Giftfri förskola i Hässleholms kommun. Inventering av fyra förskolor – nuläge och åtgärder

Sammanfattning: During the last decades the production and consumption of chemicals has increased dramatically. We know that some chemicals are hazardous for humans and the environment but for most of them our knowledge is limited. Children are very sensitive to hazardous substances compared to adults because of their undeveloped bodies and different behavior. Due to lacking knowledge and regulation of chemicals one should conform to the precautionary principle, especially when it concerns children. Therefore products and materials containing hazardous or potentially hazardous substances should be minimized in areas where children spend a lot of time, such as preschools. This study covers the results of stocktakings of products and routines in four preschools in the municipality of Hässleholm, Sweden. It shows that there are several materials and products present in preschools that might contain hazardous substances, for example plastic plates, used electronics, PVC flooring and toys made of soft plastic. In addition, the stocktakings show lacking routines such as those for cleaning and handling of new textiles. This study also shows steps that can be taken in order to minimize children’s exposure to hazardous substances in preschools. Some measures can be taken immediately, such as removing toys made of soft plastic, while others require larger investments. The examined preschools had some differences between them, but all of them needed to take several measures. In order to achieve a preschool free from hazardous substances it is important to have strict requirements on new products during procurement. Several actors, in addition to the preschool personnel, have to be involved in the work towards preschools free from hazardous substances, such as those responsible for cleaning, construction, food and procurement. A common goal and clear priorities for all involved parties are essential.