This webinar will be a panel discussion featuring presentations by experts from EPA, state, and local agencies on basics of risk communication; national risk communication strategy; challenges of risk communications with the public and industry; and state and local perspectives on risk communication. Examples of effective risk communication on reduction of air toxics risks will be demonstrated. Attendees will have an opportunity to discuss concerns and issues directly with panelists.

Agenda:

A Strategic Risk Communication Approach – Madeline Beal & Alison Davis

Between July 2022 and August 2023, EPA undertook an extensive national effort to inform communities about EtO risk from commercial sterilizers. This effort started with a strategic risk communication approach modeled on EPA’s SALT Framework and an effort to understand community needs and meet those needs. The presenters will discuss the roles of empathy, trust, context, and partnerships in improving engagement when it comes to issues like air toxics where the risk perception and complexity of the science can make it hard for our audiences to hear, understand, accept, and act on our messaging.

Clearing the air: Plain language in health communication – Kristy Richardson

This talk will focus on the importance of using plain language. According to the CDC, nearly nine out of 10 adults struggle to understand and use personal and public health information when it’s filled with unfamiliar or complex terms. Avoiding professional jargon helps communicate the science behind our work. When people can understand our messages, they can take action to protect themselves and their families. This session will provide practical tools and tips. We will discuss real examples of plain language approaches to communicating health messages.

Setting the Stage: The Challenges of Hosting a Public Meeting - Ian MacMillan

There are many styles of public meetings. Choosing the wrong setup can create a hostile dynamic that can be difficult to overcome. This can be especially true in the context of a meeting to address public health concerns. As a local regulatory agency, we need to consider how best to engage the public both for the topic of the meeting, and in context with other subjects affecting the same community. This presentation will cover different types of meeting formats, and what our experience has shown are some advantages and disadvantages to each format.

Questions and Discussions