Pillars of Governmental Environmental Public Health | A Guide to Scalable Environmental Public Health Programs
dictions experiencing limited new construction, however, can encounter funding challenges under this model. Some jurisdictions have low permit fees, but if they were to move to a fully fee-funded model, the fees would reach over $1,000 per permit, which might not be desirable to the public or supported by local political will. State and county funding availability varies significantly, but it might provide more sustainable support for juris- dictions with minimal new construction or areas where ordinances require sewer connections within specified distances of existing lines. Programs operating under statewide oversight might benefit from enhanced state funding support, though many jurisdictions report that current state contributions do not cover inspection costs, requiring supplementation through county levy funding or general funds.
Research participants noted keeping costs to the public for the services of this program in line with expectations is an important consideration. It is their opinion that fees associated with a program can be set at an amount that is reasonable enough to cover the costs of the program but should not be excessive or inflated to support other (non-onsite wastewater) programs for public transpar- ency and accountability. Another potential source of funding, while not applicable to most jurisdictions, comes from oil and gas industry revenue. With this funding, there are some departments that can support one half of their environmental health EPH depart- ment while the other half comes from the fees incurred from permitting. This model demonstrates how alternative reve- nue sources can provide funding stability for EPH programs in specific geographic or economic contexts.
School Safety and Inspection
Program Overview and Core Services/Activities
PROGRAM
RECOMMENDED WORKLOAD 2–3 inspections per field day
EDUCATION AND CREDENTIALS
EQUIPMENT
KEY METRICS
School Safety and Inspection
• Bachelor’s in science • REHS/RS credential
• Infrared
• Repeat violations • Staff hazard identification • Technical consultations
thermometers • Air quality monitors
• Light meters • Playground
inspection kits
• Cameras • Mobile technology and inspection forms
Definition A school safety and inspection program generally involves comprehensive inspection of educational facilities to protect the health and safety of students, staff, and visitors. Activi- ties include the inspection of food preparation areas, chem- ical safety and storage practices, emergency procedures, indoor air quality, climate and extreme weather prepared- ness, pest management, facility planning, and facilities and equipment management. Inspections cover various school infrastructure including playgrounds, portable classrooms, and other educational facilities to ensure they are in proper condition to protect the health of students, staff, and visitors.
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