A human’s first line of defense against disease is environmental management.

Environmental Health is responsible for the promotion and enhancement of public health as it relates to the environmental needs of our community. We strive to work with individuals, businesses, and the community through education, regulation, permitting, and when necessary, enforcement to promote a healthy and safe environment for all.

Environmental Health’s Core Functions

• Prevent epidemics and the spread of disease
• Protect against environmental hazards
• Prevent injuries
• Promote and encourage healthy behaviors
• Respond to disasters and assist communities in recovery

Please visit each county Environmental Health page for specific county applications and requirements.

COVID-19 Guidance for Restaurants with Dining Room Seating

Food Service Rules, Documents and Applications

ServSafe® Food Protection Manager 8-Hour Certification Course(s)- Our next two-day class has been scheduled for Tuesday, February 23, 2021 and Wednesday, February 24, 2021. Please click on the link below to register. 

ServSafe 2-day Registration Form Feb 23-24 

Below is information about two free Food Safety Online Courses provided by ServSafe. These trainings are: ServSafe® Food Handler  and ServSafe Takeout and Delivery: COVID-19 Precautions.    These courses do NOT take the place of our ServSafe Food Manager training we offer at CHD.

Free ServSafe Courses 

Please contact the Environmental Health Office at the Columbus Department of Public Health at 706-321-6170 if you have questions regarding the ServSafe® Program.

ServSafe®  is a registered trademark of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, and used under license by National Restaurant Association Solutions, LLC.

*FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS AND OWNERS –  For the most up to date information on Georgia Food Service Rules and Regulations, visit – STATE OF GEORGIA – FOOD SERVICE INFORMATION

Note:  American National Standards Institute (ANSI) food safety certification approved exams can also be found on the ANSI website.

Brochure – Food Service Planning for a Water Interruption.

Additional Resources

Public Swimming Pool Program 

WCHD Request For Open Records Form

Learn More

• Body Art Establishments – Health Inspection Reports
• Environmental Health Forms
• Food Service, Hotel and Pool Reports
• Healthy Homes and Lead Poisoning Prevention
• Rabies Control Program
• Vector Control