The Guide has been updated!

Health and Safety Guide for K-12 Schools in Washington State, OSPI/DOH, 2025 (PDF)

🍎

We continue to keep the DOH/OSPI K-12 Health and Safety Guide updated to reflect current rules and recommendations. The recommendations in the Guide are based on established best practices and research. The authority for the Guide comes from the State Board of Health School Rule, WAC 246-366-140(1).

The Guide was first published in 2000 and updated in 2003 and 2024. References, regulations, and best practices in school health and safety can change frequently. We collaborate with partners to keep the Guide current. We plan to continue updating the Guide yearly.

The review committee included experienced local health jurisdiction and risk management staff. Comments addressed were from school facilities and maintenance staff, educational service districts, local health partners, and many subject matter experts.

You can find the newly updated Guide on the DOH School Environmental Health & Safety webpage under "Student Health and Safety".

Highlighted Updates

Most 2025 updates are minimal, including changes to correct errors, realign with current code, and clarify language. Some highlights include:

• Recommendation to not connect extension cords together.
• Allowance for schools to stock epinephrine auto injectors in accordance with new law.
• Encouraging separate hand sinks and drinking fountains in future remodels or new construction.
• Alignment of service animal wording with current RCW.
• Change of term sparker rest to correct term spark arrestor.
• Recommendation of prompt removal of animal waste from school grounds.
• Recommendation that landscaping does not increase hazardous features.

The Guide aims to provide schools with up-to-date information. It is a working document, and we greatly appreciate the assistance and input of all users. We encourage users to submit current best practices and suggestions. Feedback will help update and improve the Guide and identify training and technical assistance needs related to school environmental health and safety.

Washington DOH School Environmental Health & Safety • schoolehs@doh.wa.gov