on behalf of all DHBs
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES
REGULATORY SERVICES AND REPORTING –
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
TIER LEVEL TWO
SERVICE SPECIFICATION
Status:
Approved for recommended nationwide
use for the non-mandatory description of
services funded by DHBs.
RECOMMENDED 
Status:
MANDATORY 
Approved for mandatory nationwide use
for the description of services to be
funded by the Ministry of Health.
Review History
Date
Endorsed by Nationwide Service
Framework Coordinating Group (NCG)
Published on NSFL
Review: of Public Health Handbook (2003):
Amendments: inserted into service specification format, added
support services ,service linkages table, quality requirements,
Purchase Unit Code table, reporting requirements, links to Public
Health Services tier one service specification .
Consideration for next Service Specification
Review
April 2010
Within three years
Note: Contact the Service Specification Programme Manager, National Health Board
Business Unit, Ministry of Health to discuss the process and guidance available in
developing new or updating and revising existing service specifications. Web site address
of the Nationwide Service Framework Library: http://www.nsfl.health.govt.nz/.
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES -REGULATORY SERVICES AND REPORTING –
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
TIER LEVEL TWO
SERVICE SPECIFICATION
This tier two service specification for Public Health Services Regulatory Services and
Reporting – Physical Environmental Health Services (the Service) must be used in
conjunction with the overarching tier one Public Health Specification and is linked to the
tier two Social Environments and Health Promoting Schools service specification.
Refer to the Public Health tier one service specification under the following headings for
generic details on:

Service Objectives

Service Users

Access

Service Components

Service Linkages

Exclusions

Quality Requirements
The above heading sections are applicable to all the Service delivery.
Background
When considering the role of the physical and social environments on the health of
populations, the concepts of sustainable development and supportive environments must
be included. Ecological public health involves creating physical and social environments
conducive to health, to make healthy choices easier choices. It requires a comprehensive
approach to public health including developing linkages between existing areas of public
health activity.
Creating sustainable healthy environments contributes to key public health outcomes such
as healthy eating healthy action, for example through urban design contributing to healthy
action or health promoting schools providing a vehicle for nutrition policies in the education
sector.
1.
Service Definition
Enforcement is the investigation and action in response to alleged non-compliance, and
requires specialist experience and skilled practitioners. While there is a distinction between
compliance and enforcement, it is not always easy to practicably separate the two.
The enforcement of public health legislation is undertaken by District Health Board (DHBs)
Public Health Units, which are responsible for planning and delivering compliance and
enforcement functions as part of comprehensive public health programmes. In addition,
the Director-General of Health directly employs or contracts enforcement officers to
undertake the enforcement of more complex, or precedent setting, or specialised
legislation.
The Services must provided in accordance with the tier one Public Health Services service
specification Appendix One Regulatory Services and Reporting Requirements and the
Ministry of Health Environmental Health Protection Manual.
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The following legislation is required to be enforced by DHB’s Public Health Units under this
service specification:

Biosecurity Act 1993

Burial and Cremation Act 1964

Civil Defence and Emergency Management Act 2002

Epidemic Preparedness Act 2006

Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996

Health Act 1956

Misuse of Drugs Act 1975

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Prostitution Reform Act 2003

Radiation Protection Act 1965

Sale of Liquor Act 1989

Smoke-Free Environments Act 1990.
Officers within Public Health Units are designated (or appointed) under the Health Act
1956, Smoke-free Environments Act 1990, Hazardous Substances Act 1996, and the
Biosecurity Act 1993. Public health managers may also use the Ministry of Health’s (the
Ministry’s) specialised enforcement officers for compliance and enforcement activities to
support and enhance the public health unit’s staff.
The Director of Public Health, and other appropriately experienced public health medicine
specialists within the Ministry, have been appointed as national medical officers of health,
although these national medical officers of health would largely exercise their powers
during public health emergencies, rather than for more routine compliance and
enforcement functions.
2.
Service Objectives
2.1
General
The overarching health goal is that public health and whanau health are improved through
the protection and promotion of healthy communities and healthy environments including
the global environment.
The key outcomes, to be achieved in 10 to 20 years, are the reduction in the incidence and
impact of:

environmental hazards

environmental inequalities across sectors

settings-based environmental health issues
See Appendix One Figure 1 for Outcomes Focused Framework for Environmental Health
and Social Environments.
Individual contract service specifications each have a goal, which is focused on that
particular aspect of the environment.
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2.2
Māori Health
Refer to the tier one Public Health service specification.
3.
Service Users
The New Zealand general public.
4.
Access
The services under this service specification are accessed though the DHB’s Public Health
Units.
5.
Service Components and Linkages
5.1
General
Service Categories
Environmental
Health
Subcategories Included

Air quality (indoor and outdoor)

Border health protection

Burial and cremation

Contaminated land

Drinking water quality

Environmental noise management

Hazardous substances

Ionising/non-ionising radiation

Public Health emergency planning and response

Recreational water

Resource management

Sewage treatment and disposal

Waste management (liquid and solid waste)

5.2
Other regulatory activities.
Environmental Health
5.2.1 Air Quality (Indoor and Outdoor)
Health Goal
Rationale and Key
Issues
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards by
developing strategies to prevent or control the adverse impacts of air
quality (indoor and outdoor) on public health.

Air pollution from industrial, domestic and mobile sources can give rise
to serious health problems, particularly in urban areas where the
majority of the New Zealand population (over 80%) reside and work.
Air pollution can also occur from natural sources, such as geothermal
areas.

Risks to public health exist both outdoors and indoors (including nonoccupational environments) where exposure to short-term high, or
long-term low, concentrations of air pollutants can give rise to acute
and chronic conditions and, in extreme cases, death.
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Objectives
Key Linkages

To have strategies to prevent or minimise the health risks and diseases
associated with air pollution.

To promote a physical environment both outdoors and indoors, which
has clean air.
Department of Building and Housing
Emergency Services
Ministry for the Environment
Department of Labour
Relevant
Legislation
Regional Councils and territorial authorities
 Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Act 1997

Building Act 2004

Building Regulations 1992 (under review)

Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996

Health Act 1956

Housing Improvement Regulations 1947

Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992

Land Transport Management Amendment Act 2008

Land Transport Act 1998

Land Transport Rules (a form of delegated legislation similar to
regulations made under the Land Transport Act 1998)

Local Government Act 2002

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Resource Management Act 1991

Resource Management (National Environmental Standards Relating to
Certain Air Pollutants, Dioxins and Other Toxics) Regulations 2004

Traffic Regulations 1976 (only requirements relating to vehicle noise,
brakes, steering and couplings remain in these regulations)
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Promote public
health knowledge
Provide information and advice to other agencies and the public on adverse
effects of adverse air quality.
Provide advice and
input into the
activities of linkage
agencies

Make timely and professional submissions on national (including
national policy statements, national environmental standards and or
guidelines) and regional plans and policy statements, district plans,
and where appropriate, resource consent applications to ensure that
the public health effects of adverse air quality are considered and
managed.

