The Free State Psychiatric Complex Hospital is seeking a qualified Environmental Health Practitioner (Production) to join its dedicated team. This opportunity is open for internal candidates who meet the necessary qualifications and experience requirements. The position is permanent, offering competitive remuneration across three salary grades based on experience.
This critical role ensures the health and safety of patients, staff, and the wider community by implementing effective environmental health practices, monitoring compliance, and addressing potential public health hazards. The successful candidate will play an integral role in disease prevention, waste management, and environmental conservation in a healthcare setting.
Job Details
- Reference Number: FSPC/EHP/01
- Centre: Free State Psychiatric Complex Hospital
- Closing Date: 14 March 2025
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Salary:
- Grade 1: R376 524.00 per annum
- Grade 2: R439 755.00 per annum
- Grade 3: R514 785.00 per annum
- Salary Level: Grade 1 – 3
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must possess the following qualifications and credentials:
- Educational Qualification:
A National Diploma or Degree in Environmental Health is required. - Professional Registration:
Must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as an Environmental Health Practitioner. - Experience:
- Grade 1: No prior experience required.
- Grade 2: A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience after registration with the HPCSA.
- Grade 3: A minimum of 20 years of relevant experience after registration with the HPCSA.
- Additional Requirements:
Candidates must provide proof of their previous service record as part of their application.
Required Knowledge and Skills
The successful candidate must demonstrate a high level of competency in the following areas:
- Investigative Skills:
Strong ability to conduct epidemiological investigations and health inspections to assess disease risks. - Communication and Interpersonal Skills:
Ability to engage with patients, healthcare professionals, and the community effectively. - Negotiation and Organisational Abilities:
Capability to implement public health programs and ensure compliance with environmental health policies. - Administrative and Documentation Skills:
Proficiency in record-keeping, report writing, and data analysis. - Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:
Ability to assess health risks, make informed decisions, and take proactive measures. - Regulatory Knowledge:
Must be well-versed in South Africa’s health and environmental legislation, including:- Health Act and Regulations
- National Health Act
- Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act
- Environmental Conservation Act
- Guidelines on Sewerage Sludge (SABS Code)
- Safe Disposal of Medical Waste in Healthcare Facilities
- Ability to Work Independently and Under Pressure:
The role requires the candidate to function efficiently in a high-pressure environment with minimal supervision.
Key Responsibilities
The Environmental Health Practitioner (Production) will be responsible for implementing and managing environmental health programs to promote safety within the healthcare environment. The duties include:
1. Disease Surveillance and Control
- Implement vector disease surveillance and control programs.
- Conduct epidemiological investigations into disease outbreaks.
- Implement entomological surveillance programs to monitor and control insects that pose health risks.
- Participate in health awareness campaigns to educate the community about disease prevention.
2. Health Inspections and Compliance Monitoring
- Conduct regular environmental health inspections to assess potential health hazards.
- Perform health assessments on nuisances and hazards that could affect patients, staff, and visitors.
- Ensure strict compliance with health legislation and regulations.
3. Community Education and Public Awareness
- Collect data on environmental health issues and conduct community and facility surveys.
- Disseminate educational information through various platforms, including health awareness days.
- Engage in information-sharing initiatives to improve environmental health knowledge among healthcare workers and the general public.
4. Waste Management and Quality Control
- Implement a preventative quality system to manage healthcare waste effectively.
- Oversee product recall processes to ensure unsafe products are swiftly removed.
- Conduct rapid diagnostic tests to identify potential hazards.
- Ensure the efficacy of drugs and chemicals used in healthcare settings.
5. Monitoring and Evaluation
- Participate in the monitoring and evaluation of water quality in healthcare facilities.
- Conduct food control inspections to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
- Perform entomological assessments to detect and control potential disease-carrying vectors.
Why Join Free State Psychiatric Complex Hospital?
This position offers an excellent opportunity to work in a dynamic and challenging healthcare environment. The hospital is committed to maintaining the highest environmental health standards and ensuring that patients receive care in a safe, clean, and sustainable environment.
By joining the team, the successful candidate will play a vital role in disease prevention, health promotion, and ensuring compliance with South Africa’s health regulations. The role also provides job security, professional growth opportunities, and a rewarding career in public health.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their applications before the closing date, 14 March 2025. Applicants must ensure that they meet the minimum requirements and attach proof of their previous service records where applicable.
For enquiries, candidates may contact Mrs. M. Moore at (051) 407 9482.
The role of an Environmental Health Practitioner at Free State Psychiatric Complex Hospital is an essential part of promoting public health and maintaining a safe healthcare environment. This position offers an excellent opportunity for a dedicated professional to apply their expertise in environmental health to benefit both patients and the broader community.
Those who meet the criteria are encouraged to apply for the Environmental Health Practitioner and become part of a team committed to enhancing healthcare safety, environmental sustainability, and disease prevention.
Check also: Student Advisor (Undergraduate) at IIE Varsity College, Westville Campus – Apply Now!