Risk Assessment for Student Research

The Preventive Medicine department is responsible for managing the risk assessments for students involved in research throughout OSU. Unpaid students who have regular direct contact with a variety of common biological agents, chemicals, laboratory/domestic/wild animals, and other hazards are required to participate in the online risk assessment and clearance process. 

The online risk assessment tool (ORAT) is managed by the Offices of Research and Environmental Health and Safety. Students will receive instructions to complete an ORAT profile from their lab supervisor and upon completion, the profile gets forwarded to SHS for review and processing. The ORAT allows us to identify, evaluate, manage, and reduce the potential health risks associated with the exposure risks of the research environment.

Students enrolled in the ORAT will be asked to complete the Animal/Biological Agents Contact and Use questionnaire, which will provide us with additional information regarding your medical history and current vaccination status. If it is determined that the student needs additional vaccines, tests, or screenings to participate in their research as safely as possible, they will be asked to schedule an appointment at Student Health Services to receive the required medical services.

All required vaccines, testing, or health screening charges for student researchers will be paid by departmental funding. Failure to complete the required medical services will be reported and could result in exclusion from the laboratory.

* Students who are paid for working with animals, such as Graduate Associates, are considered university employees and receive risk assessment services from Ohio State Employee Health 614-293-8146.

Notify a health-care provider immediately if you develop any symptoms associated with animal contact. Student Life Student Health Services evaluates acute problems during our normal business hours. After-hours care may be sought at a hospital emergency department or urgent care center. Share with the provider as much information as possible, including the source of injury and/or exposure and the species of animal/any known pathogens involved.