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Ministry of Education New Zealand
Important

New version effective 20 April 2026

This is the new version of the licensing criterion and associated guidance.

Criterion HS314#

All practicable steps are taken to ensure that children do not come into contact with any person on the premises who is under the influence of alcohol or any other substance that has a detrimental effect on their functioning or behaviour.

Guidance#

How to show you are complying#

You need to make sure that no one uses, or is under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance when children are attending. 

Staff must follow the hospital’s policy on alcohol and other substances.

All staff should be familiar with this policy and know who to speak to if they have concerns about a possible breach.

It’s also important that staff think ahead about situations that might arise in a hospital setting and how to respond. For example, they should be prepared for what to do if a parent or caregiver affected by alcohol or other substances comes into the activity room.