Shining a spotlight on Environmental Public Health

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the work of Environmental Public Health has grown exponentially and the role they play is vast and vital. We know the current COVID-19 restrictions can be difficult and this is a stressful time – mentally, emotionally and financially - for many, and sometimes this leads to high emotions.

In recent weeks, there have been instances where our Public Health Inspectors have been mistreated, verbally abused and disrespected while carrying out their duties. This is why we launched a public kindness campaign, reminding Albertans that all of us are here for them but harassment is never OK.

Joining me to talk more about the great work Environmental Public Health is doing and the challenges they face are:

• Dr. Kathryn Koliaska, Medical Officer of Health for the North Zone and Safe Healthy Environments, and
• Mark Fehr, Executive Director, Safe Healthy Environments

In the vlog, Kathryn and Mark share how the pandemic has changed Environmental Public Health’s role and how public health inspectors work with police and municipal partners.