There are five major disciplines in the field of environmental health. Captain Martin Sanders wishes the public to understand the role of Public Health Officers, as he lays down an overview of each discipline that has an impact on our natural and built environments.
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source: verywellhealth.com |
It studies the impact of environmental exposures on human health, such as exposure to radiation, chemicals, microbiological agents, etc. However, with ethical considerations, these studies are 'observational' in nature, meaning information is gathered after exposure has occurred.
Toxicology
Unlike environmental epidemiology, studies here involve animal subjects to determine the effects of environmental exposure and to understand possible health outcomes in humans. Careful analysis and interpretation must be considered since animal- and human biology are significantly different.
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source: stevens.edu |
Studies under this discipline support environmental epidemiology by identifying and quantifying exposures. It describes the exposure and its impact on health, identifies them through toxicology study, or determines exposure levels. These are like lab results that a doctor uses to assess a person's health based on the numbers that he or she sees.
Environmental engineering
The main goal of this discipline is to protect human health, the health of organisms, and the quality of the environment. To achieve this, environmental engineers devise solutions such as wastewater management, recycling, air and water pollution control, among others.
Environmental law
This is simply concerned with statutes, regulations, treaties, common laws, and customary laws which govern and addresses human activity and its impact on the environment.
Captain Martin Sanders, Ph.D., is a seasoned public health and safety expert with more than a decade of service in the occupational health and safety sector. He was Director of Safety, Environmental Compliance and Emergency Management of the Federal Occupational Health, Program Support Center, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration. He recently obtained a certification as a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) awarded by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. For similar writings, visit this page.
Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Homeland Security, or the United States Government.
