N.J. Admin. Code § 3A:56-4.3

Current through Register Vol. 56, No. 23, December 2, 2024

Section 3A:56-4.3 - Maintenance and sanitation requirements for all homes

(a) The home shall maintain all indoor areas in a safe and sanitary manner by ensuring that:

1. The home is free of moisture resulting from water leaks or seepage;

2. All lally columns in areas used by the children have protective padding from the floor to a height of at least 72 inches;

3. Floors, walls, ceilings and other surfaces are kept clean and in good repair;

4. Stairways are free of hazards such as boxes, loose steps, torn carpeting or raised strips;

5. Carpeting is secured to the floor;

6. Garbage and food receptacles are:

i. Made of durable, leakproof and nonabsorbent materials;

ii. Covered in a secure manner;

iii. Emptied to the outdoor garbage receptacle when filled; and

iv. Lined and maintained in a sanitary manner;

7. The home is free of rodent or insect infestation. If there is evidence of rodent or insect infestation, immediate action shall be taken to remove such infestation. In the event of an infestation of bed bugs, the home or agency shall implement an 18-month corrective action plan, with updates submitted to the Office of Licensing every six months during this period. The home shall maintain on file a record documenting the use of extermination services in these incidences;

8. Toilets, wash basins, kitchen sinks, and other plumbing are maintained in good operating and sanitary condition;

9. All corrosive agents, insecticides, bleaches, detergents, polishes, any products under pressure in an aerosol can, and any toxic substance are stored in a locked cabinet or in an enclosure located in an area not accessible to children under six years of age;

10. Ventilation outlets are clean and free from obstructions, and filters are replaced when saturated;

11. Walls are painted or otherwise covered whenever there is evidence of:

i. Excessive peeling or chipped paint; or

ii. Heavily soiled conditions;

12. All shelving is secured and not overloaded; and

13. Electrical wiring, accessories, and appliances are maintained in good operating and safe condition:

i. Extension cords shall not be used and only UL approved surge protection power outlet strips may be permitted; and

ii. Major appliances shall be plugged directly into a wall electrical outlet.

(b) The home shall maintain all outdoor areas in a safe and sanitary manner by ensuring that:

1. The building, land and outdoor play area are free from any hazards to the health, safety or welfare of the children;

2. The outdoor play area is graded or provided with drains to dispose of surface water;

3. The building structure is maintained to prevent:

i. Water from entering;

ii. Excessive drafts or heat loss; and

iii. Infestation from rodents and insects;

4. The railings of balconies, landings, porches, or steps are maintained in safe condition;

5. Garbage receptacles are:

i. Made of durable, leakproof and nonabsorbent materials; and

ii. Covered in a secure manner, maintained in a sanitary manner and located in an outdoor area; and

6. Homes that provide outdoor space maintain in proper condition all fencing or other natural or man-made barriers or enclosures.

(c) The Office of Licensing shall also require the home or agency to take whatever steps are necessary to correct any conditions in the home that may endanger in any way the health, safety and well-being of the children in placement.

N.J. Admin. Code § 3A:56-4.3

Administrative Change, 49 N.J.R. 98a.

Amended by 50 N.J.R. 135(a), effective 1/2/2018