Regulation 23 in Carlow
Safeguarding Health, Safety and Welfare of Child: 17 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.
19 May 2026
Little Learners Montessori, Rathvilly · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: 1.On arrival to the service the inspector observed a photocopier with an electrical cable in the centre of the classroom floor which posed a trip hazard to the children in the service. It is acknowledged that the photocopier was promptly removed by the staff. 2. The inspector observed that the electrical cable of a kettle, stored on a narrow shelf could potentially be reached by the children and pulled down upon a child causing a physical injury. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: The following response was submitted by the registered provider. This had been temporarily left on the floor momentarily as all the children were outside on this day. It was promptly removed as staff was aware of it being a hazard. It has since then been left out of reach of children making sure that children cannot reach cables or printer. On the day of this inspection, the inspector recommended an office space where all office material will be stored safely away from the children. Work will be carried out during the summer break, a space will be turned into an office space for electrical supplies and files for staff only, where a stair gate is going to be used so children cannot access. All electrical equipment was removed straight away. This equipment was left here temporarily, none of it had been used as it was just brought to the service, it has all been stored away safely until safety shelving and storage space in the kitchen area is carried out in the summer. When the work is carried out, I can take a photograph as proof and send it to you. Removing equipment to safety and been more careful of visible cables and wires are out of reach of children and not been hazardous to any person in the premises
19 May 2026
Stepping Stones Community Childcare, Bagenalstown · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: 1. Garda vetting was available for all staff but three vetting disclosures were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Infection Control: 2. Sections of floor covering in each classroom and lobby area were distressed and cracking, preventing effective cleaning procedures. 3. A nappy bin used by staff members was hand operated and not in adherence with Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.1 Use of nappy storage and disposal bins in Early Years Services’. 4. Nappy changes practices observed in the service did not adhere to the service nappy changing policy and procedure. Child and staff hands were not consistently washed after each change. 5. The service did not have a supply of disposable aprons for use during nappy changing. The requirement to use disposable aprons was not detailed in the service nappy changing policy. Safe Sleep: 6. A cot mattress was too big for the cot it was observed in, resulting in the mattress folding over at one end. Staff members acknowledged this issue and detailed how the cot is only used when needed. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: 1. Applications for renewal of the relevant Garda Vetting have been submitted to Early Childhood Ireland A system will be in place to ensure that Garda Vetting will be reviewed regularly and renewed within the 3 year timeframe. Infection Control: 2. Voluntary Board of Management have been made aware of the need to replace the flooring, and we are currently seeking 3 quotes from local flooring suppliers to replace the floor coverings. 3. This nappy bin has been replaced with a pedal operated bin. We will keep up to date with Early years Inspectorate Regulatory Notices. 4. Nappy changing policy has been discussed at staff meeting, highlighting the need for consistent washing of children’s and staff hand. Policy has been updated in line with recommendations. 5. Disposable aprons are available in the changing areas. Signage directing the use of aprons has been put in place. Policy has been updated in line with recommendations. Safe Sleep: 6. A new mattress has been ordered, and we are awaiting delivery of same
12 March 2026
Little Orchard, Leighlinbridge · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Infection Control: 1. Three-foot pedal bins in sanitary accommodation areas did not open with the foot pedal, the lids were disconnected from the base unit and staff members were observed to use their hands to open bin lids posing a risk of cross-infection. 2. A section of plaster was missing from a wall behind a nappy changing unit, leaving the raw concrete exposed. This surface could not be cleaned effectively to prevent cross-infection. Safe Sleep: 3. On day one of inspection the baby sleep room temperature was recorded at 22.4°C prior to children under one being placed to sleep. This was brought to manager’s attention and remedial actions were put into place including managing the room heating and the addition of cooling devices. A section of the care rooms was maintained between the required 16-20°C and children were placed to sleep there as an interim measure. Later in the day, the sleep room returned to the required temperature. On day two of inspection, the sleep room temperature was within the required limits. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Infection Control: 1. All nappy bins are in working order within the service. Upon changing the bin bag in the nappy bin, the foot pedal and the lid can become disconnected. A memo issued to all staff to state that upon changing the bin bag in the nappy bin to ensure foot pedal and lid are connected and that all nappy bins are to be operated by foot pedal only. 2. Section of wall with broken plaster with concrete exposed has been repaired and repainted. Memo issued to all staff to remind to notify management of broken or damaged equipment. Safe Sleep: 3. Corrective actions were taken on the day, as noted by the inspector. Due to recent refurb of heating system prior to last winter, the temperature of the baby sleep room can fluctuate as we come into the warmer months of the year now. The temperature is monitored throughout the day by staff and corrective actions such as correct ventilation and cooling devices such as portable air conditioning unit are used, as well as monitoring the heating and turning off/boosting as necessary throughout the day. Contacted plumber who refurbished the system to enquire about fitting individual thermostats to radiators in baby room sleep area. Once thermostats are fitted to radiators in the baby sleep room it will be possible to control the temperature in the sleep room more easily. As we are coming into the early summer and the heating system will not be required, it should not be an issue to control the temperature in the room due to radiators, while we await the plumbing works to be carried out. We have a plan in place entitled the acorn room temperature action plan which outlines these points and is displayed within the room currently
27 February 2026
Ballon Rathoe Community childcare Facility LTD, Ballon · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: 1. In the wobbler classroom, the pedal of the pedal operated bin was exposed with the metal rod of the pedal part posing a potential risk of injury to a child or adult using it. 2. In the toddler room, a trailing lead from a radio on a high-level shelf was accessible to children posing a risk of injury to children. Infection Control: Some aspects of practice and equipment did not support effective infection control. The following examples were observed: 3. In the two children’s toilets adjacent to the pre-school classrooms on the first floor, the inspectors observed that there was no supply of paper towels or liquid hand soap on both days of inspection. 4. On day two of the inspection the inspectors observed that the children from playschool room one did not wash their hands before their meal after outdoor play. 5. The changing mat in the changing area adjacent to the toddler room was observed to be torn and could not be disinfected efficiently between nappy changes. Safe Sleep: 6. Inadequate supervision of sleep was identified on inspection. In the sleep room adjacent to the toddler room a child was observed sleeping on a low-level floor bed without a staff member present in the room as required. Ten-minute sleep checks were completed and documented by staff members. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: 1. The pedal bin in the wobbler room has been checked and adjusted so that the mechanism is no longer exposed and is safe for use by children and staff. Daily checks of all room equipment are completed to ensure items remain safe, secure, and in good working order, including bin mechanisms and other potential hazards. 2. The trailing electrical lead in the toddler room has been repositioned. Infection Control: 3. The observation made during inspection have been addressed. Toilets are checked regularly throughout the day to ensure soap and paper towels are available. 4. The observation made during inspection have been addressed. Handwashing is carried out with children before meals as part of the daily routine, including after outdoor play. Handwashing is built into the daily routine before meals, including after outdoor play, to ensure consistency in practice. 5. The observation made during inspection have been addressed. Any items found to be damaged or unsuitable are removed and replaced. Safe Sleep: 6. Sleep arrangements have been reviewed. Sleep checks continue to be completed and recorded at regular intervals in line with safe sleep practice. The use of low-level beds in the sleep room has been reviewed to ensure appropriate sleep arrangements are in place. Where low level beds are used a staff member will be present. Staff will be reminded of safe sleep procedures and training re same provided at regular intervals
21 January 2026
Clareville Montessori School, Carlow · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: The Garda vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous three years in adherence with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: The Garda vetting disclosure for the staff member has been obtained; a chart has been developed to ensure all staff members’ Garda vetting disclosure certificates are maintained within the three previous years in adherence with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice
14 January 2026
Kloyda Montessori School, Bennekerry · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: The inspector observed that works had recently taken place around the boiler in classroom 2. While it is acknowledged that the boiler was inaccessible to the children, the inspector observed that the copper pipes coming from the boiler were left exposed and had not been enclosed. The pipes could potentially be accessed and touched by the children, possibly causing a burn injury if the pipes were hot. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following corrective and preventive actions
