City of Clinton Employee Handbook

Visitors

Approved by City Council 7-98
Revisions May 2002 - to date

A. DEPARTMENT HEAD: The Department Head is responsible for fulfillment of departmental goals and objectives as well as health and welfare of each employee in the department. In the adopted safety policy, the highest priority has been placed on employee safety, which, therefore becomes the responsibility of the respective supervisor. It is normal practice for supervisors to delegate the authority to carry out safety policy in the department; but the responsibility for meeting objectives and the protection of employees in performance of their assignments cannot be transferred.

B. SUPERVISORS:

Assume full responsibility for safe and healthful working areas for the employees while they are under the supervisors jurisdiction.

Be fully accountable for preventable injuries, collisions and liabilities caused by their employees.

Insure that all management policies herein are fully implemented for maximum efficiency of each job.

Take the initiative in recommending correction of deficiencies noted in facilities, work procedures, employee job knowledge or attitudes that adversely effect City loss control efforts.

Be firm in enforcement of work policies by being impartial in taking disciplinary action against those who fail to conform and by being prompt to give recognition to those who perform well.

Insure that each employee is fully trained for the job they are assigned to do, that they are familiar with published division work rules, that they certify in writing that they understand compliance is mandatory and maintain training records at the immediate work place.

Fully cooperate with the Safety Chairman in ceasing operations considered to be an imminent danger to employees or in removing personnel from hazardous jobs when they are not wearing or using prescribed protective equipment.

Conduct safety meetings at regular intervals and provide instruction for employees relating to specific job hazards. These meetings may be held at the discretion of the work place immediate supervisor.

Act upon safety suggestions, continuously demonstrate concern over entire safety program and set a good example by working safely themselves.

Observe working conditions and methods to prevent development of possible safety hazards.

Assist Safety Chairman in investigating thoroughly the causes of all accidents and taking corrective action.

Make sure all accidents are promptly reported regardless of the extent of injury or property damage.

Instruct all employees regarding disciplinary policy for violation of safety rules and insure impartial, positive enforcement.

C. EMPLOYEES: Each employee, as a part of the comprehensive safety and loss prevention program, is expected to place safe work practices and identification of unsafe conditions in their highest priority while performing their daily tasks. Each employee’s safety commitment must include, but is not limited to the following:

Using the safety equipment which has been provided in performing their daily work assignments.

Wearing the prescribed uniform (if applicable) and safety shoes as required.

Only operating equipment or using tools for which training or orientation has been received.

Warning co‑workers of unsafe conditions or practices they are engaged in which could lead to or cause an accident.

Reporting defective equipment immediately to a supervisor.

Reporting to the Safety Chairman or appropriate department head dangerous or unsafe conditions that exist in the work place as well as throughout the City. This would include defective sidewalks, broken curbs, hanging limbs, loose handrails, open manholes, sunken basins and sewers, missing signs, etc.

Reporting of all injuries and accidents regardless of severity.

Protection of unsafe conditions that result from City work that could present a hazard to the public.

Properly using tools and equipment so they will be in a safe usable condition.

D. ACCIDENT AND CLAIM REPORTING - VEHICLES AND PROPERTY DAMAGE

1.         Upon occurrence of an accident involving City property or equipment where bodily injury has occurred or property damage has occurred, the Police Department and Accident Review Board shall be contacted immediately so that an investigation of the matter can be undertaken prior to removal of damaged property. This will allow the City to better perform adjustment activities, witness evidence, and assess situations where liability may exist.

2.             All accidents or incidents involving any City employee or equipment wherein the City or the employee might be found at fault will be reported to the Safety Chairman’s office in writing within 24 hours. The report will include:

A copy of any police report made of the accident or incident,

A statement of the City employee involved,

A list of witnesses (statements if available),

A description of the City property involved

A description and location of the property damaged, if real estate; or the names of any injured person and a description of the injuries, and

Photographs if they were taken of the scene, signed and dated by the person taking the photographs.

3.      All accidents or incidents involving any City equipment wherein the fault is that of someone other than a City employee, the following will be included with the report to the Safety Chairman’s office within 48 hours:

A copy of any police report made of the accident or incident,

A statement of the City employee involved,

A list of witnesses (statement if available),

Two estimates of repair or replacement cost of the equipment, if not repairable, including the age of the equipment damaged, and

Photographs of the damaged equipment signed and dated by the person taking the photographs.

