What We Do
Public Health is concerned with the protection and promotion of health and the prevention of illness, injury and disability within the community. Environmental health is a key component of public health and explores the impact of the built and natural environments on the physical, social and psychological well-being of people.
The primary legislative statutes administered by Council for the promotion of public health are the Public Health Act 1997; the Food Act 2003; and the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994:
To find out more about specific activities:
Sharps
Council offer a sharps disposal service and new disposal containers are also available from Council for a fee.
Smoke Free Areas
Smoke-free areas in Tasmania are established under the Public Health Act 1997.
Smoke free areas are important as they:
- Protect people from exposure to second hand smoke
- De-normalise smoking behaviour in public places, particularly for young people
- Support people who have quit or are trying to quit smoking
You can find out more here.
On-Site Waste Water
An on-site wastewater management system receives and / or treats wastewater and sewerage and then disposes this into an approved disposal system or a re-use system. This page has information on:
- Septic tanks
- Aerated wastewater treatment systems
- Waterless composting toilets
- Hybrid systems
You can find out more here.
Smoke Regulations and Wood Heating
Smoke from wood heaters and various types of fireplaces can contribute to high levels of fine, airborne particles, a well-maintained heater or fireplace should produce little visible smoke when a fire is burning well.
Please see Smoke Regulations & Wood Heating Frequently Asked Questions and operating a heater or fireplace efficiently here
Pest Control
Council do not provide baiting programmes for common pests
Our Environmental Health Officers may be able to assist with information on common pests such as mice, rats and insect pests such as bees and wasps.
The use of registered pest controllers is recommended to ensure the appropriate baiting programme is put in place and for the protection of non-target species.