great plains tribal chairmen’s health...

Great Plains Tribal Chairmen’s Health

BoardEmployee Safety Handbook

&Emergency Action Plan

Great Plains Tribal Chairmen’s Health BoardEmployee Safety Handbook & Emergency Action Plan

EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEGEMENT FORM

I hereby acknowledge receipt of the Great Plains Tribal Chairmen’s Health Board “Employee Safety Handbook and Emergency Action Plan,” which outlines important safety requirements and information for working as safely as possible. I agree to follow the safety and health rules as outlined in this handbook.

____________________________________________________________Employee Signature Date

A copy of this receipt shall be maintained in the employee’s personnel file. Please retain the handbook for future reference.

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IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

Emergency 911Police (Non-Emergency) 605-394-4134Rapid City Regional Hospital 605-719-1000Sioux San Hospital 605-355-2500Poison Control 800-222-1222Rapid City Fire Department 605-394-4180Black Hills Power 605-721-3200Water Department 605-394-4125Gas MDU 800-638-3278Century Business Products 800-529-1950(Calling for work order you must have Serial Number and Model Number)Keiffer Sanitation 605-342-5575Rapid City Dispatch 605-394-4131A to Z Shredding 605-716-5555Armstrong Extinguishers 605-341-3473Water Tree-Culligan 605-343-7123Marco Printer/copier Service 800-847-3098(Calling for work order you must have Serial Number and Model Number)Enterprise 605-399-9939Pitney Bowes-James 605-939-5542

GPTCHB Main Office 605-721-19221770 Rand RoadRapid City, SD 57702

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1. INTRODUCTION

Great Plains Tribal Chairmen’s Health Board’s (GPTCHB) most valuable assets are the employees whose efforts have enabled us to achieve the level of success we enjoy today.

The safety and well-being of each and every employee is the most important element in protecting that asset. Consequently, GPTCHB is committed to equipping employees to perform their assigned tasks safely.

Office safety requires the active participation of all employees. As a valued employee, you should know your responsibilities so that if you see coworkers performing unsafe acts, you can remind them that safety is a top priority.

The Employee Safety Handbook and Emergency Action Plan gives you a quick reminder of the many elements of office safety. This handbook contains the general rules that all employees must follow. The handbook is organized as follows:

1. Introduction 8. Bloodborne pathogens2. General safety conduct 9. Chemical hygiene3. Office safety 10. Hazard Communication4. Electrical safety 11. Personal Protective Equipment5. Ergonomics 12. Housekeeping6. Stress in the workplace 14. Documentation of an accident7. Anti-violence/security 15. Emergency action plan

Employees are expected to follow all safety and health rules. Failure to follow the important rules in this handbook could result in injury to yourself or others or damage to GPTCHB property. Disciplinary action can be taken in accordance with current policies, up to and including termination of employment.

2. GENERAL SAFETY CONDUCT

Report to work well-rested and physically fit to be able to give full attention to your job.

Persons with physical or mental impairment shall not be assigned to tasks where their impairment has a potential to endanger themselves or others.

No person shall be permitted to remain on the premises while their ability to work is so affected by alcohol, drugs (prescription or non-

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prescription) or other substances so as to endanger their health or safety or that of any other person.

There should always be at least two people on site. In rare instances when an employee is in the office alone, they must notify their supervisor via email of the time they arrived and left.

Inappropriate behavior, such as horseplay, fighting and practical jokes are extremely dangerous and will not be tolerated.

Any unsafe conditions which are encountered shall be corrected or reported to your supervisor.

Do not operate any machinery or equipment if it is known to be in an unsafe condition.

Machinery and equipment, including vehicles, are only to be operated by qualified persons and then only when adequately trained in the use of the equipment and authorized to operate it.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn when performing specific duties that require its use to ensure worker safety.

Employees must inform supervisors when they have significant allergies which might be encountered while at work (i.e., bee stings). The person with the severe allergy should carry an "ANA Kit" or "Epi-pen" and be familiar with how to use them and notify their immediate supervisor of where they keep their “ANA Kit” or “Epi-pen”.

