Provides students with a background in the science of toxicology. The course covers basic biochemistry and the effects of environmental chemical pollutants on organs and body systems. The chemicals discussed include heavy metals, pesticides, organic solvents and air pollutants. Prerequisite: Post-secondary Chemistry, Organic Chemistry preferred.

Public Health Inspectors/Environmental Health Officers require excellent communication skills as their role requires them to interact with the public at all levels as well as with colleagues and other branches of government. This course will cover communication skills at an advanced level for the environmental health professional within the broader context of community building and an intercultural communication perspective. Thus, applied intercultural communication theory is a central theme of the course. Communication skills to be covered in this course include the writing of business letters, briefing notes, reports, and social media messages (such as health messaging). Other topics include interviewing techniques, business meetings, telephone etiquette, job search techniques, and methods for dealing with conflict or complaints through effective email, telephone communication, and letters. Because the environmental health professional is embedded within and integral to the wider community, the communication topics mentioned above will be applied through case studies, exercises, and discussions which address the cultural diversity found in Canada’s multicultural population, including the First Nations. Prerequisite: An approved post-secondary ENGL or COMM course

This course introduces the student to the foundations of Public Health and Environmental Health Inspection in Canada and the role, duties, responsibilities, and behaviour of the Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer (PHI/EHO). Relevant professional organizations and government agencies are described. The development of legislation and the general application of legislation are examined. Outcome-based inspections and progressive enforcement are emphasized.

This course provides an introduction to the properties of soil and the concepts and methods used in hydrogeology that are most pertinent to the needs of the EHO/PHI. Soil properties are used to determine the soil’s capacity to move various contaminants including liquid waste and domestic sewage. The concepts and methods of hydrogeology are used to assess risk to both health and the environment with a focus on preventing and solving groundwater contamination problems.

Describes methods of collecting and disposing of liquid wastes without causing an environmental concern or a public health hazard. The basics of residential plumbing for water supply and wastewater removal are discussed. Residential, commercial, and large- and small-scale wastewater flows are examined. The relative effectiveness of primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment systems are discussed. The role of the Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer (PHI/EHO) in on-site sewage disposal and treatment is discussed with respect to the Sewerage Regulation and the Sewerage System Standard Practice Manual.

Introduces common chemical and physical factors that potentially constitute environmental and/or occupational health hazards. Includes examples such as gases and vapours, noise, and radiation (including light) and temperature extremes. Through lectures and laboratory exercises, teaches how to recognize these factors, evaluate the degree of the hazard using appropriate environmental sampling equipment, and be aware of possible control measures. Requires an off-campus practicum component. Prerequisite: Post-secondary Math

This course examines the disposal of solid and hazardous waste. Topics in the solid waste section include the design of a sanitary landfill site, monitoring a disposal site, land reclamation, and dealing with illegal disposal sites. Special wastes such as septage and agricultural wastes are considered. The hazardous waste section includes topics such as the design, monitoring, and inspection of a hazardous waste management facility. Potential health risks are discussed. In addition to developing core competencies in environmental health, this course enables students to enhance their critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

This course provides an overview of the laboratory techniques used in the detection, enumeration and identification of food-related microorganisms of importance in the field of environmental health. Topics include the traditional microbiological techniques (e.g. standard plate count, most probable number, membrane filtration) plus the newest rapid techniques that rely on ELISA and molecular test kits. These topics are discussed in reference to their uses for helping to keep our foods and water safe and in the determination of causative agents when food or water borne illness outbreaks occur. Interpretation of results and the limitations of the techniques will be stressed. Labs will primarily be demonstration and will supplement and support the information given in lecture. Prerequisite: Post-secondary Microbiology

The goals of this course are to enable the learner to demonstrate a level of knowledge and comprehension of communicable diseases and communicable disease control such that he/she will be able to apply, and to collaborate with as well as to instruct others to apply, the procedures and practices relevant to communicable disease control in general and to each specific communicable disease discussed in the course. Following a brief review of the basic concepts such as microbial reservoirs, modes and routes of transmission, communicability, signs and symptoms as well as virulence factors, the course systematically deals with control measures for foodborne/enteric, waterborne, zoonotic, vector-borne, vaccine-preventable as well as sexually transmitted diseases. Emphasis is placed on communicable diseases of public health significance, especially those that are more likely to be encountered by Public Health Inspectors/Environmental Health Officers (PHIs/EHOs) in their practice. Prerequisites: FOOD 3025

Provides the knowledge and skills required to protect public health in matters relating to food processing, handling, storage, and food facility design and equipment. Emphasizes progressive enforcement (including education) vs. legislative controls, the outcome-based inspection, and the causes and investigation of foodborne illness. Includes an off-campus practicum requirement.

