Health, Well-Being, and Safety Resources
Brandeis is committed to the health, well-being and safety of its faculty and staff. The following are some of the many services offered to care for our community.
Spotlight on Well-being
Let's enjoy the summer sun safely. While some some sun exposure is needed for vitamin D production, overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can result in sunburn, as well as lead to more serious health problems, including skin cancer, premature aging of the skin, cataracts and other eye damage, and immune system suppression. Take a moment to review ways to keep yourself safe and healthy this summer.
Sun Safety Tips
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends these action steps to help you be Sun Safe.- Do NOT Burn: Sunburns significantly increase one's lifetime risk of developing skin cancer, especially for children.
- Avoid Sun Tanning and Tanning Beds: UV radiation from tanning beds and the sun causes skin cancer and wrinkling.
- Generously Apply Sunscreen: Generously apply about one ounce of sunscreen to cover all exposed skin 15 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 and provide broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, when possible.
- Seek Shade: Seek shade when possible, and remember that the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow and Sand: Water, snow and sand reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
- Check the UV Index: The UV Index provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities in ways that prevent sun overexposure. The UV Index forecast is issued daily by the National Weather Service and EPA.
- Get Vitamin D Safely: Get Vitamin D safely through a diet that includes vitamin supplements and foods fortified with Vitamin D. Don't seek the sun.
Understanding the UV Index. The UV Index forecasts the strength of UV rays each day. If the UV index is 3 or higher in your area, protect your skin from too much exposure to the sun.
Understanding Sun Protection
Sunscreens are topical preparations containing filters that reflect or absorb radiation in the ultraviolet (UV) wavelength range. The sun protection factor (SPF) measures the sunscreen's ability to protect against a sunburn reaction. Only sunscreen products that pass the FDA's test for protection against both UVA and UVB rays will be labeled as "broad spectrum."
All individuals, regardless of skin color, are subject to the potential adverse effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and will benefit from sunscreen use. However, sunscreens are especially useful for individuals with light skin who are more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the choice of sunscreen products that have sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, broad-spectrum coverage, and water or sweat resistance. Sunscreens must be applied liberally, repeatedly, and to all sun-exposed parts of the skin to provide effective protection.
The "teaspoon rule" — Apply approximately 1 teaspoon of sunscreen to the face and neck area, a total of 2 teaspoons to the front and back torso, 1 teaspoon to each upper extremity, and 2 teaspoons to each lower extremity. Sunscreens should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the formation of a protective film on the skin. Reapplication at least every two hours is necessary.
Sun-safe clothing is another effective way to avoid UV radiation. It's one of the simplest way to stay safe and you never need to reapply.
Sun Related Health Conditions
Skin Cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United State although it’s considered to be preventable. More than 3.5 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed annually.
- Melanomas are the most serious form of skin cancer, is now one of the most common cancers among adolescents and young adults ages 15-29. While melanoma accounts for about three percent of skin cancer cases, it causes more than 75 percent of skin cancer deaths.
- Non-melanoma skin cancers are less deadly than melanomas. Nevertheless, they can spread if left untreated, causing disfigurement and more serious health problems. There are two primary types of non-melanoma skin cancers: basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. If caught and treated early, these two cancers are rarely fatal.
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Learn the ABCDEs of Moles.
- A is for asymmetrical shape. Look for moles with irregular shapes, such as two very different-looking halves.
- B is for irregular border. Look for moles with irregular, notched or scalloped borders — characteristics of melanomas.
- C is for changes in color. Look for growths that have many colors or an uneven distribution of color.
- D is for diameter. Look for new growth in a mole larger than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters).
- E is for evolving. Look for changes over time, such as a mole that grows in size or that changes color or shape. Moles may also evolve to develop new signs and symptoms, such as new itchiness or bleeding.
Premature Aging and Other Skin Damage. Other UV-related skin disorders include actinic keratoses and premature aging of the skin. Actinic keratoses are skin growths that occur on body areas exposed to the sun. The face, hands, forearms, and the “V” of the neck are especially susceptible to this type of lesion. Look for raised, reddish, rough-textured growths and seek prompt medical attention if you discover them. Chronic exposure to the sun also causes premature aging, which over time can make the skin become thick, wrinkled, and leathery. With proper protection from UV radiation, most premature aging of the skin can be avoided.