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: The landlord has been asked to have the boiler pipes area covered and they hope to have someone do this over this midterm. The registered provider will ensure that all the necessary actions are put in place to make sure our setting is a safe environment for all children and staff
20 August 2025
Absolute Beginners Crèche, Tullow · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- The temperature in the sleep room attached to the baby room was not maintained between 16⁰C and 20⁰C at all times. This measure is required for safe sleep practice in a preschool service for children under 1 years old. There were 2 children under 1 and 3 children aged between 1 and 2 in the room on the day of inspection
- The thermometer on the wall of the sleep room attached to the baby room was not recording the temperature accurately on the day of inspection. Time Sleep room attached to baby room temperatures recorded by the inspector Wall thermometer in the room Children Sleeping 11:30 24.0⁰C 22.7⁰C One child over one year and one child under one year sleeping 12:20 24.2⁰C 22.2⁰C One child over one year sleeping 12:55 24.3⁰C 22.3⁰C One child over one year sleeping and one child under one sleeping. 14:25 23.4⁰C 22.4 ⁰C One child under one year sleeping An immediate action notice was issued on the 20 August 2025 regarding this non-compliance. An adequate response was submitted to the office of the Early Years Inspectorate on the 22 August 2025 to demonstrate the actions taken to correct the non-compliance. It is acknowledged at 11:30 when the inspector informed staff of the high temperature recorded in the sleep room, they opened the windows and rechecked the air conditioning unit in the sleep room
- Children were put down to sleep still dressed in their day clothes. Children are required to be put down to sleep in loosely fitting clothing to ensure they are cool and comfortable during their nap times. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- 1.2. The heating in the sleep room has been adjusted to ensure the temperature remains within the required range of 16–20°C. A new calibrated wall thermometer has been installed. Staff have been instructed to monitor and record the temperature every 10 minutes while the room is in use. A competent professional has been commissioned by the registered provider to provide recommendations for the installation of suitable air conditioning units to maintain a consistent temperature in the sleep room
- The safe sleep policy has been amended to include that children should be put down to sleep-in loose-fitting clothing. This amendment was also shared with parents
15 August 2025
Askea Community Childcare Centre, Carlow · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: The collection of children was inadequately supervised by staff to prevent a child leaving unnoticed when other families were departing the service. Some practices observed did not align with the service policy on drop off and collection of children. 1. Due to only one entry and exit pathway being available in the service for the collection of pre-school children, the volume of persons entering the service at a time necessitates vigilant supervision and observation. 2. On the day of inspection, the children from the senior pre-school rooms on the first floor were in the outdoor play area which is accessed through a side door on the ground floor. On four occasions, the inspector observed more than one child being collected at a time from the outdoor area .The inspector observed parents arriving to the door of the outdoor play area, taking their child, waving goodbye to the childcare staff and leaving, without making direct contact with the appropriate member of staff as is instructed by the service’s drop off and collection policy. 3. The inspector also observed that as several parents / guardians arrived together at the exit door of the outdoor play area, they stood with the door ajar, increasing the risk of a child getting out onto the inside corridor unnoticed. The service’s drop-off and collection policy states “staff and parent/guardian must ensure that the room door is closed behind them as they enter/ exit the room. Under no circumstances should a door be held open by an adult or child other than for the purpose of entering or exiting the room or building.” The inspector observed that staff did not intervene when they saw parents/ guardians standing with the door to the outdoor area ajar or did not call to parents to wait for handover as is directed in the service’s drop off and collection policy. 4. The exit switches located inside both exit doors were at a level which could be reached by children. The inspector also observed parents/guardians lifting their children to press the exit switch therefore alerting them to their presence and increasing the risk of a child exiting the service unsupervised. 5. The inspector observed on several occasions that the staff member at reception released the exit switch from another switch, inside the reception area, therefore reducing an element of control over who is exiting the building. 6. The inspector found that inadequate risk management had been implemented in the aftermath of an incident in the service. While the registered provider had established causal factors for the incident and put some measures in place in the aftermath, these were not adequate to mitigate against the risk. