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The following chart presents the accreditation criteria for this topic area. Each criterion provides specific details to guide program plans, policies and practices. The criteria are numbered (01, 02, 03, etc.) within their topic area. Each criterion within each program standard is identified by its relevant age group (or groups). Many criteria are identified as "universal" (U), meaning that all classrooms and programs pursuing NAEYC Accreditation must address these criteria. These aspects of quality should be seen in any programs or classrooms serving birth through kindergarten, though they may look somewhat different in practice depending on the children's age.
Age Groups:
U = universal
I = infant
T = toddlers/twos
P = preschool
K = kindergarten
9.D
Environmental Health
9.D.01
U I T P K
Documentary evidence, available on site, indicates that the building has been assessed for lead, radon, radiation, asbestos, fiberglass, or any other hazard from friable material. Evidence exists that the program has taken remedial or containment action to prevent exposure to children and adults if warranted by the assessment.
9.D.02
U I T P K
When the water supply source is a well or other private source (i.e., not served by a public supply), on-site documentary evidence verifies that the local regulatory health authority has determined the water to be safe for human consumption.
9.D.03
U I T P K
Program staff protect children and adults from exposure to high levels of air pollution from smog or heavy traffic by limiting outdoor and physical activity as a precaution during smog or other air pollution alerts.
9.D.04
U I T P K
The program has taken measures in all rooms occupied by children to control noise levels so normal conversation can be heard without raising one's voice.
9.D.05
U I T P K
All rooms that children use are heated, cooled, and ventilated to maintain room temperature and humidity level. The maintenance staff or contractor certifies that facility systems are maintained in compliance with national standards for facility use by children.
9.D.06
U I T P K
The facility and outdoor play areas are entirely smoke free. No smoking is permitted in the presence of children.
9.D.07
U I T P K
Areas used by staff or children who have allergies to dust mites or to components of furnishings or supplies are maintained by the program according to the recommendations of health professionals.
9.D.08
U I T P K
The program maintains facilities so they are free from harmful animals, insect pests, and poisonous plants. Pesticides and herbicides, if used, are applied according to the manufacturer's instructions when children are not at the facility and in a manner that prevents skin contact, inhalation, and other exposure to children. The program uses the techniques known as Integrated Pest Management (IPM) so the least hazardous means are used to control pests and unwanted vegetation.
9.D.09
U I T P K
Toxic substances (used only as directed by the manufacturer) are stored in original labeled container and kept in a locked room or cabinet, inaccessible to children, and away from medications and foods. Matches and lighters are not accessible, and gasoline and other flammable materials are stored (when needed) in a separate building.
