Statement of Intent
Polstead Preschool recognises the importance of maintaining the highest possible standards of hygiene in and around the premises so as to minimise the risks posed to children, staff and other visitors.
The Preschool Supervisor and staff are committed to taking all practicable steps to prevent and control the spread of infectious germs, and to uphold high standards of personal hygiene in order to minimise the risk of catching or spreading infections.
Personal Hygiene
In all circumstances, staff will adhere to the following examples of good personal hygiene:
- Washing hands before and after handling food or drink.
- Washing hands after using the toilet.
- Encouraging children to adopt these same routines.
- Covering cuts and abrasions while at the premises.
- Keeping long hair tied back when preparing food.
- Taking any other steps that are likely to minimise the spread of infections.
Hygiene in the Setting
The Preschool Supervisor and all staff will be vigilant to any potential threats to good hygiene in the setting. To this end, a generally clean and tidy environment will be maintained at all times. More specifically, the staff will ensure that toilets are cleaned daily and that there is always an adequate supply of soap and hand drying facilities for both staff and children.
Dealing with Spillages
Spillages of substances likely to result in the spread of infections will be dealt with rapidly and carefully. Blood, vomit, urine and faeces will be cleaned up immediately and disposed of safely and hygienically. Staff will wear disposable plastic gloves and an apron while using bleach or disinfectant solution, and wash themselves thoroughly afterwards. Children will be kept well clear while such substances are being dealt with.
First Aid and Hygiene
Further to the provisions set out in the Health policy, the designated First Aider will be mindful of the need to observe the highest standards of personal hygiene when administering any treatment to children. As such, they will wash their hands thoroughly both before and after giving first aid, and ensure that any cuts, wounds or skin damage are covered by plasters or disposable gloves.
Kitchen Hygiene
All areas where food and drink are stored, prepared and eaten are prone to the spread of infections. Therefore, staff must be particularly careful to observe high standards of hygiene in such instances. To this end the following steps will be taken:
- Waste will be disposed of safely and all bins will be kept covered.
- Food storage facilities will be regularly and thoroughly cleaned.
- Kitchen equipment will be thoroughly cleaned after every use.
- Staff and children will wash and dry their hands thoroughly before coming into contact with food.
- If cooking is done as an activity, all surfaces and equipment involved will be thoroughly cleaned before and after the session.
Additionally, staff will be aware of the provisions set out in the Food and Drink policy when handling, preparing, cooking and serving food or drink at the setting.
Animals
Animals are sometimes brought into Preschool, as part of the programme of activities, and in liaison with the Preschool Supervisor. Children are strongly discouraged from bringing pets or other animals to Preschool and parents/carers are asked to help enforce this. Animals are not allowed on the premises at other times, and the Preschool Supervisor will be informed immediately if this occurs.
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