This course examines in detail the contemporary and complex interrelationships of man, his health, and the environment in relationship to maintaining, securing, and delivering an adequate and safe supply of drinking water for small and large scale water supply and distribution systems. Chemical and bacteriological sample results are interpreted. The steps used in investigating and controlling a waterborne illness are also presented. Prerequisites: ENVH 1260

This course builds on the knowledge gained from the ENVH 1100 course with the goal to bridge the gap between the theoretical aspects of environmental health legislation and the practical realities of enforcing these laws using the judicial system and other avenues. This course presents a study of how the legal and federal/provincial judicial systems can be utilized by Public Health Inspectors/Environmental Health Officers (PHIs/EHOs) as one of the tools of their profession. Topics covered include: administrative law, procedural fairness, due diligence, collection and presentation of evidence, preparation of information, ambiguities, liability, appeals, freedom of information, the use of ticketing, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms regarding the rights of entry and privacy, injunctions and other remedies. Actual case studies will be used to illustrate the importance of these topics. Prerequisites: ENVH 1100

Focuses on the responsibility and duties of the Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer (PHI/EHO) in land development. The process by which land is zoned, subdivided and developed is examined. Environmental Assessments, Environmental Site Assessments, Contaminated Sites and Land Reclamation are discussed in detail. Land use regulations and land use planning (eg: Official Community Plans, Regional Growth Strategies) are also discussed. Prerequisites: ENVH 2210

The Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer (PHI/EHO) must use strong Human Relations skills to establish rapport, project professionalism and communicate effectively to avoid conflict and achieve compliance by operators/clients. Since human relation skills are critical to the inspection process and to the understanding of complex human behaviors, this course will focus on the interactions between people and methods to avoid conflict, build trust and achieve compliance with a strong focus on inspection, cultural awareness, conflict resolution, negotiation and mediation specific to the role of the PHI/EHO. Role playing exercises and case studies are used to examine effective behaviors and interactive techniques. Prerequisites: COMM 3282

Examines chemical, physical and biological factors relating to indoor air quality. Through lecture and lab exercises, builds on the concepts introduced in ENVH 3600. Discusses the sources of gases and vapours, particulates and microorganisms in homes, commercial premises and facilities. Addresses issues relating to survey design and data interpretation. Examines options for improving indoor air quality. Prerequisites: ENVH 3600

Develops advanced skills in critical analysis, close reading and composition through lectures, discussion and group activities in which students analyze and evaluate materials from various disciplines. Readings might come from professional journals, reports, newspapers, magazines and literature. Multimedia such as video, music and the Internet may also be included. Prerequisite: BCIT ENGL 1177, or 6 credits BCIT Communication at 1100-level or above, or 3 credits of university/college composition.

The course provides an overview of the basic skills of a manager and applies these skills through a series of projects and case studies. It examines the evolution of management and the organizational culture and environment. It also teaches the decision-making skills and the skills involved in planning, organizing, leading and controlling, including planning and facilitating change, teamwork, applying motivational techniques and effective communication.

Introduces the health concerns associated with swimming pools and bathing beaches. Examines the operational characteristics and requirements of different pool types in order to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to protect the public health. The section on recreational bathing beaches focuses on assessment and monitoring of the beach water and its surrounding environment. Examines the various provincial regulations and national standards governing these topics.

This course builds on the concepts introduced in ENVH 1100 and applies concepts learned in ENVH 3100 to a variety of environmental health problems. The goal of the course is to apply selected evidence-based practice and relate it to how decisions are made in real-life situations as encountered in the Environmental Health profession while keeping in mind “administrative fairness”, public health risk assessment and “outcome-based service delivery”. Students will apply problem-solving skills and quality decision making in scenario-based learning exercises in a variety of topic areas including health hazards, housing, institutional and community care facilities, personal services establishments, communicable disease investigations, and emergency measures. Prerequisites: ENVH 3100

