Regulation 21 in Laois
Equipment and Materials: 3 non-compliance(s) in the latest reports we read.
An inspection records what inspectors saw on one day; services respond with corrective actions — how to read this.
9 March 2026
The Maples Creche, Portlaoise · Regulation 21 — Equipment and materials
- 1. The furniture in the Chicks and Chicklets rooms was unsuitable for the age of the children attending each room. Children were observed sitting on chairs which were the incorrect height for them as they could not place their feet on the ground for balance and stability. This posed a potential risk of injury to a child if they lost their balance and fell off the chair. 2. Two scooters in the outdoor play area were observed to have missing handles. This compromised the grip for children using the outdoor play equipment. 3. A play mat in the shape of a flower in the Chick’s room was torn in a number of places and required replacement
Provider's corrective action:
- 1. Furniture in the chicks and chicklet rooms have been changed to suit their age and stage of development. 2. All toys throughout the service have been inspected and any broken toys have been disposed of. 3. The play mat in the chick room has been replaced. The manager will carry out and sign off on monthly checks of all rooms and equipment
24 February 2026
Portlaoise Nursery and Montessori School, Portlaoise · Regulation 21 — Equipment and materials
- Five children in the Toddler room were observed sitting in highchairs with no foot holds. Children being fed were observed to have their legs dangling, making it more difficult and uncomfortable for them to sit during feeding
Provider's corrective action:
- Footrest for existing highchairs were ordered and fitted. Going forward, only highchairs with footrests will be purchased
6 November 2025
Just 4 Kids Creche, Portarlington · Regulation 21 — Equipment and materials
- 1. The Saturn room had no rest area or cosy area for the children to sit quietly or take a break from activities if they wished. The rest area in the Sun room also required development as there were only two cushions and a soft mat available to the children, and a number of children in the Sun room did not sleep at the designated sleep time and required a place to rest during the day. 2. The two highchairs provided for babies in the Earth room had no foot holds. A baby being fed was observed to have their legs dangling, making it more difficult and uncomfortable for them to sit upright during feeding. 3. It was observed that two children in the Mars room were sitting on chairs that were too high preventing the children to sit with their feet placed on the floor for balance and stability. 4. In the Sun room there were a number of battery-operated toys with no batteries which prevented them from working. There was a large kitchen and home area available however, there were no supporting materials available which prevented the children from extending their play experiences
Provider's corrective action:
- 1. The Saturn room rest area has been established with soft mats, cushions and a cosy tent. The Sun room rest area has been upgraded with additional cushions, soft furnishings and quiet-time resources. 2. New highchairs were ordered with adjustable footrests. All feeding equipment included in quarterly equipment safety audits. Staff have been refreshed on correct feeding/posture guidelines. 3. Children chairs have been replaced with appropriate seating per child’s height. Staff ensure children’s feet can reach the floor when sitting for stability. 4. Batteries were placed in toys requiring batteries. The home area has been stocked with play equipment such as pots, pans and dress-up items. A weekly toy audit has been introduced. A “Broken/needs battery” box has been placed in the hallway for quick identification