HomeMy WebLinkAboutRESOLUTION - 74-93 - 12/14/1993 - VILLAGE SAFETY MANUAL ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 74-93
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE VILLAGE
OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE SAFETY MANUAL
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the President and Board of Trustees
of the Village of Elk Grove Village, Counties of Cook and DuPage, State of
Illinois as follows:
Section 1 : That the President and Board of Trustees do hereby adopt
the document entitled:
VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE
SAFETY MANUAL
a copy of which is attached hereto and made a part hereof as if fully set
forth.
Section 2: That this Resolution shall be in full force and effect
from and after its passage and approval according to law.
PASSED this 14th day of December 1993.
APPROVED this 14th day of December 1993.
Dennis J. Gallitano
Village President
ATTEST:
Patricia S. Smith
Village Clerk
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INTRODUCTION
This manual shall be used to inform Village employees about the
policies that are the basis for the Village' s occupational safety
program. Additional safety procedures not included in this manual
may be issued by each individual department and will apply to all
employees of that respective department . Safety procedures for
specialized tasks performed solely by one particular department
will be prepared by the individual department head and will be
issued only to employees performing those tasks . It is emphasized
that all employees shall comply with each department' s rules
whether they are included here or not .
This manual is divided into sections, each concerned with a
particular type of task, equipment, operation, or hazard so that it
will be easy to read, understands, and follow. As new sections or
amendments are published, they will be distributed for inclusion in
your manual .
This manual establishes a series of goals for the safety
consciousness and performance of Village employees . Village
personnel are directed to follow these rules in all situations
where adherence to the rules will achieve the goal of safer working
conditions and loss prevention. Knowledge of the rules contained
within the safety manual are the responsibility of each employee .
In the event that an employee is ordered by a Supervisor to carry
out a function in a manner which is contrary to these rules, it
shall be the responsibility of the person so ordered to bring this
matter to the attention of the Supervisor. Employees may not rely
upon the presence of this safety manual to establish standards
relating to their working conditions where, without protest , they
fail to perform their work in accordance with this safety manual .
Department Heads and Supervisors are to use this manual as a
supplement to the Village and Departmental rules and regulations to
fulfill the safety policy goals .
Department Heads are to make safety a matter of continuing concern,
equal in importance to all other operational considerations . They
are to develop and administer an active departmental safety
program. The program sets standards every employee must accept if
it is to be successful . All employees are charged with the
responsibility of cooperating with and supporting the safety
i
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program objective.
Every employee is expected to concern himself or herself with their
own safety, the safety of their fellow workers, and the safety of
the general public affected by Village functions . This means
willing acceptance and active support of approved safety rules and
procedures .
It is important that employees be constantly on the alert for
potential work hazards which are not referred to in any written
practices , but which may exist ,and can result in injuries or
property damage. When potential hazards are thought to exist,
employees should use all known safety procedures and when doubt
exists as to the proper procedure to follow, employees should
notify their supervisor before proceeding with the work as
circumstances or conditions allow.
Accidents don' t happen; they are caused. They are caused because
someone failed to do something that should have been done, or
because a hazard was not recognized. These are human failures
which can be controlled. By employing safe procedures, every
employee has an opportunity to prevent accidents. By passing on
this knowledge to others, the employee demonstrates job skill and
team work. By requiring safe performance and enforcing approved
safety procedures, the Supervisor demonstrates concern for his or
her employees' welfare . Accident prevention is the most important
responsibility any of us have.
HERE IS A POSITIVE SIDE OF SAFETY
1 . Safety is a matter of COMMON SENSE acceptance of procedures
developed through experience for your protection.
2 . The SAFE way to do a job is the most EFFICIENT way.
3 . SAFE performance - a good safety record - is a mark of JOB
SKILL.
4 . Shortcuts that ignore safety usually take more time than save
time .
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CHAPTER 2
LOSS CONTROL RESPONSIBILITY
All Village employees are responsible for observing and
implementing the provisions of the Safety and Loss Prevention
Program. The following responsibilities are minimum examples of
each group' s level of responsibility and they should in no way
limit individual initiative.
Village Manacrer
The Village Manager has the overall responsibility for implementing
the Safety and Loss Control Program for the Village, which
includes :
1 . Appointing a Safety Coordinator to be responsible for the
administration of the Loss Control Program for the Village.
2 . Appointing a Loss Control Committee composed of
representatives from Departments named in Chapter 3 ,
3 . Ensuring each Department Head has the utmost sincerity in
employee safety and a clear understanding of the duties and
responsibilities regarding loss control .
4 . Reviewing each serious and disabling accident to ensure that
the causes are being investigated and proper corrective action
is being taken to prevent recurrence.
5 . Reviewing Loss Prevention Program activities with Department
Heads and Safety Coordinator to evaluate the program' s
effectiveness at the department level .
6 . Establish goals and objectives for the Loss Control Program.
Safety Coordinator
The Safety Coordinator is responsible for the administration of the
Loss Control Program. Duties include:
1 . Serve as Chairman of the Loss Control Committee, and present
recommendations where necessary to the Village Manager for
approval and implementation of loss control related
activities.
2 . Develop and maintain the Loss Control Program to help prevent
occupational injuries and diseases, damage to vehicles,
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equipment and property. and general liability claims .
3 . Consult with employees on Loss Control matters and provide the
guidance necessary to assure the effective administration of
the Loss Control Program.
4 . Prepare summaries of accidents and losses for the Village
Manager and/or the Loss Control Committee . These summaries
should include comprehensive records relating to
accident/injury experience and associated costs . Analysis of
trends noted as well as problem areas and overall safety
performance should be included in reports to the Village
Manager and Loss Control Committee.
