The Department of Public Health is required by Massachusetts General Law to take cognizance of the health, comfort and convenience of all citizens of the Commonwealth and to advise the government concerning the location and other sanitary condition of any public institution; make rules for correctional facilities and detention centers regarding the care and use of eating and drinking utensils, bedding, ventilation of buildings, minimum plumbing facilities for human habitation, and for the general health and safety of the detainees; and inspect each correctional facility and report on its findings and recommendations. The regulations were adopted to establish required minimum standards for correctional facilities. The Community Sanitation Program inspects all Department of Correction facilities and County Jails & Houses of Correction within the Commonwealth.
