Riley Child Center recognized for environmental health & safety awareness

The Purdue University Calumet Riley Child Center recently received a three-star environmental compliance rating from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM).  IDEM recognizes programs that go above and beyond environmental requirements and demonstrate environmental stewardship.

The rating was based on: use of energy star products; completion of an environmental hazard assessment for presence of asbestos, radon, lead and mercury; posting of a no idling policy; participation in recycling efforts both within its facility and community; use of recycled products; submission of a hazard action and emergency plan; registration with the Consumer Product Safety Commission; adherence to all local air quality action days; and practicing healthy cleaning practices.

Riley Child Center Director Tamara Bottomlee said that IDEM awards one, three or five stars to child centers, adding that the Riley Child Center just missed the five-star rating.

“Teachers and staff have taken active steps to reduce hazards in the environment, so that children and families can participate in our program with knowledge that our facility is paying close attention to the health and safety needs of all our children,” she said.

The Riley Child Center is an accredited care facility for 3- to 6-year-old children of students, faculty, staff and local residents administered by the Department of Behavioral Sciences. The center also serves as an instructional laboratory facility for Purdue Calumet students majoring in early childhood development.

News Release Date: June 27, 2008