Facility walk-through audits: a director’s monthly checklist for safety + readiness - post

Why do monthly facility walk-through audits matter for child care?

A monthly walk-through audit is a planned #safety check you do across your whole program—inside and outside. It helps you catch small problems before they turn into big problems.

A good walk-through supports:

• Child safety (fewer hazards, fewer injuries)
• Licensing readiness (fewer surprise findings)
• Staff confidence (clear routines and expectations)
• Family trust (a clean, safe, organized space)

Doing this monthly is one of the simplest ways to build a real #ChildCareSafety culture. 

When should a director do a monthly walk-through—and how long should it take?

Pick the same time each month so it becomes a habit. Many directors choose:

• the first week of the month, or
• right after a staff meeting, or
• a day when most children are not in transition (not drop-off or pick-up)

Plan for 45–90 minutes, depending on your building size. If your program is large, split it into two shorter walk-throughs.

Tip: bring a clipboard (or tablet), a pen, and your maintenance request form. This supports #DirectorLife and #ProgramManagement.

How do I run a walk-through audit without stressing out staff?

Your tone matters. A walk-through should feel like support, not a “gotcha.”

Try this simple approach:

• Tell staff the goal: “We’re checking safety and readiness, not blaming anyone.”
• Walk with a lead teacher when possible (it builds teamwork).
• Fix what you can right away (like moving a hazard).
• Write down what needs repair and assign next steps.

You can also use a simple rating: 

• Green = good to go
• Yellow = fix soon
• Red = fix today

What should be on a director’s monthly checklist for safety and readiness?

Use this checklist as a starting point. Adjust it to match your state rules and your program needs.

1) Entrances, hallways, and general building safety

Check for:

• doors that lock and unlock correctly
• working lights (inside and outside)
• clear hallways (no tripping hazards)
• stable rugs and mats (no curled edges)
• child-proofing where needed (outlets, cords, gates)

Look for anything that could cause falls or allow unsafe access.

2) Classrooms: set-up, supervision, and hazards

In each room, check:

• outlets covered (when required)
• cords out of reach and taped down if needed
• shelves stable (not wobbly)
• small items stored #safely (choking hazards)
• cleaning supplies locked and labeled
• diapering area clean and stocked
• safe #sleep setup (if infants are present)

Also check visibility. Ask: “Can #teachers see all children?” If not, adjust furniture or add mirrors.

3) Bathrooms and handwashing areas

Check:

• soap and paper towels available
• sinks working and not leaking
• floors dry (or “wet floor” signs used)
• diaper pails covered and working
• toilets and flush handles working
• trash removed daily

Bathrooms are high-traffic places. Small issues can turn into big safety risks fast.

4) Kitchen, food areas, and allergy readiness

If you serve food or handle snacks, check:

• refrigerator and freezer temps logged (if required)
• food stored off the floor
• dated labels on opened items
• sanitizer stored safely
• allergy lists posted where staff can see them (and kept private as needed)
• cleaning schedule followed

Readiness tip: make sure staff know your allergy plan and where emergency items are stored.

5) Emergency equipment and posted plans

Check for:

• emergency phone numbers posted
• evacuation maps posted in each room (if required)
• first aid supplies stocked
• fire extinguishers in place and inspected (as required)
• smoke/CO detectors working (test per your plan)
• emergency “go bag” ready (if your program uses one)

A strong program is ready for the unexpected. That is #SafetyFirst. 

6) Outdoor areas: #playground, gates, and surfaces

Check:

• fences and gates close fully and latch
• no sharp edges, broken pieces, or rust
• fall zones and surfacing in place
• walking paths clear (no holes, loose rocks, or trash)
• shade areas safe and stable
• toys and riding items in good condition

If you want a simple tool to support your #outdoor checks, ChildCareEd’s Playground Safety Checklist is a helpful add-on for your routine.

7) Storage rooms, closets, and hazardous materials

Check:

• cleaning supplies locked 
• chemicals labeled and stored correctly
• medicines stored according to your policy
• art supplies used safely (no expired items)
• staff bags and #personal items stored away from children

These areas are easy to forget—so they’re perfect for a monthly audit.

8) Paperwork and “inspection-ready” basics

Each month, do a quick spot-check for:

• current staff training certificates in files
• emergency contact forms up to date
• attendance records complete
• incident report forms available
• drill logs updated (if required)

Many licensing issues happen from missed paperwork or daily habits, so this quick check matters. 

What is a simple follow-up plan after the walk-through?

A walk-through only works if you follow up.

Use this 3-step plan:

• Step 1: Fix “Red” items today ( #safety-hazards, broken locks, exposed cords).
• Step 2: Assign “Yellow” items to a person and a due date.
• Step 3: Share a short recap with staff:
• one thing that went well
• one thing to improve
• what will be repaired and when

Keep it short. Keep it kind. Keep it consistent.

Which ChildCareEd courses help directors #lead-safety and facility readiness?

If you want training that matches the director role and supports safety systems, these ChildCareEd courses are directly connected:

• 45 Hours Director-Administration ONLINE (director leadership, compliance, and program operations)
  
  
• 40-Hour Director’s Course (group admin course for directors; includes core program operation topics) 
• Building and Physical Premises Safety (hazards, facility safety, and compliance basics for child care settings) 

What is one free ChildCareEd resource I can use right now?

Use this ready-to-download resource to support your monthly readiness checks:

• First Aid Kit Checklist (Admin, Safety) 

What is one related ChildCareEd article to read next?

This article connects well to monthly walk-throughs because it explains common inspection issues and how to prevent them:

• Why Do Licensing Violations Happen in Maryland Child Care Programs? 

Where can I get more director tips?

For quick reminders, resources, and leadership support, follow ChildCareEd on Instagram and stay connected.

Add these monthly walk-throughs to your calendar, and you’ll be surprised #how-much calmer your program feels—because you’re catching problems early, supporting staff, and staying #InspectionReady.