S . Conduct follow-up investigations, when deemed necessary by the
Village Manager, to ensure that unsafe conditions or practices
identified by the Loss Control Committee or Department Heads
have been properly corrected.
6 . Inform Department Heads and supervisory personnel about the
status of matters affecting the Loss Control Program in their
specific area.
7 . Periodically evaluate department compliance with the Loss
Control Program, including the inspection of facilities for
hazardous conditions and practices.
8 . Coordinate compliance with Federal, State and local safety
laws .
9. Coordinate safety training and education of all Village
employees .
10 . Establish goals and objectives for the loss control program
each year.
Department Heads
Each Department Head has the full responsibility and authority for
maintaining a safe and healthful working environment for the
Department' s employees, and for complying with federal, state and
local safety regulations and requirements . Each Department Head
should:
1 . Be responsible for developing the necessary safety procedures,
for promoting the safety of department employees and the
general public.
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2 . Actively develop and support safety programs to include
accident prevention techniques such as accident investigation
procedures, hazard recognition, establishment of a
departmental safety committee and the communication and
enforcement of work safety rules .
3 . Monitor the need for job safety training programs and provide
follow-up training regarding unsafe conditions or hazards .
4 . Evaluate the safety performance of all who report to them and
review and evaluate all safety training received by employees
under that person' s control, documenting all training which
their employees receive . If documentation of past training is
not on hand, follow-up safety training in the use of
apparatus, equipment, or procedures should be undertaken.
5 . Cooperate with and assist Chairman of Loss Prevention to
implement the policies of this manual and to develop and
administer an effective Departmental Safety Program.
6 . When employee is requested to attend a Loss Prevention
Committee meeting because of a related injury or accident the
Department Head shall accompany the employee .
Supervisory Personnel
The supervisor has the greatest responsibility in the success of
the Loss Control Program. A supervisor has the responsibility for
the safety of his/her employees and the safe operation of machines
and equipment within that person' s operating area. Loss Control
responsibilities for supervisors include:
1 . Enforcement of safety procedures which apply to the work they
supervise .
2 . Provide adequate job training and safety instruction to all
employees under that person' s supervision. All training shall
be fully documented on a training report and include the
signature of all employees who participated.
3 . Be held accountable for injuries, collisions, and liabilities
caused by his or her employees while on the job and under the
direct supervision of that person.
4 . Ensure that all management policies developed in regards to
loss control/safety are fully implemented, and work toward
maximizing the safety and efficiency of every job under the
control of the supervisor.
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5 . Provide continuing safety instruction on daily work
assignments to focus attention upon potential hazards and
changes in work conditions or procedures .
6 . Continually observe and evaluate work conditions and
procedures to detect and correct unsafe conditions and
practices.
7 . Promptly and thoroughly investigate all accidents and
recommend corrective action. Documentation of this activity
is essential and should be followed up by the Department Head
or his designate.
B . Ensure that all necessary safety equipment and protective
devices are provided to each employee .
9 . Ensure that all the necessary safety equipment and protective
devices for each job are used by all employees. This is an
essential part of a supervisor's job.
Employees
It is the responsibility of all supervisors to assure the safe
working conditions and activities of all employees . However, the
general responsibility of all employees is to be aware of and
comply with all safety procedures and standard work rules and
regulations . The intention is to prevent injury and/or reduce
hazards to the employees, fellow employees, municipal property and
the general public .
As part of this responsibility, the employees shall promptly report
to the supervisor any and all injuries, accidents, and "near
misses . " They shall also report any work place hazards noted.
Employees should be encouraged to mention these concerns to their
supervisors. No employee should work in any situation or under any
condition that they believe is hazardous to the health or safety of
themselves, other employees or the general public . General safety
responsibilities of the employees include maintaining good
housekeeping principles, proper utilization of required personal
Protective equipment and apparatus, and cooperation in job safety
training.
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CHAPTER 3
LOSS PREVENTION COMMITTEE
Executive Loss Prevention Committee
Structure/Members
The Executive Loss Prevention Committee shall be comprised of all
Village Department Heads and the _Chairman of the Loss Prevention
Committee.
Meetings of the Executive Loss Prevention Committee shall be called
by the Village Manager. The Committee shall meet as determined by
the Village Manager to discuss the following:
1 . The annual evaluation of the Loss Prevention Program as
prepared by the Village' s self-insured third party
administrator;
2 . The development and implementation of plans and programs by
the Loss Prevention Committee; and,
3 . Any other items of business as deemed necessary by the Village
Manager.
The goals of the Executive Loss Prevention Committee are to enhance
communications between the Department Heads and the Loss Prevention
Committee and to develop plans for implementing recommendations
made by the Loss Prevention Committee .
The Secretary of the Loss Prevention Committee shall also serve as
the Secretary of the Executive Loss Prevention Committee .
The Loss Prevention Committee
The Loss Prevention Committee will be comprised of representatives
from the following departments.
1 . Administrative/Community Services/Health
2 . Engineering & Community Development
3 . Fire Department
4 . Police Department
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S . Public Works Department
The Village Manager will appoint a Committee Chairman to serve as
Safety Coordinator from these representatives. The Chairman of the
Loss Prevention Committee will serve as the Safety Coordinator. A
representative from the Village' s insurance administrator will
serve as an ex-officio member of the committee .
The Loss Prevention Committee will meet monthly or as otherwise
determined by the Committee Chairman.