Cataracts and Other Eye Damage. Cataracts are a form of eye damage in which a loss of transparency in the lens of the eye clouds vision. If left untreated, cataracts can lead to blindness. Research has shown that UV radiation increases the likelihood of certain cataracts. Other kinds of eye damage include pterygium (tissue growth that can block vision), skin cancer around the eyes, and degeneration of the macula (the part of the retina where visual perception is most acute). All of these problems can be lessened with proper eye protection. Look for sunglasses, glasses or contact lenses if you wear them, that offer 99 to 100 percent UV protection.
Immune System Suppression. Scientists have found that overexposure to UV radiation may suppress proper functioning of the body’s immune system and the skin’s natural defenses. overexposure to UV radiation can weaken the immune system, reducing the skin’s ability to protect against these invaders.
Resources to Know
- Get your sunscreen by using your Brandeis HSA to purchase eligible products.
- Be sure to get your annual physical with your PCP and get regular skin checks.
- Get discounted sun hats, glasses, and shirts through the Brandeis Discount Marketplace.
Accident and Injury Reporting
- Ensure you and those around you are safe
- Call Public Safety (781-736-3333) for first aid, help, or there are other hazards
- Call Occupational Health (781-736-8769) with questions or for additional support
- Notify your supervisor
- Get checked out - please contact your primary care provider or be evaluated by a local urgent care or emergency room
- Complete the accident/injury report. Please use the link to create an accident/injury report.
Brandeis Contacts
- Public Safety Emergency: (781)736-3333
- Public Safety Non-Emergency: (781)736-5000
- Occupational Health: Suzanne Raj, occhealth@brandeis.edu, (781)736-8769
- Worker's Compensation: Renee Relerford, reneerelerford@brandeis.edu, (781)736-4451
- Environmental Health & Safety: Andrew Finn, afinn@brandeis.edu, (781) 736-4262
- Facilities: Monday-Friday 7 AM- 4:30 PM (781)736-8500. Weekends, Holidays and After Hours (781)736-5000
Local Urgent Care
AFC Urgent Care Waltham: 1030 Main St · (781) 894-6900
Monday - Sunday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Newton-Wellesley Hospital Waltham Walk-In: 9 Hope Ave · (617) 243-5590 Mondays - Friday: 10 AM - 6 PM, Saturday & Sunday: CLOSED
PhysicianOne Urgent Care Waltham: 1019 Trapelo Rd · (860) 650-3848 Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 8 PM, Weekends and Holidays: 9 AM- 5 PM
Emergency Rooms
Newton-Wellesley Hospital- Main Campus: 2014 Washington St. Newton, MA 02462 · (617) 243-6193.
Other Numbers to Know
- Poisoning or Chemical Exposure Hotline: 1-800-222-1222
- Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure: Wash exposed and seek medical evaluation immediately.
- Injured at Work Quick Sheet Download (pdf)
- Hoja Rápida Sobre las Lesiones en el Trabajo (pdf).
Accommodation for Nursing Individuals
Brandeis supports its employees with young families. Nursing individuals are offered adequate break times and private spaces to express milk for their babies.
Massachusetts Laws: Nursing At Work
The federal PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act protects all nursing employees, but Massachusetts already has a strong workplace lactation accommodation law. The Massachusetts Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (2018) requires employers with six or more employees to provide all breastfeeding employees with reasonable break time and a space (other than a bathroom) to pump. In addition, the law stipulates that the lactation space must include electrical outlets, table, and a place to sit. Read the law: Chapter 54 of the Acts of 2017.
Dedicated lactation rooms:
- 60 Turner Street 1st floor, space 132-113A
- 51 Sawyer Road 2nd floor, space 160-247
- Goldfarb Library Room 69-41A
- This room is kept locked. To access the room a key can be checked out at the library’s information desk with your Brandeis ID. For reservations, please contact library-lactation@brandeis.edu. You may need to ask for directions after obtaining the key as the room is a little tricky to find. The room can accommodate two individuals at one time. The key should be returned to the information desk after use. The room is equipped with a refrigerator and microwave (for sterilization) with a sink nearby.
