CIEH welcomes essential worker status for Environmental Health Practitioners

CIEH has welcomed the Government’s confirmation that Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) in England are to be classed as essential workers.

Yesterday, public and environmental health staff, including in government agencies and arm’s length bodies, were formally recognised as essential workers by the Government. This means that EHPs will now be included in the list of essential workers who will receive COVID-19 tests.

EHPs have a vital role in protecting the public and in enforcing the recent business closure and social distancing measures announced by the Government. CIEH has been working hand in hand with all relevant officials, agencies, and government departments, to promote the vital contribution that our members are making on the ground.

Debbie Wood, CIEH Executive Director for Membership and External Affairs, said:

“Confirming environmental health practitioners as essential workers is a positive step by the Government and recognises the essential role that our members have in fighting COVID-19.

From supporting businesses to assisting community food distribution schemes, EHPs are using their skills and experience to lead from the front and provide valuable additional resource.

We look forward to continuing to work with government and public health agencies across the UK in shaping our nation’s efforts to combat COVID-19.”