4.      All accidents involving injury to a City employee while on City business or being paid by the City, no matter how caused, will be reported to the Safety Chairman immediately. Additionally, if the cause of the injury is the fault of defective equipment or the actions of someone other than a City employee, a report containing the following will be made to the City Manager’s office within 48 hours:

A copy of any police report of the accident or incident,

A statement of the City employee injured,

A list of witnesses (statements if available),

The name and address (if known) of the individual causing the injury, or if defective equipment is involved the name of the owner of the equipment, a description of the equipment such as type, model. etc., location where the equipment is located,

If the equipment is City owned no repairs are to be made until authorized by the Safety Chairman’s office. Any defective part will not be disposed of until so authorized,

Photographs of the scene and, if equipment is involved, photographs of the equipment including the defective part or parts, signed and dated by the person taking the photographs.

5.       The City Attorney’s office will be notified in writing of all written complaints against the City, a City department, a City official, or a City employee where there is a potential of liability on the part of the City as a result of any incident that may have occurred. All aspects of any contract of employment concerning individual complaints will, in addition to the above, be strictly adhered to.

E. WORKERS’ COMPENSATION (ON THE JOB INJURIES)

(See also 3. Leave I. Work Incurred Injury or Illness)

1. NOTICE OF INJURY: If you are injured on the job it is important that the injury be reported to your department head immediately for several reasons:

The City is concerned about employees and wants them to have the best medical care available for a Workers’ Compensation injury.

Your department head will instruct you on where to go to receive the proper medical attention and to alleviate the need for you to pay for the treatment out of your own pocket.

State law requires notice in writing be made to the employer within sixty (60) days following the injury. State law requires that upon the receipt of notice that an employee has been injured, the employer has an obligation under the Workers’ Compensation Act to provide that employee with reasonable and necessary medical treatment and to commence temporary compensation in the event that the employee is disabled and unable to return to work for more than seven (7) calendar days. The fact that the employer does begin to provide these benefits on a voluntary basis does not constitute an admission of liability on the part of the employer.

2. MEDICAL CARE

The City will arrange for medical care for all on‑the‑job‑injuries. Arrangements will be made by the personnel officer when notified by the supervisor. All employees are encouraged to seek medical attention immediately.

In the event there is a need for a second opinion or a referral to a specialist, the City‘s Workers Comp insurance carrier will discuss the need with the employee and assist with the arrangements.

3. LIGHT DUTY: In the event the employee is released by the doctor to return to “light duty” the following procedure will be followed:

The employee’s department head will first check to see if there is work duty in the department that can be done on a “light duty” basis. This may require working in the office, running errands, or whatever is determined by the doctor to be “light duty”. If there is nothing available then the department head will report the need to the Personnel Officer.

The Personnel Officer will poll the other departments to determine if there is a need for a “light duty” person to fill in for the respective department. If not, then

The employee will be instructed to return home but to be on call in the event the need for a “light duty” person should arise.

F. POLICY AND PROCEDURE GUIDELINES FOR ACCIDENT REVIEW BOARD

1. SCOPE OF BOARD: The Accident Review Board, also known as the Safety Committee, is formed at the direction of the City Manager to review accidents and damage or alleged abuse of all City vehicles, equipment, apparatus and property. The Board may make recommendation for disciplinary action, no action, commendation, or make recommendations to the City Manager or appropriate persons for improvements in municipal operations for the promotion of safety and risk reduction.

2. DUTIES: To determine the cause and responsibility of accidents and fault or non‑fault based on investigation and hearing of the facts and evidence presented.

3. MEMBERSHIP

Chairman: Appointed by City Manager
Advisor (non‑voting): Personnel Officer
Members: Head of Fleet Maintenance; Fire Chief or Designee; Public Works Director or Designee; Chief of Police or Designee; City Inspector
Should a Department Head designate an individual other than themselves, the appointed designee shall be consistent from meeting to meeting.

4. OBJECTIVES

To reduce budgetary and operational impact of loss and damages due to accidents and abuse of vehicles and equipment, thereby creating a safer work environment for employees.

To provide a fair and equitable means of determining fault and establishing a method of recommending corrective action.

To create a sense of participation by employees in proper use and care of equipment and in the decision making process.

To provide recognition by the employees that proper investigation is made and that corrective action or commendation will follow.

Knowledge on part of management and staff that there is a disciplined force of integrity in which the interests of the City are served.

5. PROCEDURE

The Board may be convened at the request of the Safety Chairman or the City Manager.

The Board will review the findings of the investigative officer, report from the Department Head and findings of the Safety Chairman.

