Lead safety check·September 13, 2023

On September 13th, 2023 at 8:10AM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Keely Messerschmidt, made an unannounced Case Management inspection, for reported Lead Exceedance. LPA met with Assistant Director Wilma Cabrera proceeded to tour the facility. Also present in the facility were 32 day-care children and 3 teachers/staff. Facility was within ratio & capacity. LPA Keely Messerschmidt interviewed the Assistant Director, staff and examined the faucet deemed an Action Level Exceedance. During inspection facility provided LPA Messerschmidt with facility sketch, the required signed and dated forms (LIC 9275/9276), lead testing results and photo of faucet H located in Room 6. Label H: Faucet reported with 6.9 ppb or greater lead exceedance levels were as follows: 1 faucet identified as having high levels of lead. The faucet was located near the entrance of the classroom in Pre-K class Room 6. The faucet has a sign posted on the mirror saying "Do not use", currently water source is turned on. LPA interviewed 1 teacher and 3 children and it was disclosed that they only wash their hands in the bathroom because that sink is dirty. LPA Messerschmidt was informed that the faucet has not been used by anyone and placed out of service until fixed. LPA requested that Assistant Director cover faucet as well as having the sign posted, making water inaccessible to children. Children bring their own water bottles daily to the facility and classroom has a Brita water pitcher to provide filtered water. Based on records review and information received, and current policies and procedures for the Department, the facility is being cited for having a lead exceedance in faucet labeled letter H, under the Written Directives, Section 101700.3 (b) (1) California Lead Action Level at Child Care Centers. This poses a potential health, safety, or personal rights risk to the children in care. An exit interview was conducted, a copy of this report, 809D and appeal rights were handed to facility Assistant Director, Wilma Cabrera. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days.