HomeMy WebLinkAboutEMTS AgreementCity of San Luis Obispo
Specification No. 50200-2020-LS
AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into in the City of San Luis Obispo on ______________ by
and between the CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, a municipal corporation, hereinafter referred to as City, and
EMTS, hereinafter referred to as Contractor.
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, on November 24, 2020, the City requested proposals for Landscape Maintenance Services, per
Project No. 50200-2020-LS
WHEREAS, pursuant to said request, Contractor submitted a proposal that was accepted by City for
Category D;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of their mutual promises, obligations and covenants hereinafter
contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1.TERM. The term of this Agreement shall be from February 1, 2021 to February 28,
2025, or termination of the contract in accordance with this agreement.
2.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE. City Specification No. 50200-2020-LS and Contractor's proposal
is hereby incorporated in and made a part of this Agreement and attached as Exhibit A.
3.Contract Extension. The term of the contract may be extended by mutual consent for an additional 2
years.
4.Cost Adjustments. During the term of the agreement, beginning July 1, 2022, contract prices shall be
modified by a percentage equal to the percentage increase in the U.S. Consumer Price Index/All Urban
Consumers (CPI-U) from March in the previous year to March in the year of adjustment. Under no
circumstances shall the contract price increase more than five (5) percent from the prior contract year.
5.Ability to Perform. The Contractor warrants that it possesses all capital and other equipment, labor,
materials, and licenses necessary to carry out and complete the work hereunder in compliance with any
and all applicable federal, state, county, city, and special district laws, ordinances, and regulations.
The Contractor's employees shall be competent and qualified to perform the specified work and shall
perform the specified work in an orderly manner. If the City's representative advises the Contractor that
an employee is incompetent, unqualified, or disorderly, the Contractor shall remove that employee from
the specified work for the duration of the contract. The Contractor shall not bring to the specified work
locations any pets, children, or persons not employed under the contract.
6.Contractor Identification. All staff employed in the work shall wear a shirt or jacket clearly identifying
the Contractor’s company.
City of San Luis Obispo
Specification No. 50200-2020-LS
7.Sub-contract Provisions. No portion of the work pertinent to this contract shall be subcontracted
without written authorization by the City.
8.Contract Assignment. The Contractor shall not assign, transfer, convey or otherwise dispose of the
contract, or its right, title or interest, or its power to execute such a contract to any individual or business
entity of any kind without the previous written consent of the City.
9.Scope of Work and Levels of Service. The Contractor shall furnish services for Landscape
Maintenance as specified in Exhibit A.
The City may periodically request additional unspecified work, such as new or replacement planting at
the assigned locations. For this work, the City shall pay the Contractor an amount equal to the amount
provided by the contractor and attached as Exhibit B, multiplied by the number of units completed or
installed, or the employee hours used multiplied by the accepted labor rate plus the actual cost of
materials with a 15% markup allowed.
10.Work Hours. The Contractor shall perform the specified work on weekdays (Monday through Friday)
between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The Contractor shall not perform any of the specified
work outside of these work hours without the previous written consent from the City’s Contract Manager.
11.Traffic Control. The Contractor shall furnish all traffic control delineation required in order to perform
the specified work. Traffic control delineation shall comply with all local, state, and federal regulations.
The Contractor shall not close street lanes without the City's previous written consent.
12.Encroachment Permits. When specified work must be completed in the medians of state highways,
such as those on Santa Rosa Street, the Contractor shall obtain and pay for any encroachment permits
which may be required from the State of California Department of Transportation.
13.Work Schedule. At the beginning of each month the Contractor shall submit to the City a proposed
schedule showing the sites and tasks to be completed during the upcoming month. Irrigation testing
locations and fertilization must also be noted on the schedule.
When submitting an invoice for work completed during a month, the Contractor shall include with the
invoice a copy of the schedule showing the actual dates when work was completed. Failure to provide
an adequate schedule will result in a forfeiture of 10% of the total monthly payment due.
14.Utilities Costs. The City shall pay the utilities costs for all water and electricity used at the specified
work locations. Contractor shall follow direction of City staff for “rain shut off” of irrigation controllers
during periods of extended rain. Failure to follow direction may result in contractor being liable for cost
of water.
15.Materials. The Contractor shall not use any material for the specified work without the City's prior written
approval of that material. If requested, the Contractor shall furnish to the City without charge samples
of materials for examination and testing. Irrigation shall meet current City standards.
The Contractor shall furnish to the City a list of all materials used for the specified work that are regulated
by law as toxic or hazardous. With this list the Contractor shall include a material safety data sheet for
each toxic or hazardous material. The Contractor shall train its employees in the proper handling of any
toxic or hazardous materials.
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Specification No. 50200-2020-LS
16.Inspection and Corrections. The Contractor shall furnish the City with every reasonable opportunity
for City to ascertain that the services of the Contractor are being performed in accordance with the
requirements and intentions of this contract. All work done and all materials furnished, if any, shall be
subject to the City's inspection and approval. The inspection of such work shall not relieve Contractor
of any of its obligations to fulfill its contract requirements. The City Contract Manager shall be sole judge
of the adequacy of the Contractor’s maintenance and the appearance of the sites.
During the third week of each month the Contractor and the City's Contract Manager together shall
inspect locations where work was scheduled for completion that month. The City's Contract Manager
shall document any deficiencies in writing. The City's Contract Manager will also periodically inspect
work locations without the Contractor, but will report any deficiencies to the Contractor before the end
of the third week of the month.
If the Contractor does not correct a documented deficiency by the end of the month, it shall forfeit 50
percent of the monthly unit price for the location where the deficiency occurred. If the deficiency is not
corrected within the next month, 100 percent of the monthly unit price for the location where the
deficiency occurred will be forfeited. The City will deduct such forfeiture from its next payment. If site
maintenance has not been completed at all, 100 percent of the monthly unit price will be forfeited from
the next payment.
17.Termination. If, during the term of the contract, the City determines that the Contractor is not faithfully
abiding by any term or condition contained herein, the City may notify the Contractor in writing of such
defect or failure to perform. This notice must give the Contractor a 10 (ten) calendar day notice of time
thereafter in which to perform said work or cure the deficiency.
If the Contractor has not performed the work or cured the deficiency within the ten days specified in the
notice, such shall constitute a breach of the contract and the City may terminate the contract immediately
by written notice to the Contractor to said effect. Thereafter, neither party shall have any further duties,
obligations, responsibilities, or rights under the contract except, however, any and all obligations of the
Contractor's surety shall remain in full force and effect, and shall not be extinguished, reduced, or in any
manner waived by the termination thereof.
In said event, the Contractor shall be entitled to the reasonable value of its services performed from the
beginning date in which the breach occurs up to the day it received the City's Notice of Termination,
minus any offset from such payment representing the City's damages from such breach. "Reasonable
value" includes fees or charges for goods or services as of the last milestone or task satisfactorily
delivered or completed by the Contractor as may be set forth in the Agreement payment schedule;
compensation for any other work, services or goods performed or provided by the Contractor shall be
based solely on the City's assessment of the value of the work-in-progress in completing the overall
scope of work.