- Leo Gerstenzang Library of Science Room 128
- This room is kept locked. To access the room, contact graduateaffairs@brandeis.edu. The room is located in the science complex through the Student Lounge area and through room 127 accessible with your ID card. Walk through the quiet study area and you will see room 128 on your right. This room can accommodate three people at one time. Kitchen area is next door with access to a refrigerator, microwave (for sterilization) and sink.
- Rabb Graduate Center Room 118
- This room is kept locked. To access the room a key can be checked out with reservations by contacting pannella@brandeis.edu in the English department. The room is equipped with a refrigerator, a microwave (for sterilization) and numerous electrical outlets with a sink nearby.
*Individuals must bring their own breast pumps
External Nursing Support Resources
COVID-19
End of Public Health Emergency. The federal government has ended the COVID-19 Public
Health Emergency declaration, meaning COVID-19 surveillance testing, contact tracing and
COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are no longer a requirement. In alignment with the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Brandeis University has ceased our COVID-19 contact
tracing efforts. Updated May 11, 2023.
COVID Vaccination Recommendations. COVID-19 vaccine recommendations have been updated
to recommend adults ages 65 years and over receive an additional updated 2023-2024 COVID-
19 vaccine dose. Brandeis COVID-19 Vaccination Policy. Updated February 28, 2024.
Illness Management. CDC advises that COVID be managed similarly to other viral respiratory
illnesses. Stay home and away from others (including people you live with who are not sick) if
you have symptoms of common respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV
that aren't better explained by another cause. These symptoms can include fever, chills, fatigue,
cough, runny nose, and headache, among others. Updated March 1, 2024.
If you test positive for COVID-19 or believe you have a viral respiratory illness.
You can go back to your normal activities when, for at least 24 hours, both are true:
- Your symptoms are getting better overall, and
- You have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication).
When you go back to your normal activities, take added precaution over the next 5 days, such as taking additional steps for cleaner air, hygiene, masks, physical distancing, and/or testing when you will be around other people indoors.
Keep in mind that you may still be able to spread the virus that made you sick, even if you are feeling better. You are likely to be less contagious at this time, depending on factors like how long you were sick or how sick you were.
If you develop a fever or you start to feel worse after you have gone back to normal activities, stay home and away from others again until, for at least 24 hours, both are true: your symptoms are improving overall, and you have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication). Then take added precaution for the next 5 days.
Employee Assistance Program
We are pleased to announce that starting January 1st Brandeis will be partnering with KGA as our new Employee Assistance Program. KGA offers 24/7 access to a network of experts providing support for mental health, childcare, eldercare, legal, financial issues and more. KGA’s confidential services are available to you and your adult household members, at no cost to you. You do not need to receive benefits through Brandeis to access this resource. This resource is available to all Brandeis employees.
Call 1-800-648-9557or visit the website.
Log-in password: brandeis
Health and Well-being Resources
Nutrition Coaching
Nutrition Coaching provides Brandeis students, faculty, and staff with a convenient and affordable opportunity to meet their health goals. Brandeis Athletics' nutrition coach is nationally certified through NASM and is prepared to assist you in Weight Loss (losing fat), Weight gain (gaining healthy fat and muscle), Body Recomposition (losing fat and gaining/preserving muscle), and Performance enhancement (improving diet to maximize athletic performance).
Recreational and Social Activities
Brandeis University Staff Advisory Committee sponsors a number of social and recreational activities for Faculty and Staff.
Mental Health Support
- Employee Assistance Program
Contact our employee assistance program (KGA) for free, confidential counseling that is available 24 hours a day, every day. Call 800-648-9557 or visit the website. Login password: brandeis - SAMHSA’s National Helpline, also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service. They are confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, substance use, and information service, in English and Spanish. They can also be reached via phone at 1-800-662-HELP (4357), or TTY: 1-800-487-4889.
- NAMI HelpLine, National Alliance on Mental Illness. NAMI provides advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives. They can also be reached Monday through Friday, 10 am–6 pm, ET. 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
- Finding Mental Health Support in Massachusetts: The Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) can connect you directly to clinical help, when and where you need it. Even if you’re not sure what kind of help or treatment you may need, they can help guide you. Available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year (including holidays).
