ENVIRONMENTAL AND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ISSUES IN PUBLIC HEALTH - MPH 632 (FALL 2018)

This has been an enlightening course. I have learned so much about chemicals, toxic exposures, climate change, and the public health implications of it all. On a personal level I was reminded of my impact on the ecosystem in producing trash and creating waste. I learned about the risks of chemical exposures in my food and everyday products. On a professional level I learned more about toxic exposures impact in public and occupational health. Also, being able to differentiate the evidence available and the evidence that is missing. Fully aware that the science is not always available, but the signs are there when people get sick. Environmental Health and Occupational health are a big part of public health, it is important public health professional are aware of threats to a person’s well-being.

Earthquakes are a large concern for the Bay Area. I would like to learn more about reducing disaster risk. In exploring the website the National Center for Disaster Medicine and Public Health I found that it’s important to educate myself and others on the health topics related to earthquakes. The Association of Bay Area Governments Resilience Program has a Stronger Housing, Safer Communities: Strategies for Seismic and Flood Risks program, I’m surprised there are only a handful of participating cities given our vulnerability in the case of a disaster. In my area the Alameda County Fire Department does offer personal emergency preparedness workshops, community emergency response team training and hand-only CPR and AED training.

Personally, the most troubling thing about climate change is that very little precaution has taken place. As occupants of this planet we are all vulnerable to the risks and the future of humanity as a whole. There are plenty of health professionals and environmentalists concerned and taking action about climate change. However, those who are in power to make an immediate change, policymakers and corporations, are not acknowledging this big problem fast enough. Honestly, with the devastating fires in California and hurricanes in the last few years, as a public health professional, what needs the greatest attention is extreme weather and other events related to climate change that will impact health. Natural disasters are leaving people homeless increasing our vulnerability to getting sick. The way I have explained climate change to those unaware of the issue is by using the current weather as an example. In California we have experienced droughts, fires, and floods, this is all rela...

My household waste stream for one person is not bad, could it be better? Yes, After watching the Zero Waste Ted Talk, I became re-inspired to reduce my waste. A few years ago I decided to stop shopping and recycle as much as possible. While I occasionally shop, I have reduced my purchasing of products in packaging. I separate my waste, trash, compost, and recycling. I hang dry in the sun as much as possible, I reuse bags and refuse extra packaging on items I purchase. I purchase at my local farmers' markets and limit my car trips if it is not for work. I do need to stop relying on the convenience of Amazon Prime, the packaging is insane, and I do recycle it. I also need to start cooking more at home and reduce my takeout meals. I use a lot of natural products that have multiple functions like baking soda, coconut oil, and white vinegar. Even though I am currently doing my part to reduce waste, I know there is room for improvement. I would like to eventually join a group to start a...

My workplace is in an office setting. I sit in a cubicle and there are ergonomic issues. I have personal protective equipment, and ergonomic keyboard and mouse, and I have a special ergonomic chair. Even with all the equipment I have to be aware of my posture and take breaks. Through the administrative controls – I can change alternatively the way I work. I can move to another location in the office to work temporarily to change the repetitive motion. However, I cannot completely remove the computer and my cubicle, this is my workspace. First of all it is not a tremendous hazard I have control over the time I spend sitting in front of the computer so breaks are definitely self-managed and I feel very lucky to have the autonomy to take care of myself without too many barriers.