The Board will have the latitude to interview any pertinent witnesses including the Department Head. Prior to the Board hearing, the employee will be informed of the investigation results.

The employee may provide the Board with additional information about the incident.

The Board will make a recommendation to the Department Head as to disciplinary action. The department head may use their own discretion in enforcing this disciplinary action. In matters requiring immediate disciplinary action, the Board will review action taken by the Department Head. The Department Head or employee may appeal the decision of the Board to the City Manager, in writing, within 48 hours of receiving the decision. The City Manager may uphold, remand, reverse or modify the recommendation of the Board.

Operational and administrative procedures and rules will be established by the Board and modified from time to time as approved by the City Manager.

G TRAINING AND SAFETY MEETINGS Each department is assigned the responsibility of providing on‑the‑job training to each employee on the topics that will enable the employee to do their job safely and efficiently. The training will include:

Orientation to departmental and overall municipal safety and health rules.

Procedure for reporting on‑the‑job injuries.

City requirements for use and operation of vehicles.

Proper safety requirements and precautions for tools and equipment and special conditions.

Reporting of unsafe conditions.

a. Each department shall make attendance at safety meetings mandatory and retain records of attendance.
b. Employees are expected to request information and training in those tasks or pieces of equipment with which they are not familiar.
c. The Safety Chairman will offer specialized training and safety meetings as needed and as funds permit.

H. SAFETY EQUIPMENT Projected costs for all safety equipment should be included in each years budget planning.

1. HEARING PROTECTION: Protection against the effects of noise exposure shall be provided when the appropriate tests indicate sound levels exceed standards established by OSHA. Ear protection inserted in the ear or head sets shall be provided by the department and used when determined necessary by the Department Head. The Safety Chairman will assist in designating the identified conservation areas. Cotton is not an acceptable protective device.

2. HEAD PROTECTION:
a. Approved hard hats for use by employees may be constructed of either plastic or fiberglass with crown suspended on an adjustable headband of fabric hammocks.

b. Hard Hats shall be worn during all construction and/or maintenance operations when there is a danger from falling objects. Hard hat areas shall be observed by all persons.

c. More specifically, hard hats will be worn by City of Clinton personnel when involved in the following situations:

Present - for any reason - on construction sites where hard hat signs are posted.

All park, water, sewer, street, electric, and construction work where work is being done with lifting equipment;

Where personnel are working above other workers or below ground level; or with high voltage electrical hazards, or where other potential of head injury exists.

Any overhead work where potential of falling or flying objects exists.

Any task by any City employee where a potential for head injury exists.

In locations damaged by disaster, fire, flood or other cause which may have created structural damage or result in falling material.

All supervisors of the above‑type work.

Other areas designated by the Safety Chairman as Hard Hat Areas.

d. The Department Head shall have discretion in requiring the use of hard hats based on these guidelines.

3. FACE AND EYE PROTECTION

The item of safety equipment with the widest variety of design is goggles. For protection of the eyes against impact, suitable spectacle or cup goggles and eye shields will be made available when jobs are assigned which could result in eye damage.

Employees who wear corrective glasses, and who must wear eye protection during work projects

shall wear safety glasses. The City shall pay for no more than one pair of safety glasses every 24 months; this includes frames with side shields and lenses. It does not include the cost of the office/doctor visit, tenting, or any extras. This doesn’t mean that the City will automatically pay for new glasses every two years; there should be a compelling reasons for new glasses.   The employee is required to present the written prescription for the supervisors approval before ordering the safety glasses. Exception: Employees using light duty grinders, chipping equipment/machining or spot welding may use side shield glasses.

1.   Special chemical goggles or acid hoods will be used when there is the danger of eye damage from heat or chemical action.

2.   In welding and in handling molten metal, the hazard of infra‑red radiation may be present in addition to the risk of molten metal splash. To reduce the radiant energy transmitted to the eye, filter lenses should be chosen by these grades:

Shade No. 3 for protection against glare or reflected light, spot welding operations or light brazing.

Shade No. 4 or Shade No. 5 for light acetylene cutting and burning.

Shade No. 6 for general acetylene welding.

Shade No. 8 for heavy acetylene welding or very light arc welding.

Shade No. 10 for arc welding up to 250 amp.

Shade No. 12 for arc welding of more than 250 amp.

Shade No. 14 for carbon arc welding.