The City reserves the right to delay any such payment until completion or confirmed abandonment of
the project, as may be determined in the City's sole discretion, so as to permit a full and complete
accounting of costs. In no event, however, shall the Contractor be entitled to receive in excess of the
compensation quoted in its proposal.
If, at any time during the term of the contract, the City determines that continued contract maintenance
is no longer in the best interests of the City due to funding shortages or unforeseen circumstances, the
City reserves the right to terminate the contract. Contractor will be paid compensation due and payable
to the date of termination.
18.Reports. At the end of each month, included with the invoice, the Contractor shall provide all irrigation
reports, fertilization and pesticide application information for the prior month. Failure to provide any of
these reports will result in forfeiture of 20% of the total monthly payment due. During months when no
City of San Luis Obispo
Specification No. 50200-2020-LS
irrigation, fertilization of pesticide application occurs, the Contractor shall note that with the invoice
submittal.
19.Record Retention and Audit. For the purpose of determining compliance with various laws and
regulations as well as performance of the contract, the Contractor and sub-contractors shall maintain all
books, documents, papers, accounting records and other evidence pertaining to the performance of the
contract, including but not limited to the cost of administering the contract. Materials shall be made
available at their respective offices at all reasonable times during the contract period and for three years
from the date of final payment under the contract. Authorized representatives of the City shall have the
option of inspecting and/or auditing all records. Copies shall be furnished if requested.
20.Release of Reports and Information. The Contractor shall not issue any news release or public
relations item of any nature, whatsoever, regarding work performed or to be performed under this
contract without prior review of the contents thereof by the City and receipt of the City’s written
permission.
21.Copies of Reports and Information. If the City requests additional copies of reports, drawings,
specifications, or any other material in addition to what the Contractor is required to furnish in limited
quantities as part of the work or services under these specifications, the Contractor shall provide such
additional copies as are requested, and City shall compensate the Contractor for the costs of duplicating
of such copies at the Contractor's direct expense.
22.Conflict of Interest. The Contractor shall disclose any financial, business, or other relationship with the
City that may have an impact upon the outcome of this contract, or any ensuing City construction project.
The Contractor shall also list current clients who may have a financial interest in the outcome of this
contract, or any ensuing City construction project which will follow.
The Contractor covenants that it presently has no interest, and shall not acquire any interest—direct,
indirect or otherwise—that would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance of the work
hereunder. The Contractor further covenants that, in the performance of this work, no sub-Contractor
or person having such an interest shall be employed. The Contractor certifies that no one who has or
will have any financial interest in performing this work is an officer or employee of the City. It is hereby
expressly agreed that, in the performance of the work hereunder, the Contractor shall at all times be
deemed an independent Contractor and not an agent or employee of the City.
23.Rebates, Kickbacks or Other Unlawful Consideration. The Contractor warrants that this contract
was not obtained or secured through rebates, kickbacks or other unlawful consideration, either promised
or paid to any City employee. For breach or violation of the warranty, the City shall have the right in its
discretion; to terminate the contract without liability; to pay only for the value of the work actually
performed; to deduct from the contract price; or otherwise recover the full amount of such rebate,
kickback or other unlawful consideration.
24.Covenant Against Contingent Fees. The Contractor warrants by execution of this contract that no
person or selling agency has been employed, or retained, to solicit or secure this contract upon an
agreement or understanding, for a commission, percentage, brokerage, or contingent fee, excepting
bona fide employees or bona fide established commercial or selling agencies maintained by the
Contractor for the purpose of securing business. For breach or violation of this warranty, the City has
the right to annul this contract without liability; pay only for the value of the work actually performed, or
in its discretion, to deduct from the contract price or consideration, or otherwise recover the full amount
of such commission, percentage, brokerage, or contingent fee.
City of San Luis Obispo
Specification No. 50200-2020-LS
25.Compliance with Laws and Wage Rates. The Contractor shall keep itself fully informed of and shall
observe and comply with all applicable state and federal laws and county and City of San Luis Obispo
ordinances, regulations and adopted codes during its performance of the work.
Prevailing wage is required, at a minimum, for work under this contract. The Contractor and any
subcontractor must forfeit to the City not more than $200 per day or part of a day for each worker paid
less than the prevailing wage rate and pay the worker the difference between the prevailing wage rate
and the rate paid (Labor Code § 1775). The Labor Commissioner determines the amount of this penalty
and bases the amount on:
1. Whether the failure to pay the correct prevailing wage rate was a good-faith mistake that the Contractor
or subcontractor promptly and voluntarily corrected upon notice
2. The prior record of the Contractor or subcontractor in meeting its prevailing wage obligations
3.The Contractor or subcontractor's willful failure to pay the correct rate of prevailing wages
The Contractor shall submit certified payroll as part of the monthly invoice submittal. Weekly payrolls
must include each employee’s:
1.Full name
2.Address
4. Work classification
5. Straight time and overtime hours worked each day and week
6. Actual wages paid for each day
7. Fringe benefits or submit a statement of fringe benefits, clearly defining which benefits are paid directly
to the employee as part of the hourly rate, and which benefits are paid into an approved program. Fringe
benefit statements must be signed by the employer or the employer’s agent certifying the fringe benefit
statement is correct and the employer has been authorized to make any payments on behalf of the
employee to approved programs.
26.Payment of Taxes. The contract prices shall include full compensation for all taxes that the Contractor
is required to pay.
27.Permits, Licenses, and Insurance. The Contractor shall procure and maintain current, all permits,
licenses, and specified insurance, and pay all charges and fees, and file all notices as they pertain to
the completion of the Contractor’s work. The contractor shall have and maintain the following valid State
of California Licenses, C-27 Contractors License, Qualified Pesticide Applicators License, and
Agricultural Pest Control Business License. The Contractor shall comply with the current State
Department of Pesticide Regulations and County of San Luis Obispo Agriculture Commissioner
regulations.
NOTE: For CAT (F) only Contractor will need to be eRailsafe certified by the Union Pacific Rail Road
Contact Bill Chandler of UPRR Safety Department – Police Background Investigation Phone # (435-
563-8253) or email mfarley@up.com MaryBeth Farley Operations Manager Support UPRR for forms
and procedure. Or on the website: https://erailsafe.com/usa/applicant-login/
28.(a) Non-design, non-construction Professional Services: To the fullest extent permitted by law
(including, but not limited to California Civil Code Sections 2782 and 2782.8), Contractor shall indemnify,
defend, and hold harmless the City, and its elected officials, officers, employees, volunteers, and agents
(“City Indemnitees”), from and against any and all causes of action, claims, liabilities, obligations,
judgments, or damages, including reasonable legal counsels’ fees and costs of litigation (“claims”),
arising out of the Contractor’s performance or Contractor’s failure to perform its obligations under this
Agreement or out of the operations otherwise conducted by Contractor, including claims arising out of
the City’s active or passive negligence, except for such loss or damage arising from the sole negligence
or willful misconduct of the City. In the event the City Indemnitees are made a party to any action, lawsuit,
or other adversarial proceeding arising from Contractor’s performance of this Agreement, the Contractor
shall provide a defense to the City Indemnitees or at the City’s option, reimburse the City Indemnitees
their costs of defense, including reasonable legal fees, incurred in defense of such claims.
