1. (1) A program shall have written policies, procedures and training curriculum regarding minimum requirements for initial and ongoing training.
2. (2) All direct care staff shall complete a minimum of 40 hours of initial staff training.

3. (3) Initial staff training must consist of the following minimum requirements:

   1. (a) the program's policy, procedures, organization and services;
   2. (b) mandatory child abuse reporting laws;
   3. (c) crisis intervention methodologies;
   4. (d) fire safety, including emergency evacuation routes;
   5. (e) confidentiality;
   6. (f) first aid and CPR;
   7. (g) suicide prevention;
   8. (h) report writing including the development and maintenance of logs and journals; and
   9. (i) therapeutic de-escalation of crisis situations and passive physical restraint techniques to ensure the protection and safety of the youth and staff. Training must include the use of physical and non-physical methods of managing youth and must be updated, at least every 12 months, to ensure that necessary skills are maintained.
4. (4) Initial staff training shall be completed and documented before the staff person may count in the youth/staff ratio as specified in ARM 37.98.415 and 37.98.1805.
5. (5) The program shall provide ongoing training for staff to maintain certifications and improve proficiency in knowledge and skills. Training must be a minimum of 20 hours annually.
6. (6) All staff training must be documented and kept on file for each administrator, staff, intern and volunteer.

Authorizing statute(s): Sec. 50-5-220, MCA

Implementing statute(s): Sec. 50-5-220, MCA

History: NEW, 2004 MAR p. 1960, Eff. 8/6/04.