Responsibilities
The Loss Prevention Committee will fulfill the following functions :
1 . Plan and recommend policies and procedures affecting the
development and administration of the Loss Control Program for
all Village employees .
2 . Develop and maintain a Safety Manual which will include the
following:
a. Loss Prevention Policy;
b. Organization and membership of the Committee;
C. Program Implementation Statement .
3 . Review statistical data, records and reports of safety matters
to determine the effectiveness of overall accident prevention
efforts and develop recommendations for improvement .
4 . Obtain and distribute information from reliable safety
research sources concerning: new operations; techniques;
clothing; mechanical protective devices; safety protective
equipment; and safety engineering specifications in purchase
of new equipment .
S . Conduct investigations when necessary of accidents and
injuries occurring during Village work operations to determine
causes and preventative measures . Submit reports and
recommendations to the Village Manager and appropriate
Department Heads .
6 . Make recommendations concerning safety promotional efforts and
provide for communication of solutions to safety problems so
that all departments may benefit from shared experience .
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7 . Maintain minutes of meetings and distribute them to the
Village Manager and each Department Head. A central file of
minutes shall be maintained by the Safety Coordinator.
B . Review safety suggestions presented by Department Heads and
employees and consider them for possible implementation on a
Village-wide basis.
9 . Discuss problems and ideas concerning general and/or specific
loss prevention efforts .
10 . Conduct a program of safety* inspections to eliminate unsafe
working conditions or practices, to control health hazards,
and to comply fully with the safety and health standards for
every job, in concert with each department .
11 . Prepare summaries of accidents for the Village Manager and
Department Heads . The summaries shall include the records of
accidents and injuries experienced and related costs .
12 . Assist Department Heads in preparing departmental safety rules
and planning safety programs.
13 . Promote clear understanding of the safety program and its
objectives .
14 . Evaluate departmental compliance with the Loss Control
Program. Make inspections of facilities to determine that
safe working conditions exist . Make checks of field and shop
areas to ensure worker compliance with Village safety rules .
Report recommendations and noncompliance to the Village
Manager and Department Head.
15 . Review and update the Village' s Safety Rules and Regulations .
16 . Coordinate Village compliance with federal, state and local
safety laws .
17 . Recruit a secretary from among the various Departments who
will not be a member of the Committee.
Effective Loss Prevention Committee Meetings
Effective Loss Prevention meetings require thorough planning and
effort . Notices of meetings, preferably accompanied by an agenda,
should be sent to each member of the committee in a timely fashion.
The frequency of meetings varies, depending upon the type of
committee and the program. There should be sufficient items of
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business for at least one meeting per quarter.
Meetings should be conducted according to the generally accepted
rules of order. Formality should not be allowed to overwhelm the
meeting and inhibit free and frank discussions .
The following is presented as a suggested order of business that
may be adopted for Loss Prevention Committee meetings in general :
1 . Call to Order - The meeting should be called to order promptly
at the appointed time.
2 . Roll Call By the Secretary - Names of members and others
present should be recorded. Members who cannot attend should
notify the secretary in advance and the reasons for absence
should be noted in the minutes .
3 . Introduction of Visitors.
4 . Minutes of the previous meeting should be read and corrections
and/or additions made .
S . Review of Accidents and Statistics - The cause (s) should be
determined for each serious accident and preventative measures
discussed. Minor accidents should be reviewed if time
permits .
6 . Unfinished Business - All matters on which definite decisions
have not been made are brought up for needed action.
7 . Safety Education - When desirable, the chairman should request
a member to speak at the next meeting. The subject to be
discussed should be reviewed and approved by the Village
Manager.
8 . Activities - The chairman may wish to appoint subcommittees to
arrange for:
a . Safety programs
b. Speakers' announcements
C. Accident statistic summaries
d. Revision of safety rules and practices
e . Review safety suggestions.
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9 . Adjournment .
Minutes should be taken, prepared, and circulated by the secretary,
after approval by the chairman. The minutes are of great
importance since they are often sent to others besides committee
members. The minutes must record accurately all decisions made and
actions taken, since they serve as a means of keeping management
informed of the group' s work and serve as a follow-up tool .
The following demonstrates a typical Loss Prevention Committee
organizational structure and lists individual functions :
1 . Chairman' s Duties :
a. Arrange for a meeting place.
b. Notify members of meeting.
C . Arrange program.
d. Review previous minutes and materials prior to meeting.
e . Schedule and notify committee members of next meeting.
2 . Secretary' s Duties:
a. Prepare minutes of meetings .
b. Distribute minutes to Village Manager, Department Heads,
and Committee Members .
C. Report status of recommendations .
3 . Members' Duties:
a. Report unsafe conditions.
b. Attend all safety meetings .
C . Report all accidents or near accidents .
d. Contribute ideas and suggestions for improvement of
safety.
e . Set an example for safe performance.
f . Induce others to work safely.
g. Make inspections as delegated.
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CHAPTER 4
ACCIDENT REPORTING/INVESTIGATION POLICY AND PROCEDURE
Policy and Procedure
1 . At any accident involving bodily injury the following steps
shall be taken:
a. Render first aid as needed. Always secure help from
trained personnel if there are any doubts about the
proper treatment .
b. If the seriousness of the injury warrants emergency
treatment, contact fire department emergency/paramedic
personnel .
C . Document the injury as soon as possible using the proper
forms .
d. Secure the names and addresses of any witnesses at the
scene.'
2 . At any accident involving property damage the following steps
shall be taken:
a. Take precautions to prevent further damage or bodily
injury.
b. Immediately call for assistance as needed (i .e,
ambulance, police, etc) .