3. Because welders must also chip and clear off the weld, they should wear spectacle goggles under their welding helmets. Although goggles and eye shields are available to fit over ordinary eyeglasses, those with prescription ground safety lenses are more comfortable for the individual who must wear eye protection the major portion of the time on the job.

4.   Goggles or approved safety glasses shall be worn when running concrete saws, grinders, sharpeners, welders, jack hammers, weed eaters and edgers.

5.    In any operation not covered above, reference should be made to OSHA Safety and Health Standards 1926.102 Table E‑1. The Safety Chairman will interpret these provisions.

4. FOOT PROTECTION:

a.                Specialized work boots/shoes will be furnished to employees (after successfully completing probation) at the discretion of the City Manger. The cost will not exceed $100. The Department Head will budget for special boots/shoes as the boots wear out, but not to exceed one pair per year (from date of initial purchase). Boots/shoes must be returned to the city upon termination.

b.             The wearing of tennis shoes in any construction and/or maintenance operation shall not be permitted. “Leather tennis shoes may be permitted by supervisors in appropriate landscape maintenance operations and roofing repair activities”.

5. HAND PROTECTION:

a.             Besides the ordinary hazards to the hands from friction, minor abrasions, and bumps, there are those injuries caused by particularly rough, sharp, and hot materials. Asbestos or asbestos and fabric serve best to protect the hands from hot materials. Acids, alkali’s, oils, solvents, and other chemicals in handling and mixing processes require rubber, neoprene, or plastic gloves, depending on the substances.

b. Necessary wrist and forearm protection determine the style and length of a protective glove.

It must be remembered that wearing hand protection around revolving machinery is dangerous. An exception is special metal faced gloves provided for use with this type equipment.

6. RESPIRATORY EQUIPMENT:

a. Respiratory hazards include:

1. nuisance dusts
2. dusts of toxic materials such as lead and fluorides
3.  mists and fumes from chemicals and heated metals
4.  vapors and gases such as chlorine, ammonia and carbon monoxide
5.  oxygen‑deficient atmosphere resulting from loss of air by chemical action or displacement by other gases or vapors.

b.      Air contamination causes respiratory problems ranging from mild irritation to death. Because some of the most lethal gases give few clearly recognizable warnings to the unsuspecting worker, it is important to be aware of the possible air contamination hazard in all occupations so that the correct respirator protection can be furnished. Assistance in determining type of respirator needed can be found in OSHA Health and Standards 1926‑103 Table E‑4 and by consulting with the Safety Chairman.   Also, refer to Exhibit C - Standard 29.

c.             It should be emphasized that adequate ventilation or elimination of the dangerous process is the preferred method of lessening a respiratory hazard. When such a system is followed, the personal protective equipment will provide an extra factor of safety for the stray or reduced concentration of contaminants still present. This equipment shall be readily available to use in shut‑offs or for rescue in emergencies. Employees required to use respiratory equipment shall be thoroughly trained in its use and training shall be updated regularly by qualified instructors. Respiratory equipment shall be inspected regularly and maintained in good condition.

7.   MACHINE GUARDS:

Protective guards should not be removed during progress of work and should be kept in repair.

Projecting shaft ends should present a smooth edge and should not project more than one‑half the diameter of the shaft unless guarded by a non‑rotating cup or safety sleeve.

All projecting keys, set‑screws and other unguarded projections of moving parts should be cut off and made flush or guarded by a metal cover.

Shaft couplings should not present a hazard from bolts, nuts, set‑screws or other projections on revolving surfaces. Shaft couplings should be hood guarded.

Where oiling must be done frequently openings with hinged or sliding self‑closing covers should be provided.

Where oiling must be done while a machine is in operation, extension fillings should be used to place the operator out of danger.

Guards should be designed not to interfere with the usual machine operation, but to give maximum protection to the operator.

8. PERSONAL CORRECTIVE DEVICES :     While on duty, all employees are required to wear any personal corrective devices as determined by the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Court, the City physician, or the employee’s personal physician or as determined by the Department Head.

