British Science Week is the perfect time to celebrate the scientists working tirelessly behind the scenes to protect public health. When people think of scientists, they often picture lab coats, test tubes and ground-breaking discoveries. But did you know that environmental health practitioners (EHPs) are scientists too? 

Environmental health is a vital, science-based profession that safeguards the health and well-being of communities. EHPs use scientific principles every day to ensure the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat and the places we live and work are safe. Their expertise spans microbiology, toxicology, epidemiology and environmental sciences, making them key players in protecting public health and preventing disease. 

Why environmental health matters 

EHPs play a critical role in tackling major health challenges. From investigating food poisoning outbreaks and ensuring food safety to reducing air pollution and preventing the spread of infectious diseases, their work directly impacts everyone’s quality of life. They conduct research, enforce health and safety laws and advise businesses and policymakers using scientific evidence. Whether they are inspecting restaurants, assessing housing conditions, or managing environmental hazards, EHPs apply science to solve real-life problems every day. 

The science behind the job 

Environmental health is grounded in science. EHPs analyse samples, assess risks and use data-driven methods to protect public health. They apply chemistry to test water quality, microbiology to prevent foodborne illness and environmental science to mitigate pollution. During public health crises, such as pandemics or climate-related disasters, EHPs work with public health colleagues to track disease outbreaks and implement measures to keep people safe. 

A career that makes a difference 

If you’re passionate about science and want to make a tangible difference in the world, becoming an EHP could be the perfect profession for you. It’s a career that combines scientific expertise with real-world action, solving problems, protecting lives, and shaping healthier communities. So this British Science Week, let’s celebrate the incredible science behind environmental health and inspire the next generation of EHPs.  

RHE Global: Supporting environmental health 

RHE Global plays a pivotal role in supporting and advancing the environmental health profession, ensuring that practitioners are well-equipped to protect public health and safety. 

Comprehensive consulting services 

RHE Global offers expert consulting across housing, community safety, private water supplies and acoustics and noise control. Our team provides strategic guidance to local authorities and housing associations, supporting delivery of high-quality services.   

Innovative technological solutions 

To enhance the efficiency of environmental health professionals, RHE Global has developed several software tools:

• The Noise App: A user-friendly application that allows professionals to investigate and manage noise-related issues effectively.  

• The Housing App: The app that facilitates property inspections, surveys and assessments, streamlining the process of recording defects and evaluating building conditions. 

• RIAMS Libraries: An extensive knowledge management system that offers regularly updated procedures, forms, notices and guidance tailored across all environmental health services. 

Dedicated training 

Recognising the importance of continued professional development, RHE Training delivers targeted training courses, designed for the public sector, to enhance skills, knowledge and competence in environmental health, housing and community safety.   

Active engagement 

RHE Global fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing among environmental health professionals through RIAMS Communities, a professional online forum where local authority practitioners and subject matter experts network, ask questions and benefit from peer-to-peer support.