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- The registered provider and director of services / designated person in charge have submitted the following corrective and preventive actions. General Safety: All staff were issued with an updated Drop off and Collection Policy on 28/08/2025 and provided with time to read, understand and discuss questions. Staff meetings were conducted with educators, administration and ancillary staff, by management to address non- compliance feedback from Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Report from 26/09/2025 to 01/10/2025. Staff were reminded of the importance of maintaining policy and procedures standards of the service and to support parents in their adherence to service policies and procedures. The purpose of this is to in-still awareness and respect for the safety and welfare of all children. Reception staff were alerted to the danger of releasing the door lock for people exiting through the front door. All staff were issued with an updated Drop off and Collection Policy on 30/09/2025. Staff were provided with time to read and understand the procedures and discuss questions or concerns. Refer to attached copy of revised Drop off and Collection Policy 01/10/2025. This policy provides changes to how children will transition during drop off and collection e.g. times when to expect children to be in their rooms and when they will be outdoors, how all adults should respect the safety and wellbeing of all children at all times, highlighting the importance of parents and staff making direct contact at each drop off and collection before they leave. The updated policy was provided to parents on 29/08/2025 and another amended Drop off and Collection Policy on 01/10/2025 to inform them of changes and responsibilities during drop off and collection of all children. Parents were asked to share the information within the policy to people they may authorise to collect their children. See attached copies of policies and communication emails to parents. The timetable for use of the playground has been amended to reduce the use of playgrounds during periods of high volume of the drop off and collection of children. See Outdoor Policy attached. Our security provider was contacted to discuss necessary changes to switches and updating securing exit doors. Works were approved on 23/09/2025. The works will facilitate the movement of door release switches to a higher level out of children’s reach. The upgrade of an existing outdoor intercom system from playground (beside back door) to reception. See copies of security provider’s reports attached. The Director of Services was not onsite during week 11/08/2025 due to annual leave. Management and B.O.M. had identified a need to recruit a Childcare Manager to support the quality provision in our service for children, parents, staff and management. The position was advertised in late July 2025 and a Childcare Manager commenced employment on 22.09.2025. See copy of communication email to parents on 23.09.2025
12 June 2025
St. Catherine's Community Services Centre, Carlow · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: Garda Vetting was available for all staff members. However, two Garda vetting disclosures were not dated within the previous three years in adherence with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal Of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following corrective and preventive actions
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: Following inspection, management immediately applied for re-vetting of the two staff members found to have Grada Vetting Certificates older than three years. Management will ensure that re-vetting of staff members takes place within a three yearly basis from May 2025 in adherence to /with the Early Years Inspectorate Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’
15 May 2025
Forward Steps Resource Centre, Tullow · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- The service had not demonstrated compliance with the requirement to have all Garda vetting renewed every 3 years for 2 staff members. It is acknowledged the inspector received confirmation the manager had applied for the re-vetting of these 2 staff members shortly after the inspection. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- The inspector has received renewed Garda vetting for both staff. The service will ensure all required Garda vetting is renewed every 3 years as required going forward. Summary Comment The response and evidence submitted is satisfactory to meet the requirements of The Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016
10 April 2025
Dolmen Nursery and Montessori School, Carlow · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Fire Safety: 1. The fire safety measures in place within the service posed a potential immediate risk to children . An Immediate Action Notice was issued to the service on 11 April 2025 due to the following observations; a. It was confirmed that monthly fire drills do not take place with the children in the Baby and Toddler room. The staff members outlined that the children from the pre -school and Montessori rooms take part in the fire drills. The date of the last fire drill for the children in the Baby and Toddler room was unknown to staff members and the person in charge . This was at variance with the service’s fire safety policy which outlined that monthly fire drills are conducted, with all children in the service. b. The service fire safety policy outlined