Avoid manual lifting of materials, articles or objects which are too heavy.

Smoking is prohibited within the premises and vehicles at all times. Smoking is only permitted outside at least 100 feet from the buildings. Where "NO SMOKING" signs are posted persons shall observe those signs.

Employees are responsible for reporting to their supervisor whenever they become sick or injured at work. All injuries, no matter how minor, must be reported immediately.

Always keep your work area clean and orderly. Poor housekeeping habits can be a serious safety hazard.

Do not leave materials in aisles, walkways, stairways, roads or other points of egress.

Any damaged equipment must be reported to your supervisor. All warning signs, signals and alarms shall be obeyed. Employees shall not use unfamiliar tools or equipment without proper

instruction and permission from their supervisor. Always use the correct tool for the job, do not improvise.

Do not dispose of any hazardous materials or flammable liquids by pouring them down a sewer or drain.

Do not attempt to repair defective wiring or other electrical equipment. Report defective electrical equipment to your supervisor. Electrical equipment can only be repaired or serviced by a qualified electrician.

Faulty or makeshift ladders must not be used.

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When lifting, have a secure footing, bend your knees, keep your back straight, take a firm hold of the object being lifted and slowly straighten your legs. If you must turn with a load, turn your feet and whole body. DO NOT twist yourself. Avoid reaching while lifting or putting the object down. If the object is too heavy for you, get assistance.

Keep your work area safe, efficient and pleasant by keeping it clean and orderly.

If something looks unsafe, it probably is. If you are in doubt, ask.

You have the responsibility to correct or repair unsafe conditions in your work area by yourself or with the aid of others, up to your capabilities, regardless of your job or classification.

Failure to comply with any GPTCHB safety rules or safe practices, or the act of engaging in unsafe practices or conduct not specifically covered in this handbook, may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

3. OFFICE SAFETY

The following sections address several office safety practices. Other preventive measures not mentioned here may also be necessary.

3.1 CUTS AND PUNCTURES

Cuts and punctures happen when people use everyday office supplies without exercising care. Follow these guidelines to help reduce the chance for cuts and punctures:

When sealing envelopes, use a liquid dispenser, not your tongue.

Be careful when using kitchen knives, scissors, staplers, letter openers and box openers. Any of these items could cause a serious injury.

Avoid picking up broken glass with your bare hands. Wear gloves and use a broom and a dust pan.

Place used blades, broken glass or other sharp objects in a rigid container, such as a box, before disposing in a wastebasket.

3.2 SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS

The easiest way to avoid slips, trips and falls is to pay attention to your surroundings and to avoid running or rushing. Additionally, you can improve the flow of office traffic by following these guidelines:

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Arrange office furnishings in a manner that provides unobstructed areas for movement.

Keep stairs, steps, flooring and carpeting well-maintained.

Ensure that glass doors have some type of marking to keep people from walking through or into them.

Clearly mark any difference in floor level that could cause an accident.

Secure throw rugs and mats.

Do not place wastebaskets or other objects in walkways.

Close file drawers when you leave the cabinet.

3.3 EQUIPMENT SAFETY

Common office machines such as the following require special safety considerations: copiers, microwaves, adding machines, typewriters and computers. Be sure you know how to operate these machines before using them and never use one of these machines if you think it is defective.

Other office equipment that requires safety consideration includes furniture such as file cabinets, shelves, desks, chairs, ladders and stepstools.

3.3.1 FILE CABINETS AND SHELVES

Because file cabinets and shelves tend to support heavy loads, treat them with special care. Follow these safety guidelines for file cabinets:

Secure file cabinets that are not weighted at the bottom.

Ensure that file cabinet drawers cannot easily be pulled clear of the cabinet.

Do not block room ventilation grates with file cabinets.

Open only one drawer at a time to keep the cabinet from toppling.

Close drawers when they are not in use.

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Do not place heavy objects on top of cabinets. Be aware that anything on top of a cabinet may fall off if a drawer is opened suddenly.

Close drawers slowly using the handle to avoid pinched fingers.

Keep the bottom drawer full. This will help stabilize the entire cabinet.

