The Roles and Functions of an Environmental Health Specialist

The Roles and Functions of an Environmental Health Specialist is to stay attentive to issues regarding public health, and safety concerns in commercial, industrial, recreational, and residential surroundings. This person is usually called a health inspector. This is someone who goes out to public, commercial, or private homes and determines if the environment is safe for habitation. If there is a problem with safety or health issues these men and women will help the family or business owner finds ways to correct the problem before imposing any fines and penalties. Many employees in this area are employed in state regulated offices, or government sectors.

The job specification for the Environmental Health Specialist is broad and extensive. This person is required to inspect a global range of businesses. They may have few limitations when it comes to geographical boundaries. They are required to inspect restaurants that are open and providing a service to the community. They have to monitor the kitchen for cleanliness, appearance, and adequate food temperatures. If a business is not suitable for public service it can be closed until the business owner complies with the laws concerning public safety and health. Other areas which are governed by the Environmental health specialist are day care centers, sanitation plants, public schools, and nursing facilities including hospitals.

Day cares and nursing homes are checked periodically for signs of lead paint and radon gas. These two substances are deadly and pose a fatal risk for anyone who is frequently exposed to these elements. It is the responsibility of the specialist to notate any violations regarding human endangerment. They are authorized by law to prepare inspection reports, and issue citations regarding methods to rectify a situation. Their responsibility does not stop here. They may also be required to collect valuable samples of materials, and substances for testing and analyzing purposes. Samples include and are not limited to dirt, water, or other chemicals that may be airborne.

When potential problems are discovered the Environmental health specialist goes to work putting up specialized monitoring equipment. They must frequently check the source of contamination to ensure the source is not getting worse, but is actually getting better. They are political problem solvers in a manner of speaking. This is because they must systemically check each step of a proposed plan to ensure that the establishment is following each step precisely.

Above all environmental health specialists must be well educated with the laws governing rules and regulations, and other areas pertaining to policies and procedures. They are also required to present safety certificates or permits to businesses that have met the minimum requirement of health and safety qualifications.

Environmental Science Resources