I. CITY VEHICLES:

1. OPERATION OF CITY VEHICLES

a. The operation of a City‑owned vehicle is a privilege which may be withdrawn at any time. In order to operate a City vehicle of any type, an individual must have completed the following:

Submit and have an approved, valid Oklahoma driver’s license appropriate for the vehicle(s) to be driven.
Orientation to City driving rules and accident reporting procedures.
Training in operation and use of special use vehicle(s) and especially off‑the‑road equipment by the Department Head or designated supervisor. Records of employees having completed training in special use vehicles will be recorded on standard forms retained in the individual’s work place training record as well as a uniform wallet size card to be carried by every bearer.

b. Driving privileges for the City of Clinton vehicles will expire with the expiration/suspension of the employee’s State driver’s license or at termination of employment. It is the policy of this City that no employee will be directed to operate a vehicle for which they do not have the appropriate classification of driver’s license. This is a violation of state law and would be totally the responsibility of that employee were they to be stopped and found to be in violation of licensing limits. In addition, no employee should be instructed to operate a vehicle for which the employee has not been adequately trained to operate including safety procedures, tire and wheel changing procedures as appropriate and vehicle maintenance requirements that pertain to that vehicle.

c. In the event the employee loses driving privileges due to license suspension or revocation, the Supervisor will evaluate the ability of the employee to fulfill the duties as outlined in the job description. Should the loss be sufficient, the employee may be reduced in salary, position classification, placed on probation, or terminated. If the loss of license is the result of DUI, the employee will be subject to random drug screen.

2 DRIVING RULES AND REGULATIONS : All drivers of City‑owned vehicles, and those using their personal vehicles in pursuit of City business, will comply with all applicable laws of the State of Oklahoma as well as the following regulations of the City of Clinton. Emergency vehicles under pressing emergency situations are exempted from normal motor vehicle laws and rules but are required to exercise due caution and care in travel.

a. USE OF SEAT BELTS: All persons operating or riding in/on City vehicles shall wear seat belts at all times while vehicle is in motion. Any employee driving or riding in violation of the seat belt policy shall be subject to departmental discipline. Exception: Pursuant to the Department Head’s discretion, pickup trucks and heavy equipment may be exempt from this requirement when stop and go driving is necessary, i.e. filling potholes, sanitation route stops, etc.. Reference ‑ Oklahoma Mandatory Seat Belt Use Act effective February 1, 1987, R-OS-1.

b. PARKING

City vehicles are not to park in “NO PARKING” zones except in emergency situations or in required performance of official duties. At the time a vehicle is parked in a “NO PARKING” zone, emergency blinkers will be turned on.
No City vehicle is to be left unattended* with ignition key left in the ignition. (*unattended is out of easy sight of responsible employee)
When possible, vehicle will be locked and the keys in employee control when not occupied
Before initial use of any vehicle each day, the driver will walk around and inspect the vehicle for damage, inoperable lights, loose hardware, tire condition, or any other condition which might create any unsafe condition.
Any deficiency encountered will be reported to a supervisor immediately. It will be the supervisor’s responsibility to insure that appropriate action is taken to correct the problem.

c. EQUIPMENT

Seat belts will be provided in all vehicles for driver and appropriate number of passengers.

Vehicles with adjustable windshields will have them up.

Doors may not be removed from vehicles unless
a. It is a necessity of doing the job.
b. Mirrors remain usable when the doors are off.

Turn signals will be utilized by all drivers at all times in ample time to warn oncoming or following vehicles of the intent.

Drivers will insure that the windows, headlights, tail lights, and wipers are clean and operational at all times.

Tailgates will be up and latched when vehicles are in motion. If a vehicle’s function requires that the tailgate remain in the open position to carry a load which projects past 4 feet, a red flag will be attached to the end of the load in accordance with Oklahoma State Vehicle Laws.

If the vehicle does not have a tailgate but is loaded, the driver of the vehicle will insure that the load is secure on the truck and that overhangs are properly marked with a flag according to the State law.

All supervisors shall have fire extinguisher and first aid kits available in their vehicles as well as any special vehicles which are considered high risk for fire or injury. All police, fire, and civil defense vehicles shall be equipped with fire extinguisher and first aid kits.

In all cases the driver of the vehicle is responsible to see that all necessary conditions are met on their vehicle before he operates it.

d. SPECIAL VEHICLE EQUIPMENT

1.Special equipment such as tractors, hi-lifts, graders, plows, cranes or any unit having special devices added for specific types of work, will require formal instruction prior to use for operations. This special training will include the following:

Explanation and demonstration of all control devices.

Explanation and demonstration of all safety equipment.

Maintenance items such as fuel, water, oil or other minimum operating needs of the unit.

Demonstration of operation.

New driver operation under supervision with testing.

Instruction in driving to and from or on and off trailer, parking procedures and method of securing.

2.A written report of this training is to be maintained by each department showing name and training of each trainee.

3.Passengers will ride only in seats designed for passengers on special equipment.

4.Operators will always look around and have a person guiding them when backing. (Guide required for in-street work).

