N.J. Admin. Code § 3A:55-4.3 - Maintenance and sanitation requirements for all facilities

(a) The facility shall maintain all indoor areas in a safe and sanitary manner by ensuring that:

1. The facility is free of moisture resulting from water leaks or seepage;

2. All Lally columns in areas used by the children have protective padding from the floor to a height of at least 72 inches;

3. Floors, walls, ceilings and other surfaces are kept clean and in good repair;

4. Stairways are free of hazards such as boxes, loose steps, torn carpeting or raised strips;

5. Carpeting is secured to the floor;

6. Garbage and food receptacles are:

i. Made of durable, leakproof and nonabsorbent materials;

ii. Covered in a secure manner;

iii. Emptied to the outdoor garbage receptacle when filled; and

iv. Lined and maintained in a sanitary manner;

7. The facility is free of rodent or insect infestation. If there is evidence of rodent or insect infestation, immediate action shall be taken to remove such infestation. The facility shall maintain on file a record documenting the use of extermination services in these cases;

8. Toilets, wash basins, kitchen sinks, and other plumbing are maintained in good operating and sanitary condition;

9. All corrosive agents, insecticides, bleaches, detergents, polishes, any products under pressure in an aerosol can, and any toxic substances are stored in a locked cabinet or in an enclosure located in an area not accessible to children. Bleaches, detergents, polishes and specific aerosol products may be made available to children 12 years of age and older with facility supervision;

10. Ventilation outlets are clean and free from obstructions, and filters are replaced when saturated;

11. Walls are painted or otherwise covered whenever there is evidence of:

i. Excessive peeling or chipped paint; or

ii. Heavily soiled conditions; and

12. All shelving is secured and not overloaded.

(b) The facility shall maintain all outdoor areas in a safe and sanitary manner by ensuring that:

1. The building, land and outdoor play area are free from any hazards to the health, safety or welfare of the children;

2. The outdoor play area is graded or provided with drains to dispose of surface water;

3. The building structure is maintained to prevent:

i. Water from entering;

ii. Excessive drafts or heat loss; and

iii. Infestation from rodents and insects;

4. The railings of balconies, landings, porches, or steps are maintained in safe condition;

5. Garbage receptacles are:

i. Made of durable, leakproof and nonabsorbent materials; and

ii. Covered in a secure manner, maintained in a sanitary manner and located in an outdoor area; and

6. All fencing or other natural or man-made barriers or enclosures, shall be maintained in proper condition.

(c) The Office of Licensing shall also require the facility to take whatever steps are necessary to correct any conditions in the facility that may endanger in any way the health, safety, and well-being of the children served.

(d) The facility shall safeguard all keys and keep them out reach of the children.

Notes

N.J. Admin. Code § 3A:55-4.3

Administrative Change, 49 N.J.R. 98a. Amended by 50 N.J.R. 285(a), effective 1/16/2018