5.1.2.2: Floor Space Beneath Low Ceiling Heights

In a room where the entire ceiling height is less than seven and a half feet above the floor, the floor area should not be counted in determining compliance with the space requirements specified in Standard 5.1.2.1.

In a room where the ceiling is at different levels at least two-thirds of the usable floor area should have a ceiling height of at least seven and one-half feet and one-third of the usable floor area should have a ceiling height of greater than six feet eight inches. Floor areas beneath ceiling heights less than six-feet eight-inches tall should not be considered (1).

RATIONALE

Ceiling height must be adequate for caregivers/teachers to supervise and reach children who require assistance.

TYPE OF FACILITY

Center, Early Head Start, Head Start, Large Family Child Care Home, Small Family Child Care Home

RELATED STANDARDS

5.1.2.1 Space Required per Child

REFERENCES

1. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). 2009. NFPA 101: Life Safety Code. 2009 ed. Quincy, MA: NFPA.