Hand Sanitizer use in Licensed Child Care

Due to the spread of the H1N1 "swine flu" virus and seasonal viruses, the Department of Early Learning (DEL) is changing its rules on the use hand sanitizer products for children in DEL-licensed child care centers and homes.

DEL has filed emergency rules (Washington Administrative Code or WAC) allowing hand sanitizers use for children in child care who are over 12 months old, with written permission from the child’s parent or guardian. The department also plans to adopt permanent rules on hand sanitizer use.

When are the rules effective?

The emergency rules took effect on October 22, 2009. Permanent rule updates are expected to be completed by spring of 2010.

See these links to find the:

Rule adoption schedule
Emergency hand sanitizer rules
Other current rule notices
Draft materials or proposed rules (none currently)
Public meetings or hearings (none currently)

DEL mailed a letter to all licensed providers to alert them to the change. Read the letter in English or Spanish and the accompany Frequently Asked Questions document in English or Spanish.

How to keep informed

You can join an e-mail or postal mail list to get current information, draft materials and notices about these rule changes by e-mailing the DEL Rules Coordinator, or write to:

DEL Rules Coordinator
Washington State Department of Early Learning
PO Box 40970
Olympia, WA 98504-0970