In addition, follow these safety guidelines for office shelves:

Ensure shelves are secured.

Place heavy objects on the bottom shelves. This will keep the entire structure more stable.

In non-sprinkler areas, 24 inches must be maintained from top shelf items and the ceiling.

Do not block room ventilation grates with shelves.

Never climb on shelves (even lower shelves). Use an approved ladder or stepstool.

3.3.2 DESKS

Follow these safety guidelines for office desks:

Keep desks in good condition (i.e., free from sharp edges, nails, etc.).

Ensure that desks do not block exits or passageways.

Ensure that glass-top desks do not have sharp edges.

Ensure that desks with spring-loaded tables function properly. The table should not spring forth with enough force to cause an injury.

Do not climb on desks. Use an approved ladder or stepstool.

Keep desk drawers closed when not in use.

Repair or report any desk damage that could be hazardous.

3.3.3 CHAIRS

Safety guidelines for office chairs include the following:

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Do not lean back in office chairs, particularly swivel chairs with rollers.

Never climb on a chair. Use an approved ladder or stepstool.

Office desk chairs should have adjustable back supports and seat height. Make sure that your chair's back support position and seat height are comfortable.

Take care when sitting in a chair with rollers. Make sure it does not roll out from under you when you sit down.

Repair or report any chair damage that could be hazardous.

Do not roll chairs over electrical cords.

3.3.4 LADDERS AND STEPSTOOLS

Always use a ladder or stepstool to reach any item above your extended arm height. Never use a makeshift device, such as a desktop, file cabinet, bookshelf, chair or box as a substitute for a ladder or stepstool.

Follow these guidelines when using ladders/stepstools:

Do not load ladders or stepstools above their intended capacity.

Place ladders or stepstools on slip-free surfaces even if they have slip-resistant feet.

Avoid placing ladders or stepstools in walkways, and never place them in front of a door unless the door is locked and barricaded.

4. ELECTRICAL SAFETY

General Safety Tips for Working Near or With Electricity

Inspect tools, power cords and electrical fittings for damage or wear prior to each use. Repair or replace damaged equipment immediately.

Always tape cords to walls or floors when necessary. Nails and staples can damage cords causing fire and shock hazards.

Use cords or equipment that is rated for the level of amperage or wattage that you are using.

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Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets may be a sign that unsafe wiring conditions exists. Unplug any cords to these outlets and do not use until a qualified electrician has checked the wiring.

Always use ladders made of wood or other non-conductive materials when working with or near electricity or power lines.

Do not use halogen lamps.

Risk of electric shock is greater in areas that are wet or damp.

Label all circuit breakers and fuse boxes clearly. Each switch should be positively identified as to which outlet or appliance it is for.

Do not use outlets or cords that have exposed wiring.

Do not block access to circuit breakers or fuse boxes.

Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical accident. Always disconnect the current first.

Inspect cords and plugs. o Check power cords and plugs daily. Discard if worn or damaged.

Have any cord that feels more than comfortably warm checked by an electrician.

Do not plug several power cords into one outlet.

Pull the plug, not the cord. Pulling the cord causes wear and may cause a shock.

Never break off the third prong on a plug.o Replace broken three-prong plugs and make sure the third prong

is properly grounded.

Never use extension cords as permanent wiring.o Use extension cords only to temporarily supply power to an area

that does not have a power outlet.

Keep power cords away from heat, water and oil. They can damage the insulation and cause a shock.

5. ERGONOMICS — REPETITIVE MOTION INJURIES (RMI)

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Many of the tasks you will perform are repetitive in nature. If these tasks are not performed properly, repetitive motion injuries may result.

Repetitive motion injuries result from performing the same motion(s) over and over and can occur regardless of the task(s).

Use workstations, where possible, that have proper lighting, correctly arranged computer equipment and comfortable desks and chairs.

Organize the work area so that tasks can be performed in the most efficient manner and with the least physical strain from repetitive motion.

Minimize repetitive stretching, bending or sitting in the same position for long periods.

Take periodic breaks to relieve stress due to repeating motions.

