SM conduct 107K inspection visits enhancing public health in 2024

Adel Omar Salem, the Director of Public Health and Central Laboratories, highlighted that Sharjah is recognized as a leading healthy city in the Middle East and North Africa. This accolade reflects the municipality's commitment to public health, making it a top priority. The municipality employs health inspection teams following clear plans to oversee different health sectors, including restaurants, bakeries, salons, factories, and more.

The municipality is dedicated to safeguarding the health and safety of consumers by continuously updating health standards to keep pace with changes in service methods. They conduct both routine and surprise inspections, especially during holidays and busy times, to ensure facilities are following health guidelines and have enough inspectors on duty.

Jamal Juma Al Mazmi, Director of the Health Control and Safety Department, shared that about 41,000 inspections were focused on food establishments. This effort is part of the Sharjah Food Safety Program, which trains food industry workers on safe practices and implements strict health guidelines. Additionally, inspections are prioritized at places that may pose higher risks to consumers’ safety.

The department also inspected over 27,000 places like men’s barbershops, women’s beauty salons, laundries, fitness centers, and hotel pools to ensure they comply with health regulations and educate their staff on necessary safety practices.

Furthermore, the Environmental Control Department completed 18,500 inspections to monitor industrial and professional facilities, ensuring they meet all requirements and possess the necessary permits. This aligns with the municipality's goals to improve environmental practices in line with national strategies.

Al Mazmi added that the inspection efforts also included 15,356 visits to the Waste Control and Regulation Department and 5,297 visits to the Veterinary Control Department. In total, the department provided 196,000 services over the past year, which includes assistance to individuals and agencies, issuing various permits, pest control, and monitoring shipments entering the emirate. All these initiatives aim to strengthen Sharjah's health system and enhance its standards.