Who is responsible for conducting health and sanitation inspections?

The responsibility for conducting health and sanitation inspections falls to the sanitation engineer from the Department of Health Services (DHS). This specialized role within the DHS is specifically designed to ensure that facility health standards are met, focusing on sanitation practices, cleanliness, and overall environmental health compliance. The sanitation engineer possesses the training and expertise necessary to identify potential health risks and recommend improvements to maintain health standards.

While facility management teams can be involved in day-to-day operations and general maintenance, they may not have the specific qualifications to carry out formal inspections related to health and sanitation. Similarly, the State Fire Marshall's focus is primarily on fire safety regulations, which does not encompass the broader health and sanitation criteria. Volunteer staff members typically do not have the training or authority to conduct formal inspections, making them unsuitable for this responsibility. Thus, the sanitation engineer's expert role is crucial for ensuring that a facility meets all necessary health and sanitation regulations.