City of San Luis Obispo
Specification No. 50200-2020-LS
29.(d) The review, acceptance or approval of the Contractor’s work or work product by any indemnified
party shall not affect, relieve or reduce the Contractor’s indemnification or defense obligations. This
Section survives completion of the services or the termination of this contract. The provisions of this
Section are not limited by and do not affect the provisions of this contract relating to insurance.
The review, acceptance or approval of the Consultant’s work or work product by any indemnified party
shall not affect, relieve or reduce the Consultant’s indemnification or defense obligations. This Section
survives completion of the services or the termination of this contract. The provisions of this Section are
not limited by and do not affect the provisions of this contract relating to insurance.
30.Safety Provisions. The Contractor shall conform to the rules and regulations pertaining to safety
established by OSHA; the California Division of Industrial Safety; and Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) as
well as the UPRR Fire Prevent Plan.
31.Public and Employee Safety. Whenever the Contractor's operations create a condition hazardous to
the public or City employees, it shall, at its expense and without cost to the City, furnish, erect and
maintain such fences, temporary railings, barricades, lights, signs and other devices and take such other
protective measures as are necessary to prevent accidents or damage or injury to the public and
employees.
32.Preservation of City Property. The Contractor shall provide and install suitable safeguards, approved
by the City, to protect City property from injury or damage. If City property is injured or damaged resulting
from the Contractor's operations, it shall be replaced or restored at the Contractor's expense. The
facilities shall be replaced or restored to a condition as good as when the Contractor began work.
33.Water Conservation. Contractors shall turn off all irrigation systems during periods of rainfall and/or
times when suspension of irrigation is desirable to conserve water while remaining within the guidelines
of good, and acceptable horticultural maintenance practices. Contractors shall comply with all City of
San Luis Obispo Ordinances and Resolutions which relate to water conservation.
34.Recycled/Reclaimed Water. Water supplied by the City for irrigation may be Recycled/Reclaimed
Water, indicated by purple color-coded sprinklers, valves, valve boxes, tags and signs. Contractor
understands that Recycled/reclaimed Water is not intended for human contact or consumption.
Contractor accepts full responsibility for educating and monitoring its employees regarding safety issues
related to the presence and use of Recycled/Reclaimed Water.
35.Security of Work Locations. For work locations secured by locks, the City shall provide the Contractor
with the required keys. The Contractor shall properly secure these locations when specified work is
completed and shall replace or repair City property lost or damaged when locks are not properly set.
36.Contractor Non-Discrimination. In the performance of this work, the Contractor agrees that it will not
engage in, nor permit such subcontractors as it may employ, to engage in discrimination in employment
of persons because of age, race, color, sex, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, or religion of
such persons.
37.Non-Exclusive Contract. The City reserves the right to contract for the services listed in this proposal
from other Contractors during the contract term.
38.Contractor Invoices. The Contractor shall deliver a monthly invoice to the City, itemized by project
work phase or, in the case of on-call contracts, by project title. Invoice must include a breakdown of
City of San Luis Obispo
Specification No. 50200-2020-LS
hours billed and miscellaneous charges and any sub-Contractor invoices, similarly broken down, as
supporting detail.
39.Payment. For providing services as specified in this Agreement, City will pay and Contractor shall
receive therefore compensation for individual site work in accordance with the prices included in
Sections J and K.
40.Contractor Invoices. The Contractor shall deliver a monthly invoice to the City with the name of the
contract, the contract specification number. The invoice shall be itemized by site / location and
accompanied by required reporting documents.
41.Resolution of Disputes. Any dispute, other than audit, concerning a question of fact arising under this
contract that is not disposed of by agreement shall be decided by a committee consisting of the City
Contract Manager and the City Director of Public Works, who may consider written or verbal information
submitted by the Contractor. Not later than thirty days after receipt of a written decision on any dispute
by the City’s Contract Manager, the Contractor may request review by the City Council of unresolved
claims or disputes, other than audit, in accordance with Chapter 1.20 Appeals Procedure of the Municipal
Code.
Any dispute concerning a question of fact arising under an audit of this contract that is not disposed of by
agreement, shall be reviewed by the City’s Public Works Director. Not later than 30 days after issuance
of the final audit report, the Contractor may request a review by the City’s Public Works Director of
unresolved audit issues. The request for review must be submitted in writing.
Neither the pendency of a dispute, nor its consideration by the City will excuse the Contractor from full and
timely performance in accordance with the terms of this contract.
42.CITY'S OBLIGATIONS. For providing the services as specified in this Agreement, City will pay, and
Contractor shall receive therefore compensation as awarded by contract.
43.CONTRACTOR/CONSULTANT’S OBLIGATIONS. For and in consideration of the payments and
agreements hereinbefore mentioned to be made and performed by City, Contractor agrees with City to
do everything required by this Agreement and the said specifications.
44.AMENDMENTS. Any amendment, modification, or variation from the terms of this Agreement shall be
in writing and shall be effective only upon approval by the City Engineer. If, at any time during the
project, the Contractor is directed to do work by persons other than the City Contract Manager and the
Contractor believes that the work is outside of the scope of the original contract, the Contractor shall
inform the Contract Manager immediately. If the Contract Manager and Contractor both agree that the
work is outside of the work scope and is necessary to the successful completion of the work, then a fee
will be established for such work based on Contractor's hourly billing rates or a lump sum price agreed
upon between the City and the Contractor. Any extra work performed by Contractor without prior written
approval from the City Contract Manager shall be at Contractor's own expense.
45.COMPLETE AGREEMENT. This written Agreement, including all writings specifically incorporated
herein by reference, shall constitute the complete agreement between the parties hereto. No oral
agreement, understanding or representation not reduced to writing and specifically incorporated herein
shall be of any force or effect, nor shall any such oral agreement, understanding or representation be
binding upon the parties hereto.
City of San Luis Obispo
Specification No. 50200-2020-LS
46.NOTICE. All written notices to the parties hereto shall be sent by United States mail, postage prepaid
by registered or certified mail addressed as follows:
City Adam Basden
City of San Luis Obispo
25 Prado Rd
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Contractor EMTS
2972 Larkin Ave.
Clovis, CA 93612
47.AUTHORITY TO EXECUTE AGREEMENT. Both City and Contractor do covenant that everyone
executing this agreement on behalf of each party is a person duly authorized and empowered to execute
Agreements for such party.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed the day and year
first above written.
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO:
By:
City Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM: CONTRACTOR:
By:
City Attorney Name of CAO / President
EXHIBIT A
PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL SUMMARY
QUALIFICATIONS
FIRM EXPERIENCE 1
RESUMES 2-8
EVIDENCE OF INSURANCE 9
REFERENCES
THREE (3) REFERENCES 10-14
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION 15-17
WORK PROGRAM
COST PROPOSAL SHEET 18 -30
DESCRIPTION OF APPROACH TO COMPLETING WORK 31 - 32
SERVICES AND DELIVERABLES 33
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
INVENTORY OF EQUIPMENT 34 -35
BONDING CAPACITY 36 - 39
BANK RECOMMENDATION LETTER 40
SAFETY PROGRAM 41
EliteTeamOffices.com I EMTS, Inc. I 2972 Larkin Avenue, Clovis, CA 93612 I 559.292.2900 Main I 559.292.7756 Fax
Safety & Health
Program
SAFETY & HEALTH PROGRAM
SAFETY & HEALTH PROGRAM ANNUAL REVIEW
The Safety Representative is the responsible person for the safety & health program for
EMTS, Inc.. As such, they shall conduct an annual review, at minimum, of this document
and if changes are made the current revision will be made available to all employees.
