📒Safe Storage of Hazardous Chemicals Policy (QA2) (video needed)

National Quality Standard (NQS) - Quality Area 2: Children's health and safety

Implementation 

Management will ensure:

• That every practical provision is taken to protect children being educated and cared for by the Service from harm and any hazard likely to cause injury. (National Law section 167.)
• All dangerous goods and hazardous substances are identified within the Service and included in the chemical register.
• A risk assessment has been conducted in consultation with the Health and Safety Representative prior to using any dangerous or hazardous substance. 
• Educators adhere to the Service procedures for dealing with chemicals.
• Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and the Chemical Register is readily available and updated. 
• Appropriate training and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is provided for employees who may be exposed to dangerous goods and hazardous substances.
• Relevant signage is displayed, highlighting the hazardous nature of chemicals used or stored in the workplace.
• There are emergency procedures and practices for accidental spills, contamination and corresponding first-aid plans for all dangerous goods handled and stored in the Service.
• Action is taken to remove any pests or vermin by a licensed exterminator, who will provide the Service with a certificate of currency. Initially, using non-chemical methods such as physical removal, maintaining a clean environment, and use of any non-toxic products will be implemented.

A Nominated Supervisor/ Responsible Person will ensure:

• That there is an educator on the premises with ACECQA approved first aid qualifications at all times. 
• There are appropriate storage facilities in the Service in which dangerous products are stored.
• Dangerous products will be stored in areas of the Service that are not accessible to children or in cupboards fitted with childproof locks. 
• To develop a hazardous substances register and a risk assessment for any dangerous materials stored in bulk within the education and care premises. 
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are maintained at the Service. Safety Data Sheets must be kept on all chemicals used on the premises. Work Health and Safety (WH&S) officers to keep this information up to date at all times – with a review of the folder annually. No SDS is to be more than 5 years old. 
• Chemicals used by staff in spray bottles are clearly labelled with contents.

Educators will:

• Seek medical advice if needed by contacting the Poisons Information Line – 13 11 26 or by calling 000. 
•  Wear Personal Protective Clothing when handling dangerous materials. 
•  Strictly adhere to the ‘Directions for use’ on the product label. 
• Dispose of all products safely, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions on the product label, Work Health and Safety regulations and Council by-laws. 
• Consider minimising the use of dangerous products in the education and care service and use alternate “green cleaning” options. 
• Complete daily and quarterly WHS checklists to ensure that any dangerous products used within the education and care service have current Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and are stored appropriately. 
• Store all dangerous products in well-labelled and original containers that preferably have child-resistant lids and caps. 
• Only administer children’s medications with family authorisation and in accordance with medical directions. See Medication Policy.
• Ensure medication is stored in an area inaccessible to children. 
• Ensure any medications or dangerous substances that require refrigeration, be placed in a labelled childproof container, preferably in a separate compartment of the fridge. 
• Be encouraged to attend professional development sessions to maximise their awareness of dangerous products, potential hazards and source chemical-free methods to reduce possible hazards in the education and care service.
• Be made aware of initial orientation at the Service, correct storage and usage procedures for potentially hazardous materials.
• Ensure cleaning and hazardous products are not to be stored close to food products. 
• Read the label before using any cleaning material, sprays or chemicals and be aware of appropriate first aid measures.