School Inspections in Snohomish County occur every other year. The local health department inspects the whole school during visits from September to May, with follow-up inspections in the off-year for any school with a high-risk concern in the prior routine inspection.
Top problems seen in schools:
- Good air quality – Co2 monitors are installed in newer buildings, but system turnover rates in older buildings aren’t as good. There was a line of 1400 ppm in Snohomoish, but since the new DOH School Guidance this fall, the guidance is 800 ppm.
- Lighting in older buildings—30ft candles can make it challenging for schools to bring their lighting up to code. Also, classrooms without windows seem to be an issue for smaller private schools, especially those in churches.
- Playground equipment—This is primarily an issue for schools where someone has donated a used or home playset. Often, the school removes the unstable equipment entirely to replace it with something new that meets commercial standards.
- Science chemicals – The cabinets need to be organized safely and secured.
- Plan reviews – Reminder that schools must submit their site approval BEFORE building. Pre-occupancy inspections are tied to school approval.
Snohomish County’s school inspectors, Amanda Carrol, Ramiro Rios, and Megan Bertolacci, are eager to support schools. The Snohomish County Health District created this fun & funny Classroom Safety videoto share with your teachers.