5.Every slow moving vehicle, equipment or other machinery designed for use at speeds less than 25 miles per hour shall be equipped with a slow‑moving vehicle emblem. This includes all road construction and maintenance machinery. Vehicles or equipment displaying this emblem will not be driven in excess of 25 miles per hour.

6.Flashing lights shall be utilized on road and street maintenance equipment, road/street maintenance vehicles, and road service vehicles when in operation or to designate a hazard.

7. Use of special equipment without training on record and appropriate authorization will result in disciplinary action.

3. GENERAL

Backing of vehicles which do not have a clear view of the entire rear end will be done with the assistance of a guide. If a second person is in the vehicle, that person will get out and guide the vehicle back using appropriate hand signal and voice signal. If the driver is alone, he will get out of the vehicle and inspect the rear before backing and then only if backing is the only alternative.
Riding on the sides, toolboxes, tailgates, hood, fenders, or roof of any truck is prohibited. Further, standing in the back of any truck is not permitted. Riders will sit only in the passenger areas unless authorized by a supervisor to ride in the back of the vehicle for a short trip and then only by sitting on the bed floor.
Drivers will carry their State License at all times when driving. Suspension or loss of driving privileges will result in full time drivers being temporarily reclassified until such time as their driving privileges are reinstated. In certain circumstances disciplinary action or dismissal may be warranted.
Each employee who operates a vehicle regularly or occasionally is required to report suspension or revocation of his license to his supervisor who will in turn advise the Safety Chairman and Personnel Department of this fact. Failure of an employee to report a change in license status may result in disciplinary action.
Riding on running boards of trucks is prohibited. Exception is granted fire personnel during fire operation when approved by appropriate authority.
Posted speed limits will be adhered to by all City drivers. Exception is granted to authorized emergency vehicles with red lights and siren in operation.
Drivers will direct their full attention to driving as required by State Law.
During periods of limited visibility the headlights will be turned on.
Consumption of alcoholic beverages or narcotics prior to or during the operation of City vehicles is prohibited. Trailers are to be fastened securely to hitches. Safety pins in pintel locks will be used. Safety chains will be crossed under the hitch and securely fastened before moving the vehicle.
All items which might be transported either in a truck or trailer which may move around during transport will be secured.
No more than three (3) persons will ride in the front seat of any vehicle. Where only two single seats exist, only one rider per seat.
m. To be termed an emergency vehicle by Oklahoma State Law a siren, horn or bell must be in operation. In most instances, red lights and siren shall be activated whenever it is necessary to disregard provisions of Title 47 of the Oklahoma Statutes. This exemption granted to emergency vehicles by Title 47, Motor Vehicles Highway Safety Code does not relieve the driver from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons using the roadways. “Code 2” (use of red lights only) operation while disregarding provisions of Title 47 is expressly prohibited.
Only authorized emergency vehicles as defined in Oklahoma Statutes, (Police, Fire, Civil Defense and Ambulance) shall display red and/or blue lights from the front of the vehicle. Yellow lights shall be used by work vehicles.
No non-city employee shall be carried as passengers in City vehicles unless it is deemed necessary in the course of performing assigned duties.
All city employees who are working outside their vehicles, in the public or on public roads, are required to wear orange safety vests. This is meant to include: meter readers, those operating the chipper, water line technicians, street and parks crews and police working accidents, etc. (8-00)

4. SAFETY CIRCLE CHECK : The driver of municipal vehicles shall conduct a “safety circle check” any time before it is entered or moved. The following procedures shall be followed:

All drivers shall visually inspect the perimeter of their vehicle prior to putting the vehicle in motion in any direction. This can be accomplished by the driver walking around their vehicle to insure that the area to the rear, sides and front are clear of all hazards before starting the vehicle.

In crowded conditions all drivers shall give an audio warning by horn or backup alarm and check all mirrors before any backward movement is made.

All drivers shall back cautiously and be always on the alert for any unexpected event.

5 SAFETY CONES

In addition to the above requirements, the drivers of all vans, heavy trucks, tractors, pickup trucks in excess of ton and construction equipment shall use safety cones. The following procedures for utilization of safety cones apply to all drivers including all supervisory or management personnel:

a.   Safety cones, minimum 18” high, made of red orange fluorescent material, shall be used to remind the driver to “safety circle check” the vehicle each time it is going to be entered and moved.

b.   Safety cones shall be used at all times when parking outside of fenced‑in vehicle storage yards or when parked until the next day duty.

c.   Placement of cones shall be as follows:

Parallel Parking - The safety cone will be placed adjacent to the rear bumper.