that staff are provided with training to ensure that they are aware of the procedure to be followed in the case of a fire. In discussion with staff members, they described the route to take in the event of an emergency , however, this was at variance with the actual route in place. c. The route identified as the fire exit for when the children were in the back garden was blocked with two bikes/trikes and a large piece of wood. This was not in line with the service’s fire safety policy which stated that escape routes are free from obstruction to ensure that they could be used safely and effectively at all times. d. The service’s policy outlined that the attendance record is used in the event of an emergency evacuation. However, the attendance record was not maintained as children were collected from the service. At 3.20pm, there were 15 pre -school children in the service, however, there were 20 children marked as present. The above risks were brought to the attention of the person in charge by the early years inspector during the inspection on 10 April 2025. Responses detailing the immediate actions taken by the service was received from the registered provider on 11 and 14 April 2025. 2. The fire escape route within the sleep room was impeded by the storage of stackable beds which were located at the door. This posed a risk of safe evacuation in the event of an emergency. Safe Sleep: 3. The sleep practices within the service posed a potential immediate risk to the children aged 1 – 3 years in the sleep room. These practices were at variance with the service’s safe sleep policy. An Immediate Action Notice was issued to the service on 11 April 2025. The following was observed; a. Sleep checks were not consistently carried out every 10 minutes by the staff members while four children aged 1-3 years slept in the sleep room throughout the inspection. The service’s safe sleep policy outlined that sleeping infants/children would be checked, every 10 minutes, by assigned staff. b. Sleep records for children were not completed. For example, three children aged 1 -2 years were asleep from 10.40am. At 11.05am the sleep records were as follows; • Two records did not detail sleep checks from 10.40am; • One record did not detail any time the child went to sleep and/or sleep checks which took place. This was at variance with the service’s safe sleep policy which outlined that sleep information would be recorded on a sleep chart following a 10-minute sleep check. c. There was no means of ensuring the temperature within the sleep room was maintained between 18- 22 °C as the thermometer was broken. The above was brought to the attention of the person in charge by the early years inspector during the inspection. Responses detailing the immediate actions taken by the service was received from the registered provider on 11 and 14 April 2025. 4. The service’s safe sleep policy outlined that the service used a monitor and physically entered the sleep room to carry out sleep checks. On the day of inspection, the staff members were observed to carry out sleep checks from a sliding window in the Baby room which was adjoining the sleep room. This does not support a thorough check on sleeping children . This practice is at variance with the service’s policy on checking sleeping children. 5. The cot sheets on two of the three cot mattresses in the sleep room did not fit the mattresses as follows; a. One of the cot sheets appeared to be too small and the mattress was upright on one corner. This created a foothold or means to climb out of the cot. b. One cot sheet had excess material and appeared to be too large for the mattress. This was at variance with the service’s safe sleep policy which outlined the sleep room is risk assessed daily and that no loose bedding is used in cots. This practice posed a risk of injury to a child. 6. Children’s footwear was not removed prior to sleep. In the Playschool room at 12.40pm six children aged 2-4 years old slept with their shoes or welly boots on them. Infection Control: 7. Floor cushions were provided for the six children sleeping on the stackable beds. These cushions were not a suitable alternative for a pillow. 8. Individual bed linen was not provided for the stackable beds for the children in the Playschool room. This practice was at variance with the service’s safe sleep and infection control policies which stated that bed linen is used on stackable beds and that each child has their own bed linen. 9. The water in the sanitary area for the children was cold to touch. This was at variance of the service’s infection control policy which outlined that warm water was provided for handwashing. This increased the risk of the spread of infection as cold water may reduce the time spent by children while washing their hands. 10. The service’s infection control policy outlined that children are provided with paper towel to dry their hands following handwashing. On the day of inspection, the children were provided with a communal hand towel in the sanitary area to dry their hands. This posed a risk of the spread of infection. 11. The nappy changing practices were inconsistent and at variance with the service’s infection control policy. The following was observed; a. Staff members did not remove the apron between nappy changes, b. Children’s hands were not washed following a nappy change, c. Adults did not wash their hands following each nappy change, d. Gloves were worn on one hand. These practices posed an increased risk of the spread of infection. 