Sanitation training is available from a wide range of community colleges, online schools, and career training programs. Sanitation training in industrialized nations is typically focused on waste collection and management. However, in developing nations, sanitation training is an important part of the health care sector and water and food delivery systems. This type of training is essential to controlling the spread of disease and creating a healthy living environment.
There is no specific prerequisite required to qualify for sanitation training. Although most college programs recommend students have completed high school, this is not a strict requirement. There are only one or two programs dedicated to sanitation training, and these are focused on waste management.
However, sanitation training courses are embedded into all programs in the health care and food services sectors. These courses teach students how to properly sterilize equipment and use anti-bacterial products. The ability to quickly and accurately determine the appropriate method of disposal of biological and food waste products is an important part of the training.
Online schools provide a range of sanitation training opportunities. It is important to review the different courses available and select one that meets your needs. Take the time to read the course description and confirm that the school is accredited. If you are taking an online course toward a diploma or degree program, made sure it will be accepted by your home school first. This extra step will ensure you don't waste time and money on courses that will not be accepted by the home school.
Employers in the sanitation or waste management industry provide training directly to workers as soon as they are hired. This training covers all aspects of the position, including how to safely handle hazardous materials, biological waste, and food waste. Most training is fairly standard for all positions in this industry, as there is a significant risk of injury if staff members are not careful.
Workers in the health services industry receive training from their employer on the proper use of sanitation equipment. Included in this type of training are the processes surrounding waste management, hazardous materials, and biological waste. This type of training is typically offered in a refresher course at least once a year.
The food services industry has been under increasing pressure to improve the quality and frequency of its sanitation training. This is becoming a more important issue as the size of food manufacturing firms continue to grow and encompass a broader group of food products. Poor sanitation of food equipment causes the spread of bacteria and may result in serious illness or death.