COVID-19 Policy Response Plan
10 | Policies & Procedures
The service will promote good hand hygiene techniques in line with HSE and WHO
guidelines, and support children to do the same through modelling, signage, activities
and games
We will ensure an adequate supply of liquid soap, hand gel or rub and disposable or
paper towels available throughout the premises including the arrival and outdoor
areas. All hand gels and rubs must be kept out of children's reach.
All hand gels for staff, parents or visitors to the Service are alcohol based.
We will use liquid soap and warm running water for hand washing and only use hand
gels or rubs where running water is not available
We plan for the children playing in the garden to go back into the classroom to
wash their hands if they need to do so under the supervision of their teacher. We are
installing a Belfast sink in classroom 2 especially for this purpose and we have a sink
in classroom 1 for this purpose. Classroom 2 will have its own separate door to access
the garden separately from classroom 1. The children can use hand gel or rub under
the supervision of staff in the garden also should this be required. Hand gel will be
kept out of children's reach.
Hand gel or rub must be applied vigorously over all hand surfaces, for 40-60 seconds,
and are only effective if hands are not visibly dirty.
If hands are physically dirty, then they need to be washed with liquid soap and warm
water and children and staff will have to go to the nearest sink or bathroom.
Staff and children will be encouraged to avoid touching their eyes, their mouth or
nose with their hands.
a. How to wash your hands with soap and water (HSE)
Wet your hands with warm water and apply soap.
Rub your hands together until the soap forms a lather.
Rub the top of your hands, between your fingers and under your fingernails.
Do this for about 20 seconds.
Rinse your hands under running water.
Dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel.
Learn More at HSE.ie
