Expressing breastmilk in the workplace

[Blueeyes91]

So I'm on day 2 of back in the office.

It's a big building with lots of companies. And there's a room for new mothers to express in.

You need to book the room and your work pass gains you entry.

I was expressing today and a man used his work pass and came in even though I shouted at soon as I was aware what was happening.

He looked at me and said he'd come back later.

The door clearly says new mothers room with a picture of a baby bottle on it. I was so freaked out I bawled my eyes out and I hardly managed to express anything.

They say they can't put a lock on the door due to health and safety... but what are my rights? Because I'm terrified of another man coming in...

You might think I'm sounding silly but anything could have happened. I'm in the basement... no one would have heard me scream.

Help and advice greatly appreciated.

[gallicgirl]

I really don't understand why they can't put a lock on it. Maybe suggest an engaged or occupied sign?
Very odd of the man to enter. Perhaps he's been using it for a sneaky snooze. I am impressed that there's dedicated facilities though.

[TheCraicDealer]

If he needed a work pass to get access then your employers should be able to trace who came in and tell them that this is a space reserved for nursing mothers and to respect that. Wtf did he need to "come back later" for? Presumably there's a fridge- if people are using it for non-breastmilk items then there needs to be an email sent round reminding staff that this isn't appropriate.

[ChickenSalt]

I'm so sorry, what a shock. The pumping room at my work has a toilet lock - engaged and vacant. As they are allowed on toilets, I can't see why they wouldn't be allowed on the new mothers room. Another temporary option is to whip up a sign in Word for the door - This room is occupied. Please do not enter.

Or barricade the door with the chair - chair back against the door, so it's not easy to open.

Good luck.

[PCohle]

I'd really query the no lock thing - presumably the loos have locks?

Could you use a door stop to wedge the door shut?

[Blueeyes91]

There's no chair or door handle to try and use that to block the door. And I tried the door wedge but the gaps quite big at the bottom... it's so doors aren't wedged.

Ita a really lovely office build but I want privacy and to be secure while I'm exposed

The fridge is for breakstmilk only.