Health Officer Environmental Hazards
Resources and information for local health officers about environmental hazards in the community.
The local Health Officer routinely faces environmental hazards and concerns in the community. Below are the main environmental hazards and areas of concern. Additional chapters on other environmental concerns are listed in the “more resources” section at the bottom of this page.
Nuisances
Hazards that present a danger or general harm to the general community constitute public health nuisances. These include threats such as pest infestations, unsanitary living conditions, unreasonable accumulation of trash, and many others. Learn more about nuisances:
Septic Systems
Subsurface wastewater disposal septic systems provide a cost effective and efficient way of disposing of domestic waste. However, improperly designed, installed, or maintained septic systems may result in the release of poorly treated or untreated effluent. Health officers are key local officials in ensuring approved, maintained, and clean subsurface wastewater disposal systems.
Drinking Water and Recreational Water
Health officers can play important roles in ensuring safe and clean sources of water for drinking and recreating. These chapters outline Health Officers’ responsibilities in responding to drinking water concerns as well as public bathing area sanitation.
Air Quality
Both indoor and outdoor air can pose hazards and impact the ability to breath easily to community members. Asthma affects 13.2% of New Hampshire adults and 7.21% of New Hampshire children, accounting for over 4,000 Emergency Room visits and over $177 million in direct medical costs annually.
Mold and Moisture
A common hazard found in the indoor environment, Health Officers can help address mold and mildew concerns by enforcing minimum housing standards and promoting dry and ventilated spaces.
Communicable Diseases
A communicable or infectious disease is one which is spread from one person to another or from an animal to a person. These diseases can be spread via the air, blood, intestinal tract, or by direct contact.
Bed Bugs
Health officers can serve a role in the detection of bedbugs and provide technical assistance in regard to providing recommendations for treatment and can conduct the appropriate enforcement actions in accordance with RSA 48A:14 for Minimum Housing Standards.
Emergency Preparedness
Public health professionals at all levels of government have a responsibility to ensure that threats to the health of the public are addressed in emergency plans and that response planning accurately reflects the capabilities of local and state public health entities.