more likely go ‘above and beyond’ in future.

Information on breastfeeding-friendly workplaces is provided below from the following organisations:

There is also information on:

Back to the Providing breastfeeding-friendly environments in the community page

Department of Labour

A guide for employers on breastfeeding in the workplace, including setting up appropriate breaks and facilities for breastfeeding, is provided on the Department of Labour website:

From April 1, 2009 Employers will be required to provide appropriate facilities and breaks for employees who wish to breastfeed or express, as far as is reasonable and practicable in the circumstances — taking into account both their operating environment and available resources.

The breaks are unpaid unless the employee and employer agree otherwise.
The breastfeeding breaks are to be provided in addition to the standard paid rest breaks and unpaid meal breaks.

For more information, visit:
http://www.ers.govt.nz/parentalleave/infantfeeding.html

Women's Health Action Trust

More information for employers and mothers can be found on the Women's Health Action Trust website:

Equal Employment Opportunities Trust

Breastfeeding guidelines workplace toolkit

Employment Relations (Breaks and Infant Feeding) Amendment Bill

The Employment Relations (Breaks and Infant Feeding) Amendment Bill was introduced to Parliament in April 2008 and referred to the Transport and Industrial Relations Select Committee for consideration. The Committee called for public submissions, which closed on 22 May 2008.
If enacted, the Bill will require employers to provide breastfeeding breaks and facilities to employees who wish to breastfeed at work or during work time, where it is reasonable and practicable to do so. The Bill will also require employers to provide adequate rest and meal breaks to their employees.

View the Bill on the Legislation.govt.nz website - Employment Relations (Breaks and Infant Feeding, and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2008

International initiatives

Related research/literature from PubMed.gov

Website feedback
We welcome your feedback on this page.

Page last reviewed: 31 July 2009