Respond Early Years Service, Carrickmacross

Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

• Infection Control: 1. The procedures for sterilising of soothers used in the Wobbler/Toddler room were not adequate in ensuring effective cleaning and sterilisation. In discussion with a staff member, they explained that the soothers are rinsed under the water after use and placed back into the lidded box. The box is cleaned once a week. Adequate sterilisation of soothers to sustain infection control should be carried out regularly and involve cleaning and sterilisation. 2. There were 2 cots in the sleep room that could not be situated at a distance of 50cm apart with the current layout and were measured to be at a distance of 25cm apart. It is noted that on the day of inspection children were not observed using these cots, but it was acknowledged by service staff that the cots are used. Fire Safety: 3. On review of the Wobbler/Toddler attendance book the staff members were signed out of the service for the day in advance of the end of their shift. This practice can negatively impact on fire safety procedures during an emergency evacuation