Rev Date Name Title
Rev 0 7/6/17 Eric Andersen EHS Professional
Rev 0 1/5/18 Eric Andersen EHS Professional
Rev 0 1/1/19 Eric Andersen EHS Professional
Rev 0 01/02/2020 Leah Watters HR Professional
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY & HEALTH PROGRAM
PAGE
Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Program 2
Behavior-Based Safety 3
Bloodborne Pathogens/Exposure Control Plan 4
Claims Management 6
Confined Space Entry Program 7
Disciplinary Program 18
Electrical Safety Awareness 20
Emergency Action Plan 22
Ergonomics Program 24
Fall Protection 26
Fatigue Management 27
First Aid 28
Fire Protection / Extinguishers 29
Forklift & Industrial Trucks 35
Hand & Power Tools 39
Hazard Communication 42
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment 44
Housekeeping 46
Incident Investigation & Reporting 49
Job Competency 52
Ladder Safety 54
Lock-out/Tag-out 56
Lone Worker 58
Mobile Equipment 59
Noise Exposure / Hearing Conservation 61
Personal Protective Equipment / Assessment 63
Process Safety Management / Contractor Requirements 64
Safe Vehicle Operation 65
Sandblasting and Grinding 69
Scaffold Safety 70
Stop Work Authority 72
Subcontractor Management Plan 73
Trenching / Shoring / Excavations 73
Valley Fever 78
Welding, Cutting and Heating 82
Waste Management 84
Wildfire Smoke 85
SAFETY & HEALTH PROGRAM
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INTRODUCTION
EMTS, INC. has developed this written safety & health program as part of our health and
safety program. Under all circumstances, it is the intent of EMTS, INC. to comply with the
requirements of the California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 8.
The goal of this Injury and safety & health program is to institute a framework for identifying
and eliminating unsafe conditions and practices, to control health hazards, and to comply fully
with all applicable safety and health regulations. This safety & health program is the
foundation upon which EMTS, Inc. has built companywide Safety Policies and Procedures and
establishes EMTS, Inc. commitment to produce a safety culture that sustains a safe and
healthy work environment for all employees.
The work performed by EMTS, Inc. personnel is varied. We expect all personnel to follow the
requirements set forth in this safety & health program. This program seeks to address several
safety issues regarding compliance with injury & illness prevention requirements and provides
guidance for the way we implement our activities in support of our safety efforts.
MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT TO SAFETY AND HEALTH
The purpose of this program is to ensure that any injury and illness hazards are recognized
and addressed. This will help to reduce and maintain the risks and costs associated with
workplace injuries and illnesses.
It is the policy of EMTS, Inc. to provide and maintain standards of safety and health for all
personnel. Management is very sincere and supportive of our safety programs and has
accepted the responsibility to ensure that all employees perform their assigned duties in a
safe and correct manner. Through cooperation, communication, and training, together we will
be able to obtain a safe working environment for all concerned. The safety and health of our
employees continues to be the first consideration in operating this business. It takes the whole
company to keep all of us safe; we cannot do this without the support of the employees.
SAFETY & HEALTH PROGRAM
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ASSURED EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTOR PROGRAM
The Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Program (AEGCP) is put in place to minimize
and eliminate hazards resulting from malfunctions, improper grounding and/or defective
electrical tools. All Supervisors, Foreman, and Employees are responsible for being aware of
the hazards associated with worksites that have cord sets, receptacles (which are not a part of
the permanent wiring of the building or structure) and equipment connected by a cord. Only
authorized personnel are permitted to repair, adjust, test or service electrical equipment.
EMTS, Inc., Human Resources (HR) Manager is the competent person responsible for the
execution of this program and will review it annually.
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are required on all portable generators and exterior
receptacles. GFCI’s on portable generators are to be checked prior to each day’s use by the
foreman on site. GFCI’s that protect exterior/interior receptacles are to be tested monthly and
the results documented by the maintenance manager.
Foremen are responsible for testing each cord set, attachment cap, the receptacle of a cord
set, and any equipment connected by cord and plug (except those sets that are fixed and not
exposed to damage) for external defects and possible damage prior to each day’s use.
Testing is to be recorded on the Daily Job Site Inspection Form indicating name, date as well
as each item that passed and any that did not, including the actions that were taken.
Equipment that is damaged or defective is to be tagged out of service immediately and sent to
the shop for repairs or replacement.
Types of tests:
• Test all equipment grounding conductors for continuity.
• Test each receptacle and attachment cap or plug for correct attachments of equipment
grounding conductor.
Schedule of tests:
• Before first use.
• Before equipment is returned to service following repairs.
• Before equipment is used after any incident which can be reasonably suspected to
have caused damage.
• At intervals not to exceed three months. Exception: cord sets and receptacles which
are fixed and not exposed to damage shall be tested at intervals not to exceed six
months.
Records are to be maintained in the Foreman Packs and be available on each job site for
inspection by OSHA and upper management.
Foremen are responsible for the safe condition of electrical tools and equipment and must
ensure that all tools and equipment are maintained in the appropriate manner and taken out of
service immediately for repair when defects are discovered or suspected.
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BEHAVIOR-BASED SAFETY
The Behavior-Based Safety Program is put in place to eliminate unsafe behaviors. In order for
this program to be a success, it is critical that there is Safety Through Everyone’s Participation
(STEP), where all employees are responsible for observing employees with concern instead
of criticism and immediately stop and correct any unsafe behaviors.
All employees are responsible for being alert and aware on job sites and communicating
hazards that may arise in the course of a job as well as unsafe behaviors. The Supervisor is
responsible to document and give feedback regarding behaviors, and to reverse and correct
behaviors if necessary. Feedback can consist of coaching, mentoring, praising and guiding
their co-worker’s behavior or disciplinary action can be used to correct unsafe behaviors.
After the observation process, the supervisor should discuss the observation with the
employee and document the ‘activator’ or reason for acting unsafely as well as defining a
solution for the problem. A suggested method for discussion is, to begin with, a positive
comment and discuss safe acts that the employee was performing. Next would be the
appropriate time to give feedback where improvement is needed. Time for questions from the
employee should be allowed.
Foremen should encourage and applaud safe behavior. Employees who show safe behaviors
should be acknowledged.
Supervisors are to be trained yearly on how to effectively administer feedback to enforce safe
and positive behavior or to correct unsafe or negative behavior. Training should include the
importance of documenting negative behaviors and the resulting disciplinary action on the
Employee Warning Notice Form that includes:
• Who was involved in the incident.
• The location of the incident.
• What activity was being performed at the time of the incident.