C. Document the damage as soon as possible using the proper
form.
d. Notify police in the event of a security breach or
vandalism.
Reporting
1 . Any incident involving bodily injury or property damage shall
be reported on the appropriate form.
2 . Any employee who has had an injury or accident is required to
inform his/her supervisor immediately, who is responsible for
completing the Supervisor' s Investigation Report Forms _
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3 . The employee' s supervisor is then required to review the facts
of the accident, discuss it with the employee, complete the
reporting forms, and immediately forward all reporting
documents to the Department Head within 24 hours. If forms
are not properly filled out and sent within 24 hours the
Chairman and/or Finance Department must be notified.
4 . Forms are to be forwarded to the Department Head who should
retain a copy and immediately forward the original report to
the Director of Finance and a copy to the Safety Coordinator.
5 . The Safety Coordinator shall retain copies of reporting forms .
6 . The Loss Control Committee shall review all reported incidents
at scheduled meetings.
Investigation
1 . The Safety Coordinator shall upon the advice and consent of
the Village Manager determine the necessity for further
investigation of any incident.
2 . All investigations shall be done by the Supervisor of the area
of the accident or that person assigned by the Department
Head.
3 . The Safety Coordinator shall determine the necessity for
investigation of "near misses" that may aid in predicting
safety concerns .
4 . All investigation results shall be reported to the Director of
Finance, Department Head, and the Loss Control Committee.
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CHAPTER 5
SELF-INSPECTION PROGRAM
Goal
To reduce the potential for injury.
Objectives
1 . To reaffirm and maintain consistent safety standards
throughout all levels of the organization.
2 . To help supervisors understand the standards they are required
to maintain.
3 . To measure safety performance trends.
4 . To determine the requirements necessary to achieve and
maintain a high level of safety performance and awareness.
5 . To demonstrate management' s commitment to the prevention of
accidents
Procedures
The accomplishment of these desired objectives shall be achieved
through the following procedure:
1. All Department Heads, or their designate, shall conduct a
safety audit of their department .
2 . The Department Head, or assigned designate, shall look for
unsafe acts, unsafe conditions, and shall make personal
contacts to determine employee knowledge and understanding of
safety rules, regulations and procedures.
The following personnel shall be sent copies of the completed
inspection report within one (1) week after the completion of the
inspection.
1 . Village Manager
2 . Safety Coordinator who will forward copies of the report to
the members of the Loss Control Committee .
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CHAPTER 6
GENERAL WORK SAFETY RULES
Efficient and productive job performance is not complete if safety
is not practiced. It must be a planned part of every job, equal to
all other aspects of the overall operation. To assist with this
planned approach to safety, all employees must be aware of,
understand, and comply with general work safety rules .
The intent of this section is to provide employees with guidelines
and directives to perform their jobs safely and to reduce their
exposure to work place hazards. If an employee is unsure or
unaware of the preferred job procedure, he or she should contact
their immediate supervisor for assistance or clarification.
The following general safety work rules have been established:
1 . Report all personal injuries, no matter how minor, to your
immediate supervisor as soon as possible. This must be done
whether or not the injury resulted in lost time from work or
required medical attention. Prompt reporting of accidents is
required under Federal and State Workers' Compensation laws .
2 . Always inspect tools and equipment before use. Report defects
to supervisors and other potential users . Do not use tools
and equipment that are defective .
3 . Operate only the machinery or equipment you have been
authorized and trained to operate safely.
4 . Report to work in appropriate clothing suitable for the type
of work you will perform. This includes proper footwear.
Refrain from wearing loose clothing or jewelry near machinery
or equipment with moving parts.
5 . Wear personal protective equipment as required.
6 . Refrain from "horseplay" and practical joking while on the
job.
7 . Work at a speed consistent with safety.
8 . Obey warning tags and signs . They are posted to point out
hazards .
9 . No guards, safety appliances, or devices shall be removed from
machinery or equipment or made ineffective except for the
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purpose of making immediate repairs, adjustments or
lubrications, and then only after the power has been shut off.
All guards and devices are to be replaced immediately after
completion of repairs and adjustments.
10 . No repairs, adjustments, cleaning, clearing or unclogging is
to be done on equipment or machinery in motion, under pressure
or electrically charged. Equipment is to be turned off or
power disengaged before work begins .
11 . All work areas are to be kept clean and free of debris, with
equipment, tools and materials in order.
12 . Tools and equipment or other materials should not be
positioned where they obstruct or block work areas, aisles or
exits . Tools, equipment and other materials are to be placed
in a position that decreases the possibility of rolling,
falling, or spilling.
13 . The lifting, carrying and loading of all materials shall be
done with the utmost adherence to proper lifting techniques .
14 . No smoking policy must be adhered to in areas where flammable
materials are stored, in use, or where no smoking signs are
posted.
15 . Machinery and equipment shall be operated in an approved
manner which will not endanger persons or property. Safe
operating speeds or loads shall not be exceeded.
OFFICE SAFETY
Office work can be dangerous and many accidents occur during
ordinary office routine.
1 . Every employee shall be responsible to see that their own desk
and work area is clean and orderly. Pick-up items such as
pencils or paper clips and wipe up any spilled liquids . Good
housekeeping is the key to a safe office environment .
2 . All desk, file, and table drawers shall be kept closed when
not in use. As soon as you leave them, close them. Never
open more than one file drawer at a time .
3 . Furniture such as tables, desks and chairs must be maintained
in good condition and free from sharp corners, projecting
edges, wobbly legs, etc .