Nose-In Parking - When the nose of the vehicle is pulled in place, the safety cone is placed to the rear of the vehicle and centered.

Back-in Parking - When the vehicle is backed into place, the safety cone is placed in front of the vehicle and centered.

All Other Parking - In unusual parking situations, place the cone to the rear of the vehicle and centered.

d. The above procedures in no way change the procedures on the placement of safety cones used to direct traffic around work locations where construction or other work is in progress.

J. GENERAL SAFETY PROCEDURES

Practical jokes and horseplay have no place on the job. Any employee participating in such activities shall be subject to disciplinary action.
Drinking of alcoholic beverages on the job during working hours is prohibited. Any employee reporting to work under the influence of alcoholic beverages or consuming alcoholic beverages during working hours shall be subject to disciplinary action or termination.
Work should be at a steady consistent pace. Unnecessary hurry such as running up stairs can be contributory to accidents.
Jumping from an elevation such as a table, bench or platform may result in injury. Such action shall be avoided.
Climbing on or off a moving vehicle may result in injury. Such action shall be avoided.
All tools and equipment should be inspected prior to use. Defective items should be reported to supervisors and potential users.
All hazardous areas and/or equipment will be clearly marked with appropriate signs or tags.
All hazard warning signs and tags shall be obeyed.
Only personnel properly authorized and trained will operate City equipment.
All machinery and equipment will have appropriate safety guards installed in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations and good safety practice and shall not be removed except for service.
Appropriate clothing suitable to the type work performed shall be worn. Loose clothing or personal equipment shall not be worn near machinery or equipment with moving parts.
Jewelry such as rings, identification bracelets, etc., shall be removed when work involves climbing, material handling or operating mechanical equipment.
Protective equipment and/or clothing shall be worn as required by rules specified for each department in this safety plan. Personnel failing to make use of provided protective equipment will be subject to disciplinary action.
It is not possible to cover in detail all hazardous situations that might arise on the job site. Most hazardous situations and conditions can be eliminated with proper advance planning and use of common sense.
Use the prescribed tools to do the job right.
All first aid and fire equipment shall be maintained and accessible for emergency use.
Use caution when carrying hand tools.
Handling materials:
a.   Know the safe way to lift. Use caution when lifting or lowering materials.
b. Always ASK FOR ASSISTANCE in handling heavy loads or loads of ungainly shape or size
c. Keep hands away from pinch points, such as between walls and objects being handled, to prevent crushed fingers and hands.
d Use the proper equipment for moving or lifting the load.
e. Remove exposed nails from all lumber, crates, etc., before handling.
f.   When piling materials for storage, make sure the base is firm, level and not stacked too high.
g. When cutting wire or metal straps, stand clear so the flying ends will not strike you. Warn others of danger.
h. Make sure the path through which you must move material is free of traffic, tripping hazards and other dangers.
i. Keep aisle to exits and fire equipment clear.
Using Hand Tools:
a. Tools not in use should be put away properly on racks or in suitable tool boxes.
b. Maintain tools in good working condition. Inspect tools regularly for damage such as mushroomed striking heads, loose or cracked handles and bent or sprung jaws.
Portable Power Tools
a.   Inspect these tools before using.
b.   Portable electric tools should always be grounded, either at the frame or by use of three-wire conductor and plug.
c.   In wet locations WEAR RUBBER BOOTS AND GLOVES or stand on a good insulating mat or platform.
d.   Maintain electric cords in good condition.
e.    Do not operate power tools unless required guards are in place and adjusted.
f.     Shut off power, wait for machine to stop, lock out starting switch (disconnect electrical plug or spark plug wire) before making adjustments or clearing jammed objects. |
g.     Do not refuel a running or hot engine. Refuel outdoors. Use only safety cans to carry or store gasoline. Store fuel in a safe place and avoid spillage. NEVER SMOKE WHEN REFUELING.
h. Do not leave engines running when unattended.
i. Do not over-speed engine. Operate it at the slowest speed needed for effective operation.

K. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES - SAFETY MANAGEMENT, INSURANCE AND TORT LIABILITY

1. BACKGROUND: The City of Clinton has important public responsibilities to:

Secure the safety of the employees of the City.

Provide an environment whereby those persons and property using or benefiting from the City’s services, programs and facilities are reasonably safe from injury.

