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Clean Bill of Health

Historically, a port-health document stating that no infectious disease was known to exist at a vessel’s port of departure.

A clean bill could support the granting of pratique at the next port, while a foul or suspected bill could lead to quarantine or inspection. Requirements and terminology varied between jurisdictions and periods.

Modern health clearance uses declarations, pre-arrival reporting and public-health rules rather than relying on this historical document alone. Figuratively, the phrase now means a finding that a person or thing is satisfactory or free from fault.

⚓ Nautical Origin of A Clean Bill of Health:

  • A “clean bill of health” meant the ship came from a healthy port—no known disease.
  • A “foul” or “suspect” bill might result in quarantine or denied entry.

🧼 Modern Meaning:

  • Someone has been declared healthy by a doctor.
  • Or metaphorically, that something has passed inspection, has no issues, or is in good condition