Do not attempt to perform physical tasks that are beyond your physical capabilities.

Report any tasks or situations where you believe repetitive motions may be contributing to pains you experience as the task(s) is being performed.

6. STRESS IN THE WORKPLACE

Preventing Stress

To reduce stress and prevent fatigue, it is important to take mini-breaks throughout the day. If possible, change tasks at least once every two hours. Stretch your arms, neck and legs often if you do the same type of work for long periods of time. Rest your eyes often by closing them or looking at something other than the work at hand. For a quick pick-me-up, breathe deeply several times by inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. In addition, try eating your lunch somewhere other than at your desk.

Other examples of stress-relieving exercises that can be done at your desk include the following:

Head and Neck Stretch:

Slowly turn your head to the left, and hold it for three seconds. Slowly turn your head to the right, and hold it for three seconds. Drop your chin gently

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towards your chest, and then tilt it back as far as you can. Repeat these steps five to 10 times.

Shoulder Roll:

Roll your shoulders forward and then backward using a circular motion.

Upper Back Stretch:

Grasp one arm below the elbow and pull gently towards the other shoulder. Hold this position for five seconds, and then repeat with the other arm.

Wrist Wave:

With your arms extended in front of you, raise and lower your hands several times.

Finger Stretch:

Make fists with your hands and hold tight for one second, then spread your fingers wide for five seconds.

7. ANTI-VIOLENCE/SECURITY

GPTCHB recognizes the impact workplace violence can have on its employees and intends to have a workplace that is secure and free from violence or potential violence.

Preventing Strategy

Only persons with legitimate reasons shall be allowed on premises.

Visitors should report to the reception area before entering the facility.

Report unrecognized visitors to your supervisor.

As much as possible, employees should pass to and from the buildings in groups.

When moving to and from the parking lot, be aware of activities around you and take care to avoid any unknown persons.

After dark, leave the buildings in the presence of others, if possible.

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Acts of aggression, such as shouting, pushing, throwing objects, slamming doors, etc., will not be tolerated.

Do not bring firearms or weapons of any type to work.

Report any type of intimidation or harassment to your supervisor. If the supervisor is the aggressor, inform Human Resources.

Intruder & Suspicious Person

Any employee who observes an individual who appears suspicious or out-of-place should either approach the individual (if safe to do so) and ask for their name and the purpose of their visit. If you are uncomfortable or unable to approach the individual contact your immediate supervisor.

If the individual has a legitimate reason for visiting the health board escort them to the reception area to have them check in. Review the check-in expectation with the individual so they are aware of the procedure for future reference.

If the individual does not appear to have a legitimate reason to be on the premises and/or if he/she is agitated, irrational or refuses to leave the building in a peaceful manner, talk to the person in a calm reassuring voice while trying to gain the attention of another staff member to call the police.

If police are called and the individual leaves or attempts to leave prior to the police arriving, do not attempt to physically detain or restrain the person. Instead, contact the police to inform the officers that the individual has left the building including the direction the individual went and means of transport.

If an armed or threatening intruder comes on to GPTCHB property report it immediately to the closest staff member in any communication means available and take protective actions.

If you see an armed intruder:

Seek a closed office or room and immediately lock all doors, if possible.

Lock the windows and close blinds or curtains.

Turn off lights and all audio equipment.

Stay out of the open areas and be as quiet as possible.

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Call 911.

Keep room secure until police arrive and give directions.

8. BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS

While the risk of being exposed to bloodborne pathogens at GPTCHB is low, it’s important to understand the risks and expectations.

What Are Bloodborne Pathogens?

Pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms. Bloodborne pathogens are viruses or bacteria present in human blood and body fluids which can infect and cause disease in humans.

Personal Protective Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes clothing and equipment worn by an individual during activities which may result in exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Personal protective equipment always starts with gloves but may also include gowns, face shields, eye protection and pocket masks.

Housekeeping

Housekeeping refers to methods for cleaning and decontaminating infected surfaces and the disposal of blood and body fluids. All decontamination must include the use of an appropriate disinfecting solution, such as one part bleach to 10 parts water.