• The root cause of the incident.
• How the incident could have been prevented.
• How to prevent a similar incident in the future.
Employee warning notices are electronically tracked in the safety matrix. The HR Manager is
responsible for reviewing the safety matrix monthly to identify trends and to identify the
training necessary to prevent the incidents from reoccurring. Training can come in the form of
toolbox training to be used in the field or is to ensure that any injury and illness hazards are
recognized and addressed.
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BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS/EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN
The Bloodborne Pathogens program is put in place to protect employees from occupational
exposure to blood-borne pathogens. The HR Manager is responsible for the implementation
of the Exposure Control Plan (ECP) and will maintain, review, and update the ECP at least
annually, and whenever necessary to include new or modified tasks and procedures.
Employees who are determined to have occupational exposure to blood or other potentially
infectious materials must comply with the procedures and work practices outlined in this ECP.
The Managers, Supervisors & Foreman are responsible for providing and maintaining all
necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) & engineering controls at no cost to the
employees; as well as ensuring that foremen have PPE available in the appropriate sizes in
their truck or trailer. The Hepatitis B Vaccine will be made available at no cost to all
employees with occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens.
The HR Manager is responsible for ensuring that all medical actions required by OSHA are
performed and that employee’s health and OSHA records are maintained. Foremen are
responsible for maintaining their first aid kits and ensuring they are complete.
The Managers, Supervisors & Foreman is responsible for training, documentation of training,
and making the written ECP available to employees and OSHA representatives. Training is to
occur during pre-employment orientation & on a yearly basis. Medical records for employees
with occupational exposure are to be kept for the duration of employment plus 30 years.
Training records are to be kept and maintained for three years from the date of training.
Employee Exposure Determination
During normal construction activities, employees do not have occupational exposure to blood-
borne pathogens. There is a risk of contamination during unexpected injury or illness. The
risk increases for those employees who have been trained in first aid/CPR. All employees are
to utilize universal precautions and basic health practices. All body fluids should be
considered potentially infectious. Should an incident occur follow the instructions in the
Incident Procedure or contact the Safety Manager.
If an incident occurs involving the transfer of bodily fluid an immediate and confidential
medical evaluation and follow-up will be conducted by the company’s designated medical
provider. Following initial first aid (clean the wound, flush eyes or other mucous membranes,
etc.) the following will occur:
• Document the routes of exposure and how the exposure occurred.
• Identify and document the source individual.
• Obtain consent and make arrangements to have the source individual tested as soon as
possible to determine HIV, HCV, and HBV infectivity, document test results and convey
to source team member’s health care provider.
• If the source individual is already known to be HIV, HCV and/or HBV positive, new
testing need not be performed.
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• Assure that the exposed employee is provided with the source individual’s test results
and with information about applicable disclosure laws and regulations.
• Any employee assigned to first aid duties is to ensure that, when feasible, the work
area has been cleaned and that if there are any work surfaces that have been
contaminated that they are decontaminated after contact with blood or other infectious
materials.
Handwashing
Handwashing facilities are also available to employee(s) who incur exposure to blood or other
potentially infectious materials. Where handwashing facilities are not feasible, antiseptic
cleanser, in conjunction with clean cloth/paper towels or antiseptic towelette’s, will be
provided for use. Employees will be required to wash hands with soap and running water as
soon as possible.
After removal of personal protective gloves, employees shall wash hands and any other
potentially contaminated skin area immediately or as soon as feasible with soap and water.
If employees incur exposure to their skin or mucous membranes, then those areas shall be
washed or flushed with water, as appropriate, immediately, or as soon as feasible, following
contact.
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CLAIMS MANAGEMENT
The Claims Management Program seeks to minimize the human financial and material losses
associated with every incident. In the event of an incident, EMTS, Inc. has arranged for a
medical provider and will supply transportation to and from this provider if needed. All efforts
will be made to return injured workers to work as soon as possible even if this is in a new
position or modified duty which may require re-training.
All employees are required to notify EMTS, Inc. in writing if they would like to be treated by a
provider other than the designated medical provider in the event of an injury requiring medical
attention. They must receive primary and follow up treatment only from the designated
provider for the first 60 days after an injury unless notice of preference was given to EMTS,
Inc. before an injury. If the injured would like to change providers, notification must be in
writing to EMTS, Inc. and our insurance carrier.
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CONFINED SPACE ENTRY PROGRAM
DEFINITIONS
Acceptable Entry Conditions - The conditions that must exist in a permit space to allow entry
and to ensure an employee can safely enter into and safely work within a permit-required
confined space.
Confined Space – A space that is large enough and so configured that an employee can
bodily enter and perform assigned work, has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and is
not designed for continuous employee occupancy.
Entry - The action by which a person passes through an opening into a permit-required
confined space. Entry is considered to occur as soon as any part of the entrant's body breaks
the plane of an opening into the space. NOTE: For entry to occur there must be intent to
bodily enter the confined space. You may reach into a space, and not bodily enter (say to
adjust a valve), and do so without an entry permit being required.
Entry Permit - The written or printed document provided by this company to allow and control
entry into a permit space.
Entry Supervisor - The person responsible for determining if acceptable entry conditions are
present at a permit space where entry is planned, for authorizing entry and overseeing entry
operations, and for terminating entry.
Hazardous Atmosphere - An atmosphere that may expose team members to the risk of injury,
death, incapacitation, impairment of the ability to self-rescue, or acute illness from one or more
of the following conditions:
• Flammable gas, vapor, or mist in excess of 10 percent of its lower flammable limit
(LFL);
• Airborne combustible dust at a concentration that meets or exceeds its LFL. (This may
be approximated as a condition in which the dust obscures vision at a distance of 5 feet
or less);
• Atmospheric oxygen concentration below 19.5 percent or above 23.5 percent;
• Atmospheric concentration over the permissible limit of any substance for which a dose
of permissible limit is published (in Subpart G Occupational Health and Environmental
Control; or Subpart Z Hazardous and Toxic Substances); or
• Any other atmospheric condition that is immediately dangerous to life or health.
Non-Permit Confined Space - A confined space that does not contain or have the potential to
contain any atmospheric hazard capable of causing death or serious physical harm.
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Permit-Required Confined Space (or Permit Space or Permit Required Space) - A confined
space that contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere, contains a material
that has the potential for engulfing an entrant, has an internal configuration such that an
entrant could be trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or by a floor which
slopes downward and tapers to a smaller cross-section, or contains any other recognized
serious safety or health hazard.
Prohibited Condition - Any condition in a permit space that is not allowed by the permit during
the time when entry is authorized.
Testing - The process by which the hazards are identified and evaluated. Testing includes
specifying the tests that are to be performed in the permit space.
This Confined Space Entry Program is established to identify, evaluate, and control confined
spaces and to communicate and eliminate the risks associated with them. All employees must
be aware of this program including the hazards associated with confined spaces and how to
eliminate them. Managers & Supervisors are responsible for reviewing this program on an
annual basis.
All confined spaces should be identified prior to work beginning on the job site inspection (JSI)
form. Due to the nature of our construction confined spaces that would be common are listed
below.
