equipment will be monitored by medical authority to ensure against air-borne
(12) Tables, chairs, and other furniture and fixtures will be
appropriately scaled to meet the needs and size of children served. Play equipment
will be carefully selected with regard to size, safety, and sanitation features and
inspected daily prior to used. Toys that can be washed are preferable for infants
and toddlers. Toys and other play equipment with sharp points or edges and those
which are coated with toxic or flammable materials are prohibited. Paints and other
materials for child handcraft will be water based, nonflammable, and nontoxic.
(13) Beds, cots/cribs, and playpens will be provided for children
appropriate to age and size and will be placed at least three feet apart on all sides
except when against a wall. Aisles will be unrestricted when beds, cots/cribs, or
playpens are occupied. Mattresses will be provided with waterproof covers. Bed
linen must be changed whenever beds/cribs are occupied consecutively by different
children and as linen is soiled. Cribs, playpens, and other equipment as appropriate
will be washed with a detergent solution daily. Lead-base paint, sharp projections,
easily movable parts, and abrasive surfaces must be avoided. In conformance with
FDA recommendations, spaces between crib slats should not be greater than two
and three eighths inches to prevent infants from strangling.
(14) When provided by the facility, diapers will be disposable. Parents
may provide either cloth or disposable diapers. Cloth diapers must be placed in
plastic bags labeled with the child's name and returned to the parent. Diapers will
not be laundered by childcare center personnel. Disposable diapers will be placed
into tightly covered receptacles with plastic liners. Plastic liners will be closed and
secured prior to being placed into an exterior refuse receptacle. Soiled diapers will
not be sorted in play, sleep, or food service areas. Hand washing facilities will be
conveniently located in areas where diapers are changed.
(15) Proper illumination in work and play areas will be provided to prevent
eyestrain and accidents. A minimum of 30-foot candles of illumination is required in
all play and activity areas; 100-foot candles of illumination will be provided in staff
workspace and examining areas.
(16) All areas will be kept clean and in good repair.
(17) Remember these important points.
(a) Soap, water, and disposable paper towels must be available for
handwashing.
(b) Water for children should not exceed 110F.
(c)
Common towels and face cloths are prohibited.
MD0166
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