12. The staff members assigned to prepare and cook food on the premises were observed to carry out nappy changing duties on the day of inspection. This was at variance with the service’s infection control policy which outlined that staff undertaking nappy changes are not involved in the preparation, cooking or serving of food. This posed a risk of cross contamination. 13. The nappy changing bin was at variance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory notice issued in 2022 which required disposable nappies to be disposed of in a foot-operated, lined, lidded bin that is leak proof, sealable and easy to clean. A swing bin was in place in the nappy changing area. 14. The wood in nappy changing area was untreated with exposed and uneven areas. This posed an increased risk of infection as the surface could not be effectively cleaned. General Safety: 15. The service did not adhere to the re-vetting timeframes as outlined in the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice, requiring services to renew Garda vetting every three years. On review two Garda Vetting disclosures were dated over 3 years ago. 16. The wood surface on three tables in the outdoor area was uneven with a splintered edge. This posed an increased risk of injury to a child. It is noted that the service had a risk assessment for the outdoor area. however, in discussion a completed risk assessment was not available. 17. The radiator cover in the Playschool room was not secured appropriately and posed a finger pinching risk to a child. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Fire Safety: 1. A response was provided to the Immediate Action Notice (IAN). The registered provider stated the below actions would be discussed at a meeting on 14/04/2025 held by the service manager. All staff members will be issued with a copy of safe sleep and Fire safety policies. And further to the arranged meeting, the registered provider will request staff members to sign and date they understand and agree to issued policies. Alongside these actions, the registered provider stated the following measures were also taken by the service; (a) The service would complete a full centre fire drill on 15/04/2025. (b) The fire assembly point has been explained and identified through a picture to staff members. (c) Items blocking fire exits were removed and that all exits were clear as of 11/04/2025. (d) The registered provider reiterated to staff the importance of signing out children in real time. Through the CAPA response received on 29 May 2025, the registered provider stated monthly fire drills will take place. All fire exits will remain clear and the service will ensure this going forward. The registered provider stated they are willing to Liaise with Fire Officer and take on board any advice. A senior staff member has been appointed as the fire safety officer and will carry out fire safety checks of fire safety equipment and fire exits. A number of staff members have completed training on fire safety, and the remaining staff members will complete the training in the coming days. The service has liaised with the Fire Officer in Carlow. 2. The stackable beds are stored in the storage room and the manager has introduced checks to ensure that the floor beds are stored safely and that all fire exits are clear. Safe Sleep: 3. The registered provider provided a response to the Immediate Action Notice which stated the following measures were immediately implemented by the service; a. The importance of correct sleep checks to be carried out by Educators discussed at meeting 14 April 2025 b. Sleep checks will be filled out in real time and monitored by the service c. A thermometer was purchased on 14 April 2025 and put into the sleep room. 4. The registered provider stated that the staff member who is conducting sleep checks physically enters the room to observe children. 5. Bedding was checked thoroughly and removed if not appropriate. Regular check of bedding will take place and be replaced accordingly. 6. All footwear and unnecessary clothing will be removed for rest periods. A display has been put onto the notice board to remind staff to remove footwear and heavy clothing prior to sleep. Infection Control: 7. A display has been put onto the notice board to outline safe materials for the use on floor beds. 8. Correct bedding will be used on floor beds to include a sheet and blanket for each individual child. Regular check of bedding will take place and be replaced accordingly. 9. The service will use the emersion in summer months and heating in winter months switched on at 7.30am to provide a supply of warm water for hand washing. There will be an endless supply of warm water for handing washing. Water checks were added to the daily checklist. 10. Paper towels are supplied in all bathrooms and care rooms and it has been added to the daily risk assessment to ensure there is ample supply. 11. Nappy changing practices were discussed and all staff members understand the importance of adhering to nappy changing policies. Staff were all retrained on nappy changing practice. Nappy changing policy displayed in the area along with visual display. The service’s policy was also emailed to all staff for attention. The manager will carry out regular observation of nappy changes to ensure all steps are followed. 12. Manager will prioritise implementation of any Regulatory notices received from Tusla, Pobal, CCC etc. 13. The bin was replaced immediately. 14. One person has been assigned for cooking solely. An additional staff member was recruited to carry out cooking duties within the service. 15. There is a new foot operated bin in place. General Safety: 16. The service has re-vetted all staff and all re-vetting will be carried out in the specified timeframe going forward. 17. The wooden table was removed from the outdoor area. Broken equipment will be reported to management and will be replaced immediately. This was added to the daily risk assessment for the outdoor area. 18. The radiator cover was secured and poses no risk to children. All radiators were checked
