Department of Biology
Occupational Health
Immunisation
Immunisation and regular booster injections should be given, if appropriate, as a supplementary safety precaution for those who may be exposed to pathogenic microorganisms. Immunity levels should be checked before or after immunisation where this is provided as a control measure against infection.
The University's Occupational Health Advisor (Tel: 01904 324608, Email: occupational-health@york.ac.uk) is available to give confidential advice to individuals that may require immunisation.
Tetanus:
All staff and students are strongly advised to check with their General Practitioner that they have had a full course of Tetanus. This is particularly important for those whose work may bring them into contact with soil and animals.
Hepatitis B:
Laboratory workers processing samples containing human blood and body fluids are recommended to receive Hepatitis B immunisation or have their immunisation and immunity status reviewed. This can be arranged by contacting Occupational Health (Tel: 01904 324608, Email: occupational-health@york.ac.uk).
Health Surveillance
What is it and when is it applied?
Health surveillance basically involves monitoring an individual's health and is typically applied if working with a hazardous substance (including biological agents):
- that produces an identifiable disease or adverse health effect that can be related to exposure
- where there is reasonable likelihood that the disease or effect may occur under the conditions of work
- for which there are valid techniques for detecting the disease or effect
The GMO Regulations do not include a specific requirement for health surveillance for GM work.
The University's Occupational Health Advisor (ext 4608) should be contacted for further information or advice on health surveillance requirements.
Health Surveillance for Animal Workers
All staff and postgraduate research workers must register for health surveillance before working with animals. This involves:
- pre-employment screening
- health monitoring (after 6 weeks, 3 months followed by yearly) involving health questionnaire and lung function test