- Environmental health officers, also known as environmental or public health inspectors, prevent disease by enforcing health legislation and educating people about health issues. They investigate complaints and inspect facilities to make sure the owners and employees are following health regulations. They are responsible for inspecting many different types of facilities, including hotels, motels, restaurants, schools, swimming pools, and childcare centers. - Specific duties vary depending on the area that an officer is working in. Some inspectors may be responsible for inspecting industrial plants. They test for air pollution and investigate toxic materials storage and disposal.

-E-Environmental health officers spend a large part of their time inspecting different kinds of establishments (for example, restaurants, public swimming pools, and zoos). The remainder of their time is spent in offices preparing reports and dealing with inquiries from the public. -Officers who work for large health agencies or departments often specialize in areas such as hazardous waste management or restaurants and food facilities. Those based in smaller centers may have a wider range of duties. Though officers normally work alone, they may consult with other health team members and health professionals. -They must be prepared to deal with both clean and unclean work environments.

-Environmental health officers need a bachelor’s degree in environmental health, public health, or a related field. - Students enrolled in these programs typically study food hygiene, waste management, water treatment systems, infection control, environmental pollution, and public health law. They also take courses in biology, chemistry, and math. Some bachelor’s degree programs include a co-op, allowing students to obtain on-the-job experience. -It is also possible to earn a master’s degree in environmental or public health. - After that health officers must be certified by the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI).

LEVEL Environmental health officers EARNINGS In general, salaries range is from around $30,000 a year to more than $70,000 a year. REQUIREMENTS Bachelor’s degree in a specialty field RESPONSIBILITIES To prevent disease by enforcing health legislation and educating people about health issues.