Iowa Admin. Code r. 441-114.3

Current through Register Vol. 47, No. 10, November 13, 2024

Rule 441-114.3 - Physical standards

Local building and zoning ordinances shall be met.

(1)Grounds.

a. An outdoor play area of 75 square feet per child shall be provided.

b. The play area shall be identified and kept free from hazards that could cause injury to a child.

c. Rubbish and trash shall be kept separated from the play area.

d. The grounds shall be adequately drained.

(2)Buildings.

a. All living areas shall:

(1) Have screens on windows used for ventilation.

(2) Be maintained in clean, sanitary conditions, free from vermin, rodents, dampness, noxious gases and objectionable odors.

(3) Be in safe repair.

(4) Provide for adequate lighting when natural sunlight is inadequate.

(5) Have heating and storage areas separated from sleeping or play areas.

(6) Have walls and ceiling surfaced with materials that are asbestos free.

b.All sleeping rooms shall:

(1) Provide a minimum of 60 square feet per child for multiple occupancy.

(2) Provide a minimum of 80 square feet per child for single occupancy.

(3) Not sleep more than four children per room. Facilities licensed prior to July 1, 1981, meeting current square footage requirements shall be allowed to house five children per room.

(4) Be of finished construction.

Facilities licensed prior to July 1, 1981, having a square foot area less than that required in subparagraphs (1) and (2) shall be considered to meet those standards.

c.All rooms aboveground shall:

(1) Have a ceiling height of at least 7 feet, 6 inches.

(2) Have a window area of at least 8 percent of the floor area unless mechanical ventilation is provided that is capable of removing dampness and odors.

d.All rooms belowground shall:

(1) Have a ceiling height of at least 6 feet, 8 inches.

(2) Have a window area of at least 2 percent of the floor area unless mechanical ventilation is provided that is capable of removing dampness and odors.

(3) Have floor and walls constructed of concrete or other materials with an impervious finish and free from groundwater leakage.

(3)Bedrooms.

a. Each child in care shall have a solidly constructed bed.

b. Sheets, pillowcases, and blankets shall be provided for each child and shall be kept clean and in good repair.

c. Each child in care shall have adequate storage space for private use, and a designated space for hanging clothing in proximity to the bedroom occupied by the child.

d. No child over the age of five years shall occupy a bedroom with a member of the opposite sex.

(4)Heating.

a. The heating unit shall be located and operated to maintain the temperature in the living quarters at a minimum of 65 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the night. Variances may be made in case of health problems. Temperature is measured at 24 inches above the floor in the middle of the room.

b. All space heaters and water heaters involving the combustion of fuel, such as gas, oil or similar fuel, shall be vented to the outside atmosphere.

c. Neither rubber nor plastic tubing shall be used as supply lines for gas heaters.

d. The heating or cooling plant shall be checked at least annually and kept in safe working condition at all times.

Iowa Admin. Code r. 441-114.3

Amended by IAB April 5, 2023/Volume XLV, Number 20, effective 6/1/2023