Seek to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (or equivalent) with
regional councils that describe roles and responsibilities in this area.
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5.2.2 Border Health Protection
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of settings-based environmental health issues
through the management of public health risks entering or leaving New Zealand
and through the surveillance, exclusion, eradication, and effective management of
pests of public health significance from the environment.
Rationale and Key
Issues
New Zealand has remained free from many imported human, animal and plant
diseases and their vectors.
Effective border health protection procedures are needed to prevent the entry and
establishment of new diseases or disease vectors, and other public health risks.
Objectives
To prevent potential health risks caused by the arrival of travellers, goods, aircraft
and vessels from overseas, and the introduction of pests and unwanted diseases.
To prevent the international spread of disease and other public health risks by
facilitating New Zealand’s international reporting obligations and compliance with
international obligations.
Key Linkages
Department of Labour
Department of Conservation
Ministry for the Environment
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
Ministry of Fisheries
NZ Customs Service
Port and airport companies
Territorial authorities and regional Councils
Travel industry
Relevant
Legislation

Biosecurity Act 1993

Health Act 1956

Anthrax Prevention Regulations 1987

Health (Quarantine Regulations) 1983

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

International Health Regulations 2005
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
All border health protection programmes will be carried out in collaboration with
other relevant agencies.
Border health
protection services
Border health protection programmes should:

ensure adequate capacity to carry out services and respond to incident and
emergent issues

undertake surveillance of container-breeding mosquitoes at international sea
and airports
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Information and
Reporting
Requirements

identify and monitor border health protection risks (including surveillance) and
develop/maintain contingency plans to deal with them

respond promptly to interceptions of pests, and cases of imported disease

respond promptly to requests for pratique, inspections and certification (eg
ship sanitation, fumigation, anthrax control).

assess the effectiveness of implementation of public health aspects of border
health protection, in conjunction with other agencies (eg, quarantine facilities
and practices, vector surveillance and control, radio pratique, potable water,
waste disposal)

provide sound technical and professional advice on public health issues that
are related to border health protection objectives in relation to imported risk
goods, disease vector surveillance and control, preparation of contingency
plans for emergency response, preparation of submissions as appropriate on
proposed pest management strategies

contribute (when required) to the preparation of health impact assessments in
relation to border health protection threats and eradication and control
activities; participate in national, regional and local research survey or
response programmes as appropriate; participate in national, regional or local
emergency responses as required.
All dates apply annually.
In February each year, provide the Ministry of Health with:

a summary for the previous calendar year of activities undertaken including
issuing pratique, undertaking sanitation inspections, ensuring points of entry
are maintained in a sanitary condition and free from sources of infection and
contamination including vectors and reservoirs; supervision of any deratting,
disinfection, disinsection, or decontamination as appropriate; application of
control measures to any conveyance; interception responses; and
maintenance of effective contingency arrangements;

a report on designated airports’ and ports’ ability to meet core capacities as
outlined in Annex 1B of the International Health Regulations 2005;

forecast of your border health protection surveillance programme for the
forthcoming financial year.

provide situation reports on activities undertaken during interception responses
as required by the Senior Advisor (Border Health Protection), using the format
in the biosecurity section of the Environmental Health Protection Manual.
Providers are required to advice the Senior Advisor (Border Health Protection)
within two hours of the identification and location of an exotic mosquito or
mosquitoes of public health significance.
Immediately notify the Senior Advisor (Border Health Protection) of any control
measures applied to any conveyance that are other than routine, and copy the
Office of the Director of Public Health.
Immediately, or within 24 hours of occurrence of a public health event or
emergency with inter-district, national or potentially international implications,
submit a report to the Environmental & Border Health Protection Team and a copy
to your Public Health Group, Portfolio Manager, Health and Disability National
Service Directorate, Ministry of Health.
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5.2.3 Burial and Cremation
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards by ensuring the
lawful, hygienic and dignified disposal of the dead.
Rationale and Key
Issues
The sanitary disposal of the dead is essential to protect the public health.
Objectives
To ensure the correct procedures are used for disposal of the dead and any
subsequent movement of remains.
Key Linkages
Funeral directors
The public expect burial and cremation activities to be conducted with dignity,
sensitivity and with respect for the deceased and their families.
Territorial authorities and regional councils
Burial Ground/Crematorium Management Trustees.
Relevant
Legislation

Burial and Cremation Act 1964

Cremation Regulations 1973

Burial and Cremation (Removal of Monuments and Tablets) Regulations
1967

Local and Private Acts of Parliament

Health Act 1956

Health (Burial) Regulations 1946

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Resource Management Act 1991
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Ensure compliance
with Burial and
Cremation Act 1964
and regulations
Supervise disinterments.
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All dates apply annually.
Investigate and follow up incidents and complaints.
Advice and assist applicants to export cadavers to ensure public health concerns
are addressed.
Provide reports to the Ministry of Health as required for:

disinterment licence applications

burials in special places

medical referee nominations

other burial and cremation issues.
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5.2.4 Contaminated Land
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards by preventing or
controlling the adverse impacts of corrosive, explosive, flammable, oxidising and
toxic hazardous substances.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Human activities in parts of New Zealand have resulted in the contamination of
land with substances hazardous to human health. Human exposure may occur
through contact with contaminated soil, dust, food and water. This exposure may
be hazardous to health and, therefore, needs to be quantified and minimised.
Objectives
To minimise the impact of contaminated land sites on human health using a risk
management and health impact assessment approach.
To work with regional councils and territorial authorities in the assessment and
management of contaminated land sites in order to minimise any potential or
actual effects on human health.
Key Linkages
Ministry for the Environment (The Ministry has developed a series of 5 guidelines
cover the following areas: reporting, application of environmental guideline
values, risk screening, classification and information management and
investigation and analysis. Their main purpose is to introduce consistency in
contaminated land assessment and management throughout the country.)
Department of Labour
Regional Councils
Territorial authorities
Relevant
Legislation
Components of
Service
Public health
regulatory services
Work with
territorial
authorities

Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996

Health Act 1956

Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992

Local Government Act 2002

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Resource Management Act 1991
Service Descriptions/Activities
All contaminated land programmes will be carried out in collaboration with other
relevant agencies.
1.
2.
Information and
Reporting
Advise, encourage and/or assist territorial authorities and Regional Councils
to:

locate contaminated land sites and identify contaminants

implement health impact assessment systems to ensure contaminated
land is remedied, where appropriate, and to minimise adverse effects on
human health

determine appropriate land use controls for contaminated sites to minimise
the risk to the public health.
Seek to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (or equivalent) with
Regional Councils that describes roles and responsibilities in this area.
All reporting dates apply annually.
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Requirements
5.2.5 Drinking Water
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards by promoting
the availability of adequate supplies of safe drinking water to all
communities.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Safe drinking water is essential to protect the public health from diseases or
harmful contaminants in New Zealand.
Water intended for human
consumption or for activities such as food preparation should be of such
quality that good health is not compromised or threatened.
In 2007, the Health Act 1956 was amended to include a regulatory
framework to promote safe drinking water supplies. The amended Act
defines the competencies, functions and powers of drinking-water
assessors and designated officers.
The Act also specifies the regulatory duties applying to drinking-water
suppliers including the requirement for water suppliers to:

be on the Register of Community Drinking Water Supplies in New
Zealand; and

take all practicable steps to comply with the Drinking Water Standards
for New Zealand and, if they are larger than a neighbourhood supply, to
provide an adequate supply of safe drinking-water and to prepare and
implement a public health risk management plan for their supply.
The Resource Management (National Environmental Standards for
Sources of Human Drinking Water) Regulations 2007 administered by the
Ministry for the Environment came into effect on 20 June 2008. The
regulations aim to reduce risks to the quality of water bodies from which the
source water for drinking-water supplies is taken. It will do this by
preventing discharge and water permits being granted, and preventing the
inclusion of permitted activity rules in regional plans, if they will cause
drinking water to become unsafe to drink after the existing treatment
processes. To implement the national environmental standard, regional
councils and consent applicants will need to understand the:

