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179 | P a g e FFY 2025–2027 CCDF State Plan

materials (soiled clothing and bedding) L. Physical Plant (1) Required approvals. The construction of a new building or any planned structural changes to an existing program building shall obtain approval from the local zoning authorities, fire safety agencies and local building authorities. Construction and maintenance work shall take place only in areas that are not accessible to the children. (2) Fire Safety. A program must be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations issued by the state fire marshal, the proper local fire marshal or state inspector, including a certificate of occupancy if required prior to receiving any children for care. (3) Indoor Storage Areas. Potentially hazardous equipment, materials and supplies shall be stored in a locked area inaccessible to children. Examples of items to be stored include non-food related products under pressure in aerosol dispensing cans, flammable and corrosive materials, cleaning supplies, poisons, insecticides, office supplies and industrial-sized or commercial buckets with a capacity of three gallons or more or any other similar device with rigid sides which would not tip over if a toddler fell into the container head first. M. Playgrounds (1) Fence or Approved Barriers. It is recommended that playgrounds shall be protected from traffic or other hazards by a four (4) foot or higher secure fence or other barrier. Fencing material shall not present a hazard to children and shall be maintained so as to prevent children from leaving the playground area by any means other than through an approved access route. Fence gates should be kept closed except when persons are entering or exiting the area. If the outdoor play space has no fence or barrier, the program official must submit a plan to ensure children are protected from vehicular traffic, water hazards, and any other potential hazards while participating in outdoor play. (3)(2) Equipment. Playground equipment shall provide an opportunity for the children to engage in a variety of experiences and shall be age-appropriate. The outdoor equipment shall be free from hazards such as, but not limited to, lead- based paint, sharp corners, and shall be regularly maintained in such a way as to be free of rust and splinters that could pose significant safety hazard to the children. All equipment shall be arranged so as not to obstruct supervision of children. Climbing and swinging equipment shall be anchored and have a resilient surface beneath the equipment.

(2)(3) Fall-zone and Surfacing. Requires climbing and swinging equipment to have a resilient surface beneath the equipment and the fall zone from such equipment must be adequately maintained by the program to ensure continuing resiliency.

(4) Safety and Upkeep of Playground. Playgrounds shall be kept clean, free from litter and free of hazards, such as but not limited to, rocks, exposed tree roots and exposed sharp edges of concrete or equipment. P. Staff Training (1) Prior to assignment to children or tasks, all Employees (i.e., volunteers, students-in-training, independent contractors, etc.) and Provisional Employees