How a Sink Supports Compliance with the PUMP Act

The Providing Urgent Maternal Protections (PUMP) Act, which was signed into law in December 2022, expands workplace protections for breastfeeding employees by ensuring they have adequate time and space to express milk. While the PUMP Act does not explicitly require a sink in lactation rooms, providing one helps employers meet the spirit of the law by ensuring a fully functional, sanitary, and compliant space for nursing mothers.

1.Ensuring a Clean and Sanitary Space

The PUMP Act requires employers to provide a private, clean space for pumping that is not a bathroom. Without a sink in the lactation room, nursing mothers may be forced to clean pump parts in a public restroom or shared kitchen sink, which is neither sanitary nor practical. A dedicated portable sink in the lactation room ensures that pump parts and bottles can be washed in a hygienic and private setting—aligning with the law’s intent to protect the health and dignity of nursing employees.

2. Minimizing Workplace Disruptions

The PUMP Act requires employers to provide reasonable break time for pumping, but without a sink in the lactation room, employees may waste valuable time searching for a proper place to clean their pump parts. A convenient, in-room sink allows them to complete their routine quickly and efficiently, helping both employees and employers maximize productivity.

3. Promoting a Supportive Workplace Culture

While the PUMP Act focuses on minimum legal requirements, businessesthat go beyond compliance by offering well-equipped lactation spaces—includinga sink—create a more inclusive andsupportive work environment. This can lead to higher employee satisfaction, improved retention of working mothers,and a stronger company reputation for family-friendly policies.

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Nessel’s Portable Sinks: A Simple Solution forPUMP Act Compliance

Employers looking to enhance their lactation rooms and stay ahead of compliance requirements can benefit from Nessel’s portable sinks. These sinks require no major plumbing installation, are sleek and easy to maintain, and provide a hygienic, convenient solution that supports both legal compliance and employee well-being.

By adding a portable sink to your lactation space, your company demonstrates a real commitment to supporting nursing mothers, ensuring that your workplace remains PUMP Act-compliant while fostering a more inclusive and productive environment.

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