Amazon has apologised after a breastfeeding employee was prevented from attending an in-person business course at one of its fulfilment centres in Scotland because she arrived with her infant. The incident has sparked discussion about workplace policies, breastfeeding accommodations, and inclusivity for working parents.
What happened?
Rachael Bews, an Amazon employee, had enrolled in a business course being held at the company’s fulfilment centre in Dunfermline, Scotland.
According to Bews, she informed Amazon about a week in advance that she planned to bring her 20-week-old baby because she was breastfeeding. She intended to use a lactation room during the event to express milk while attending the training.
However, while traveling by train to the venue, she received a phone call informing her that children under 6 were not permitted inside the facility. As a result, she was unable to attend the in-person session.
Why did Amazon deny entry?
Amazon said the decision was based on its existing health and safety policy.
The company explained that children under six are not allowed inside its fulfilment centres, regardless of whether they are accompanying employees or visitors. The policy is intended to address safety concerns in warehouse environments, where heavy machinery, moving equipment, and industrial operations pose potential hazards.
An Amazon spokesperson said the company should have communicated the rule before Bews began her journey.
“That should not have happened, and we understand her frustration,” the spokesperson said.
Why couldn’t she express milk?
Bews said she had planned to use the event’s lactation room to express milk while attending the course.
Because she expected to have her baby with her, she had not prepared sterilised bottles or pumping equipment in advance. Once she learned that her infant could not enter the building, attending the course became impractical.
What did Amazon do afterwards?
Amazon apologised to Bews and said it is reviewing how it communicates site-access policies to employees and visitors.
The company said it wants to prevent similar situations in the future by ensuring participants are informed of access restrictions before travelling to company events.
As an alternative, Amazon allowed Bews to complete the online portion of the six-week business course.
Why was the employee disappointed?
Although she could continue virtually, Bews said she missed valuable networking opportunities available only during the in-person session.
She argued that workplaces should do more to ensure business development opportunities remain accessible to new parents.
“It’s a challenging thing becoming a new mum, and being in business is a big part of my identity,” she said.
Why has the case drawn attention?
The incident highlights the balancing act many employers face between maintaining workplace safety and supporting employees with caregiving responsibilities.
It also raises broader questions about the following:
- Breastfeeding accommodations at work.
- Access to professional development for new parents.
- Communication of workplace policies before company events.
- Creating inclusive environments without compromising health and safety.
Amazon has indicated that while its safety policy regarding children entering fulfilment centres remains unchanged, it is reviewing its communication process to ensure employees receive clearer guidance before attending future events.
