Q: One of my female employees will be returning from parental leave soon and is still breastfeeding. What do I need to do to meet my obligations as an employer in regards to breastfeeding and work?
A: Breastfeeding is a protected attribute under discrimination legislation. Therefore, employers should ensure they provide adequate facilities and breaks for breastfeeding/expressing to take place while at work. It’s important for employers to understand that failure to support breastfeeding/expressing in the workplace could constitute discrimination.
What does ‘adequate facilities’ mean? Providing access to a lockable and private room such as an office or first aid room where the employee can comfortably breastfeed/express when required is considered adequate in most circumstances. Employers should also ensure there is access to a fridge for milk storage to create a multi functional environment for breastfeeding and work.
Employers may like to produce a return to work guide for women who are returning to work after parental leave. Such as guide might explain what support and facilities are available upon their return to work.
If you would like to discuss a workplace situation or find out more about how we can support your workplace, please call Industryus HR on 07 5655 4047 or click here.