4 . Tilting chairs can be a hazard when improperly used and care
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should be taken to assure that they are in good condition.
S . Never stand on chairs, desks or other office furniture .
6 . Keep the blades of paper cutters closed when not in use.
7 . Keep your hands clear of the electrical typewriter carriage
while it is in motion.
8 . Be sure electrical equipment is grounded and that the cord is
in good condition. If a machine gives you a shock or starts
smoking, unplug it and report the problem immediately to your
supervisor.
9 . Approved extension cords shall be used only for temporary
purposes as they can cause fire and "trip" hazards .
HOUSEKEEPING
Many painful and sometimes disabling injuries are caused when
employees are struck by falling objects, or trip over objects they
did not see . Many injuries and much property damage stems from
fires caused by poor housekeeping practices and improper storage of
flammable materials. The best protection against these hazards is
good housekeeping and proper storage.
When materials are stored properly with adequate space to walk
through the storage area, and with adequate clearance to work
within the storage area, accidents are prevented. With some
planning before laying out a job, tripping hazards can be avoided
and many sprains, fractures and bruises that result from falls can
be prevented.
Aside from the accident prevention benefits, good housekeeping
means efficient performance. When materials, tools and equipment
all have a place for orderly storage and are returned to the proper
place after use, they are easier to find and easier to inspect for
damage and wear.
The following procedures are required to ensure your safety.
1 . Keep work areas and storage facilities clean, neat and
orderly.
2 . All aisles, stairways, passageways, exits and access ways to
buildings shall be kept free from obstructions at all times .
All grease and water spills shall be removed from traffic
areas at once .
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3 . Do not place supplies on top of lockers, hampers, boxes or
other movable containers .
4 . When piling materials for storage, make sure the base is firm
and level . Keep stacks level and not too high. Keep aisles
clear and with adequate space to work in them.
5 . Tool, equipment, machinery and work areas are to be maintained
in a clean and safe manner. Defects and unsafe conditions
shall be reported to your supervisor.
6 . Return tools and equipment to their proper place when not in
use .
7 . Lay out extension cords, air hoses, water hoses, ladders,
pipes, tools, etc. in such a way as to minimize tripping _
hazards and obstruction to traffic .
8 . Clean up spills immediately to avoid slipping hazards . In the
event the removal cannot be done immediately, the area should
be appropriately guarded, signed or roped off . Snow shall be
removed from all access sidewalks and exterior stairs to
Village buildings as soon as practicable.
9 . Sharp or pointed articles should be stored as to prevent
persons from coming in contact with the sharp edges or points .
10 . All packing materials shall be properly disposed of to prevent
fire.
11 . Wastebaskets are to be emptied on a daily basis into approved
containers .
12 . Adequate lighting in obscure areas shall be secured for the
protection of both employees and public.
13 . Control or fuse boxes shall be kept closed at all times and
clear of all obstacles, especially combustible materials .
14 . Extension cords shall not be run across aisles or through oil
or water. Cords should be inspected for kinks, worn
insulation and exposed strands or wire before use.
15 . Keep electrical equipment properly oiled, free of grease and
dirt .
16 . Conduct periodic fire inspections and ensure that fire
prevention precautions are being taken.
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17 . Keep safety in mind when selecting housekeeping supplies and
equipment . Try to minimize the use of chemicals that cause
skin irritations, have harmful vapors, are combustible, or are
otherwise harmful to the user.
18 . All chemicals, solvents and fuels shall be clearly marked on
the container.
19 . Establish and implement a maintenance/housekeeping program,
i .e . duty rosters to keep lunchrooms, washrooms, etc . clean.
Employees could be assigned areas on a weekly basis .
20 . Smoking areas shall be designated in all buildings consistent
with the policy adopted by the Village Board.
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CHAPTER 7
PERSONAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING
The best way of providing safe working conditions when working with
equipment is to provide proper guards on the equipment being used.
When impossible to place a guard over the source of the hazard, it
is advisable to place a guard on the worker. This is done by
wearing protective apparel : safety glasses, ear protection, gloves,
etc_ It is sometimes uncomfortable to wear safety clothing for the
duration of a job, but it is far less comfortable to sustain a
temporary or permanent disability for a lifetime .
GENERAL CLOTHING RULES
1 . Never wear loose or ragged clothing around machinery. It can
catch on the equipment and pull your limb into the hazard.
2 . Employees shall always wear work shoes, where departments
require, and keep the shoes in good condition.
3 . Avoid wearing loose jewelry. It can catch on equipment and
increase chance of electrical shock or possible injury.
4 . Keep clothes clean. Dirty clothing can cause skin irritations
and oil soaked clothes are a fire hazard.
5 . Appropriate protective clothing shall be worn when working
with hazardous materials.
HEAD PROTECTION
Many activities performed involve working above or below ground
level, movement of materials overhead, and/or working near
machinery. In such hazardous operations, hard hats shall be worn
to protect your head from injury.
FACE AND EYE PROTECTION
Hazards involving the possibility of injuries to the face and eyes
exists in both indoor and outdoor tasks. They range from dust
blown into the eyes on a windy day to particles of steel, sand,
concrete, etc . , propelled into eyes with considerable force by
power tools and machinery, or splashes of corrosive dust or liquid
chemicals .
Face and eye protection shall be provided at each department for
any task where there is any probability that an injury may occur
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without such protection.
Safety glasses shall be worn when:
1 . Grinding, cutting, milling or drilling with power tools .
2 . Using impact wrenches and compressed air tools .
3 . Chipping, scraping or scaling paint, rust, carbon or other
materials .
