Environmental Health
Environmental health is encompassed within the broader area of public health. It is distinct from environmental protection, but the two do overlap in some areas.
Environmental health practice covers the assessment, correction, control and prevention of environmental factors that can adversely affect health, as well as the enhancement of those aspects of the environment that can improve human health. It encompasses all the measures necessary to deal with issues such as environmental degradation and hazards including contaminated water and food and chemical exposure. Environmental health practice also provides opportunities to enhance health by planning for improved health outcomes and working towards health promoting environments.
Environmental Health Plan
Council has certain statutory obligations in relation to environmental health in the Warren Local Government Area.
The Local Government Act 1993 confers on to Council service and non-regulatory functions including the provision, management or operation of public health services and facilities; waste removal, treatment and disposal services and facilities; pest eradication and control services and facilities; and environment conservation, protection and improvement services and facilities.
The Public Health Act 1991 empowers authorised Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) to inspect premises and enforce the act. Local government's contribution to the reduction in the spread of disease and maintenance of a safe and healthy population results from both implementation of its legislative responsibilities and provision of other health services as it sees as appropriate to its community.
In order to perform these obligations in a consistent and considered manner an Environmental Health Plan has been developed. The purpose of the plan is to provide a structured basis to the management of the various environmental health functions of Warren Shire Council. It details activities to be carried out over a set period of time to achieve desired outcomes that can be measured and evaluated for effectiveness.