The University of Rhode Island recognizes the importance and benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and their infants, and in promoting a family-friendly work and study environment. Therefore, in accordance with Rhode Island state law, the University of Rhode Island acknowledges that a woman may breastfeed her child in any place open to the public on campus, and shall provide sanitary and private space, other than a toilet stall, in close proximity to the work or study area for employees or students who are nursing to be used as a lactation room. Supervisors/chairs will work with employees who are nursing to schedule reasonable and flexible break times each day for this activity.
This policy is applicable to all University faculty, staff, and students.
All University supervisors are responsible for being aware of the policy and working with nursing employees to arrange mutually convenient lactation break times. The Office of Student Affairs will be responsible for making this policy known to female students.
Lactation Facilities
| Facility | Facility Name | Lactation Room Location |
|---|---|---|
| KC05 | Memorial Union | 1st Floor; In Women’s Room |
| KC12 | Bliss Hall | 3rd Floor; Room T3 |
| KC47 | Carother’s Library | 2nd Floor; Room 237 (request key from circulation desk) |
| KC59 | Fascitelli Center for Adv. Engineering | 1st Floor; Room 00T3 |
| KC74B | Avedisian Hall | 2nd Floor; Room 284 |
| NBC55 | Ocean Science and Exploration Center | Ground Floor; Room 017 |
| NBC94A | Coastal Institute Building | Ground Floor; Room 016 |
The location may be the place an employee normally works if there is adequate privacy, cleanliness, and is comfortable for the employee.
Areas such as restrooms are not considered appropriate spaces for lactation purposes, unless the restroom is equipped with a separate, designated room for lactation purposes.
Lactation Breaks
Whenever possible, the University shall provide flexibility for staff and faculty mothers who give their Department Chair or Supervisor adequate notice identifying a need for lactation support and facilities.
Mothers are responsible for requesting lactation support prior to or during maternity leave, preferably no later than two weeks before returning to work.
The unpaid time (such as a lunch period), generally not to exceed one hour, ideally should run concurrently with an employee’s paid break time (if applicable), but the University shall make separate time available, if this is not reasonable. Supervisors and employees shall work together to establish mutually convenient times.
Alternatively, personal leave, vacation time, or flexible scheduling may be used for this accommodation.
Please direct questions to our Benefits team at benefits@etal.uri.edu.