Abstract
The purpose for conducting of this study is to clarify the current situation regarding how soiled diapers at childcare facilities are disposed of since, to date, there are no clear rules established by the government or local authorities.
The results of a questionnaire revealed that 26.5% (22/83) of childcare facilities request parents to carry home soiled diapers for disposal. On the plus side, putting an end to the system of taking home diapers would eliminate the burden of nursery teachers as well as parents, however, the problem arises that parents would not have a way of monitoring their child’s urination and defecation throughout the day and would require childcare facilities to cover the costs involved with on-site waste disposal, storing of diapers, and deodorizing/maintaining hygiene standards. Meanwhile, a contamination status survey showed that changing diapers contaminates the surrounding area regardless of whether soiled diapers are carried home or not. It is therefore suggested that there is a need for the diaper changing procedure to be standardized at all childcare facilities and a manual of rules and guidelines be prepared.
As a result of this study, the issues surrounding the handling and disposal of diapers at childcare facilities have been raised. In order to solve the issues going forward, further studies are required to gain more information and perspective on both waste disposal and infection control.
