School Health & Safety Program

Jefferson County Public Health's (JCPH) School Health and Safety Program reviews public, private and parochial K-12 school construction projects to ensure the health and safety of students and other school occupants. Our approval is required before building permits and/or certificates of occupancy are issued.

JCPH's School Health and Safety Program is involved in 3 stages of the school construction process:
  1. We review proposed K-12 school sites to ensure they do not present any health problems.
  2. We review school construction plans and specifications before construction.
  3. We conduct pre-occupancy inspections prior to use.

Projects Needing Approval

Example projects that require Health Department approval:
  • Food Service (Referred to JCPH Food Program)
  • HVAC or Lighting Upgrades
  • New School Buildings
  • Playground Equipment
  • Portable Classrooms
  • Purchasing/Leasing Property
  • Relocations
  • School Remodels, Additions,
  • Shop, Art, Science Equipment Changes
Not sure? Call 360-385-9444 for more information.

Website Resources

Document Resources

  1. Complete Safety and Health Manual 2002-2003 (PDF)
  2. FAQs (PDF)
  3. K-12 School Construction Project Review and FAQs (PDF)
  4. K-12 School Design Tips (PDF)
  5. Playground Equipment Review for New Schools (PDF)
  6. School Plan Review Process (PDF)
  7. School Plan Review Process Application (PDF)