4 . Using punches, chisels or other impact tools .
5 . Cutting or breaking glass.
6 . Chipping or breaking concrete.
7 . Using paint thinner.
S . Soldering.
9 . Sand blasting.
10 . Using drill press, hacksaw or other metal working tools .
11 . Using wood working machinery.
12 . Tree trimming with power equipment and chipping.
13 . Steam cleaning.
14 . Washing, cleaning with solvents.
15 . Working with chemicals, acids, etc.
16 . Any other condition which may cause probable injury to the eye
due to the lack of proper protection.
Eye Protection devices are provided by the Village. It is your
responsibility to use these devices.
HEARING PROTECTION
In the variety of activities conducted by Village employees there
are some machines or equipment that may produce sound levels which
may cause hearing loss. Personal protective equipment is provided
and shall be worn by employees, where noise exceeds safe hearing
levels .
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Hearing protection shall consist of ear muffs or ear plugs
(including disposable plugs) . Cotton shall not be used as ear
plugs .
Hearing protection shall always be used whenever noise levels
exceed 85 decibels (dba) to include the following areas :
1 . Compressor
2 . Pump Station
3 . Shooting Range
4 . Fire Apparatus (excluding automobiles)
5 . Any other condition which may cause probable hearing injury
due to the lack of proper protection.
Hearing protection devices are provided by the Village. It is your
responsibility to use these devices to protect your hearing.
ELECTRIC ARC WELDING/GAS WELDING/CUTTING OPERATIONS
1 . Welder helmet with proper filter lenses shall be worn when
performing cutting and/or welding operations .
2 . Helper/observers shall wear safety glasses, goggles or hand
held shields with the proper filter shields .
3 . Proper respirators shall be worn when conditions warrant their
use.
4 . Welding curtains must be placed to avoid arc burning of others
- eyes or skin.
RESPIRATORS/SELF CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS
Respirators are required in the following instances:
1 . Welding on brass, bronze or galvanized iron in confined spaces
where ventilation is limited,
2 . When entering manholes, sewers, vaults or any other confined
spaces when tests indicate the presence of a toxic or oxygen
deficient atmosphere even if the confined space has been
ventilated and the toxic atmosphere is no longer present .
3 . When determined by the supervisor to be advisable .
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There are many tasks performed involving fumes, gases, mists,
chemicals, etc. In such tasks the appropriate type of respirator
or self contained breathing apparatus will be used.
HAND PROTECTION
Rings shall be removed or not worn to work if there is the
slightest chance of getting the ring caught in any tool or piece of
machinery that you operate . Gloves shall be worn when handling
rough edge or abrasive material or when the work subjects a persons
hands to .possible lacerations,.. punctures or burns . Skin
irritations can be prevented by washing with soap and water or
other appropriate cleansers - never gasoline . Learn to recognize
poison ivy and poison oak and avoid them. Appropriate gloves shall
be worn when handling irritating materials .
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CHAPTER 8
FLEET SAFETY
Village vehicles are easily identified as such and thus constitute
a traveling advertisement seen by many citizens .
In our relationship with other motorists and pedestrians while
operating Village vehicles, we control an important influence upon
good or bad public relations with the Village . By courteous,
considerate driving habits, we can build good public relations . If
we apply the principles of defensive driving to avoid accidents,
the following safety procedures are recommended.
1 . Each Department Head shall install a program where each -- - -
vehicle/equipment is assigned to an employee who is
responsible for it' s appearance, cleanliness, etc .
2 . Each Department shall have a regular maintenance procedure and
program for maintaining all vehicles, and equipment in the
department .
3 . There should be only a certain number of qualified operators
operating equipment . An example would be only 4 people
qualified to operate the backhoe in Public works . This is
done for safety reasons as well as vehicle
maintenance/appearance.
4 . All employees shall be responsible for performing a safety
check of any vehicle or mobile equipment that person is
assigned to operate on a basis as determined by the Department
Head.
S . Safety checks shall include the following items : lights,
horn, tires, motor oil , hydraulic systems, power steering,
windshield washers and fluid, directional signals, brakes and
brake fluid, check lug nuts (when visible)
Allow the engine to warm up (hydraulics to warm, circulate)
before operating. Check interior and exterior of equipment
for any new damage. If there is new damage report it
immediately.
6 . Adjust all equipment for safe driving before putting the
vehicle into gear such as seats, inside and outside mirrors
and sitting positions. Also, in winter weather, all windows,
head and tail lights, and emergency lights are to be cleared
completely of snow before placing the vehicle in motion.
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7 . Seat belts shall be worn at all times that the vehicle is in
motion.
8 . Drivers of Village vehicles must possess a valid Illinois
drivers license for the type of vehicle that is being driven
(of the appropriate class) . They must be thoroughly familiar
with the state and local regulations governing motor vehicle
operations. The fact that an employee is operating an
emergency vehicle does not absolve him from civil or criminal
liability for the consequences of wanton, reckless driving.
Even though emergency equipment has warning devices, the
driver shall PROCEED WITH CAUTION.
9 . Load Security:
a. Supplies transported in motor vehicles shall be secured
in such a manner so as they will not be dislodged or fall
out or forward during transit or sudden stops .
b. Drawers in trucks shall always be secured before the truck
is driven.
C. When using a trailer make sure safety chains are hooked
up, the hitch is secure, and the lights are operational .
d. When materials overhang the truck bed, place flags at the
end of those materials.