This course equips the student with the skills to assess food processing operations for potential health hazards. A wide range of food processing and preservation techniques relative to the survival and growth of microorganisms in food are addressed. Examples of foods that are potentially hazardous are discussed in detail. Legislation pertaining to the commercial food industry is examined. The operation, maintenance, cleaning, and disinfection of common food facility equipment are described. Prerequisites: ENVH 1300 and FOOD 3025

Applies critical research skills in examining sources and uses of epidemiologic data for public health field work and health services planning, evaluation and administration. Provides practical experience in outbreak investigation using case studies. Explores data collection methods, designs for applied research studies, techniques for data analysis, and scientific communication. Uses EpiData and/or EpiInfo software programs to manage, display and analyze epidemiological data. Provides the skills to conduct field investigations under supervision, and to assess the validity of scientific reports. Enhances problem solving, critical thinking, reading and communication skills within the context of epidemiology and biostatistics. Prerequisite: Post-secondary Biostatistics (preferred) or Statistics.

This course examines the role of the Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer (PHI/EHO) in effecting behaviour changes in a particular target audience or end user through environmental health education and advocacy. Students apply the principles of adult education to the design and presentation of an educational program and evaluate the educational programs presented by their classmates. They also design an evaluation process to determine the effectiveness of educational programs in general, recognizing the importance of evidence-based service delivery. Prerequisites: ENVH 3570

Examines the components of the research process and preparation of a research proposal. Under the guidance of faculty advisors, students work independently to select a research topic in public health and develop a detailed research proposal for the project to be conducted in ENVH 8410 (Applied Research Project). In addition to developing core competencies in the research process, student will enhance their communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, reading, evidence-based decision making and statistical skills Requires an off-campus practicum component.

Profiles selected industries in terms of technological processes, environmental pollutants and chemical wastes generated. Examines treatment or detoxification methods employed to reduce the amount of toxic pollutants released into the environment. Assesses physical and chemical properties that determine the transport, fate and effects of hazardous waste substances. Concepts in redox, solution equilibria and organic chemistry are applied. Prerequisite: Post-secondary chemistry, organic chemistry preferred.

Introduces pests of public health significance. Through lectures and laboratories, examines the life history, health significance and methods of identification of pests encountered by the graduatePublic Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer (PHI/EHO); and, in detail, examines current chemical, physical and biological control methods with a focus on the concepts of integrated pest management.

This course addresses the public health risks associated with outdoor air quality at the local, regional and global level. Types and sources of air pollutants are described and classified. Climate change, stratospheric ozone depletion and acid deposition are discussed. The health risks associated with outdoor air quality are assessed and the role of the Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer (PHI/EHO) is examined. Standards and regulations regarding outdoor air quality are also evaluated. Students are equipped with the skills and knowledge to interpret air quality monitoring data and recommend measures to protect public health. Prerequisites: ENVH 4600

Examines the concepts of risk assessment, health impact assessment, risk management, risk perception and risk communication as they relate to the environmental health field. Using case studies, applies communication, problem solving, critical thinking and teamwork skills. Prerequisites: CHEM 3321

This course examines the role of the Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer (PHI/EHO) in contributing to population health through the planning process. Students also utilize research evidence to evaluate the key factors of a healthy built environment and make recommendations on how to positively affect the health of a community. The Trans Fat Regulations, sustainable development and environmental economics are also addressed in the context of healthy communities. Prerequisites: ENVH 3280 and ENVH 7600

This directed studies course focuses on the application and integration of knowledge and skills acquired in ENVH 8400 (Research Methods). Provides a faculty supervisor to monitor work with a sponsoring agency to independently complete the research project, prepare a formal research report and present research findings. Utilizes fiscal and time- management strategies, oral and written communication skills and critical thinking/problem solving abilities. Requires an off-campus/practicum component. Prerequisites: ENVH 8400

Focuses on the application and integration of environmental health concepts and principles in a real-life work situation (off-campus practicum). Enhances skills in critical thinking, problem solving, decision-making, communication and interpersonal relationships through participation in a variety of programs within an environmental health or other approved agency. Twelve weeks long, requires hours of work as assigned by the agency. Prerequisites: BHSC 7423

Fosters abilities and values required for ethical decision making at work. Develops skills in logical analysis, a working knowledge of moral principles and theories, and the ability to diagnose and resolve moral disagreements commonly found at work. Examines and applies moral principles to historically famous cases in manufacturing, human resources, management, engineering, health care, and computing. Prerequisite: BCIT ENGL 1177, or 6 credits BCIT Communication at 1100-level or above, or 3 credits of university/college composition.