An individual who not only cares about how clean and safe the environment is but also wants to play a part in keeping it that way often choose to become a public health inspector. “How do I become a public health inspector?” is usually the question asked. The good news is that are various training programs around that can help aspiring public health inspectors meet their career goals. Get all the information you need here.
What is a Public Health Inspector?
A public health inspector is an individual who gathers data and analyzes different public places and work environments to ensure they are safe. They conduct tests, measure hazards and inspect procedures that will keep people safe. They also inspect public places to ensure that the place and not in violation of health and safety laws. Their main job is to keep the public healthy, and they do this by going from place to place and inspecting the place.
Public health inspectors have a strong knowledge of public health laws and codes. They also possess good organizational and communication skills. They visit places like nursing homes, public swimming pools, hospitals, youth camps, restaurants, hotels, medical facilities and bars. They spend most of their day traveling from one place to the next for inspections and must write up laws regarding their inspections. Public health inspectors may also be called upon to testify in court hearings.
How to Become a Public Health Inspector
Public health inspectors, which are grouped under the category of occupational health and safety specialists by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), should have a bachelor’s in occupational health and safety or a related technical field. Depending on the position and the employer, the individual may also be required to have a master’s degree.
Students pursuing this career typically take courses in occupational safety management, ergonomics, accident prevention, public health and industrial hygiene. This position may also be available by earning an associate’s degree. Students pursuing this career may also complete on-the-job training to obtain hands-on training in this field.
What About Certification/Licensure
Public health inspectors are not required to become licensed or certified. However, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have obtained certification. The American Board of Industrial Hygiene offers the Certified Industrial Hygienist credential. The Board of Safety Professionals offers these certifications.
- Associate Safety Professional
- Occupational Health and Safety Technologist
- Certified Safety Professional
- Construction Health and Safety Technicians
Career Outlook
The BLS reports that occupational health and safety specialists and technicians are expected to experience job growth of 8% during the 2016-2026 decade. Occupational health and safety specialists and technicians earned wages ranging from $31,650 to $82,190. As of May 2017, the average annual wage for these professionals was $53,930, according to the bureau.
Career opportunities and wages can vary depending on education, experience, employer and location. The five top-paying states for occupational health and safety specialists are District of Columbia, Washington, Rhode Island, South Carolina and Massachusetts.
Related Resource: Top 10 Master’s in Environmental Health Degrees Online
Helping to keep our environment as green as possible as well as keeping our community healthy and free from dangers is a big part of what public health inspectors do on a daily basis. Individuals who discover how easy it can be to become a public health inspector often decide they want to join this rewarding career.