Sanitation in S.C. Schools
Public and private schools in South Carolina must meet the required standards for sanitation listed in S.C. Regulation 61-42. Sanitation of Schools.
DHEC investigates complaints about sanitation and safety in schools involving drinking water, toilets, showering and swimming facilities, nursing stations, gym equipment, and a variety of other concerns, including asbestos.
Complaints: If you have a complaint about a school sanitation or safety issue, first contact your school administrator or school district official. If the problem persists, please contact your local DHEC Environmental Health office to discuss your concern.
Mold, Mildew and Indoor Air Quality in Schools
Although DHEC sometimes inspects schools for mold or mildew at the request of a school administrator or following a complaint, we have no authority under state or federal law to enforce indoor air quality standards. There are no state or federal laws or regulations that set minimum standards for indoor air quality, including standards for mold and mildew.
One resource for schools dealing with indoor air quality issues is the EPA's voluntary Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Program. This program has helped hundreds of schools improve the comfort and health of students and staff by helping schools identify, correct and prevent indoor air quality problems in school buildings. Local school districts are responsible for paying for any improvements needed.
Complaints: If you have concerns about mold, mildew or indoor air quality at your child's school, please contact the school principal or local school district administrators. If you have concerns about charter school indoor air quality, contact the S.C. Department of Education.
Food Safety and Sanitation in School Cafeterias, Canteens
DHEC also inspects school food service facilities and cafeterias as authorized under S.C. Regulation 61-25, Retail Food Service Establishments.
Complaints: If you are concerned about a food safety-related issue at your child's school, you can file a food safety complaint about a school food service online. We investigate all complaints.
For more information on DHEC's General Sanitation program, contact us at (803) 896-0655.