Work Practices to Prevent Infection

If your assignments require you to perform CPR, give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, administer first aid or clean up after an accident, protective measures need to be taken to prevent an exposure to infectious materials.

Protect yourself by following these steps:

1. Treat all blood and body fluid spills as if they were infectious.

2. When providing first aid or CPR, protect yourself first, then treat the victim second.

3. Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment: gloves, goggles, etc., as required by the accident.

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4. When performing CPR, always use a pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve to prevent contact with potentially infectious body fluids.

5. Contain spills immediately, then clean up and disinfect the area.

6. Clean up contaminated broken glass with tongs, forceps, or a brush and dust pan. Never use your hands, even if protected with gloves.

7. Handle all trash as if it contains sharp and/or infectious items.

8. When removing contaminated clothing, carefully turn inside out as it is removed to contain contaminants. Dispose in appropriately labeled bags or containers.

9. After removing Personal Protective Equipment, wash hands or other affected body parts with soap and warm water. Vigorously scrub all areas to remove all potentially infectious contamination.

10. Place all potentially infectious materials and contaminated items in closeable containers or bags. The bags must be color-coded (usually red) and/or marked with a biohazard label.

11. Don't eat or smoke in your work area. Germs get on your hands, food and smoking materials and go right into your mouth.

What to Do if You Are Exposed

Despite your best efforts, there is a possibility you may be exposed to blood or body fluids during an emergency response. An exposure incident is defined as a specific eye, mouth, nose or skin contact with potentially infectious materials.

If you have an exposure, follow these steps:

1. Flush the area on your body that was exposed with warm water, and then wash with soap and water.

2. Vigorously scrub all areas. It is the abrasive action of scrubbing that removes contaminates from the skin.

3. If you have an open wound, squeeze gently to make it bleed, then wash with soap and water.

4. Seek emergency medical treatment following an exposure incident.

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Employee Responsibility

Any employee who requires the use of sharps for any reason is required to provide the appropriate waste container. All containers shall be properly labeled, stored in a safe place and handled in a safe manner. Employees are expected to wash their hands after handling any sharps.

Under no circumstances are employees who require the use of sharps allowed to place loose needles and other sharps in the public trash cans or recycling bins, and never flush them down the toilet.

9. CHEMICAL HYGIENE

Many common office chemicals can cause injuries if improperly used, stored or disposed. Some common office chemicals include: cleaning agents, glues, correction fluid, inks and toners.

To guarantee the safe use, storage and disposal of the chemicals in your office, always review the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and/or container label for important information.

Additional safety concerns to consider regarding chemicals:

Do not mouth pipette or suction.

Do not eat, drink, smoke, chew gum or apply cosmetics near chemicals.

Do not taste or smell chemicals.

Store all food and beverages in designated refrigerators and authorized break areas, away from hazardous materials. Do not use glassware and storage containers for food and drink that are not designated for food storage purposes only.

Wash your hands after handling any chemicals and before eating and drinking.

Wash exposed skin before or when chemicals have contaminated skin.

Use equipment only for its designed purpose.

Keep all work places clean and uncluttered, with chemicals and equipment properly labeled and stored. Clean your workspaces when you complete an operation or at the end of the day.

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Use only chemicals for which the quality of the available ventilation system is appropriate.

10. HAZARD COMMUNICATION

Be familiar with the hazardous chemicals used or stored in your work area and know how to protect yourself from the hazards they represent.

Do not use hazardous chemicals unless you have been trained to do so safely.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) are located in the Human Resources office.

Follow all safety instructions indicated by the MSDS and labels attached to containers.

Never use a chemical in an unmarked container unless the contents are known specifically to you or a coworker.

Report all spills of hazardous chemicals to your supervisor.

Review safety procedures before undertaking any new and/or non-routine task.

11. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

Personal protective devices are provided, repaired, cleaned and maintained by GPTCHB.

Personal Protective Equipment is not to be removed from the premises.

Eye protection suitable for the procedure performed will be worn in all areas of the facility where potential eye injury exists.

Gloves will be worn to minimize potential contact with hazardous chemicals.

