DPOC - Health, Safety, Comfort and Discipline 8-24

Child Care Aware of Kentucky: Directed Plan of Correction

Health, Safety, and Comfort

Summary of Regulations

1. Regulation Overview

   • Regulations under 922 KAR 2:090 and 922 KAR 2:120 focus on maintaining health, safety, and comfort in child-care settings.

   • The licensee is responsible for assurance of child protection and adherence to these regulations.

2. Director's Responsibilities

   • The center director is charged with implementing and supervising the child-care policies and ensuring compliance with health, safety, and comfort requirements.

Essential Health and Safety Guidelines

General Guidelines

• Licensees must ensure all operations in compliance with relevant regulations.

• Directors must assure the development of policies that prioritize child health, safety, and comfort.

Child Care Center Operations

• Child-care centers must provide a safe environment, maintaining cleanliness and safety of premises.

• Staff must have appropriate certifications, such as CPR/First Aid, with clear records maintained.

CPR and First Aid Coverage

Staff Requirements

• A certified person in infant and child CPR/First Aid must always be present with children.

• Certification must come from approved training agencies, including the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association.

Managing Hazards in Care

• Strict guidelines on outdoor activity based on weather conditions must be enforced to protect children's safety.

• Staff should utilize equipment that is age-appropriate and safe to avoid injuries.

Injury Prevention

Toys and Furnishings

• All play equipment must be in good repair and suited to children's developmental needs.

• Regular checks ensure toys and furnishings are free from hazards such as sharp edges and toxic materials.

Following Manufacturer's Guidelines

• Staff must adhere strictly to manufacturers' guidelines regarding the use of toys and equipment.

Comfort of Children

Providing Comfort

• Staff should communicate with children regarding their needs and feelings, providing emotional support.

Personal Needs Care

• Diapers must be changed promptly and diapers/clothing must be disposed of properly to maintain hygiene.

Medication Management

Storing and Administering Medication

• Medications must be locked away, with emergency medications having specific storage rules.

• Written permissions must be obtained for administration, ensuring confidentiality and proper record-keeping surrounding administration activities.

Supervision Requirements

Active Supervision

• Staff must maintain direct supervision during activities including mealtimes, transitions, and throughout outdoor play to ensure safety.

• Staff must be properly trained in areas such as safety while transporting children and during field trips.

Maintaining Records and Confidentiality

Record-Keeping Essentials

• Centers must keep comprehensive records for all events pertaining to child care, especially those involving medications and any incidents regarding behavior or safety compliance.

Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

Abuse Prevention

• Staff members are obligated to report any suspected child abuse or neglect without notifying supervisors first.

• Proper training must be provided regarding recognizing and responding to signs of abuse.

Reporting Process

• Timely reporting to authorities must be ensured for any incidents involving suspected abuse, ensuring the safety of all children.

Food Safety and Hygiene Guidelines

1. Meal Requirements

   • All meals must be served in a safe and hygienic manner, ensuring that food does not have expiring or harmful components.

   • Staff and children must adhere to strict handwashing protocols to maintain sanitation.

2. Food Components

   • Specific nutritional components must be met in meals as per guidelines to support children's health.

   • Special dietary needs must also be addressed with written permissions from parents or guardians.

Regulatory Compliance and Building Safety

Premises Requirements

• Centers must maintain physical facilities that are safe and free of hazards to ensure child safety.

• Emergency preparedness measures must be in place, including ensuring all equipment is functional and appropriate for child use.