Physical Environment

The physical environment of school buildings and school grounds is a key factor in the overall health and safety of students, staff, and visitors. School buildings and grounds must be designed and maintained to be accessible and free of health and safety hazards, and to promote learning and school engagement. 

Physical Environment Requirements

Policies and protocols must be in place to ensure food protection, sanitation, safe water supply, healthy air quality, good lighting, safe playgrounds, and emergency evacuation, among other issues that relate to the physical environment of schools. Sections 21 through 42 of the Rules and Regulations for School Health Programs outline all of the requirements for building and maintaining a healthful school environment, related to:

            • Standards for school buildings           • Pesticides
            • Asbestos, lead, radon, etc.               • Food service
            • Sanitation and housekeeping             • School safety plans
            • Alcohol, tobacco and other drugs       • Weapons
            • Laboratories and shops                     • Traffic safety, and other areas

Other Statutes and Regulations

There are several sets of statutes and regulations that apply to the physical environment of schools, including but not limited to:

           • Standards for school buildings           • Tobacco      
           • School bus safety and equipment      • Pesticide Control and definitions    
      
Additionally, these include the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and federal/state laws and regulations regarding accessibility for persons with disabilities and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

For additional information contact: