Registered Sanitarian Information
What is a Registered Sanitarian?
As defined in the Wisconsin State Statutes, a sanitarian is an “individual who, through education, training or experience in the natural sciences and their application and through technical knowledge of prevention and control of preventable diseases, is capable of applying environmental control measures so as to protect human health, safety and welfare.” Becoming a Registered Sanitarian confirms the individual possesses knowledge on a variety of environmental and public health issues and can properly take corrective action to protect human health. Registered sanitarians work in the public and private sectors. Many are employed by state and local government in regulatory programs such as food safety, drinking water regulation, wastewater systems, radiation protection, housing, and occupational safety.
What are the qualifications to become a RS?
Applicants for examination must submit evidence of completion of one of the following combinations of training and experience:
(a) A baccalaureate or higher degree in environmental or public health sanitation from an accredited college or university with academic credits in physical, biological and environmental health areas and one year of employment in the field of environmental health.
(b) A baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited college or university and 2 years of employment in the field of environmental health.
(c) Two years of training at an accredited community college or technical institute with major courses in the physical, biological or environmental health area and 3 years of employment in the field of environmental health.
(d) A high school diploma and 8 years of employment in the field of environmental health.
An applicant shall provide 2 letters of reference from persons other than relatives who have personal knowledge of the applicant’s education or experience in the field of environmental health.
The Registered Sanitarian Advisory Committee reviews applicants’ transcripts and work history prior to granting eligibility to take the RS examination. Work history should be described in great detail by the applicant to assure full credit is given. The Registered Sanitarian Advisory Committee meets twice a year to review applications. Materials must be submitted to Department of Regulation and Licensing 60 days prior to the scheduled date of the committee. Click here for more information.
What examination is used?
Starting April 2007, the Department of Regulation and Licensing will use the NEHA REHS/RS examination. Once the Registered Sanitarian Advisory Committee approves the application, a confirmation letter will be returned to the applicant. This letter must be forwarded to NEHA requesting a date and time to take the examination.
How often is the RS examination given in Wisconsin?
NEHA offers a variety of methods to take the REHS/RS exam (click here for the NEHA Candidate Information Brochure). Numerous locations are scheduled by NEHA throughout the US and examinations are administered at some state affiliate and regional meetins. NEHA also allows individuals to use Lasergrade computer program to take the exam. Lasergrade is a company that provides secure test locations where computer-based examinations can be administered. Areas in Wisconsin include, Wisconsin Rapids, Wausau, Oshkosh, Madison and Kenosha. The applicant can set their own date to take the exam. NEHA will send a voucher to the applicant, which will allow the admission at the requested location.
How do I apply for the examination?
The State of Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing distributes and accepts applictions for Registered Sanitarian. Click here for the application forms. The Registered Sanitarian Advisory Committee meets twice a year to review applications. Materials must be submitted 60 days prior to the scheduled date of the committee. Click here for more information.
How can I get help studying for the exam?
Study modules are available for individuals preparing for the RS examination. These materials are only available for WEHA members. To become a WEHA member, submit the membership application and fee. Click here for more WEHA membership information and application. NEHA also has study material at their bookstore.
Study Modules can be obtained from:
Wisconsin Environmental Health Association
Jeff Phillips
Winnebago County Health Department
(920) 232-3014
JPhillips@co.winnebago.wi.us
