At NYSACHO, we believe in the power of environmental health to shape our communities for the better. Our mission is simple: to promote the health and well-being of all New Yorkers by fostering a safe, healthful environment through the tireless efforts of local health departments.
Environmental health is a core public health service, focusing on the intricate interplay between human health and our surroundings. From the air we breathe to the water we drink, the food we eat to the places we live, work, and play – environmental health influences every aspect of our lives.
Local health departments are the frontline defenders of public health in our communities. They are dedicated to safeguarding our health and well-being by enforcing regulations, conducting inspections, and providing vital services to prevent and mitigate environmental health risks.
Program areas include, but are not limited to:
- children’s camps;
- food service facilities;
- public beaches, swimming pools and recreational aquatic spray grounds;
- migrant farmworker housing;
- hotels and motels;
- adolescent tobacco use prevention;
- clean indoor air act (tobacco smoke);
- ultraviolet tanning facilities;
- tattooing and body piercing;
- childhood lead poisoning prevention program;
- primary prevention of lead poisoning;
- campgrounds and agricultural fairgrounds;
- public health nuisances;
- mobile home parks; and mass gatherings;
- tobacco enforcement