• Inside storm and sanitary sewer manholes, trenches over 4’ deep.
EMTS, INC. Supervisors must evaluate the job site and identify each confined space and
determine whether a permit is required prior to beginning work. The results are to be
documented on the Job Site Inspection Sheet. Supervisors are also responsible for informing
all employees of the existence, location of, and the danger posed by the confined space after
identification and prior to work beginning. Permit required confined spaces require the posting
of danger signs in addition. Supervisors must then determine if employees will or will not enter
permit-required space. If not, effective measures must be taken to prevent employees from
entering permit spaces.
The Managers, Supervisors & Foreman are responsible for providing documented training
prior to initial job assignment and on an annual basis for entrants, attendants & entry
supervisors. No EMTS, Inc. Employee is authorized for in-house rescue.
Designate the appropriate supervisor(s) as an entry supervisor(s).
The Managers, Supervisors & Foreman are responsible for providing all equipment required
for entry in a confined space. Employees are responsible to maintain that equipment
properly, and supervisors or foreman must ensure that employees use that equipment
properly.
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When acting as a host employer for a contractor performing permit space entry work the
Manager is responsible for:
• Inform contractor of permit space entry program.
• Notify the contractor of hazards of the particular permit space and the precautions and
procedures implemented for the protection of employees in or near permit spaces.
• Coordinate entry operations with the contractor when both will be working in or near
permit spaces and debrief contractors after entries.
• Obtain information from the contractor of the permit program to be followed and
coordinate multiple entry operations.
• Debrief contractors of the hazards encountered or created.
It may be necessary to reclassify a non-permit confined space as a permit space when there
are changes in use or configuration.
No space that is immediately dangerous to life and health will be entered under any
condition. Permit required confined spaces must only be entered into after specific
authorization from an entry supervisor. Prior to entry into permit-required spaces, all required
training must be conducted.
PERMIT REQUIRED CONFINED SPACE ENTRY PROGRAM AND PROCEDURES
All permit-required confined spaces will be identified by the Safety Manager. The Managers,
Supervisors & Foreman is responsible for ensuring all spaces have posted warning signs and
all employees exposed to the area are informed of such spaces and properly trained.
Only trained, qualified, and authorized employees will be allowed to be permit space
entrants, attendants, or entry supervisors. Documented training must occur prior to initial job
assignment, after a change in assigned duties, if a new hazard has been created or special
deviations have occurred. Documentation should be available for review within 1 business
day and include the date & time of training as well as the trainer’s name, trainee’s name &
signature.
No employee shall enter a permit space without having a properly completed entry permit
signed by the entry supervisor.
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Prior to entry
Entrants are responsible for obtaining an entry permit from the Managers, Supervisors &
Foreman prior to entry of the space. The entrant is also responsible for hazard
control/elimination actions including but not limited to, atmospheric testing, having all required
equipment on hand, controlling external hazards such as pedestrian and vehicle traffic and
providing for attendant and rescue services.
• Complete all items on the permit.
• The entry will be authorized and the permit will be signed only by an authorized entry
supervisor. If any item on the permit is checked as "NO" (meaning not yet completed or
available), the permit will not be signed.
• An attendant must be on duty outside the confined space at all times anyone is inside
the space. At no time should a single attendant be monitoring more than one confined
space at a time.
• Entry may proceed. A copy of the entry permit will be placed outside the confined space
until the permit has been canceled by the appropriate personnel.
Testing and Monitoring
• Test the space as necessary to determine if acceptable entry conditions exist before
beginning entry operations. Initial testing of the atmosphere must be done from outside
the confined space prior to any entry. If isolation of the space is infeasible because the
space is large or part of a continuous system (such as a sewer), entry conditions will
be continuously monitored where entrants are working. Monitoring can be taken at any
time – additional times can be requested.
• Test or monitor the permit space as necessary to determine if acceptable entry
conditions are being maintained during the course of entry operations.
• When testing for atmospheric hazards, test first for oxygen, then for combustible gases
and vapors, and then for toxic gases and vapors. Parameters for non-hazardous
atmospheres are:
o Oxygen between 19.5 and 23.5 percent.
o Flammability less than ten percent of the lower flammability limit (LFL).
o Toxicity less than the permissible exposure limit (PEL).
• An authorized attendant must be present and monitoring the entry at all times. The
attendant will not be assigned any other duties that may interfere with his attendant
duties. Attendant duties are outlined below.
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• Equipment required for permit-required confined space entry includes that equipment
required for testing and monitoring; ventilating; communications between the entrant
and attendant, and for summoning rescue; personal protection; lighting;
barriers/shields for openings; means of ingress and egress; and any other equipment
necessary for safe entry and rescue.
Rescue and emergency services
• Non-entry rescue is the preferred method for the rescue of personnel from a permit-
required space. Employees will not enter a permit space for rescue unless they have
been specifically trained and equipped for such rescue.
• To facilitate non-entry rescue, retrieval systems or methods shall be used whenever an
authorized entrant enters a permit space unless the retrieval equipment would
increase the overall risk of injury or would not be of value to any rescue. Retrieval
system requirements are:
o Each entrant shall use a chest or full-body harness with a retrieval line attached at
the center of the back near shoulder level, or another appropriate point.
o The other end of the retrieval line shall be attached to a mechanical device or fixed
point outside of permit space ready for immediate use. A mechanical device will be
used to retrieve personnel from vertical type permit spaces.
o If an injured entrant is exposed to any substance with a required SDS or similar
document, that SDS or document will be made available to the medical facility
treating entrant.
• If a rescue should become necessary, the attendant will:
o Notify and summon the Entry Supervisor.
o Attempt non-entry rescue procedures to the extent possible by the circumstances.
o Monitor the situation and be ready to give rescuers information on how many
victims and their status, what hazards, chemical types, concentrations, etc. are
present.
o Basic first-aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). At least one member of
the rescue team will hold current certification in first aid and CPR.
• Permits will be canceled by the entry supervisor upon completion of the work, or when
any prohibited condition arises. Permits cannot just be left to expire. Canceled permits
must be kept for the annual review.
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Program Review
Canceled entry permits will be retained on file for at least one year. The Permit Space
Program will be reviewed within one year of each entry using these canceled permits to
revise the program as necessary to ensure team members are protected from permit space
hazards. A single review covering all entries in the preceding year may be conducted.
DUTIES OF THE ENTRANT, ATTENDANT, AND ENTRY SUPERVISOR
Entrant
• Know the hazards that may be faced, including the mode, signs or symptoms, and
consequences of the exposure;
• Properly use equipment as required. Respirators should be annually fit tested for each
entrant to ensure proper brand and size. Harnesses need to be updated per the
manufactures recommendation as well as properly maintained. Tripod entry/rescue
devices need to be used.
• Communicate with the attendant as necessary to enable the attendant to monitor
entrant status and to alert entrants of the need to evacuate the space.
• Alert the attendant whenever the entrant recognizes any warning sign or symptom of
exposure to a dangerous situation or detects a prohibited condition.
• Exit from the permit space as quickly as possible whenever:
o An order to evacuate is given by the attendant or the entry supervisor, or an
evacuation alarm is activated.
o The entrant recognizes any warning sign or symptom of exposure to a dangerous
situation or detects a prohibited condition.
