8VAC20-781-250 J. Sandboxes shall be covered when not in use.

This proposed sandbox language change is problematic for large sand areas. Our school has a two-level sandbox that is nearly 200 square feet and would be impractical to cover. It was built intentionally to allow drainage for safety and cleanliness. The new language of 8VAC20-781-250 J requires all sand to be covered when not in use. We advocate you keep the old language: “Sandboxes with bottoms which prevent drainage shall be covered when not in use.”

Other sandbox safety concerns are already covered by the regulations requiring a safe place for children to play.