27 March 2025
Pied Piper, Rathvilly · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: 1. Garda vetting was available for the five adults; however, one vetting disclosure was not dated within the previous three years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI -RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: The registered provider responded through the CAPA process and outlined that renewed Garda Vetting was been completed for staff member. The service will have a list of dates of certificate and Garda vetting renewals at front of the folder to prevent missing the deadline again
26 July 2024
Little Trinity Creche & Montessori, Carlow · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: 1. A potential safety risk was observed on the floor of the raised stage in the outdoor play area. The inspector observed that the nail heads on the floor of the stage were now raised due to wear and tear of the floor of the stage. This was observed to present a potential risk of injury to a child. 2. On inspection of the first aid pack in the playgroup room, the inspector observed that there was an ampoule of eye wash in the contents which had expired. Infection Control: 1. The inspector observed that the mattress in each of the two cots on the right-hand side of the entrance door to the sleep room, from the main corridor, were both stained with grey- brown discolouration. This posed a potential risk of cross infection to the children using them. First Aid: An Immediate Action Notice was issued to the registered provider in relation to a non-compliance that is reported on under Regulation 25. Safe Sleep: 1.At 10:30 hours the inspector observed that the room thermometer recorded the sleep room temperature as being 20.8℃. The inspector recorded the air temperature at 23.3℃ on the calibrated air probe. Staff were observed to initiate the use of a mechanical room fan and opened a door onto the main corridor to increase circulation of cool air in response to observing the high temperature. At 12:00 hours the inspector recorded the air temperature in the sleep room at 22℃. It is acknowledged that three children aged 1 to 2 years were sleeping in the room at the time. Staff were observed to physically check the children every ten minutes and had the children dressed in their vests with no blankets while sleeping. At 14:00 hours the temperature in the sleep room was recorded as being 23℃ As no children were sleeping at the time staff were observed to open the doors leading into the sleep room and the doors leading from the sleep room to the outdoor area to promote air circulation and to cool the sleep room. It is acknowledged that the room temperature was maintained at 22℃ for the remainder of the evening, the outdoor temperature was recorded as being 20-21℃. To maintain the required sleep room temperature between 18-22℃, as required by safe sleep guidance for children over one year of age, the inspector observed that the service required additional measures to be put in place to reduce the potential risk of the sleep room becoming too warm and children becoming too warm on days where outside temperatures exceeded 21℃. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- The registered provider submitted the following corrective and preventive actions. General Safety 1. Outdoor playhouse has been repaired and new floor has been fitted. Playhouse has now been refurbished. Management will ensure repairs are always kept up to date. 2. All eye wash in the first aid pack in playgroup room was removed. New eye wash has been added to the first aid pack. Infection Control: 1. Old mattresses were removed from cots and 3 new mattresses were replaced. Mattresses will be checked on an ongoing basis by staff and management. First Aid: Four staff members completed FAR training on the week of 9/9/24. Training was completed on the 13/09/2024. We will continue staff training in Far throughout the course of 2024 and 2025. Safe Sleep: New electric fan was purchased for the sleep room. Temperatures in sleep room will be monitored every 10 minutes while children are sleeping
18 July 2024
In Safe Hands Creche and Montessori School, Ballinabranna · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: 1.Garda vetting was available for two staff members; however, these two vetting disclosures were not dated within the previous three years in adherence with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. 2.One of the two cots on the left-hand side of the entrance door to the designated sleep room was observed to be positioned partially adjacent to the entrance door. This was observed by the inspector to pose a potential risk of finger entrapment, for a child if they stood up in the cot. Infection Control. Two of the three cots available in the adjacent designated sleep room provided for the five infants aged 7 to 10 months in attendance in the Baby/ “Daisy” Room, were not spaced at 50 centimetres (cm) apart as recommended by infection control best practices. Two cots were observed and measured by the inspector to be at 10 cm apart. The sleep room measured 5.28 square metres and did not adequately provide enough floor space to provide 4 standard cots required for the 5 infants in attendance. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- General Safety: 1.The registered provider submitted the following corrective and preventive actions. We failed to see the expiry date on the staff members Garda Vetting had expired until it was pointed out by the inspector and we applied for it to be renewed immediately upon the staff member’s return from extended leave. We now follow a system on excel which shows all staff member Garda vetting, outlining the dates of issue and dates of expiry for each person. This system will ensure we avoid this happening in the future as we aspire to provide a fully compliant service to safeguard children. 2.For the General Safety non-compliance for a potential risk of finger entrapment, we observed what the Tusla inspector noted on the day of the inspection, and we moved the cot immediately. Infection Control: We consulted with the new recommended safe sleep guidelines and have noted the space requirements for the cots room, this only allows for two cots in the sleep room therefore one of our cots is no longer is use and other two cots are not near the door frame and pose no risk to the child/children. With only two cots now present within the Daisy Room sleep room they are now at 50cm apart as recommended by infection control best practices. The third cot is now folded out within an area in the room to be used where needed to facilitate rest adhering to best practice on safe sleep and infection control. Three additional folding cots have been purchased and are used within the multi-purpose room to facilitate safe sleep adhering to best practice on safe sleep and infection control
2 July 2024
O’Regan's Nursery and Pre-school, Carlow · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- General Safety: Garda vetting was available for all 8 staff working in the service. 3 Garda vetting disclosures had been re-vetted in the last 3 years. The remaining 5 of the Garda vetting disclosures had not been re-vetted in the last 3 years in accordance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 issued by the Tusla inspectorate on the renewal of garda vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider General Safety: On the 21 August 2024 two of the five Garda vetting disclosures required for re-vetted in the last 3 years were submitted to the inspectorate. The registered provider informed the Inspectorate on the 23 August 2024 that the further three disclosures were returned from the Garda vetting Bureau due to minor errors in the applications, however these were resubmitted on the 19 August 2024. The registered provider stated that as soon as these are returned, they will be submitted to the inspectorate. Summary Comment The actions submitted to address the requirements of the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 were appropriate
5 April 2024
Tots to Teens, Tullow · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- Garda vetting disclosures had been obtained for all 16 staff members. However, the service did not adhere to the re vetting time frames as outlined in the Early Years Inspectorate regulatory notice requiring services to renew Garda vetting every 3 years for 3 staff members. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- Garda vetting has been renewed for the three staff which had not adhered to the revetting time frames. Copies of the renewed garda vetting documents have been sent to the inspector. The Manager will ensure going forward that all staff will have Garda vetting renewed every 3 years as outlined in the preschool regulatory notice. Evidence submitted. Copies of the renewal of Garda vetting for the three staff which had not adhered to the revetting time frames on the day of inspection was received by the inspector. Summary Comment The response and evidence submitted is satisfactory to meet the requirements of The Childcare Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016
7 December 2023
Ballinkillen Pre School, Bagenalstown · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child
- The door from the community centre was not secured on arrival to the service. An immediate action notice was issued to the provider on the day of inspection. It is acknowledged that the registered provider responded promptly with a plan to address the security of the service in consultation with the fire officer
- The water flowing from the taps in the toilets was recorded at 480C on the day of inspection. This posed a risk of scalding to the children attending the service. This non-compliance was included in the immediate action notice issued to the registered provider on the day of inspection. It is acknowledged that the registered provider responded promptly with a plan to address the issue of the excessively hot water flowing from the taps in the toilets. Action submitted by the Registered Provider
Provider's corrective action:
- The registered provider consulted with the fire officer. A contractor was employed to carry out work to the door to ensure the service was secure while also compliant with the fire officer’s recommendations
- The thermostat has been repaired. Staff have added the checking of the water temperature daily to their risk assessment when opening the service in the morning