OHSS Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access OHSS?
Either log in directly at ehs.ucop.edu/ohss or through the EH&S Animal Research web page (http://ehs.ucsc.edu/programs/research-safety/animal-research/index.html). You will need your Cruz ID gold password to log in.
What medical information do I need to have to access the application?
A copy of your medical history and immunizations dates.
Who needs to complete the occupational health process?
All UCSC faculty, staff or students working with animals and listed on a full contact protocol. Volunteers and non-affiliates who are not covered by an Occupational Health System at another institution may also need to participate. If you have questions about whether you need to participate, please contact Environmental Health & Safety at biosafety@ucsc.edu or 459-2553.
I don’t have a UCSC login, how do I access the system?
If you don’t have a UCSC login, you may need a Sundry Account. Sundry Accounts are issued to people affiliated with the campus who need a CruzID and are not faculty, staff, or students. Sundry Accounts require a UCSC sponsor.
Is my health Information being protected?
Yes. The flow of information through OHSS allows Personal Health Information to only be shared with the medical provider, and the data is stored on secured servers.
Will my health status be revealed to my supervisor?
No. A system firewall prevents PIs or Supervisors from discovering any individual health information. The only information appropriate for the Supervisor is whether or not an individual has been medically cleared to work on the project in question.
In the rare event that additional safety concerns are identified on the questionnaire, the Supervisor would only be told what steps they need to accomplish to permit the employee to safely work in the environment. However, personal information would NOT be shared with them.
Why is this information required?
Under Campus policy, everyone who works with animals, biological agents, or other hazardous agents or materials must be enrolled in the campus Occupational Health Surveillance program. This requirement protects employees and helps educate Supervisors, Principal Investigators, and their employees about the health risks associated with work conducted in their facilities. The information also provides the Occupational Health physician an opportunity to counsel Supervisors and Participants on the best ways to minimize the health impacts of any of the risks, and to establish health care programs for employees at the highest risk.
What can I expect once I complete the application process?
Participants can expect any of the following:
- Approval to work for increments of 3 months, 6 months, one year, or (most commonly) three years.
- A referral for consultation and further assessment.
- Recommendations for immunizations, respirator fit test, or other services based on risk and health history of the Participant.
What are the benefits of OHSS?
- Minimizes the risk of improper handling of Personal Identifiable Information
- Ensures all mandatory information is captured in one system
- Houses OHSS status information in one central location
- Streamlines the process of being integrated into a protocol
Where can I find additional information?
To learn more about the Occupational Health Surveillance System, click here. You can also visit the EH&S Animal Research web page at http://ehs.ucsc.edu/programs/research-safety/animal-research/index.html, contact EH&S via email at biosafety@ucsc.edu, or call EH&S at 459-2553.