Wash your hands with soap and water after removing gloves.

All Personal Protective Equipment must be properly disposed of when contaminated or beyond repair.

12. HOUSEKEEPING

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Effective housekeeping can eliminate some workplace hazards and help get a job done safely and properly. Poor housekeeping can frequently contribute to accidents by hiding hazards that cause injuries. If the sight of paper, debris, clutter and spills is accepted as normal, then other more serious health and safety hazards may be taken for granted.

Housekeeping is not just cleanliness. It includes keeping work areas neat and orderly; maintaining halls and floors free of slip and trip hazards; and removing of waste materials (e.g., paper, cardboard) and other fire hazards from work areas. It also requires paying attention to important details such as the layout of the whole workplace, aisle marking, adequacy of storage facilities, and maintenance. Good housekeeping is also a basic part of accident and fire prevention.

Effective housekeeping is an ongoing operation: it is not a hit-and-miss cleanup done occasionally. Periodic "panic" cleanups are costly and ineffective in reducing accidents.

What is the purpose of workplace housekeeping?

Poor housekeeping can be a cause of accidents, such as:

Tripping over loose objects on floors, stairs and platforms.

Being hit by falling objects.

Slipping on greasy, wet or dirty surfaces.

Striking against projecting, poorly stacked items or misplaced material.

Cutting, puncturing or tearing the skin of hands or other parts of the body on projecting nails or wire or steel strapping.

To avoid these hazards, a workplace must "maintain" order throughout a workday. Workplace housekeeping ensures the risk of workplace hazards is reduced.

GPTCHB Good Housekeeping Program

In order to maintain a clean and hazard-free work environment, GPTCHB employees are expected to partake in various housekeeping activities to ensure cleanliness. Employees should not partake in any housekeeping activity which they cannot physically handle.

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Employees are solely responsible for keeping their workspace clean. GPTCHB employees are also expected to help keep common areas clean (kitchen, bathrooms, meeting rooms, etc.)

Examples of housekeeping/maintenance that are expected to be addressed include:

Ensure that office lighting is adequate. Replace burned-out light bulbs and have additional lighting installed, as necessary.

Ensure that electrical cords and phone cords do not cross walkways or otherwise pose a tripping hazard. If you cannot move a cord, have a new outlet installed or secure the cord to the floor with cord covering strips. Do not run cords underneath carpet and avoid the use of tape whenever possible.

Report or repair tripping hazards such as defective tiles, boards or carpet immediately.

Clean spills and pick up fallen debris immediately. Even simple items such as a loose pencil could cause a serious falling injury.

Keep office equipment, facilities and machines in good condition. Store items in an approved storage space. Take care to not stack

boxes too high or too tight. Clearly label boxes with their contents. Keep all drawers and cupboard doors closed when unattended. Dust and dirt removal. Waste disposal.

If you observe a maintenance or housekeeping issue which you are not equipped to address, notify your supervisor of the issue.

13. DOCUMENTATION OF AN ACCIDENT

In the event of an accident, prompt and accurate documentation is crucial. In most circumstances Human Resources is responsible for ensuring all documentation is complete. However, in the even that Human Resources is not available, the documentation procedures are listed below.

1. Complete a GPTCHB Incident Report form (Attachment A).2. Complete a Worker’s Comp Incident Report form (Attachment B). 3. Email the Worker’s Comp form to Chad Fowler at

[email protected]. Chad can answer any and all questions regarding Worker’s Comp.

4. Every employer has to report a death or accident that results in hospitalizations, amputations or loss of an eye OSHA within 8 hours of the accident - 1-800-321-6742.

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mailto:[email protected]


14. EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

These procedures are designed to help you in responding to potential emergencies such as fires and severe weather.

Learn the best escape route(s) from the various area(s) in the building(s) where you work.

If evacuation is necessary, you will be informed via intercom announcement. Upon leaving the building during a formal evacuation, proceed immediately to the far southwest corner of the parking lot so an accounting of all employees can be made.

IN THE EVENT OF A MEDICAL EMERGENCY:

Call medical emergency phone number: 911

Provide the following information:o Nature of medical emergency.o Location of the emergency.o Your name and phone number from which you are calling.