likely contaminants that might be associated with a particular activity

ability of the various treatment processes used in New Zealand to
remove contaminants from the water.
The Drinking Water Standards for New Zealand 2005 sets out the quality of
water that water suppliers are expected to deliver for public consumption.
The publication of the Register of Community Drinking Water Supplies in
New Zealand identifies from where communities receive their water, the
Priority 2 determinants present, and the public health grading of the supply.
The publication of an annual report on the chemical and microbiological
quality of drinking water supplies in New Zealand means that the public is
made aware of the quality of their water.
There are a large number of small community drinking water supplies that
do not reach the required standards. This can be due to the poor quality of
the water or because they are not monitored and so do no demonstrate
whether or not they meet the desirable standard. Suppliers should b
encouraged to register their supplies and demonstrate compliance with the
desired standards.
The drinking water assistance programme (DWAP) has two parts, a
Technical Assistance Programme (TAP) and the Capital Assistance
Programme (CAP). The TAP provides technical assistance to small water
supplies serving less than 5000 people. The TAP assist with preparation of
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public health risk management plans, optimisation of small water supplies,
options for upgrading or improving supplies and preparation of capital
assistance programme applications. The capital assistance programme
provides funding to upgrade small water supplies.
Objectives
To optimise the safety and quality of all drinking water available for public
consumption in New Zealand.
To prevent the spread of disease to the public through the public water
supply.
Key Linkages
Department of Building and Housing
Department of Internal Affairs
Drinking Water Suppliers
Local Government New Zealand
Ministry for the Environment
New Zealand Food Safety Authority
Territorial authorities and regional councils
Relevant
Legislation

Building Act 2004

Food Act 1981

Health Act 1956

Local Government Act 2002

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Resource Management Act 1991
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
1. Drinking water assessor units are to have access to the services of a
sufficient number of appointed Drinking Water Assessors to carry out
the programme within the public health unit’s region. (P1)
NB priorities for action are shown in bold type e.g. (P1) is priority 1.
2. Items (except (a)) are to be performed by, or certified by, a drinkingwater assessor. (see individual priority ranking)
3. Undertake such duties as are required by the Health Act 1956, as
amended by the Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Act 2007:

Identify all drinking-water suppliers in the Health District, including
specified drinking-water suppliers and specified self-suppliers and enter
them on the Register [section 69B, 69J, 69K,L,M,N] (P1);

All applications for the registration and de-registration of water
suppliers and registration, renewal of registration and de-registration of
water carriers to be processed within 20 working days [DWA Tech
Manual] (P1);

Assess water supplier (including water carrier) compliance with the
Drinking Water Standards for New Zealand 2005.
Report on
compliance / non-compliance with duties under the Act to the water
supplier within 20 working days [section 69V]. (P1);

Provide reports to the Ministry of Health on water suppliers’ compliance
with the Health (Act 1956, compliance with Drinking Water Standards
for New Zealand 2005 and implementation of their public health risk
management Plan (P1);

Verify adequacy of water suppliers’ public health risk management
plans and provide report to the water supplier within 20 working days
[section 69Z] (P1);
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
Certify implementation of a water supplier’s public health risk
management plan at no greater than a three yearly interval and report
to the water supplier within 20 working days [section 69Z] (P1);

Assess the competence of and, where appropriate, authorise persons
to perform drinking water analyses and calibration of water treatment
and testing equipment, report to the water supplier within 20 working
days [section 69ZL(1) (e)&(f)] (P2);

Assess water suppliers’ complaint management procedures and report
to the water supplier within 20 working days detailing whether
legislative requirements are met [69ZE]. (P2);

Assess and process applications for the use of temporary drinking
water supplies (P1).
4. Undertake enforcement activities, where appropriate using powers
under the Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Act 2007. (P1).
Participation in
grading of water
supplies
1. Carry out public health grading of community drinking water supplies in
accordance with the national programme and synchronised with the
phasing in of the Drinking Water legislation.
2. Grading of all drinking water supplies with population >500 to be
completed by 30 April 2009 and thereafter every two years. Grading
reports to be sent to the water supplier within 20 working days of
assessment. (P1)
Maintain
monitoring and
surveillance
systems
1. Carry out the surveillance of drinking water monitoring by suppliers and
maintain the Water Information New Zealand (WINZ) database entries
for all community drinking water supplies (P2).
2. Collate microbiological and chemical drinking water quality data and
information on public health risk management from all drinking water
suppliers listed in the current edition of the Register and transmit the
data for the previous calendar year to the Ministry of Health’s science
provider before 31 August (P1).
3. Collect and supply water samples and water source data for the Priority
2 determinands identification programme to the Ministry of Health’s
science service provider according to their planning schedule and
timelines (within 10 days of scheduled sampling date) (P2).
4. Transmit the information of Priority 2 assignation to water suppliers.
Advise water suppliers of new Priority 2 assignations(P2).
5. Audit the quality of drinking water supplier’s water quality monitoring
records (P1).
Advice and
information on the
quality of drinking
water supplies
1. Provide technical advice and information on public health aspects of
drinking water supplies and the public health grading of water supplies
to water suppliers, including the implications of the Health Act 1956 and
the Drinking Water Standards for New Zealand 2005 for their operations
(P2).
2. Provide advice and information to the public and organisations on
issues of public health significance in respect to drinking water supplies
(P2).
3. Take measures to protect and advise the community of appropriate
action in the case of contamination of their drinking water supply (P1).
4. Promote the importance of clean, potable drinking water as a high
priority for supply authorities (P2).
5. Make timely and professional submissions on national and regional
plans and policies, district plans and policies, and local government
assessments of drinking water supplies and, where appropriate,
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resource consent applications to ensure that the public health effects of
drinking water supplies are considered and managed (P2).
6. Work with small drinking water supplies to assist them to prepare public
health risk management plans, optimise their supplies and identify
options for upgrading to provide safe drinking water supplies (P1).
7. Assist small drinking water supplies to make applications for capital
assistance programme funding using Ministry of Health criteria (P1).
8. Comment as appropriate on territorial authority plans for sanitary works
infrastructure planning (P2).
Investigate public
health problems
arising from
drinking water
1. Identify, investigate and follow up as appropriate incidents, complaints
and notifications threatening drinking water quality (including tankered
and temporary drinking water supplies) using sanitary survey,
epidemiological techniques or other relevant methods. Ensure all such
events are entered into WINZ database and serious incidents are
reported to the Ministry of Health within 24 hours (see 7.5) (P1 for
‘incidents’ as defined by DWA Technical Manual, otherwise P2)
2. Maintain calibrated drinking water testing equipment to enable the
public health unit to undertake surveillance (and incident investigation
response) testing of Free Available Chlorine, Turbidity and pH (P1)
Promote public
health knowledge
1. Provide advice on the benefits of water fluoridation when the issue
becomes a significant issue in the community (P1) by:

supporting health professionals who are promoting the extension or
maintenance of fluoridated water supplies

ensuring appropriate education material is available to educational
institutions, health professionals, territorial authorities, community
groups and the public

ensuring that messages on fluoridation and oral health are consistent
and current and keep all health providers well informed

making timely submissions on water fluoridation when appropriate.
2. Assist and work with Māori and other ethnic groups and communities
as appropriate to provide advice around the benefits of water
fluoridation (P2).
See also the Well Child specification.
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All reporting dates apply annually.
1. Report within one month of the end of each quarter on the DWAU
activities, according to the agreed work plan for that quarter, using the
format specified by the MoH (P1).
2. Before 31 March each year, advise the Ministry of Health of any
objections made by drinking water suppliers in respect of Priority 2
determinand assignments specified in December of the previous year
(in a form specified by the Ministry of Health) (P2).
3. Before 30 April each year (at a date and in a form specified by the
Ministry of Health) provide to the Ministry of Health (P2):