10 . Not more than three persons shall be allowed to ride in the
front of any vehicle. Persons shall not be transported in any
vehicle unless safe and secure seating is provided for each
person. Riding on or in the back of trucks is strictly
prohibited. If truck or auto has only two front seats, only
two employees are permitted to ride.
11 . All motor vehicle laws shall be followed at all times .
12 . Parked Vehicles :
a. Except when working conditions require otherwise, parked
vehicles shall have motor stopped and key removed.
b. Vehicles shall not be parked in posted fire or safety
zones or on the wrong side of the street facing traffic
except in case of emergency.
C. When trucks or vehicles must be stopped on streets,
adequate warning signals must be used.
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d. Hazard lights shall be used when the situation warrants
their use. Turn signals shall not be used as parking
warning signals .
13 . When backing up a vehicle, be sure the way is clear. Get out
of the vehicle when necessary and inspect the area to be
backed into. Back up slowly. If there is another employee
present, he shall get out and direct the backing .
14 . Never leave the vehicle while the engine is running. It is an
illegal as well as an unsafp- practice to leave any vehicle
unattended with the motor running. Remove keys from the
ignition.
15 . Drivers must be particularly alert while driving near
children. Children must be kept from playing in or about
village owned vehicles . while working in areas such as
schools, parks, playgrounds, swimming pools, drivers must be
especially watchful for children and drive carefully and
slowly at all times.
16 . Stay within posted speed limits. Slow down when conditions
warrant .
17 . Use turn signals and avoid sudden braking.
18 . Filling Vehicle Fuel Tanks:
a. Shut off the motor of the equipment .
b. Do not smoke near gas pumps.
C . To avoid spilling, do not fill tank too fast or too full .
d. Remove fuel key from panel.
e. Fill gas record forms out completely.
19 . In the event of an accident involving Village owned vehicles,
the following procedure will be followed.
a. Render first-aid if qualified and request for emergency
vehicles (i .e. , ambulance, police, fire, etc. ) as
necessary.
b. Notify the Police Department immediately. "Vehicles
should not be moved until after Police arrive at scene to
take reports and photograph the accident scene (including
damaged vehicles) . "
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C . Notify Department Head immediately_
d. The driver of the Village vehicle must report the accident
to his/her Supervisor as soon as possible. The driver
must also complete an accident report within 24 hrs .
whenever an accident results in injury, death, or damage
to any one person' s property regardless of the amount of
damage .
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CHAPTER 9
OCCUPATIONAL INJURY CONTROL
In addition to the Loss Control methods cited in this manual, there
are several types of policies and/or procedures that can be
implemented to help reduce the possibility of occupational
injuries. These policies and procedures are discussed briefly in
this chapter.
Pre-Placement Physical Examinations
The purpose of physical examinations is to determine whether or not
the employee' s physical fitness is consistent with the job' s
physical requirements .
The objectives of examinations are:
1 . To measure the medical fitness of individuals to perform their
duties without hazard to themselves or others; and,
2 . To establish and record the condition of the individual at the
time of each examination.
These objectives are for the benefit of the employees, the
employer, and the community. The emphasis of these objectives is
to ensure that the individual can perform the essential job
functions of the position, not the exclusion of persons with
handicaps .
Subsequent physical examination should be required in the following
instances :
1 . An injured employee who has recently received medical
attention must have medical approval before returning to work,
if the injury prevents the employee from performing the
essential functions of the job.
2 . An employee who has been absent from work due to work related
accident or illness must have medical authorization before
returning to work as outlined in the Village' s Personnel Rules
and Regulations .
3 . Incumbents of critical occupations should be reexamined on a
periodic schedule as required by Federal Law, State Law, or
Village policy.
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Physical Fitness
The physical fitness of employees is a prime requisite in
preventing a significantly large number of personal injuries . All
employees should be encouraged to seek regular exercise activity.
First-Aid Treatment for Sick or Injured Employees
1. All injuries or illnesses, regardless of how minor, shall be
reported and the supervisor shall send the injured employee (s)
for first-aid or medical treatment .
2 . The family of an employee who is severely injured shall be
notified promptly by the proper authority.
3 . The Safety Coordinator and Department Head shall be notified
immediately of all disabling and potentially disabling
injuries.
Emergency Medical Treatment
In the event of a serious injury requiring immediate medical
treatment, administer first-aid as necessary and call 9-1-1 for an
ambulance. Do not move the victim unless absolutely necessary for
his safety. The victim should be transported by ambulance to the
nearest medical facility.
Interaction with Medication
Employees taking strong or multiple medication which causes
dizziness, blackouts, drowsiness, double vision, impaired judgment
or other abnormal reactions shall not attempt to work nor should a
supervisor allow them to work until treatment is complete and the
effects of the medication have dissipated.
Multiple medication sometimes affects the individual' s ability to
act and perform normally. when this is evident, the individual
shall be required to consult with their physician for an adjustment
in medication.
Personal Protective Equipment
Supervisors have the final authority in designating and requiring
the use of personal protective equipment for all jobs which have an
inherent injury potential . Detailed specifications for the design,
purchase, and use of personal protective equipment shall be
coordinated among authorized department personnel, supervisors, and
users . Employees shall be fully accountable for the use of
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specialized protective equipment provided by the employer.
Ordinary safety shoes and prescription safety glasses are typically
provided by the employee when required.
The following personal protective equipment shall be worn when
certain hazards exist :
1 . Hard hats (helmets) to protect the head against falling
objects, head bumping situations, or electrical conductors.
2 . Goggles, face shields, or safety glasses to guard against
flying debris, welding sparks, foreign body fluids, etc .
