This White Paper was initiated by members of the Association of Supervisors of Public Health Inspectors of Ontario (ASPHIO) at their annual conference in November 2022 as they reflected on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on PHIs and environmental health programming in the acute phase of the pandemic and the critical contributions that PHIs made to Ontario's pandemic response. It offers recommendations for the Ministry, ASPHIO, local Boards of Health, Public Health Ontario, post-secondary institutions, and other partners on planning and assessing the PHI workforce to optimally support the delivery of programs and services mandated by the Ontario Public Health Standards (OPHS). The recommendations in the White Paper are intended to help ensure that PHIs are equipped to maintain essential public health services and be prepared for emerging issues and future emergencies, as part of the larger multi-disciplinary public health workforce in Ontario health units.
Association of Supervisors of Public Health Inspectors of Ontario (ASPHIO)
Public Health
As public health leaders, we connect, collaborate and advocate on matters that shape and strengthen public health.
About us
The Association of Supervisors of Public Health Inspectors of Ontario (ASPHIO) was established in 1982. It comprises approximately 150 supervisors, managers and directors of local public health agencies across Ontario. These individuals are responsible for delivering programs and services mandated by the Ontario Public Health Standards (OPHS), which include Food Safety, Healthy Environments, Safe Water, Infectious Diseases, Infection Prevention and Control, Tobacco Control, Climate Change, and Emergency Management. Public health inspectors play a crucial role in safeguarding public health by ensuring compliance with the Health Protection and Promotion Act (HPPA) and its regulations. Supervisors, managers, and directors oversee and coordinate the activities of these inspectors to ensure the practical application of the OPHS. ASPHIO, as a collaborative platform, engages in interagency collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Public Health Ontario, and other government and public health associations on policy and program development. ASPHIO informs the Ministry of Health and Public Health Ontario based on field observations and expertise and promotes effective public health practice to enhance efficiency, effectiveness and compliance with the OPHS. ASPHIO is committed to building and maintaining a health system responsive to the needs of communities across Ontario through Connection, Collaboration and Advocacy
- Industry
- Public Health
- Company size
- 51-200 employees
- Type
- Nonprofit
- Founded
- 1982
- Specialties
- Environmental Health Practice, Infection Prevention and Control, Risk Assessment, Health Hazard Identification and Analysis, and Healthy Public Policy
Updates
-
Announcing the Transition of the ASPHIO Board Dear ASPHIO Members, We are pleased to announce the transition of our ASPHIO Board effective January 1st, 2025, and would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the outgoing board members while warmly welcoming the new board. We extend our deepest gratitude to the outgoing board members: Stacey Laforest (PHSD) – Chair Burgess Hawkins (PHSD) – Vice-Chair Peter Heywood (SWPH) – Past-Chair Cindy Peacock-Rocca (PHSD) – Treasurer Thomas Nabb (NWHU) – Secretary Jon Groulx (PHSD) – Logistics Over the past two years, we have built a solid foundation for ASPHIO, advancing our mission and strengthening communities across Ontario. Some highlights of our contributions through the support of our committees include the completion of the White Paper, ensuring compliance with the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA), promoting strong governance, operationalizing the new committee structure, organizing two conferences, and participating in several Ministry of Health sessions, including the Public Health Inspector Workforce Committee and the review of the Ontario Public Health Standards (OPHS). The ASPHIO has provided good governance, stability, vision, and growth while supporting the role of public health inspectors across Ontario. As we turn the page to this exciting new chapter, we welcome our incoming board members, who will serve as follows: Dominque Bremner (OPH), Chair Richard Ovcharovich (HKPR) - Vice-Chair Stacey Laforest (PHSD) - Past-Chair Amanda Muise (OPH) -Treasurer David Tantalo (RCDHU) – Secretary Julie Bromley (PPH) - Logistics This new board brings a wealth of experience, fresh ideas, and a strong commitment to continuing its predecessors' work while exploring new opportunities and partnerships. We are confident they will build on ASPHIO's strengths and values and guide us forward with renewed energy and perspectives. Supporting this Transition The transition is a collaborative effort, and we encourage all members to support our incoming board as they settle into their roles. With your engagement and support, we’re confident this team will lead ASPHIO toward even greater accomplishments. Thank you once again to our outgoing board for their exceptional service, and congratulations to our incoming board as they take on the stewardship of ASPHIO’s future. We are in excellent hands and are ready to build on our strong foundation together. With gratitude, Stacey Laforest ASPHIO Chair
-
🌟 New Guide Alert! 🌟 Excited to announce the release of A Practical Public Health Inspector Guide to Ice Arena Indoor Air Quality Inspections! This comprehensive guide is designed to help public health inspectors (PHIs) conduct effective indoor air quality inspections at ice arenas. Developed with input from various public health and industry stakeholders, the guide aims to standardize inspection processes across Ontario, ensuring safer environments for everyone. Key highlights: · Consistent Approach: Advocates for a uniform inspection and assessment process across Ontario PHUs. · Enhanced Safety: Focuses on reducing exposure to indoor air pollutants from fossil fuel-powered equipment. · Collaborative Effort: Created with insights from PHIs and industry experts to provide practical, evidence-informed approaches. A team of representatives from the following associations and organizations supported the project: · Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors – Ontario Branch (CIPHI-ON); · Association of Supervisors of Public Health Inspectors in Ontario (ASPHIO); · Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU); · Ontario Recreation Facilities Association (ORFA); and · Conestoga College Bachelor of Environmental Public Health Program (BEPH). Special thanks to the project team and all contributors, including Vittoria Vecchiarelli, Project Lead, and Sunil Varughese from Public Health Ontario, for his valuable feedback. Let's work together to improve indoor air quality in ice arenas and protect public health! #PublicHealth #IceArena #IndoorAirQuality #PHI #SafetyFirst Disclaimer: This document is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice or replace regulations or other official documents. The working group takes no responsibility for any modification of the content of this document.