1770 Rand Road, Rapid City, SD 57702 605.721.1922

Do not move the individual unless absolutely necessary

IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE:

When fire is discovered:

Activate the nearest fire alarm.

Notify the local Fire Department by calling 911.

If the fire alarm is not available, notify the site personnel about the fire emergency by the following means:

o Voice Communicationo Intercom Announcement

Fight the fire ONLY if:

The Fire Department has been notified.

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The fire is small and is not spreading to other areas.

Escaping the area is possible by backing up to the nearest exit.

The fire extinguisher is in working condition and personnel are trained to use it.

Upon being notified about the fire emergency, occupants must:

Leave the building using the nearest available exit.o When passing through an exit, move quickly away from the

exit to avoid creating a bottleneck that slows the escape of others.

Assemble in the designated area (southwest corner of the parking lot).

Remain outside until Administration and/or a safety official announces that it is safe to re-enter.

If someone is missing, do not attempt to re-enter the building. Notify the firefighters or emergency personnel at the scene and describe where the person was last seen.

If you are trapped inside a room:

Open a window for air and call for help. Do not break the glass unless absolutely necessary.

Close as many doors between you and the fire as possible.

Supervisors/Administration must:

Coordinate an orderly evacuation of personnel.

Perform an accurate head count of responsible personnel.

Provide the Fire Department personnel with necessary information about the facility.

Ensure that all employees have evacuated the area.

IN THE EVENT OF SEVERE WEATHER AND NATURAL DISASTERS

TORNADO:

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When a warning is issued by sirens or other means, seek inside shelter. Consider the following:

o Small interior rooms on the lowest floor and without windows;o Hallways on the lowest floor away from doors and windows; ando Rooms constructed with reinforced concrete, brick or block with

no windows.

If there is no time, crouch under a desk or table, away from windows or glass dividers.

Stay away from outside walls and windows.

Stay away from tall objects such as file cabinets.

Use arms to protect head and neck.

Remain sheltered until the tornado threat is announced to be over.

If you are outside: Seek cover in low-lying depressions away from buildings, trees,

telephones and electric lines.

EARTHQUAKE:

If you are inside: oStand in a doorway or crouch under a desk or table, away from

windows or glass dividers. Stay away from tall objects, such as files or cabinets.

If you are outside: o Stand away from buildings, trees, and telephone and electric

lines.

When the earthquake is over:o Remain at your workstation unless it becomes obvious that doing

so would expose you to additional hazards. As soon as practical, Administration and/or a safety official will assess the situation and determine the need for evacuation. If evacuation is necessary, personnel will be informed via intercom announcement. All employees will immediately evacuate the building and assemble in the southeast corner of the parking lot for an accounting of employees.

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FLOOD:

If inside: o Be ready to evacuate as directed; follow the recommended

evacuation routes.

If outside: o Climb to the highest ground and stay there.o Avoid walking or driving through floodwater.o If car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.

BLIZZARD:

If inside:o Stay calm and await instructions from Administration and/or a

safety official.o Stay indoors.o If there is no heat: close off unneeded rooms or areas; stuff

towels or rags in cracks under doors; cover windows at night.o Eat and drink for energy and hydration.o Wear layers of loose-fitting, light-weight, warm clothing.

If stranded in a car or truck:o Stay in the vehicle.o Run the motor about 10 minutes each hour. Open the windows a

little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.

o Make yourself visible to rescuers: turn on the dome light at night when running the engine; tie a colored cloth to your antenna or door; raise the hood after the snow stops falling.

BOMB THREAT:

In the event of a bomb threat (via telephone), remain calm and keep the caller on the phone as long as possible. Notify your supervisor and/or administration of the call via a handwritten note or email as soon as possible so they can contact 911. Complete the Bomb Threat Checklist immediately.

In the event of a bomb threat via note or email, do not delete or alter the note in any way. Handle the note as little as possible and notify your supervisor/administration immediately and call 911. Complete the Bomb Threat Checklist (Attachment C) as soon as possible.

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