Inspections

Local Inspectors make sure that the equipment used in the tanning beds meet health and safety guidelines, and that the operators are knowledgeable in the procedures to help protect the patrons from skin damage.

Funeral Homes are checked to ensure that the embalming rooms and crematoriums are separated from the public, and that public water supplies are protected from contamination.

Tattoo Parlors are checked for sterilization and sanitary conditions. With the increase in blood borne diseases such as HIV, it is imperative that these operations are following strict public health safety rules and regulations.

Carroll County requires an inspection of the septic system, testing of private wells and plugging abandoned wells at the time of sale. The Seller is responsible for having the inspection completed and presenting the report to the prospective buyer, prior to or during the negotiation of the sale. There is no requirement to repair or upgrade the well if the sample is contaminated, but there is a requirement to upgrade the septic system if there is any illegal discharge.

Food is an essential component of the environment, and has long been recognized as a vehicle of disease transmission. There are more reported illnesses associated with the consumption of food than all other environmental factors combined. The local food service inspection program effectively safeguards the public health by providing inspections, food worker certification programs, response to food safety questions, and individualized instruction in food sanitation. Our agency inspects all restaurants, grocery stores, bars, schools, warehouses, bakeries, convenience stores, and hotel/motels.

Foodborne illnesses have a major public health impact in the United States. It is estimated that each year in the United States, 76 million people get sick, more than 300,000 are hospitalized, and 5,000 die as a result of foodborne illnesses, primarily the very young, elderly, and the immunocompromised. Unfortunately, substantial progress in preventing certain foodborne illnesses such as typhoid and cholera has led to complacency in both the public and the medical profession. This, coupled with recent changes in human demographics and eating behavior, technology and industry, international travel and commerce, microbial adaptation, economic development and land use, and the breakdown of public health measures, has resulted in new and reemerging foodborne illnesses. It is more critical than ever for food services to use safe handling practices. Educating food service operators is the primary focus of the food inspection program. Efforts at adequate funding of the program from the state level are continuing, but to no avail. Local officials and citizens are encouraged to contact their state lawmakers to raise this issue as one that impacts all Iowans.

Ever wonder why there is so much chlorine in swimming pools and spas? Because we require it to protect people from transmitting and contracting disease through the water. The Environmental Health Department conducts a comprehensive inspection of all public swimming pools and spas in the three county area. Items such as water quality, disinfection, testing, construction, safety and lifeguard certification are all scrutinized on an annual basis to provide a safe environment for the public.