Environmental health practitioner : Training

Becoming qualified as an environmental health practitioner (EHP) involves both academic study and practical training. This is done through either a sandwich course, which integrates theoretical training with practical training, or end-on practical training after academic study.

The course must be accredited by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) , and on completion graduates must submit a satisfactory work-based learning portfolio of evidence and pass a two-part examination consisting of a single, substantial case study concentrating on environmental health interventions and an interview. On successful completion, the Certificate of Registration is awarded by the Environmental Health Registration Board (EHRB) , which is administered by the CIEH. This signifies qualified EHP status and is the qualification recognised by government bodies and local authorities.

Continuing professional development (CPD) is required to maintain professional status. All practising CIEH members have to undertake a set requirement of CPD hours per year, which involves attendance at a range of courses, seminars and conferences, where other relevant skills, such as management training, may also be developed.

In Scotland, the Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland (REHIS)  Scheme of Practical Training consists of a minimum of 48 weeks with a Scottish local authority and requires students to produce a training record that details the practical work carried out, its relationship to the scheme and indicating its connection to achieving a particular skill or competence.

Students can undertake the training in the vacation during their degree course or can defer all training until the completion of their course. Students must pass the Professional Examination, which assesses their professional competence in each of the programme areas. Successful candidates are awarded the REHIS Diploma in Environmental Health and become qualified EHPs. See the REHIS website for full details.

For career and training information in Ireland, see the Irish Environmental Health Officers Association .