At PuliKidz, we are committed to creating a healthy, safe, and engaging environment where children can thrive and play. We strive to uphold high standards of health and safety through the following measures:
- The layout of our spaces will be designed to ensure children can move safely and freely between different areas.
- Our facilities will be bright, well-ventilated, and maintained at a comfortable temperature, providing a safe and stimulating atmosphere for children.
- Pregnant staff will receive guidance on suitable activities and will have opportunities to rest. Regular risk assessments will be conducted throughout the pregnancy to ensure safety.
- Any personal medication for staff must be securely stored away from children’s reach, kept in a designated area that children are not permitted to access.
- Staff members found to be under the influence of any substance will be immediately removed from their duties. This behavior constitutes gross misconduct, and such individuals will face termination of employment.
- No alcoholic beverages are allowed on the premises.
- Risk assessments will be conducted for any activities deemed necessary, with documentation maintained for future reference.
- Outdoor areas, equipment, and facilities will be thoroughly inspected before use.
- Activities offered will cater to the diverse needs of the children, providing both stimulation and challenge.
- Both staff and children are required to wear appropriate footwear for safety.
- Craft areas will be kept tidy, with spills addressed immediately to prevent accidents.
- All hard floor surfaces will be swept nightly and mopped daily when children are not present. Carpeted areas will be vacuumed regularly, and toilets will be cleaned daily or as needed. Anti-bacterial spray will be utilized to sanitize kitchen areas and tables after each session.
- A deep clean of the premises will occur weekly to ensure a hygienic environment.
- Upon registration, parents will be asked for written consent to apply sun cream to their children. On days when this is needed, staff will ensure all children are protected from the sun. Children will also be encouraged to stay hydrated using their own water bottles, and we will avoid direct sunlight during peak hours whenever possible.
- Bins will be emptied daily, or more frequently if necessary, and staff will wash their hands after disposing of waste.
- Daily safety checks will be conducted in all indoor areas. This includes checking electrical sockets, identifying tripping hazards, and assessing fire safety measures, with a checklist completed for accountability.
- Records will be maintained for any vehicles used for transporting children, ensuring they are regularly serviced and kept in good condition.
- Parents will be informed of safety practices, such as the importance of closing gates upon entering or exiting the premises.
- Children will be regularly reminded not to open outside doors, regardless of who is at the door.
- Staff must be notified in advance if someone different is collecting a child from our facility.
- All individuals authorized to collect children must be over the age of 18.
Fire & First Aid
- Fire drills will be conducted at least once a term or as needed, with records kept of all drills.
- Fire safety equipment will be inspected annually by a certified external company.
- All staff will be trained on fire evacuation procedures and the designated assembly points.
- Fire exits will always be kept unobstructed.
- A fire blanket will be readily available in the kitchen area.
- Regular checks of emergency lighting, fire call points, and fire extinguishers will be conducted daily, weekly, and monthly, with documentation stored in the Fire Safety Record.
- Fire risk assessments will be performed in compliance with current fire safety regulations, with regular reviews to ensure ongoing safety.
- First Aid provisions are in place, with at least one staff member trained in First Aid present at all times.
- Staff must use disposable gloves when attending to injuries or changing children.
- All accidents will be documented in the accident logbook, and parents/carers will be asked to sign this book after being informed of any incidents involving their children.
- Staff are encouraged to update their pediatric First Aid knowledge regularly, with opportunities provided by PuliKidz when possible.
Hygiene
- Staff must thoroughly wash their hands using the provided facilities before food preparation.
- Both staff and children are required to wash their hands after using the toilet and before meals.
- Liquid soap and disposable towels or hand dryers will be available for use by children and staff.
- Any staff or children who are ill should not attend the club. Recovery times will be advised based on guidelines from health professionals.
- All hot water taps will be regulated to ensure safe water temperatures for children.
- Staff will be informed of the procedures to follow if an infectious disease is reported within the club, in line with Health and Social Trust guidelines.
Equipment
- All equipment and materials will be accessible to children, including those with special needs.
- Dressing up costumes, blankets, and aprons will be regularly washed to maintain hygiene.
- Children will be encouraged to respect their environment and the equipment provided, fostering responsibility by helping to tidy up at the end of each session.
- All equipment will be routinely checked for safety. Any items deemed unsuitable or damaged will be promptly removed.