Provide fair treatment to persons or property that suffer injury as the result of negligent acts or omissions by the City or by its employees while operating within the scope of their employment consistent with the City’s legal responsibility.

Protect the financial resources and other assets of the City to assure its continued ability to provide essential public services.

The Oklahoma Governmental Tort Claims Act (Sections 151 to 170 of Title 51 of the Oklahoma Statutes) sets out a comprehensive law on tort claims, insurance and self-insurance powers meriting the establishment of a risk management program of the City.

2 PURPOSE: The purpose of this statement of policy is:

To generally set forth the public policy objectives of the City relating to risk management and to establish an orderly process and program for managing the risks of the City.

To establish guidelines for the operation of the City’s risk management program, including its tort liability protection program and insurance plans.

To provide for implementation of a risk management program, based on:
1.   risk identification and measurement
2.   risk reduction and prevention
3.   risk transfer and
4. such other systems or techniques as may be appropriate.

3. GENERAL OBJECTIVES: The general objectives of the City’s risk management program shall be to secure the following:

The establishment, to the extent practical, of an exposure free work and public service environment in which employees of the City and members of the general public, exercising reasonable care may use in safety and security;

The protection of the City and thus its citizens and taxpayers, against the consequences of accidental or other losses which are financially catastrophic in nature and the preservation of the City’s fiscal and other assets and its public service capabilities from serious loss, destruction or depletion;

The minimization of the total long-term cost to the City of accidental losses and their consequences by providing for the identification, measurement, prevention and control of risks;

The creation of a system of internal procedures providing a continuing reassessment of exposures to loss, loss bearing capacity and available financial resources to protect against such losses including insurance.

4. RISK REDUCTION AND PREVENTION:

All existing operations, programs, equipment and facilities of the City should be identified and evaluated to determine the potential severity and frequency of accidental loss. All potential hazards to the public or to City employees should be reduced to their practical minimum. Those services or facilities which constitute a potential liability risk to the City disproportionate to the public need or benefits derived therefrom should be discontinued where the City has discretion as to the continued performance or provision of such service or facility. Any proposed new operation, program or facility including the acquisition of real or personal property shall be evaluated in the light of the potential risk to the City.
It shall be the general policy of the City to utilize loss prevention techniques wherever possible, consistent with the cost involved. Efforts to prevent losses shall be given first priority. Loss prevention recommendations of state agencies, insurance companies and other experts shall be implemented whenever practical.

5. RISK TRANSFER - HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENTS: In all contractual relationships it shall be the general practice of the City to transfer to others, to the extent legally possible, all risk of loss from chance events resulting from the relationship of the contracting parties. However, before contractually transferring a risk to another party, that party’s ability to assume the risk and control the loss and the traditions of the parties and industry involved, as well as their financial worth, shall be considered. In any event, all contractual agreements

providing for any service, construction, leasing of real or personal property or other such agreements shall be reviewed by the City Manager and City Attorney to determine whether the City is adequately protected against financial loss assumptions.

6. RISK TRANSFER - INSURANCE : It shall be the policy of the City to purchase insurance under the following circumstances:

When required by law or contract.
When other methods of risk management or risk transfer do not reduce the loss exposure to an acceptable risk retention level.
When certain necessary services, including legal defense and claims handling, can best be provided through the purchase of insurance.
Commercial Fleet: The City shall maintain a commercial vehicle insurance plan. This plan will cover the public liability of all City owned motor vehicles. Department Heads shall notify the City Clerk when any vehicles are added or vehicles are deleted or when a city vehicle is involved in an accident.
Comprehensive General Liability: The City will maintain comprehensive general public liability insurance to protect the City, its officials and employees from tort liability for bodily injuries and property damage on all of its properties and operations.

7. INSURANCE PLAN:

Group Health Plan: The City may provide for a group health plan for major medical, hospitalization, and dental. This plan may be provided for full time regular employees of the City. Dependent coverage will be available for employees dependents. If dependent coverage is elected, the cost of premiums will be the responsibility of the employee.
Workers’ Compensation: The City shall provide workers’ compensation benefits for its employees as required by law.
Commercial Fleet: The City shall maintain a commercial vehicle insurance plan. This plan will cover the public liability of all City owned motor vehicles. Department Heads shall notify the City Clerk when any vehicles are added or vehicles are deleted or involved in an accident.
Comprehensive General Liability: The City will maintain comprehensive general public liability insurance to protect the City, its officials and employees from tort liability for bodily injuries and property damage on all of its properties and operations.