Hygienic assessment of the environmental health of kindergartens in Bayangol District, Ulaanbaatar
- VernacularTitle:Улаанбаатар хотын Баянгол дүүргийн хүүхдийн цэцэрлэгийн гадаад орчны эрүүл ахуйн үнэлгээ
- Author:
Otgontuya B
1
;
Burmaajav B
1
Author Information
1. Ach Medical University
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
environmental health;
kindergarten environment;
outdoor environment;
child safety;
playground safety
- From:Mongolian Medical Sciences
2026;215(1):63-74
- CountryMongolia
- Language:Mongolian
-
Abstract:
Background:The growth, development, and health of preschool children are significantly influenced by
the conditions of their living and learning environments. In particular, the sanitary conditions
of the outdoor environment of kindergartens play an important role in children’s physical
activity, play behavior, psychological well-being, and the prevention of infectious diseases.
Since children spend a considerable amount of time in kindergarten settings and actively use
playgrounds and outdoor spaces, ensuring that these environments meet hygiene and safety
standards is a fundamental requirement for protecting their health (Hills, A.P.et all, 2007) [1].
International studies have demonstrated that the outdoor environment of preschool educational
institutions has a direct impact on children’s health and physical activity. According to these
studies, the presence of green spaces, open areas, and a variety of playground equipment in
kindergarten outdoor environments increases children’s physical activity and promotes their
overall well-being [2]. A study conducted in Sweden has shown that the quality of the outdoor
environment is associated with children’s health. The findings indicate that improvements in
the outdoor conditions of kindergartens are positively associated with children’s body weight,
stress levels, and overall well (Baranowski, T. Et all, 1993) [5].
Objective :To conduct a hygiene assessment of the outdoor environments of kindergartens in Bayangol
District.
Material and Method:This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design. A total of 39 public kindergartens
in Bayangol District, Ulaanbaatar, were selected using a census sampling approach. Data
were collected using questionnaires, measurements, observations, and surveys.
Quantitative data collected during the study were coded and analyzed using Microsoft Excel,
Word 2016, and SPSS version 27. The total land area of each kindergarten was measured
in square meters and calculated per child based on enrollment figures. These values were
compared against the MNS 6558:2015 standard to assess adequacy.
Descriptive statistical methods, including mean (x̄ ), standard deviation (SD), frequency, and
percentage, were applied to summarize data obtained from observations and questionnaires
on environmental conditions, sanitation, and hygiene indicators. The results were presented
using tables and graphical representations.
Result :The findings indicate that a substantial proportion of kindergartens operate in aging facilities,
with 22% functioning for more than 36 years, while newly established institutions remain
limited (5%).
Across 39 public kindergartens, the average area per child (18.3 m²) was below the national
standard, with more pronounced deficits in ger districts (17.27 m²) compared to apartment
areas (18.57m²), representing insufficiencies of 40.5% and 33.1%, respectively.
Although basic infrastructure was generally present, critical gaps were identified in key
environmental conditions. Only 40% of playgrounds met required standards, and 8% were
absent. Fire safety systems were inadequate in 32% of kindergartens, while 40% lacked
proper waste sorting facilities. Playground surfaces were predominantly hard (66.7%
cement), posing increased risk of injury.
The mean knowledge score of kindergarten directors on environmental and building
standards was 50.6%, reflecting moderate competency with notable deficiencies in waste
management, site planning, and safety-related regulations.
Conclusion :The environmental health conditions of kindergartens in Bayangol district do not fully meet
relevant standards. Insufficient space per child and limited playground areas may negatively
affect children’s health and safety.
Despite substantial work experience among directors, their knowledge of hygiene standards
and environmental requirements is inconsistent and generally inadequate, particularly in
technical areas such as waste management and safety regulations.
- Full text:2026070408492987147MAUS-2026-215(1)-63-74.pdf
