Medical examinations may be offered initially and periodically during employment and at the time of termination or retirement, in accordance with DOE guidance. Employees engaged in potentially dangerous occupations, such as firemen and those working with certain hazardous substances (e.g., lead, asbestos, or carcinogens), are enrolled in the Medical Surveillance Program. For employees voluntarily participating in the Medical Surveillance Program, the Health Services staff determines both the medical measurements and observations required and the frequency of health evaluations, based on identified potential hazards and risks. Women who are or plan to become pregnant should consult Health Services about their work environment.
A medical service facility is maintained in Building 26 to treat injuries and minor illnesses and to advise employees of medical conditions that should be discussed with or treated by an outside personal physician. Supervisors must require their employees to report as soon as possible all injuries and illnesses that occur at work so that medical evaluation and treatment may be provided promptly and effectively. On returning to work after a work-related injury/illness resulting in lost time, employees must report to Health Services for an evaluation of their condition and ability to resume customary duties. For nonoccupational health problems, employees are required to contact Health Services if five or more consecutive workdays have been lost or if a work restriction is needed.
Safety glasses are available to all employees and are required at certain potentially hazardous work sites, such as the mechanical shops and laser laboratories. Eye examinations by an optometrist are provided at low cost to employees needing prescription safety glasses.
Employees who are experiencing problems, including those related to family difficulties, substance abuse, legal and financial concerns, personal adjustments, emotional trauma, and their jobs, can secure confidential counseling and/or referrals to appropriate resources. The Employee Assistance Program is an off-site program provided by the University of California Health Center (the Tang Center) of the Berkeley campus. See RPM §2.05(G) (Employee Assistance Program). Employees and managers seeking Employee Assistance Program services may contact the University of California Berkeley Employee Assistance Program directly.
The Laboratory maintains a blood bank in cooperation with the Alameda–Contra Costa Medical Association Blood Bank. The Laboratory blood bank is for the benefit of employees, members of their families, and close relatives. All employees who meet the blood bank requirements for donors are urged to donate blood during the periodic blood drives held at the Laboratory. Information regarding use of the blood bank or donations may be obtained from the Health Services Group, which administers this program.
The Optometry Clinic of the School of Optometry on the University of California Berkeley campus provides eye examinations to students, employees, and the general public. When glasses are prescribed, they may be purchased from the clinic, if desired. For additional information and appointments, call the School of Optometry.
Employees may have certain types of dental work performed by dental students
at the Dental Clinic of the University of California Medical Center in San Francisco.
Additional information may be obtained from the Dental Clinic.