The “School Safety, Health & Sanitation” category of the Great Places to School focuses on the measures taken by schools to ensure a healthy and clean environment for students. This involves maintaining cleanliness of the school compound, implementing proper solid waste management, and providing access to safe water and adequate latrine facilities. It also encompasses classroom cleanliness, adequate lighting, and ventilation free from noise, accidents, and pollution.

The category evaluates overall cleanliness of students and the school compound, including dormitories, toilets, bathrooms, kitchens, and dining areas. It also considers the availability of health systems or first aid facilities for emergency medical care. Schools are assessed on their level of safety from all forms of pollution and the policies and rules in place guiding students on maintaining cleanliness.