Abstract

PIP: This article describes recent changes in management of environmental health in South Africa. Past actions focused on problem identification and examination. New Environmental Health Programs focus on broad strategies and risk management through identification and prioritization of potential and actual environmental health risks. A National Environmental Health Surveillance Program (NEHSP) was newly established. NEHSP helps managers and planners of Environmental Health Services (EHS) to target and optimize programs to improve daily living conditions. NEHSP includes a Basic Subsistence Facilities Evaluation Program, a National Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Program, an EHS Evaluation Program, and a Port Health Services Evaluation Program. NEHSP provides monitoring tools that create awareness on local and international levels. A World Health Organization (WHO) Environmental Health Center was established in South Africa, in 1995, in order to help member states with water supply, sanitation, environmental health in urban areas, chemical and food safety, vector control, and occupational health issues. A WHO survey team examined the quality of water supplies in rural areas and problems with latrine facilities. Comprehensive upgrading of facilities will occur in 1996, to rectify poor rural conditions, followed by urban and semi-urban programs. A working group is drafting promotional materials and guidelines for hygiene and food safety among street food vendors. Draft regulations on public health nuisances were submitted for approval in 1996. Local shopkeepers are reminded of the law against selling tobacco to minors.