ADJUSTING ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSPECTIONS POST COVID

Abstract

Background: The profession of environmental health (EH) is grounded in 18^th Century practice and policy.  This has to change.  Post COVID EH professionals need to look to redefine the role and function of EH, bringing prevention into the policy and political arena and provide the modern tools, practices and leadership to sustain change in EH across the globe.

Aim: This study considers how artificial intelligence (AI), augmentation and digital devices can be used to improve information gathering to allow hazard identification, risk assessment and prioritization to be used to enhance and drive efficiency and improvements in the practice of environmental health

Methods:  A review of available literature was carried out and a number of hypothesis were considered to determine possible and likely enhancements.  The study then considered emerging technologies including AI and augmentation which could be adapted and utilized in the ‘future’.

Results: This presentation will share the results in an entertaining and provocative style ensuring the audience is well informed and can see the future benefits to the profession, public and policy makers alike

Conclusion(s): AI and augmentation bring the profession into the new century and help produce the evidence base needed to implement risk reducing strategies to improve safety, welfare and wellbeing without excessive cost.

Presenter e-mail: andrew.mathieson@anu.edu.au