Attendant
• Know the hazards that may be faced during entry, including the mode, signs or
symptoms, and consequences of the exposure.
• Be aware of possible behavioral effects of hazard exposure.
• Continuously maintain an accurate count and identity of authorized entrants.
• Remain outside the permit space during entry operations until relieved by another
attendant
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Attendant
• Communicate with entrants as necessary to monitor entrant status and to alert entrants
of the need to evacuate.
• Monitor activities inside and outside space to determine if safe for entrants to remain in
space and order evacuation when necessary.
• Summon rescue and emergency services when assistance for an emergency exit from
permit space is necessary.
• Take the following actions when unauthorized persons’ approach or enter a permit
space while entry is underway:
o Warn them to stay away, or exit immediately if they have entered.
o Inform the entrants and entry supervisor if unauthorized persons enter the permit
space.
• Perform non-entry rescues as specified by company procedure.
• Perform no duties that might interfere with their primary duty to monitor and protect
authorized entrants.
Entry Supervisor
• Know the hazards that may be faced during entry, including the mode, signs or
symptoms, and consequences of the exposure.
• Verify that acceptable conditions for entry exist before endorsing the permit and
allowing entry to begin.
• Terminate the entry and cancel the permit when entry operations are complete or
a prohibited condition arises.
• Verify that rescue services are available and the means for summoning them are
operable.
• Remove unauthorized individuals who enter or who attempt to enter the permit
space.
• Determine, whenever responsible and at appropriate intervals, that acceptable
entry conditions are maintained.
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TRAINING
Only trained and qualified employees may be authorized as an entrant, attendant, entry
supervisor. The training will establish proficiency in the duties required by this program so
that the employee acquires the understanding, knowledge, and skill necessary for the safe
performance of his/her duties.
Training must be completed before an employee is assigned duties under this program,
before there is a change in assigned duties, and whenever a supervisor has reason to believe
either that there are deviations from permit space entry procedures or inadequacies in the
team member's knowledge or use of this program.
Supervisors will certify that this training has been accomplished. The certification will contain
the employee name, signatures or initials of the trainers, and the dates of training. The
certification will be kept on file.
ALTERNATE ENTRY PROCEDURES
Alternate entry procedures may only be used when the only hazard is an actual or potentially
hazardous atmosphere. If alternate entry procedures are used, no permits are needed, no
attendant or supervisor is required, and rescue provisions need not be used. Training and
written certification are required.
Conditions to Be Met to Qualify for Alternate Procedures:
• The only hazard posed by permit space is an actual or potentially hazardous
atmosphere.
• Continuous forced air ventilation alone is sufficient to maintain safe permit space.
• Monitoring and inspection data that supports the above demonstrations have been
developed and documented.
• If initial entry is necessary to obtain the above data, it shall be performed in
accordance with this program.
• Documented determinations and supporting data will be made available to entrants.
Entry must be in accordance with the following requirements:
• Any condition making it unsafe to remove an entrance cover shall be eliminated before
removing the cover. When entrance covers are removed, the opening shall be
promptly and effectively guarded.
• Before entry, the internal atmosphere shall be tested with a calibrated direct-reading
instrument, for the following conditions in the order given:
o Oxygen content: 19.5 - 23.5%
o Flammable gases and vapors: <= 10% of LFL
o Potential toxic air contaminants: < PEL
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• There may be no hazardous atmosphere within the space whenever any employee is
inside the space.
• Continuous forced air ventilation shall be used as follows:
o Entry not permitted until the hazardous atmosphere is eliminated.
o Ventilation shall be directed to immediate areas where team members are or will
be present and will continue until all team members have left the space;
o Air supply shall be from a clean source and may not increase hazards in the
space.
• The atmosphere within the space shall be periodically tested as necessary to ensure
that ventilation is adequate. If a hazardous atmosphere is detected during entry:
o Each employee shall leave space immediately;
o Space shall be evaluated to determine how hazardous atmosphere developed; and
o Measures must be taken to protect team members from a hazardous atmosphere
before any subsequent entry.
• The entry supervisor will verify that the space is safe for entry and that all of the above
requirements have been met. Such verification will be in writing to include the date,
location of the space, and the signature of the person providing the certification, and
shall be made available to each employee before entry.
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PERMIT SPACE RECLASSIFICATION
A permit space may be reclassified as a non-permit space:
• If there are no actual or potential atmospheric hazards and if all hazards within permit
space are eliminated without entry, space may be reclassified for as long as the non-
atmospheric hazards remain eliminated.
• Hazards may be eliminated by such actions as purging or inserting tank/vessels of
contaminants, emptying material from hoppers/bins, use of company lockout/tag
procedures for electrical/ mechanical hazards. The control of atmospheric hazards
through forced air ventilation does not constitute the elimination of that hazard, it only
controls the hazard. The preceding Alternate Entry Procedures must be used in such
cases.
• If entry is required to eliminate hazards, it shall be according to regulations and the
space may be reclassified for as long as the hazards remain eliminated.
• Entry supervisors will certify in writing that all hazards in permit space have been
eliminated and make this document available to each entrant.
• If hazards arise in declassified permit space employee(s) shall exit and the safety
director shall determine whether to reclassify space.
NOTE: A combination of reclassification procedures and alternate entry procedures (e.g.
using lockout/tagout to eliminate a physical hazard, then continuous forced air to control an
atmospheric hazard) may not be used together. Such spaces must be entered under the
permit program.
WRITTEN PERMIT
The following information must be included in the written permit. The permit must be a
standardized format for each entry.
• The permit space to be entered.
• The purpose of the entry.
• The date and the authorized duration of the entry permit.
• The authorized entrants within the permit space, by name or by such other means.
• The personnel, by name, currently serving as attendants.
• The individual, by name currently serving as an entry supervisor, with space for
signature or initials.
• The hazards of the permit space to be entered.
• The measures used to isolate the permit space and to eliminate or control permit
space hazards before entry.
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• The acceptable entry conditions.
• The results of initial and periodic tests, with the names or initials of the testers and
when the tests were done.
• The rescue and emergency services that can be summoned and the means for
summoning them. The communications procedures used by authorized entrants and
attendants to maintain contact during the entry.
• Equipment (such as personal protective equipment, testing, communications, alarm
system, and rescue equipment) to be provided for compliance with this section.
• Any other information which is necessary in order to ensure employee safety.
• Attach to permit any additional permits, such as for hot work, that has been issued for
work in the permit space.
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DISCIPLINARY PROGRAM
The Disciplinary Program is put in place to ensure all employees adhere to EMTS, Inc.
Policies and Procedures and are held accountable for their actions. The Human Resource
Department is available to assist employees and managers/supervisors with conflict
resolution. Supervisors shall attempt to resolve differences as quickly and efficiently as
possible. The Human Resource Department shall review all termination recommendations
prior to final action.
Managers, Supervisors & Foreman are all responsible for maintaining compliance with rules,
policies, and procedures as well as appropriate employee performance and behavior.
