Liz Hanna, MPH, RN, FRCNA, School of Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia, 61-03 5761 1248, L.Hanna@latrobe.edu.au

This paper presents an examination of Australian environmental health infrastructure using the case of exposure to agricultural and veterinary (AgVet) chemicals.

Recent decades have witnessed a global explosion in AgVet chemical application. The list of common products withdrawn from market continues to grow in the wake of research evidence linking serious health risks with exposure. The risk pathway is complex and requires multi-layered public health interventions. Meanwhile, the health burden of past exposure lingers, and is compounded by ongoing risks associated with poor compliance in wearing personal protective apparatus and adherence to application instructions. The AgVet chemical environment in Australia is now one of strict regulation, however product licensing criteria presumes adherence to labelled instructions and precautionary measures. An additional risk factor emerges as primary health care providers reveal limited familiarity with specific products in use, and their relevant potential side effects. This has implication for diagnostic rates, health intelligence and planning.

The study explored existing infrastructure efficacy from the perspectives of three key stakeholders: · Community - exposure risks, knowledge and practices, self-reported health status, and perceptions of health links relating to exposure. · Primary health care provider – perceptions of regional risks, knowledge of agents used locally, education, attitudes. · Health department – routine data capture and monitoring.

Analysis of the preparedness of the environmental health infrastructure to accurately identify and mitigate against common environmental hazards emerged through a synthesis of these diverse perspectives.

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