A list of water supplies for which data collection has been
completed under the Priority 2 determinands identification
programme specified for the current financial yea

A list of water supplies for which data collection is uncompleted.
4. By 31 August each year, provide to the science service provider (in a
form specified by the Ministry of Health) data on microbiological and
chemical sampling and the status of public health risk management of
drinking water supplies for the calendar year for incorporation in the
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Annual Report on the Chemical and Microbiological Quality of
Community Drinking- water Supplies (P1).
4. Provide the science service provider with the assessment report on
water suppliers’ public health risk management programmes and
compliance with the Drinking-Water Standards for New Zealand 2005
[see 1.4] within two calendar months of completion of the assessment
(P1).
5. Report serious drinking water incidents (see 5.1) to the Ministry of
Health within 24 hours (P1).
Notes to above table
(P1)
Priority One tasks: Where drinking water resources within a public health unit do not allow the
completion of all tasks within this specification, tasks in this category must be prioritised for completion in
preference to other tasks.
(P2)
Priority Two tasks: Where drinking water resources within a public health unit do not allow the
completion of all tasks within this specification, tasks in this category should not be completed at the
expense of completion of Priority one tasks (with the exception being if they can be completed in conjunction
with a Priority One task e.g a drinking water supplier’s complaint procedures may be assessed at the same
time as a Public Health Grading assessment).
5.2.6 Environmental Noise
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards by reducing the
adverse health effects of environmental noise on people and communities.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Noise is unwanted or undesirable sound and can materially affect an individual or a
community’s health, well-being and enjoyment of their surroundings.
As
communities grow and urban environments become more densely populated and
industrialised, and as traffic increases, the level of background and intrusive noise
generally increases. Noise can affect people physically, psychologically and
socially. Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can damage hearing, interfere
with communication, be annoying, cause mental and physical fatigue, stressinduced hypertension and ischaemic heart disease, and reduce efficiency. Adverse
effects include: interference with speech communication, disturbance of rest and
sleep, psycho-physiological, mental health and performance effects, effects on
residential behaviour and annoyance, and interference with intended activities.
Objectives
Key Linkages
To ensure that the health effects of environmental and non-occupational noise are
considered by territorial authorities in the course of their duties.
Ministry for the Environment
Department of Labour
Environmental Noise Analysis and Advice Service
Territorial authorities and regional councils
Relevant
Legislation

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Resource Management Act 1991

Health Act 1956

Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992

Local Government Act 2002

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Civil Aviation Act 1990
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Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
All environmental noise programmes will be carried out in collaboration with other
relevant agencies.
Liaison with
territorial
authorities
1. Liaise with territorial authorities on the establishment of goals, objectives, plans
and priorities for environmental noise control.
Resource
Management Act
1991 activities
1. Make timely and professional submissions on national (including national policy
statement, national environmental standards and guidelines) and regional plans
and policy statements, district plans and, where appropriate, resource consent
applications to ensure that the public health effects of adverse environmental
noise are considered and managed.
2. Monitor territorial authorities’ actions on environmental and non-occupational
noise issues to ensure that health impacts of such noise are minimised.
2. Monitor decisions made under the Resource Management Act 1991 to ensure
that the health impacts of environmental and non-occupational noise have been
considered. Follow up with territorial authorities where this has not occurred.
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All reporting dates apply annually.
5.2.7 Hazardous Substances
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards by reducing the
adverse health effects of hazardous substances on people and communities.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Proper management of hazardous substances throughout their life cycle is
necessary to avoid adverse health effects either from direct or indirect exposure to
hazardous substances or from environmental contamination.
At all stages, except where the hazard is in an occupational health setting,
responsibility for protecting the public health lie with the Director-General of Health,
in association with a number of other agencies.
Objectives
To protect the public health by minimising the harm from hazardous substances.
To maintain good interagency networks to prevent harm to the public health from
hazardous substances.
Key Linkages
Customs, Police and Transport
Emergency Services
Hazardous Substances and Technical Liaison Committee
Ministry for the Environment
Environmental Risk Management Authority
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
NZ Fire Service
Department of Labour
Territorial authorities and regional councils
Relevant
Legislation

Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Act 1997

Building Act 2004
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
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996

Health Act 1956

Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992

Local Government Act 2002

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Resource Management Act 1992
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
All hazardous substances programmes will be carried out in collaboration with other
relevant agencies.
Liaison with
territorial
authorities
1. Liaise with territorial authorities on the establishment of goals, objectives, plans
and priorities for hazardous substances control.
Audit compliance
with relevant Acts
and Regulations
1. Audit compliance with, investigate breaches of, and where appropriate, enforce
the relevant Acts and Regulations, including:
2. Seek to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (or equivalent) with territorial
authorities that describes roles and responsibilities in this area.

Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) storage and surveillance checks

supervision and inspection of imported hazardous substances

attending hazardous substances incidents

consider and review permissions for applications of vertebrate toxic agent

monitoring storage and display of hazardous substances for retail sale.
2. Ensure that the conditions imposed by the HSNO designated officer granting
permits for the use of controlled vertebrate toxic agents are complied with.
Audits should be conducted to ensure compliance, as appropriate.
Maintain an
emergency
response capacity
Maintain effective risk management strategies and action plans for emergency
situations involving hazardous substances, including deliberate chemical
contamination.
Maintain
inspection,
monitoring and
surveillance
systems
1. Inspect and report on premises in which PCBs (are used and/or stored).
Report on non-compliance with conditions of exemption, and lapsed
exemptions.
2. Prepare and update a database of locations for ownership of PCBs.
3. Implement the recommendations on the Investigation and Surveillance of
Agrichemical Spraydrift Incidents: guidelines for public health services including
providing annual returns from Driftnet to the science provider as requested.
4. Participate in the Chemical Injury and other notifiable condition surveillance
systems, including exposures to asbestos in a non-occupational environment.
Interagency
networking and
administrative
procedures
1.
Represent public health interests at meetings of the Hazardous Substances
Technical Liaison Committee (or equivalent body).
2.
Provide input into territorial authorities’ hazard and risk assessment and
management systems so that risks to public health from hazardous substances
are addressed.
3.
Maintain networks with PCB holders, the electrical industry and disposal
agents to ensure that the storage, transportation and disposal requirements
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are environmentally sound.
Promote public
knowledge
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
4.
Seek to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (or equivalent) with other
agencies that describes roles and responsibilities in this area (consistent with
relevant national MoUs).
1.
Promote public knowledge on the risks of non-occupational exposures to
hazardous substances by:

providing public health advice and information on hazardous substances to the
public, health professionals and organisations.

