(1) An early learning provider must take appropriate steps to safely prevent or control pests that pose a risk to the health and safety of adults and children in and around the licensed space. Pest control steps must include:

(a) Prevention. A provider must take steps to prevent attracting pests including, but not limited to, identifying and removing food and water sources that attract pests.

(b) Inspection. Indoor and outdoor areas in and around the licensed space must be inspected for evidence of pests. A provider must document the date and location if evidence is found.

(c) Identification. Pests found in the licensed space must be identified and documented so the pest may be properly removed or exterminated.

(d) Management. A provider must document steps taken to remove or exterminate the pests if found in the licensed space.

(e) Notification. If pesticides are used, the early learning provider must notify the parents or guardians of enrolled children what pesticide will be applied and where it will be applied no less than forty-eight hours before application, unless in cases of emergency (such as a wasp nest).

(f) Application. Pesticide must be applied to early learning program space when children are not present. When pesticide is applied, center providers must comply with chapter 17.21 RCW and family home providers must comply with the pesticide manufacturer's instructions.

(2) An early learning provider must have a pest control policy that emphasizes prevention and natural, nonchemical, low-toxicity methods where pesticides or herbicides are used as a last resort (i.e., integrated pest management).