Local Perspective: The Sanitarian’s Role during
Disaster Relief Efforts
Speakers: Chirag H.
Bhatt, RS
Bureau Chief, Consumer Health Services
Houston Department of Health and Human Services
Courtney Bock, RS
Field Sanitarian, Consumer Health Services
Houston Department of Health and Human Services
Level of Knowledge: Multi Level
Short Abstract:
While operating disaster
relief centers established in Houston,
Texas the role of a Registered
Sanitarian was distinguished to be a vital role to public health.
Sanitarians performed
multiple disease-prevention tasks throughout the main shelter and other
sheltering operations scattered throughout Houston.
The mass-sheltering operation compounded the sanitarians’
responsibilities. Houston
sanitarians performed daily on-site inspections, monitored living quarters, and
gave guidance on how to reduce health risks in all areas. Problematic
situations were evaluated, findings presented in daily briefings, and solutions
were communicated in a variety of forms, in several languages. Sanitarians
provided in-time training to novice food handlers, workers and volunteers in
order to quickly and effectively control any situation that might occur. With
the hard work of many volunteers, government agencies and City of Houston departments, the
first mass-shelter was successfully closed on September 20, 2005 with zero
outbreaks.
Learning Objectives:
- Know your role during
disaster recovery and relief efforts.
- Assign duties related
to disaster recovery
- Delegate duties related
to disaster recovery