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Indicator 3.9.10
by Contact on 8 October 2026
Requirement
The UoC shall ensure that additional breaks are granted for pregnant women and breastfeeding women. These breaks shall be counted as working time and appropriate facilities shall be provided.
How Do I Interpret This Requirement?
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According to ILO, the lack of support at the workplace is one of the main reasons that women stop breastfeeding before the recommended time.
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Employers can support breastfeeding women by providing:
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ample time away from work activities
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a comfortable, private location to express breast milk
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access to a fridge to store it
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a clean and safe environment (other than a bathroom).
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Evidence of Implementation
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policy, for example addressing new and expectant mothers
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health and safety risk assessment
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contracts
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working hours records.
Auditors Should Confirm
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entitlement to paid nursing breaks in the country/region where the UoC is located;
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confirm that a location for breastfeeding mothers is suitable;
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confirm that the relevant employees understand these requirements.
Useful Resources
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https://www.ilo.org/global/about-the-ilo/newsroom/comment-analysis/WCMS_218710/lang–en/index.htm
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Ontario, Canada Public Health Association recommendations for creating a breastfeeding friendly workplace: <https://www.opha.on.ca/OPHA/media/Resources/Resource%20Documents/BreastfeedingFriendlyWorkplace-Sep08.pdf>
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Region of Waterloo, Canada recommendations for creating a breastfeeding friendly workplace: <https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/doing-business/resources/Documents/Breastfeeding_Friendly_Workplace_Toolkit.PDF>
