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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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 1 OF 35 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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 2 OF 35 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 . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 3 OF 35 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, VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 4 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 5 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 6 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 7 OF 35 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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 8 OF 35 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 . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 9 OF 35 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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 10 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 11 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 13 OF 35 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 _ VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 14 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 15 OF 35 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 . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 16 OF 35 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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 17 OF 35 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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 18 OF 35 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 . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 19 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 20 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 21 OF 35 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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 22 OF 35 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 . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 23 OF 35 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 . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 24 OF 35 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 . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 25 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 26 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 27 OF 35 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) . " VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 28 OF 35 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 . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 29 OF 35 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. VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 30 OF 35 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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 31 OF 35 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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 32 OF 35 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 . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 33 OF 35 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 VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 34 OF 35 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" . VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE - SAFETY MANUAL PAGE 35 OF 35 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.