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What safety procedures should my childcare service put in place?

Aside from location, staffing and the facilities themselves, one of the most important topics many parents are concerned about is safety. Here are the regulations concerning safety procedures and policies at childcare facilities in Ireland:

The regulations require that every child is within the sight or hearing of at least one staff member at all times.
They are also required to put a key worker system in place that makes one staff member responsible for each child.
The facility should be designed to include viewing panels in walls and doors, to ensure that children are visible to care givers at all times.
Any outdoor play areas should be securely and adequately fenced to prevent children from wandering off unattended. It should also ensure that no adults or people from outside the centre can gain unauthorised access.
Fire safety procedures, including having fire extinguishers and other equipment, and practising regular fire drills, must be adhered to.

Finally, any incidents that occur at the facility, no matter how minor, must be recorded in a book kept on the premises. Parents should be notified of any serious accidents immediately.

It is the responsibility of the child care facility to ensure that the risk of injury is balanced with play and exploration possibilities for the child, and that the children in its care still have the opportunity to explore in a safe environment.

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