- General Requirements-It is the responsibility of the caregiver/provider to assure compliance with state construction and equipment codes.
- Apartments - If a provider resides in an apartment complex, care may be provided only in a ground level apartment.
- Mobile Home-Mobile homes shall be anchored and enclosed to ground level with a wind-resistant material. Documentation that a mobile home is in compliance with the current HUD Standards, manufactured after 6/25/76.
- Maintenance-The home shall be in a good state of repair and maintained in a clean and sanitary condition.
- Toilet Facilities-The home shall have an operable toilet and sink available for children’s use with hot and cold running water.
- Lighting/Ventilation-Rooms used by children shall be well-lighted and ventilated.
- Indoor Temperature-The indoor temperature shall be maintained between 65° and 85° F.
- Water Supply/Waste Disposal-Water supply, sewage disposal and solid waste disposal shall meet local city ordinances and State Department of Health regulations.
- Water Testing-When not on a public water supply, water shall be tested initially for lead and annually for bacteria and nitrates. (For more information contact your local health department.)
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors-One (1) operable carbon monoxide detector is installed according to manufacturers instructions in the same room as the heat source if the heating system in use is not in an enclosed closet and is: an open flame, natural gas or propane water heater; or an open flame, natural gas or propane heating system, except for floor furnaces and heating systems located in the attic or garage. If the heat source is located in a room not used for child care such as the master bedroom or kitchen, the carbon monoxide detector is located in the main area used for child care.
- Smoke Detectors-There shall be at least one operable smoke detector in the home located at the top of any stairs. Any room used by children for playing or sleeping, except kitchens, must have a smoke detector.
- Fire Extinguishers-A portable UL approved fire extinguisher, Class ABC or BC, with a gauge shall be provided for the cooking area. It shall be properly mounted and accessible. Disposable fire extinguishers with a gauge are acceptable. All fire extinguishers shall be serviced and tagged by a competent authority or replaced every three years and/or when the seal is broken.
- Heating Equipment-Portable heaters, open-face heaters or unvented or vent free heaters shall not be used while children are in care. A guard shall be provided to protect children from hot surfaces and open flames. Fireplaces in use while children are in care shall have solid doors that are kept closed. A stove or combustion heater shall not be located so that it would prevent escape in case of malfunctioning of the stove or heater. Heating equipment not specifically designed or installed as normal heating sources cannot be used for that purpose.
- Electrical Services-The use of temporary wiring or extension cords as permanent wiring is prohibited. Electrical outlet covers shall be used in all areas occupied by children. An operable flashlight shall be available at all times.
- Doors-Every closet door latch shall be such that children can open the door from inside the closet. Every bathroom door lock shall be designed to permit opening of the locked door from the outside and have a readily accessible opening device.
- Exits-Each floor used for child care shall have at least two means of escape on opposite ends of the home, at least one of which shall be a door leading to an unobstructed path to the outside. The second means of escape may be an unobstructed, operable window not less that 820 square inches and large enough to allow all adults and children to escape.
- Stairs (within home)-Every stairway shall be maintained free of obstructions and provide safe passage. Stairways with more than 4 steps must have railing.
- Hand Washing Supplies-Soap and clean individual towels or paper towels shall be easily accessible to the caregiver/provider and children for hand washing.
- Screens-When windows or doors are kept open, screens shall be maintained to minimize the entry of insects.
- Outdoor Play Area-There shall be an outdoor play area. This area must be hazard free, away from traffic, water and other dangers. In most instances, a fence will be required. If a fence is not deemed necessary, the caregiver/provider shall: Be outdoors with children and provide constant supervision; and Submit a written statement that constant supervision will be provided.
|
