Environmental health officers across the Island are being recognized this week for their valuable work in public health and safety during Environmental Public Health Week. January 19 to 24 is designated as Environmental Public Health Week across Canada, a national campaign headed by the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI).

“Environmental health officers, or public health inspectors, play a vital role in protecting the health and safety of all Islanders,” said Dr. Heather Morrison, Chief Health Officer. “They play an extremely important role in supporting the Chief Health Office and are committed to promoting and protecting public health through education, consultation and routine inspections of public and private services and facilities. I would like to recognize and thank them for their tremendous and valuable work.”

Environmental Public Health Week is an opportunity to recognize these dedicated professionals across Canada, and the importance of environmental public health programs in our health care system.

Routine inspections and complaint investigations, performed by health inspectors, make it possible for Islanders and visitors to enjoy the benefits of optimal public health. Inspection of facilities, such as restaurants, swimming pools and daycare centres, as well as the associated education component, aim to prevent circumstances that can have a negative impact on public health. Health inspectors are certified by the Board of Certification of CIPHI.

“The certification process guarantees that the highest standards for entry into the profession are met,” said Ryan Neale, Environmental Health Officer, PEI Department of Health and PEI Councillor for the local CIPHI Branch. “CIPHI also provides ongoing opportunities for professional development to help address many of the challenges from our environment that can affect human health.”

Anyone interested in learning more about career opportunities as a public health inspector should contact Environmental Health at 368-4970 or visit the environmental health website at www.gov.pe.ca/environmentalhealth.