3 . Ear plugs or appropriate hearing protection to guard against
prolonged exposure to noise exceeding sound tolerance levels
as defined by law or excessive noise exposures.
4 . Respirators, gas masks and self-contained breathing apparatus
to protect employees against toxic or abnormal atmospheric
conditions including those which are oxygen deficient .
5 . Safety shoes to protect feet against falling objects.
6 . Reflective vests or bright articles to increase security
personnel or worker' s visibility while working in or around
traffic lanes .
7 . Protective clothing such as gloves, sleeves, aprons, leggings,
and full suits to protect against lacerations, abrasions,
bumps, heat, or melted metals, etc.
When the use of personal protective equipment has been specified
for hazardous work, its use must be mandatory. Supervisors will be
held accountable for employees allowed to work without proper
safety equipment. Compliance can be made easier by educating
employees on the reasons for using or wearing the articles and the
possible injuries that can result when the need is ignored.
Proper Dress For Work
Each employee should wear clothing suitable for the job they are
performing at all times . Suitable clothing means clothing that
will minimize the possibility of injury from moving machinery, hot
or corrosive substances, sunburn, or other harmful agents .
Employees with long hair shall wear a cap or net while working
around machines . Employees required to wear breathing devices in
toxic atmospheres shall be clean shaven where the mask contacts the
face . Employees working in hazardous areas shall not wear tennis
shoes, loafers, or sandals . Employees shall not wear high platform
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sandals or shoes when working if the thickness of the sole and heel
is extreme and causes the wearer to walk precariously. All shoes
should be in good condition.
Environmental Hazards
It is important that Village departments be able to recognize,
understand, and work effectively and safely with hazardous
materials . Occupational health hazards are preventable, and if
they are not controlled, they may lead to conditions that cause
illnesses . Hazardous materialq. could impair the health of
employees enough to make them lose time from work or to work at
less than full efficiency. The Village complies with "Right-To-
Know" legislation. Each employee is encouraged to familiarize
themselves with the materials used in their work environment .
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CHAPTER 10
FIRE CONTROL MEASURES/FIRE PREVENTION
One of the most fearsome and damaging disasters that occur in work
activities is fire. In the variety of activities performed in
municipal operations, there are shops and job sites in which
potential fire hazards exist. Fires can be prevented by good
housekeeping along with safe storage of flammable/combustible
materials and safe work practices—
The following safety procedures are established:
1. Fire extinguishes shall be prominently displayed, labeled for
usage, and kept clear for easy access at all times .
2 . Know the location of the nearest fire extinguishes and how to
use them. After use of extinguisher, report such use
immediately to your supervisor so a replacement may be
obtained or the extinguisher recharged.
3 . A portable fire extinguisher shall be present whenever cutting
and welding work is to be performed.
4 . Oily rags and other flammable wastes should be kept in
covered, metal containers.
S . Cleaning solvents that have flammable properties should be
kept in OSHA approved safety containers. Each container shall
be labeled as to its contents . Flammable liquids including
gasoline shall not be used for cleaning parts, floors or any
part of buildings unless performed in containers or rooms
approved for such use.
6 . Never overfill a tank but rather under fill it to allow room
for expansion of the liquid.
7 . Only UL approved electrical flashlights, shall be used near
escaping gasoline or other flammable vapors or when entering
an enclosure suspected of containing flammable/combustible
vapors . If possible, keep out of area completely and call the
Fire Department .
8 . Dark places , basements or cellars must not be entered without
proper light . Matches or lighters shall not be used as a
source of light in these areas .
9 . No smoking is allowed in areas where hazardous/flammable
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substances are stored or used or any other area where "No
Smoking" signs are posted.
10 . Exits shall never be locked (chained or otherwise) from the
inside.
11 . All equipment (heavy and otherwise) shall have a fire
extinguisher in the cab.
11 . Fire extinguishing equipment shall be inspected and maintained
on a regular schedule .
It is necessary that shops and fixed activities that contain
potential fire hazards have a fire plan to combat fire . The plan
shall include:
1 . Adequate warning measures for alerting all persons in the area
of the existence of a fire.
2 . Rapid reporting to the Fire Department : Dial 9-1-1 .
3 . Evacuation of affected personnel from areas involved in a fire
and accounting for all personnel after evacuation.
4 Procedures for containing the fire in so far as it is safe to
do so, and particularly only to the extent that it is possible
to maintain safe exit for personnel so engaged.
5 . Instruction of personnel who regularly work there in the
duties they are to perform in given fire situations .
Each Village building shall have an emergency fire plan. The
Village Fire Department offers many sources of knowledge and
assistance to department heads for establishing an emergency fire
plan. which is part of the "Village Preparedness Plan" .
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CHAPTER 11
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Department Head Responsibilities
1. Administer the emergency/disaster plan for the safety of
employees and the public at all facilities.
2 . Train all employees in the procedures necessary to carry out
the plan.
3 . Develop a warning system and method of determining the need to
implement the emergency/disaster plan.
Elements of an Emergency Plan
1 . Examples of emergencies or disasters that must be planned for
include fire, tornadoes, thunderstorms and lightning, floods,
electrical blackout, high winds, extreme cold, and heavy snow.
2 . Safe, orderly evacuation routes shall be posted at conspicuous
locations .
3 . An evaluation of expected disasters and their risks .
4 . A list of cooperating agencies and how to contact them.
5 . A warning system and the types of signals used.
6 . A communications/command center with the home phone number and
other pertinent information for each employee .
7 . Shutdown procedures and facility security measures .
8 . Policies for handling visitors and other non-employees during
the emergency.