The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment protects and enhances public health and the environment through objective scientific evaluation of risks posed by hazardous substances. The Office performs risk assessments for various regulatory programs under the California Environmental Protection Agency, as well as other state and local agencies, and provides these programs with the scientific tools and information upon which to base risk management decisions. Distinct programs focus on assessing health risks, including risks to children and other sensitive subpopulations, from exposure to chemicals in air, drinking water, food, pesticides, consumer products, hazardous and municipal waste facilities, fish and shellfish, and sediments in bay and estuarine waters. The Office also evaluates community pollution burdens and vulnerabilities.