Occupational Health Program

The Occupational Health Program (OHP) is an important component of the University of California, Berkeley's Animal Care and Use Program. The OHP is coordinated by the Occupational Health Clinic (OHC), University Health Service, Tang Center. The requirements of the UCB OHP are based on the guidelines of the National Research Council's "Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals," and "Occupational Health And Safety in the Care and Use of Research Animals."

Who Should Participate?

Participation in the OHP is open to, and encouraged for, all University employees, faculty and students who are in contact with laboratory mammals, birds or autopsy specimens. It is also recommended for anyone who traps or handles wild animals in conjunction with field studies. Faculty members who submit Master Animal Use Protocols must list the names of all individuals working under their supervision. A letter describing the OHP, including the requirements and recommendations for participation, is sent to each listed individual when the protocol is initially approved, and reissued with each annual renewal.

Faculty members who use certain species are required to provide the ACUC with the names of all personnel working under their supervision who may be exposed to these animals, their tissues or body fluids. Each of these individuals receives a letter explaining the requirement to participate in the OHP. The OHC verifies to the ACUC, on a monthly basis, the enrollment of these individuals in the OHP.

Contact with laboratory animals or insect colonies can present unique health concerns including infectious disease risks and allergic reactions. Because of these concerns, participation in the Animal Handlers’ Medical Screening Program at the Occupational Health Clinic is strongly recommended for any faculty, staff, or student who

~ has contact with animals, including insects (and/or their tissues, fluids or waste products)
~ traps or handles wild animals in the field and wishes to discuss infectious disease prevention or other related health issues
~ has health symptoms or concerns related to animal exposure, especially persons with allergic histories (hay fever, asthma, skin reactions)

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should consult with the Occupational Health physician prior to exposure to animals or hazardous agents.

Is There a Charge to Participate in the Program?

Any faculty, staff, or student working with, or exposed to, animals (including insects) is eligible to participate in this medical screening program at no charge to them.

Animal/Insect Handlers Questionnaire ~ Assessing Your Risk

To help assess the possible risks and hazards associated with your particular exposure to animals, including insects, please download and complete the Animal Handlers' Medical Screening Questionnaire and return it via campus mail to the Occupational Health Clinic.