- Call or text 833-773-2445
- Live chat available at: https://www.masshelpline.com/
- Crisis Resources:
- Samaritans Statewide Helpline: 1-877-870-4673
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 OR Dial 988
- EAP, New Horizons: 800-828-6025
- Health Insurance Behavioral Health Service Navigation: Trying to understand your health insurance's Behavioral Health benefits? Most health plans provide coverage for outpatient counseling and inpatient behavioral health services. Learn more about what most health insurance providers in Massachusetts cover:
Physical Fitness Resources
Physical Fitness Resources
- Fitness at Home
- Gosman Sports and Convocation Center
- Group Exercise Classes
- Personal Training
- Aquatics
Tufts Health Plan Fitness Reimbursement Program
Faculty, staff, and postdocs enrolled in a Tufts health plan are eligible for a reimbursement of up to $150 per family, per benefit year for fitness center membership fees and/or exercise classes. Tufts Health Plan Member Fitness Rebate Form
Staff Emergency Loan Program
The University is committed to supporting our staff with comprehensive benefits, programs and
services. We recognize that there may be times when a staff member experiences a significant and
unexpected personal emergency that creates a financial burden or crisis. To assist staff in these cases, the University offers eligible staff an emergency loan program.
The program is designed to provide a loan to the staff member to help cover the costs of the emergencies when they take place. The details of the program include:
Eligibility:
- All benefits eligible staff with at least 6 months of continuous service.
Program Structure:
- One interest free loan request per year.
- Payment terms - 12 months.
- Loan agreement - repayment via payroll. Up to amount - $5,000 (based on need).
- Loan must be paid in full if termination occurs prior to full repayment.
- Approval of an emergency loan is not guaranteed and is subject to the reasons for the request and/or the funds available in the program.
Examples of unexpected personal emergencies may include:
- Fire or natural disaster to the employee’s residence.
- A medical emergency not covered by medical insurance.
- The costs associated with an unanticipated family emergency (death; parent, spouse or child stranded out of state due to a non-self-directed event).
- Domestic emergency (domestic violence, incarceration of a custodial child, court-mandated change in custody of a child).
- Unexpected and significant repairs of an employee’s vehicle, if the vehicle is used as the primary mode of transportation to work.
- Impending eviction from one's residence through no flagrant fault of the employee.
Spiritual Well-being
Religious services
Religious services are held throughout the year at the Berlin (Jewish), Bethlehem (Catholic) and Harlan (Protestant) chapels as well as the Dharmic prayer and meditation space and Muslim prayer space on campus. Schedules and more information are available at the Center for Spiritual Life website.
Workplace Safety
- CPR, Stop the Bleed, & Overdose Prevention Training
- Emergency Preparedness
- Environmental Health and Safety
- Drug-free and Alcohol free Workplace
- Smoking
- Workplace Violence Prevention and Workplace Conduct
- Prevent Heat Illness at Work
- Prevenir las Enfermedades Relacionadas con el Calor
- Occupational Health and Safety Trainings
Workspace Assessment
Ergonomics is the process of designing or arranging workplaces, products and systems so that they fit the people who use them.
An ergonomic assessment is an assessment of a workstation to ensure correct working postures and workstation set-up. A good ergonomic assessment is done to reduce uncomfortable postures, repetitive tasks, and straining of the body.
Important Numbers
Type of Concern | Contact | Phone / Email |
---|---|---|
Immediate Harm or Threat, Medical Emergency, Fire, Chemical Spill | Public Safety |
781-736-3333 781-736-5000 (non-emergency) |
Sexual assault, sexual harassment, dating/domestic violence and stalking |
800-841-8371(24/7 Hotline)
|
|
Environmental or Waste, General Questions | Andrew Finn, Manager of Environmental Health & Safety |
781-736-4262 |
Hazardous Waste Pickups, Containers, Labels. Waste Area Setup | Hazardous Waste Hotline | 781-736-2561 |
General Employee Health or Safety Concerns and Questions | Suzanne Raj, Manager of Occupational Health |
781-736-8769 |
- 2024 Summer Employee Appreciation Series
- Who We Are
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- Total Rewards Philosophy for Staff
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- Health, Well-Being, and Safety Resources
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Resources for Current Employees
- Summer 2024 Employee Appreciation Series
- Spotlight on Well-being: Mental Health
- Employee Assistance Program
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