Overview
The Manchester Health Department’s Environmental Health Division completes school health inspections for public and parochial schools when required as part of New Hampshire’s school facility approval/renewal processes. Although the Manchester Health Department is not the school approval authority, these inspections support state requirements and help ensure facilities are maintained in a safe and sanitary manner.
When an inspection is needed
You may need a Manchester Health Department school health inspection when the NHDOE requires it as part of:
- Initial facility approval or a facility approval review, and/or
- Facility renewal requirements.
For NHDOE context and related forms, see:
- NHDOE School Facility Program page
The exact code and standards used
NHDOE form used (what you submit with your packet)
- NHDOE School Health Inspection Form (completed by a health official, not a school employee).
NH School Inspection guidance/preparation
- School Health Inspections – DHHS/Health Officers Liaison Unit guidance (PDF)
How to request and schedule an inspection
Contact the Manchester Health Department - Environmental Health Division
It is the school's responsibility to reach out to us. The Manchester Health Department will not contact the school to schedule an inspection.
Health assessment
School health inspections are intended to verify that the school environment is maintained to support a sanitary and safe setting for students and staff, and to identify conditions that could contribute to illness or injury.
Common focus areas typically include:
- Restrooms and handwashing access/supplies
- General sanitation and cleanliness
- Drinking water/plumbing conditions
- Food/kitchen areas, if applicable to the facility
- Pest prevention and waste handling
- Safe storage of cleaners/chemicals and other potential hazards
- Pest Management
- Indoor Air Quality