Advising on the safe management of hazardous substances such as leadbased paint including their removal and disposal from contaminated areas.
All reporting dates apply annually.
1. By 30 June each year provide:


Note:
summaries for the past year (to 30 June) and estimates for the coming year
(1 July to 30 June) of the nature and level of inspection and enforcement
services under HSNO Act s98(2), such matters as:
-
the planned and actual levels of inspection/investigation
-
emergency responses
-
compliance orders and infringement notices and warnings issued
-
a list of the premises or situations inspected
-
investigations and actions proposed and undertaken
-
prosecutions.
summaries for the past year (1 July to 30 June) of the notifications of
hazardous substances hospital admissions injuries and GP notifications
reported to the Medical Officer of Health under the HSNO Act s143 including:
-
the hazardous substances injury classification (eg. toxic or corrosive)
-
the site/location (workplace, school, home etc)
-
where available, ethnic breakdown, gender, and age.
furnishing information to the Ministry of Health will be sufficient for Medical
Officers of Health to meet their statutory requirement to supply the
information, in an anonymised form, to the Minister of Health.
2. Provide annual returns to the science provider on the incidence of agrichemical
spray drift complaints using the DriftNet surveillance system.
3. Provide copies of VTA permits to ERMANZ every time they are issued.
4. Report to the Ministry of Health as required on:

PCB use and storage exemptions

HSNO incident or emergency situations
5. Immediately, or within 24 hours of occurrence of a public health event or
emergency with inter-district, national or potentially international implications,
submit a report to the Environmental and Border Health Protection Team and a
copy to your Public Health Operations portfolio manager.
Formats for the reports will be outlined in the Hazardous Substances section of the
Environmental Health Protection Manual.
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5.2.8 Ionising Radiation/Non-Ionising Fields
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards by
developing strategies to prevent or control the adverse impacts of ionising
and non-ionising radiation.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Exposure to radiation can pose a significant threat to the public health.
Objectives
To work with the National Radiation Laboratory to minimise risk to health
from ionising/non-ionising radiation.
Key Linkages
Hazardous Substances Technical Liaison Committees
Ministry for the Environment
National Radiation Laboratory
Port authorities
Transport industry
Relevant
Legislation

Health Act 1956

Microwave Ovens Regulations 1982

Land Transport Act 1988

Local Government Act 2002

Marine Pollution Act 1974

Relevant National Environmental Standards and Policy Statements

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Ozone Protection Act 1981

General Harbour (Ship, Cargo and Dock Safety) Regulations 1968

Radiation Protection Act 1965

Radiation Protection Regulations 1982

Resource Management Act 1991

Ministry for the Environment/Ministry of Health National Guidelines for
Managing the Effects of Radio-frequency Transmitters.
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
Provide services in accordance with the National Radiation Laboratory
Radiation Incident Response Plan.
Work cooperatively with the
National Radiation
Laboratory
Activities will include:

ensuring that appropriate action is taken to minimise risks and to
protect the public health

conducting surveillance and evaluation of the management of radiation
with reference to statute, guidelines and best practice

assessing the health risks associated with exposure to radiation as
part of any population health status review

identifying and investigating public health risk associated with radiation
including epidemiological field investigation where appropriate
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
developing contingency plans and response capability to deal with
radiation contamination/hazard incidents, including counter-terrorism,
in accordance with the National Radiation Laboratory Radiation
Incidence Response Plan
Promote public
health knowledge
Provide public health advice on the health effects of ionising and nonionising radiation to organisations and the public.
Purchase Units,
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All reporting dates apply annually.
Immediately, or within 24 hours of occurrence of a public health event or
emergency with inter-district, national or potentially international
implications, submit a report to the Environmental and Border Health
Protection Team and a copy to your Public Health Operations portfolio
manager.
5.2.9 Public Health Emergency Planning and Response
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards on
communities and individuals in the event of a public health or other
emergency.
Rationale and Key
Issues
The impact of public health emergencies, including civil defence
emergencies, can be mitigated if providers have prepared contingency
plans. Examples include communicable disease outbreaks, exotic
mosquito interceptions and incursions, terrorism threats, and the chemical
incidents, as well as flooding or earthquakes.
Pre-disaster public health planning and interagency liaison can also
improve preparedness for the response and recovery phases, and reduce
the overall impacts on the public health, of a disaster.
Part six of the National Civil Defence Plan sets out the functions, roles and
responsibilities and the Civil Defence Act 1983 sets out the obligations of
health sector agencies in relation to civil defence. Section 70 of the Health
Act 1956 describes the special powers of the Medical Officer of Health in
relation to infectious and notifiable diseases when a national or regional
disaster has been declared under the Civil Defence Act, or in the event of
special authorities.
Objectives
To be well prepared for any civil defence emergency or other emergency
where there is a risk to public health, including counter-terrorism.
To act, in association with other agencies, to protect the public health in
the event of such an emergency
Key Linkages
Relevant
Legislation

Ambulance Services, Defence Forces, Order of St John, Red Cross

Civil Defence Organisation

Hazardous Substances Technical Liaison Committee

Territorial authorities and regional councils

Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002

National Civil Defence Plan

Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1991

Health Act 1956

Local Government Act 2002

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000
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Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
All emergency management planning and programmes will be carried out
in collaboration with other relevant agencies.
Act in emergency
situations
Take appropriate emergency actions, as the need arises. This includes
liaison with and taking directions from other agencies involved.
Maintain civil
defence and public
health emergency
planning and
response capacity
1. Participate in the development, review and revision of regional and
local civil defence contingency planning and ensure they adequately
address planning for the provision of:

basic sanitary services including basic safe water supplies to
communities

basic safe shelter

safe food to communities

basic facilities for the maintenance of personal hygiene

removal and hygienic disposal of the dead

removal and disposal of hazardous substances

prevention and control of communicable disease outbreak
2. Communication with the Ministry of Health.
3. Identify resources needed to support and carry out public health action
and maintain an inventory of current resources, including vehicles,
communication systems, protective clothing, identification cards and
equipment.
4. Maintain, test and regularly review contingency plans for responding
effectively to a range of public health emergencies, such as natural
disasters, chemical spills, emergent diseases, communicable disease
outbreaks, food-borne illnesses or food contamination incidents.
Assess risk of
emergency
Interagency
collaboration
Promote public
health knowledge
of emergency
planning and

Identify predominant natural and human activity hazards (including
deliberate contamination) in the region that are likely to give rise to
emergency situations affecting public health.

2. Carry out risk assessment of these events and check that
emergency planning and response capacity is sufficient to deal with
those risks. The plan will include preparedness, mitigation, response
and recovery.

Participate in national, regional and local meetings, exercises and
training opportunities.

Provide services for, be directed by, and report to civil defence
authorities in the event of an emergency.

