Purpose

To ensure the safety of all occupants by properly installing, testing, maintaining, and documenting carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in compliance with applicable state and local regulations.

Scope

This SOP applies to all childcare facilities, administrative staff, and maintenance personnel responsible for facility safety and regulatory compliance.

Regulatory Compliance

Carbon monoxide detectors must be installed when required by:

  • Applicable state statutes

  • Local building or fire codes

All detectors must be maintained according to manufacturer instructions, and records must be available for licensing review.

Responsibilities

  • Director/Administrator

    • Ensures compliance with installation and documentation requirements

    • Reviews and retains records for licensing inspections

  • Maintenance or Designated Staff

    • Performs testing and maintenance

    • Completes and submits documentation

  • Licensing Coordinator (if applicable)

    • Ensures records are current and accessible

Procedure

Step 1: Determine Installation Requirement

  1. Review applicable state and local laws to determine if carbon monoxide detectors are required.

  2. Confirm requirements for:

    • Placement locations

    • Number of detectors

    • Power source (battery, hardwired, or combination)

Step 2: Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  1. Install carbon monoxide detectors in required locations as specified by law and manufacturer guidance.

  2. Ensure detectors are:

    • Properly mounted

    • Unobstructed

    • Installed at the correct height and distance from fuel-burning appliances

  3. Document installation date and detector location.

Step 3: Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  1. Test each carbon monoxide detector according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  2. Testing must include:

    • Manual test button activation

    • Verification of audible alarm

  3. Conduct testing:

    • At installation

    • On a routine schedule (recommended monthly unless otherwise specified by manufacturer)

    • After battery replacement or power interruption

Step 4: Maintain Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  1. Maintain detectors according to manufacturer guidelines, including:

    • Battery replacement

    • Cleaning to remove dust or debris

    • Replacement of expired or malfunctioning units

  2. Immediately replace any detector that:

    • Fails a test

    • Shows signs of damage

    • Has reached its expiration date

Step 5: Documentation and Recordkeeping

  1. Maintain written or digital records that include:

    • Detector location

    • Installation date

    • Test dates

    • Maintenance actions performed

    • Name or initials of staff performing the task

  2. Retain all testing and maintenance documentation for a minimum of 12 months.

  3. Ensure records are:

    • Easily accessible

    • Available upon request for licensing inspections or audits

Non-Compliance

Failure to install, test, maintain, or document carbon monoxide detectors may result in:

  • Licensing deficiencies

  • Corrective action requirements

  • Potential safety risks to occupants

Review and Updates

This SOP must be reviewed annually or whenever:

  • Laws or regulations change

  • Manufacturer instructions are updated

  • Facility renovations or system changes occur