A food establishment known to have an imminent health hazard is not closed by the environmental public health professional. This is an example of:

The situation described illustrates nonfeasance, which refers to a failure to act when there is a duty to do so. In the context of public health and safety, environmental public health professionals are responsible for ensuring that the establishments they oversee adhere to health codes and standards. If a health hazard is identified and the professional does not take appropriate action to close the food establishment, they are failing to fulfill their obligation to protect public health.

In contrast, malfeasance involves the improper performance of a lawful act, essentially engaging in wrongful actions while in a position of authority. Misfeasance refers to the correct performance of a lawful act but in a negligent manner. Laziness, while suggesting a lack of action or effort, does not specifically capture the professional and legal obligations involved in this scenario. The correct identification of nonfeasance reveals the critical nature of accountability in public health roles and the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding community well-being.