3. Seek to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (or equivalent)
with Regional Councils which describes roles and responsibilities in
this area.
Ensure appropriate educational and promotional material is provided to
institutions, health professionals, territorial authorities and community
groups on the public health aspects of planning for, and responding to,
emergency situations.
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response
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All reporting dates apply annually.
Immediately, or within 24 hours of occurrence of a public health event or
emergency with inter-district, national or potentially international
implications, submit a report to the Environmental and Border Health
Protection Team and a copy to your Public Health Operations portfolio
manager.
5.2.10 Recreational Waters
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards associated
with recreational waters. Note: Recreational water includes swimming, spa
and thermal pools, and natural water for water contact activity.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Hazards posed by recreational water include unsatisfactory water quality
and associated disease risks.
Objectives
To protect the public health by preventing the risk of disease associated
with the public use of recreational waters.
To protect the public health by minimising the risk associated with the use
of recreational waters.
Key Linkages
Ministry for the Environment
Ministry of Fisheries
New Zealand Food Safety Authority
Territorial authorities and regional councils
Relevant
Legislation

Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987

Health Act 1956

Territorial Authority Bylaws

Local Government Act 2002

Resource Management Act 1991

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

NZS 5826: 2000 Pool Water Quality

Ministry of Health/Ministry for the Environment Microbiological Water
Quality Guidelines for Marine and Freshwater Recreational Areas.
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
All border health protection programmes will be carried out in collaboration
with other relevant agencies.
Work
collaboratively with
Regional Councils
and Territorial
1. Make timely and professional submissions on national and regional
plans and policies, district plans and policies and, where appropriate,
resource consent applications to ensure that the public health effects of
adverse recreational water quality are considered and managed.
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Authorities
2. Encourage Regional Councils to clearly identify existing or potential
recreational waters, which do not meet minimum microbiological water
quality guidelines in the Ministry of Health/Ministry for the Environment
Microbiological Water Quality Guidelines for Marine and Freshwater
Recreational Areas.
3. Encourage the grading of bathing beaches as outlined in the
Microbiological Water Quality Guidelines for Marine and Fresh Water
Recreational Areas.
4. Provide advice to territorial authorities on the need for warning signs to
be placed around areas of high public health risk.
5. Advise Regional Councils to ensure that waters classified as CR
(suitable for contact recreational purposes) meet at least the minimum
requirements for the protection of health.
6. Seek to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (or equivalent) with
Regional Councils, which describes roles and responsibilities in this
area.
Increase and
maintain
compliance with
legal obligations
1. Encourage territorial authorities to monitor compliance with the Fencing
of Swimming Pools Act 1987.
Promote public
health knowledge
1. Participate in school safety education initiatives for recreational water.
See also the tier two Injury Prevention Services service specification.
2. Encourage territorial authorities and pool managers (including school
pools) to implement the requirements of NZS5826: 2000 Pool Water to
avoid or reduce public health risks.
3. Promote good supervision of preschool children in the vicinity of pools
and other recreational waters including promoting guidelines for
parents of infants/toddlers (using ‘Before You Take to the Water’ health
education resource).
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All reporting dates apply annually.
5.2.11 Resource Management
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental inequalities across
sectors by ensuring public health issues are identified and addressed in
decisions made on the sustainable management of natural and physical
resources and social environments.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Land, air and water are the basic elements of the environment necessary
to support human life. These elements must be sustainably managed in a
way or at a rate that enables people and communities to provide for their
social, economical and cultural well-being and for their health and safety.
Objectives
To ensure that resource management decisions do not impact negatively
on the public health
To develop strong networks with agencies involved in sustainable resource
management.
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Key Linkages
Relevant
Legislation

Ministry for the Environment

Other service providers

Regional Councils

Territorial authorities.

Building Act 2004

Health Act 1956

Resource Management Act 1991

Local Government Act 2002

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000.
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Provide advice and
input into activities
of linkage agencies
1. Make timely and professional submissions on local government
assessments of sanitary works, national policy, standards or guidelines,
regional plans and policy statements, and district plans, where
appropriate, and resource consent applications to ensure that the
public health aspects are considered.
2. Liaise and, where appropriate, undertake joint projects with consent
authorities and affected communities to ensure that public health
aspects of planning and resource management are considered.
3. Provide technical advice and information to regional and local
government.
4. Review and advise on territorial authority annual plans.
5. Seek to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (or equivalent) with
Regional Councils that describes roles and responsibilities in this area.
6. Comment as appropriate on territorial authority plans for sanitary works
infrastructure planning.
Health promotion
activities
Inform other agencies and the public on the public health aspects of
matters relating to sustainable resource management.
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All reporting dates apply annually.
5.2.12 Sewage Treatment and Disposal
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards from liquid
and solid waste management.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Sewage contains a large number of potential pathogens. Unsatisfactorily
managed sewage collection, treatment and disposal can pose a significant
threat to public health.
Objectives
To reduce or prevent any potential health risks from sewage treatment or
disposal.
Key Linkages
Department of Building and Housing
Department of Conservation
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Ministry for the Environment
Public Health Engineering Consultants
Territorial authorities and regional councils
Relevant
Legislation

Building Act 2004

Building Regulations 1992 (under review)

Health Act 1956

Local Acts of Parliament

Local Government Act 2002

Marine Pollution Act 1972

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Resource Management Act 1991
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
All sewage treatment and disposal programmes will be carried out in
collaboration with other relevant agencies.
Maintain
monitoring
surveillance
systems
1.
Make timely and professional submissions on national and regional
plans and policies, district plans and policies, local government
assessments of sanitary works and, where appropriate, resource
consent applications to ensure that the public health effects of
sewage treatment and disposal are considered and managed.
2.
Conduct routine surveillance and evaluation of the performance of
controlling authority management of public health aspects of the
service area with reference to statute, guidelines, standards, resource
consent conditions and accepted public health practice, in respect of
sewage collection and disposal and the microbiological quality of the
receiving water.
3.
Investigate and assess the public health need for sewerage systems
in areas not adequately serviced.
4.
Undertake sanitary surveys as required.
5.
Report and make recommendations using Ministry of Health criteria,
including prioritising in their region, applications for sanitary works
subsidies.
6.
Comment as appropriate on territorial authority plans for sanitary
works infrastructure planning.
Promote
public
health knowledge
and advocate for
public
health
action
1.
Promote knowledge of local public sewerage systems and sewage
disposal, and advocate for improvement where this is considered
necessary.
2.
Seek to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (or equivalent)
with Regional Councils that describes roles and responsibilities in this
area.
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All reporting dates apply annually.
and
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5.2.13 Sewage Waste Management
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards from
gaseous, liquid and solid waste management.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Liquid and solid wastes may contain hazardous materials and can provide
a medium to support pathogens and disease vectors. Unsatisfactory
operated liquid and solid waste collection, treatment and disposal systems
can pose a threat to the public health.
Objectives
To reduce or eliminate any potential harmful effects of waste management
on the public health.
To ensure public health issues are identified and addressed in decisions
made on the sustainable management of natural physical resources.
Key Linkages
Department of Conservation
Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMANZ)
Ministry for the Environment
Territorial authorities and regional councils
Relevant
Legislation

Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996

Health Act 1956

Litter Act 1979

Local Government Act 2002

Marine Pollution Act 1972

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Resource Management Act 1991
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
All waste management programmes will be carried out in collaboration with
other relevant agencies.
Maintain
monitoring and
surveillance
systems
1. Make timely and professional submissions on national and regional
plans and policies, district plans and policies, and local government
assessments of sanitary works and, where appropriate, resource
consent applications to ensure that the public health effects of waste
management are considered and managed.
2. Provide a system for routine and regular surveillance and monitoring of
significant public health risks in waste management.
3. Undertake waste surveys with other agencies as appropriate.
4. Seek to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (or equivalent) with
Regional Councils and Territorial Authorities that describes roles and
responsibilities in this area.
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All reporting dates apply annually.
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5.2.14 Other Regulatory Activities
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental hazards by developing
strategies to prevent or control the adverse impacts of environmental health
issues.
To reduce the incidence and impact of environmental inequalities across sectors.
To reduce the incidence and impact of settings-based environmental health
issues.
Rationale and Key
Issues
There are many regulatory and health protection activities that are too infrequent,
small, or localised to a particular area and, therefore, do not require a separate
service specification in their own right to protect the public health. The
specification groups these activities together so they are covered and can be
included in health protection activities.
Objectives
To allow for all aspects of regulatory and health protection work to be included in
service provision.
Key Linkages
Territorial authorities and regional councils.
Relevant
Legislation
Components of
Service
Public health
regulatory services

Health Act 1956

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Resource Management Act 1991.
Service Descriptions/Activities
All border health protection programmes will be carried out in collaboration with
other relevant agencies.
To maintain
comprehensive
health protection
and regulatory
services
1. To perform activities and services at a local level where these are considered
necessary and are not included elsewhere in the Physical Environment
specifications.
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
1. All reporting dates apply annually.
2. Make timely and professional submissions on national and regional plans and
policies, district plans and policies and, where appropriate, resource consent
applications to ensure that the public health effects of activities are considered
and managed.
2. As soon as practicable and not later than 14 days after the occurrence of any
emergent issue, unusual event or public health investigation which has
potential inter-district, national or international implications, submit a report to
the Environmental & Border Health Protection Team and a copy to your Public
Health Operations portfolio manager.
3. Reports Verifying Ongoing Competence of Statutory Officers
By 31 July each year, each public health manager will provide a written report
to the Environmental & Border Health Protection Team which identifies all
statutory officers in the public health unit and provides the following information
for each officer:

Full name

Position (title)

Statutory appointments

Training attended during the year
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
Verification that attendance at training relevant for each statutory
appointment has been undertaken within the previous 5 years

Verification that the personal and practical skills and competencies have
been retained

Verification that the manager is confident that the officer is competent to
exercise the statutory powers, including in emergencies.
Note: for medical officers of health, evidence of competence will be provided by
their ongoing registration as public health medicine practitioners and their
attendance at four out of six medical officer of health training sessions over a two
year period.
4.
Enforcement
Public health units shall furnish quarterly compliance and enforcement returns to
the Ministry (in a format to be specified by the Ministry) to enable the Ministry to
monitor the level, nature and range of enforcement activity being undertaken.
Social Environments - Early Childhood Centres
Health Goal
To reduce the incidence and impact of settings-based environmental health issues
across early childhood education settings.
Ministry of Health
Expectations
The Ministry of Health expects that the service specification will be delivered
through the mandate that staff have, in undertaking visits: that the potential
licensee has requested a pre-licensing health report and/or the public health unit
been invited to undertake visits by the licensee or Ministry of Education officials to
address a health concern they may have.
The undertaking of visits and provision of environmental health advice to early
childhood centres should be part of the more general role in improving, promoting
and protecting public health through the early childhood setting. However it needs
to be recognised that these do not have a statutory mandate under the Education
(Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008 and that staff are providing advice
and seeking cooperation, not exercising statutory powers. Should a centre refuse
entry to an officer to undertake these environmental health visits, there is no
power of entry or inspection. However, in this instance, it would be appropriate to
discuss the centre’s response with the Ministry of Education.
Rationale and Key
Issues
Early childhood centres play an important role in the education, health and life of
preschool children and provide excellent avenues for health promotion. Early
childhood centres may present a large number of potential risks to children’s
health and safety, particularly disease transmission. These risks also have
implications for the health and well-being of the wider community, particularly
friends, teachers, parents, caregivers and other family members of the children
attending the centres. The identification, assessment and management of health
and safety risks in the centres is a priority.
The Secretary of Education relies on advice from designated officers as to the
adequacy and suitability of the health and safety provisions for children attending
early childhood centres, particularly in the granting of licences by the Ministry of
Education. Prior to using licences for new early childhood education and care
centres (ie centre-based services), all prospective service providers are required
to obtain health report from the local public health service unit. This is in
accordance with Regulation 9(2) in the Education (Early Childhood Services)
Regulations 2008. Note that this requirement only applies to new centred-based
services only. It does not apply to new or existing home-based or hospital-based
services, or existing centred-based services. Section 310(2)(i) of the Education
Act 1989 makes this clear in relation to home-based and hospital-based services.
In relation to existing centre-based, home-based and hospital-based services,
however, health reports are discretionary.
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Objectives
To promote the health and well being of children attending early childhood centres
through population-based initiatives.
To work intersectorally to promote the health and well-being of children attending
early childhood centres.
Key Linkages
Early Childhood Centre Group, National Office, Ministry of Education, , Ministry of
Education Regional Offices
Occupational Safety and Health Division (OSH), Department of Labour
Department of Building and Housing
National and regional Early Childhood Centres Associations
Other service providers
Territorial authorities.
Relevant
Legislation

Building Act 2004

Building Regulations 1992 (under review)

Education Act 1989

Education Amendment Act 2006

Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008

Education (Home-based Centre) Order 1992 (valid until 2014)

Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987

Food Act 1981

Food Regulations 1984

Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996

Health Act 1956

Health (Infectious and Notifiable Diseases) Regulations 1966

Health (Immunisation) Regulations 1995

Food Hygiene Regulations 1974

Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992

New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000

Smokefree Environments Act 1990
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Public health
regulatory services
All early childhood setting programmes will be carried out in collaboration with
other relevant agencies.
Increase and
maintain
compliance with
statutory public
health
requirements
1. Carry out inspections of early childhood centres, in response to requests.
Advice and
information for
1. Advise early childhood centres on population-based health strategies to
improve, promote and protect the health of the children attending.
2. Carry out statutory obligations for licensing of early childhood centres including
assessing health and safety risks to ensure compliance with relevant
legislation, standards and guidelines.
3. Conduct routine surveillance including compliance by the licensee of the
premises with regulatory responsibilities, including Education (Early Childhood
Centres) Regulations 1998.
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early childhood
centres
2. Advise on health promotion strategies that will improve the health and wellbeing of children and their family/whānau.
3. Advise early childhood centre staff and parents on health and safety risks to
protect the health of children attending.
4. Advise on health and safety requirements for new and proposed centres prior
to licensing.
5. Undertake education initiatives where appropriate to improve and protect the
health of children attending centres.
Communication
and liaison
1. Establish and maintain working relationships with the Ministry of Education, the
Occupational Safety and Health Division of the Department of Labour, and the
licensee to promote good public health practices and standards in early
childhood centres.
2. Maintain working relationships that respect the cultures, organisational
requirements and philosophies of the various early childhood centre
organisations.
3. Make submissions and provide input and feedback where appropriate to
relevant documents and legislative changes.
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
All reporting dates apply annually.
Social Environments -Healthy Urban Design/Form
Rationale and Key
Issues
New Zealand is a relatively urbanised country with more than 85% of its
population living in urban/suburban environments. A range of health problems are
emerging that are associated with modern urban life. Increased reliance on cars
for example, can lead to physical inactivity and increasing levels of obesity.
Reliance on private vehicles, congestion and greater travelling distances also
cause air pollution. A lack of access to affordable transport can restrict access to
basic goods and services.
The Healthy Cities/Communities (HCC) project is a World Health Organisation
programme that was first started in New Zealand in 1988. There are currently
nine HCC in operation. The project strives to improve environmental health and
better living conditions in urban areas. Healthy Cities are a recognition that a
person’s health is affected by their environment e.g. urban design/form as well as
the quality of health care.
Local authorities have a key role with the
implementation of HCC and there are significant opportunities for HCC
programmes to involve Maori.
Many local authorities in New Zealand are doing work to improve urban planning
and design. This includes work to design areas that are well serviced by public
transport, are user-friendly for walking and cycling, and have ready access to
services and facilities (including hospitals, schools, leisure facilities and
supermarkets). It can also include projects to ensure or encourage new building
developments to consider things like parking, noise and amenity, access to
outdoor space, insulation and sustainable building principles and features. Safe
Community accreditation also involves extensive urban planning.
The Urban Design Protocol (2005) administered by the Ministry for the
Environment is a voluntary commitment by central and local government and other
stakeholders, including property developers and investors, to undertake specific
urban design initiatives. The protocol therefore affects formal district plans made
under the RMA. The New Zealand Urban Design Protocol has a vision of making
New Zealand towns and cities more successful through quality urban design.1 It
1
http://www.mfe.govt.nz/publications/urban/design-protocol-mar05/html/index.html
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has a wide range of signatories, including central and local government,
businesses, sector groups and others. Related to the Protocol are programmes
involving Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) (see section
on ‘crime prevention’ below) and more recently the Te Aranga Māori Cultural
Landscapes Strategy.
Initiatives such as Healthy Cities are based on principles identified in the Ottawa
Character for Health Promotion (1996). Access to adequate housing is one of the
important factors for public health acknowledged in the Ottawa Charter. There is
strong evidence that improving urban planning and design including sustainable
building principles is an effective way of reducing inequalities in health and
improving well being.
The potential impact of urban form on public health relates to sense of community
and mental health. WHO estimate that by 2020, mental ill health will be the third
leading cause of disability life-adjusted years globally.
There is strong evidence that the built environment affects the transport-mode
choices of both adults and children. A growing body of evidence confirms that
neighbourhoods characterized by low density, poorly connected street networks
and poor access to shops and services are associated with low levels of walking.
Urban sprawl or low walkability appears to be associated with obesity.
Traffic exposure decreases walking in children because of parental concerns
about safety.
Reduced local walking, affects opportunities for causal interactions between
neighbourhoods.
Objectives
To work collaboratively with the local government sector as they develop urban
planning related policy, rules etc initiatives which relate to urban design/form.
Where appropriate advocate the use of health impact assessment for proposals
that include urban design/form.
Key Linkages
Ministry for the Environment
Department of Internal Affairs
Department of Building and Housing
Ministry of Health’s Health Impact Assessment Support Unit
Relevant
Legislation
7.

Building Act 2004

Resource Management Act 1991

Local Government Act 2002
Components of
Service
Service Descriptions/Activities
Work cooperatively with
local government
in the development
of urban
design/form
policies that
promote health and
wellbeing of
communities
Purchase Units,
Information and
Reporting
Requirements
Encourage and assist Council to develop and implement polices through
processes such as the review of district plans including variations or plan changes
or Long Term Council Community Plans that address the wider determinants of
health.
Consider becoming a signatory to the NZ Urban Design Protocol (2005)
Where appropriate advocate the use of health impact assessment for proposals
that include urban design/form.
Where appropriate promote the Healthy Cities/communities concept
Purchase units are as for the tier two Public Health Services service specifications
for Social Environment.
All reporting dates apply annually.
Exclusions
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This service specification excludes services described in the tier two Social Environments Health Promoting Schools service specification that covers policy-level health impact
assessment activities; see Social Environments Health promoting Schools tier two service
specification.
This Physical Environment Public Health service specification relates more directly to
project-level health impact assessment methods and approaches used in resource
management processes.
8.
Quality Requirements
The Service must comply with the Provider Quality Standards described in the Operational
Policy Framework or, as applicable, Crown Funding Agreement Variations, contracts or
service level agreements.
Providers of environmental health services should comply with all relevant manuals, standards
and guidelines promulgated by the Ministry – this includes in particular the Environmental
Health Protection Manual and any other guidance material cited in the relevant tier two (and
tier three) service specifications.
9.
Purchase Units and Reporting Requirements
Purchase Units are defined in the joint DHB and Ministry’s Nationwide Service Framework
Data Dictionary. The following Purchase Unit applies to this Service.
PU Code
PU
Description
PU Definition
PU Unit of
Measure
Unit of Measure
Definition
National
Collections or
payment
systems
RM00108
Physical
Environment
Air quality (indoor and
outdoor)
Biosecurity and quarantine
Burial and cremation
Contaminated land
Drinking water quality
Early childhood centres
Environmental noise
management
Hazardous substances
Ionising/non-ionising
radiation
Public Health emergency
planning and response
Recreational water
Resource management
Sewage treatment and
disposal
Shellfish and shellfish water
Waste management (liquid
and solid waste)
Other regulatory activities.
Service
Service
purchased in a
block
arrangement
uniquely agreed
at a local level.
National Nonadmitted
Patient
Collection
NNPAC
(Optional)
The Service must comply with the requirements of national data collections (if applicable).
9.1
Additional Reporting Requirements
All reporting requirements are detailed in the individual contracts.
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Figure 1: Outcomes-focused Framework for the Environmental Health and Social Environments
Societal
Housing: quality, affordability, accessibility
Pacific and global communities
Water incl drinking and recreational
Energy
Education incl schools and ECCs
Sanitation, Sewage, Waste mgmt
Urban Planning and Design
Exposed populations
Industry/Workplaces
Indoor and Outdoor Air Quality
Social developments incl migration
Border health protection (incl trade)
Natural disasters and emergency management
Sustainable development incl tourism
Industry/Workplaces
Hazardous substances incl contaminated sites
Local Government
10 to 20 years
Examples of
Medium Term
Outcomes
5 to 10 years
Climate change
Mass gatherings incl World Cup 2011
Environmental Health Indicators
Reduction in the incidence and impact
of settings-based environmental health
issues
Measuring, Monitoring, and Reporting of
Reduction in the incidence and impact
of environmental inequalities across
sectors
Measuring,
Reduction in the incidence and impact
of environmental hazards
Monitoring,
and
Reporting of
Environment
al Health
Indicators
Level
Outcomes
Vital Few
Outcomes
Public health and whanau health are improved through the protection and promotion of healthy communities and healthy
environments including the global environment
EH Programmes
Short Term
Outcomes and
Outputs
EH Programmes
EH Programmes
and Projects
and Projects
Service
Measuring,
Monitoring and
Reporting to
Funder
and Projects
1 to 3 years
Supporting Legislation and Policy (eg Health Act 1956, Resource Management Act 1991, Local Government Act 2002, Achieving Health for All People, Public Health Legislation Review,
standards including global standards), Intersectoral Service Planning and Delivery, Leadership incl advocacy and champions, Research and Information, Effective Action (including guidelines,
best practice, advice and information), Monitoring and Evaluation, New Technologies, Health Impact Assessment (including precautionary approaches, risk perception and risk
communication)
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