-
Celebrating the Life of Dr. Thomas Tenkate With deep sadness, ASPHIO acknowledges the passing of Dr. Thomas Tenkate, the esteemed Director of the School of Occupational and Public Health at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). Dr. Tenkate was a visionary leader in environmental public health and a mentor, colleague, and friend to many. His contributions to our field are immeasurable, and his passion for public health and safety has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to work with or learn from him. Dr. Tenkate was respected and revered by his colleagues, peers, and students at TMU. His commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering a collaborative environment will be greatly missed. His passing is a profound loss to us and the public health community. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those whom his work has touched. Let us honour his legacy by continuing the important work he championed. Dr. Tenkate's dedication and passion should inspire us to strive to make a positive impact in the field to which he dedicated his life. Family and friends are invited to the Celebration of Life on August 24th at Tyndale University Chapel, 3377 Bayview Ave, North York, commencing with a Visitation at 4:15 pm and Service at 5 pm. Further details are found by clicking the following link: Dr. Thomas Tenkate (permavita.com) Rest in peace, Dr. Tenkate. ASPHIO
-
-
Join us at the 88th CIPHI National Annual Education Conference! 📆 September 22nd to September 25th, 2024 📍 Regina, Saskatchewan 🌟 Early Bird Delegate Registration is Open Until August 1st 🔗Registration: https://lnkd.in/efgvSfBf 📋Schedule: https://lnkd.in/eVe6qADa 🎤 Keynote Speakers: • Dr. Lisa Bélanger, Behavioural Change Expert & Researcher • Jill Heinerth, Explorer-in-Residence, The Royal Canadian Geographical Society • Aaron Tootoosis & Lyndon J Linklater 🛠️ Workshop Information: Climate & Health: Climate change continues to be one of the most pressing challenges of our time, with far-reaching impacts on ecosystems, human health, and economies worldwide. This workshop aims to provide a platform for learning, sharing, and developing strategies to effectively manage the impact of climate change on our environment and communities’ health. Building Power for Health Equity: Changing the structural determinants of health and advancing health equity require shifting the balance in power relations from groups that currently benefit from inequities to groups that are harmed by inequities. Through a combination of presentation and facilitated activities, participants will develop the skills to understand, analyze, and develop strategies to address power imbalances. 📢 Don't miss out! Register today!
-
-
PHO has released a new resource evaluating the survivability of influenza A(H5N1) in milk from potentially infected dairy cattle. Learn more here: https://vist.ly/38bmi
-
-
On behalf of the Association of Supervisors of Public Health Inspectors of Ontario (ASPHIO), we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Steve Rebellato on being honoured with the Association of Local Public Health Agencies (alPHa) Distinguished Service Award at alPHa’s AGM on June 6, 2024, in Toronto. This prestigious award is a testament to his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to public health in Ontario. Steve’s contributions have been truly remarkable. From his active roles within ASPHIO and alPHa, including his service on alPHa’s Board of Directors and ASPHIO’s Executive Committee, to his instrumental work shaping public policy positions and leading critical workshops on vital public health issues, Steve’s visionary leadership in developing Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit's resolutions and his dedication to advancing the application of Artificial Intelligence in public health are commendable and deeply appreciated. Moreover, Steve’s efforts in addressing climate change and its impact on public health, as well as his academic pursuits and publications, have benefited the local communities and set a standard for excellence across the province. Steve’s collegiality, professionalism, and passion for lifelong learning have inspired many and earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, significantly contributing to improving public health in Ontario. We recognize Steve’s outstanding achievements and positive influence on his colleagues and the broader public health sector. Steve’s exemplary devotion to this field is truly deserving of this distinguished honour. We also want to recognize Cynthia St. John, a member of alPHa’s Board of Directors and CEO at Southwestern Public Health, who supported submitting this nomination. Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. ASPHIO Executive, Stacey Laforest (Chair), Burgess Hawkins (Vice-Chair), Jon Groulx (Logistics), Cindy Rocca (Treasurer), Thomas Nabb (Secretary), and Peter Heywood (Past-chair)
-
-
The Environmental Health Review is a rich and treasured resource and a great platform for environmental public health professionals to share their research and experiences. Take a look at the most recent issue! https://lnkd.in/gsPYXbyS
June issue of the Environmental Health Review just released! Check it out: https://lnkd.in/gPWkKg7U We are always looking for high-quality articles or case studies that are relevant to environmental public health practice. Please reach out to ehreditor@ciphi.ca if you have something to share.
-
-
Join our team! We're currently recruiting for an Environmental Health Specialist. Closing date is May 31. For the full job description and application instructions, visit: https://bit.ly/4bjwIEM
-
-
Welcome to the official LinkedIn page of the Association of Supervisors of Public Health Inspectors of Ontario (ASPHIO)! We're thrilled to have you join our community dedicated to promoting public health excellence and innovation. Here, you will find updates, resources, and opportunities to connect with fellow public health professionals passionate about safeguarding public health. Whether you are a seasoned supervisor, manager or director or just starting your journey in the field, this page is your hub for staying informed, inspired, and engaged. Feel free to explore, share your insights, and connect with like-minded individuals committed to making a difference in communities across Ontario. Together, let's advance the mission as public health leaders to connect, advocate, and collaborate on matters that shape and strengthen public health practice in Ontario. Together, we will promote and protect the health of Ontarians through excellence in environmental public health leadership.