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Role of environmental health workers in control of designated pestsEach community is different, and the types of threats posed by vector's and vermin can change throughout the year.
Vermin and vectors are part of the natural environment. To control them, EHWs must understand how they breed, survive, and spread disease. You'll find useful information and links in About vectors - life cycles, diseases, symptoms, control.
The EHW General Duty Statement recommends that EHWs develop a system for managing risks by arranging their work routine into daily, weekly, fortnightly, monthly and annual tasks. A systematic approach helps you build your knowledge of the community environment and address risks before they become serious threats.
Monitoring the risks from designated pests is just the first step for EHWs. By building trust with your community, and making people aware that the dangers are real, you can get the broad support you need to do your job well.
When people know and understand the risks, they are more likely to take practical measures to control designated pests. School-age children should be a primary focus of an EHW's education programs. You'll find links to resources and programs in the Community Awareness Campaigns section.
To address a serious problem with designated pests, you will often need the support of your council. For example, you might need to buy new vehicles or equipment, start a community health promotion campaign, or involve other councils or government departments in control measures. It is important that you understand the problem, keep good records, and explain clearly to your council why the actions you recommend should be taken. You can get support to prepare your submissions to council from your Environmental Health Coordinator.
Because designated pests are alive, the EHW's job is never finished. A shower of rain can turn a safe environment, like a school or backyard, into a breeding place. Uncovered food scraps will soon attract vermin and encourage them to breed. An EHW who is alert and informed is a community’s best hope of preventing the diseases spread by designated pests.
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