Health Standards for Business

Inspection results are available online on Check it! We inspect it.

What does a public health inspector do?

Public health inspectors work to keep the food, water, environment and people of Waterloo Region safe from health risks. Their job is to protect the community by promoting safe health practices and by working with local businesses and organizations to prevent illness.  

Are you starting one of the businesses listed below or planning a special event? Could you use some public health guidance while making a change to your existing operation? Public health inspectors are happy to help. Best of all, our advice and support are free!

Protect

Public health inspectors are experts in assessing and reducing health risks. They are one of the community’s first lines of defence in preventing the spread of disease and maintaining safe environments. They provide education and enforce the laws that protect the health of the communities they live and work in.

Region of Waterloo public health inspectors work with:

• Restaurants, cafes and other food premises
• Childcare centres
• Long-term care, retirement and group homes
• Public pools, splash pads and other public recreational water facilities
• Drinking water facilities
• Tattoo and body piercing shops
• Hair salons and barber shops
• Spas and nail salons
• Regulated health professionals like dental and other health clinics
• Special events coordinators and vendors
• Farmers markets staff and vendors

Public health inspectors collaborate with various professionals, including researchers, local government staff, and provincial and federal agencies. They also provide education about and investigate diseases like foodborne illnesses and rabies.

Promote

Public health inspectors provide education and support on how to reduce the risk of illness. They work with business owners and operators to help keep their clients and staff safe and healthy. They support businesses in understanding how to successfully follow provincial health laws.

Prevent