Violations of company policy, safety violations and insubordination are all reasons for taking a
form of disciplinary action. A safety violation is not adhering to company safety procedures,
policies & rules including all written and verbal instructions. All employees must work under
direct orders from their supervisor and wear the appropriate PPE and follow all safety
guidelines by EMTS, Inc. Private Customers and OSHA.
All safety violations should be addressed immediately. Any action below can be taken after
the supervisor first informs the employee of the rule or procedure that was broken and to
correct the behavior. Remember all work areas must be physically inspected before work
begins and on a regular basis to ensure that all safety rules and policies are being followed.
In determining the disciplinary action to be undertaken, all available information will be
considered. Disciplinary action may vary from case to case. Disciplinary actions, which may
be utilized, are as follows:
Oral Warning
The manager/supervisor/foreman formally discusses the concern with the employee and
reminds the employee of the importance of the rule, performance or behavior standard. The
employee is told in a formal manner what s/he must do to improve and the consequences of
repeated violation. Foreman takes written notes of the discussion and submits to the
Supervisor or HR Manager.
Written Warning
The manager/supervisor/foreman formally talks to the employee and discusses the concern
and the steps necessary for improvement. The employee is given a written warning which
summarizes previous discussions, sets forth expectations for improvement, and alerts the
employee that failure to improve may result in further disciplinary action including an
unrequested leave of absence or termination. The original document is retained in the
employee’s personnel file.
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Written Warning with Probation
The manager/supervisor/foreman formally talks to the employee and discusses the concern
and the steps necessary for improvement. Probation can last 45 or 90 days depending on the
level of violation, during this time no raises will be given and any company or safety violations
will be grounds for termination.
Unrequested Leave of Absence
The manager/supervisor/foreman talks to the team member, discusses the concern, and
reminds the employee of any past discussions of the concern, as well as a plan of action
which was to be followed. The employee is then advised that s/he is on unrequested leave of
absence without pay from work for a period not to exceed 24 scheduled hours of work. During
the unrequested leave, the employee must decide whether s/he can continue to work for
EMTS, Inc. following the established work rules, policies, procedures, performance, and
behavior standards. The results of this meeting will be documented and placed in the
employees’ personnel file. The Superintendent, General Manager, and/or the HR Manager
shall be involved in the consultation with the manager/supervisor prior to the initiation of the
decision to enforce a leave of absence.
Termination
Depending on the nature of the concern, termination may be the initial form of discipline or
termination may occur after any or all of the preceding steps have been taken.
Prior to termination of an employee, a manager/supervisor must review the decision with the
Superintendent, General Manager, and/or the HR Manager.
When disciplinary action other than termination is taken, a written summary of the disciplinary
meeting should include consideration of the following:
• Identification of the problem(s) citing specific examples.
• A summary of prior conversations between the employee and the manager/supervisor
regarding the problem(s).
• A time table for improvement or changes and the consequences if significant
improvement is not made.
• Specific identification of what changes or improvements must be made for the
resolution of the problem(s).
Depending on the circumstances or nature of the concern, disciplinary action should not
remain active indefinitely. The decision as to whether a disciplinary action remains in the
employee’s personnel file is at the sole discretion of the employee’s supervisor and/or the HR
Manager.
Any employee who feels the disciplinary action taken against him/her is inappropriate is
encouraged to discuss the situation with his/her supervisor and/or the HR Manager.
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ELECTRICAL SAFETY AWARENESS
The purpose of the Electrical Safety Awareness program is to eliminate all hazards
associated with electrical devices. All employees are responsible for being aware of the risk of
electric shock and how to prevent it. Specific training on Electrical Safety Awareness
pertaining to each employee’s area of work is to be completed prior to work assignment and
on an annual basis.
ENERGIZED PARTS
If work must be performed while equipment is energized or if de-energizing is not feasible,
additional safety measures will be taken to ensure the safety of the qualified employee and
any other persons who may be exposed. Protection from equipment, parts or circuits which
may be energized will be suitable for the type of hazard involved. Exposed equipment, parts
or circuits which may be energized in areas accessible to the public shall be continuously
protected by an authorized attendant. In areas not accessible to the public, employees shall
be protected from exposed energized parts by the use of signs or tags. In addition to signs or
tags, barricades shall be used where necessary to limit access to areas with exposed
energized parts.
Only Qualified persons will be allowed to perform work directly on or near equipment, parts or
circuits which may be energized. Qualified persons will be capable of working safely on
energized circuits and will be familiar with company procedures and special precautionary
techniques, personal protective equipment, insulating and shielding materials and insulated
tools. Qualified persons must also have received the training required in this safety
procedure.
DE-ENERGIZED PARTS
Employees working near equipment or circuits which may be energized need to be aware
of and utilize company procedures to prevent electric shock. Safe company procedures
include de-energizing the live parts of the circuit, locking out/tagging out disconnected
elements and working at safe clearance distances. Employees working on or near exposed
de-energized parts are to treat them as live circuits.
VEHICULAR AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT NEAR OVERHEAD POWER LINES
Employees working outdoors need to be aware of the risks of overhead power lines. Any
vehicle or mechanical equipment capable of having parts of its structure elevated near
energized overhead lines shall be operated so that a clearance of 10 ft. (305 cm) is
maintained from energized overhead lines.
Vehicles, mechanical equipment or long-handled tools capable of having parts elevated to
overhead lines can only be operated by qualified and authorized employees. Safe
distances must be maintained according to the voltage chart in table S-5.
All unqualified employees must maintain a clearance distance of at least 10 feet for
voltages up to 50,000 volts. If the voltage is 50,000 volts or higher clearance shall be
increased 4 inches for every 10,000 volts over that voltage.
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Table S-5: APPROACH DISTANCES FOR QUALIFIED AND AUTHORIZED OPERATORS
Voltage range (phase to phase) | Minimum approach distance
_______________ _
300V and less | Avoid Contact
Over 300V, not over 750V | 1 ft. 0 in. (30.5 cm).
Over 750V, not over 2kV | 1 ft. 6 in. (46 cm).
Over 2kV, not over 15kV | 2 ft. 0 in. (61 cm).
Over 15kV, not over 37kV | 3 ft. 0 in. (91 cm).
Over 37kV, not over 87.5kV | 3 ft. 6 in. (107 cm).
Over 87.5kV, not over 121kV | 4 ft. 0 in. (122 cm).
Over 121kV, not over 140kV | 4 ft. 6 in. (137 cm).
SPACES CONTAINING EXPOSED ENERGIZED PARTS
Employees are not to enter spaces containing exposed energized parts unless authorized
by the Safety Manager. Authorized employees or subcontractors must not enter spaces
containing exposed energized parts unless it is properly illuminated. The illumination must
be sufficient to enable the work to be done safely. Where poor illumination or an obstruction
precludes safe observation of the work to be performed, employees, authorized or
otherwise, may not perform tasks near exposed energized parts. Employees may not reach
blindly into areas that may contain energized parts.
CONFINED SPACES
Employees are not allowed to enter into confined spaces unless explicitly authorized to do
so. In the instance that an authorized employee needs to enter a confined or enclosed
space that contains exposed energized parts, the Supervisor, Foreman or HR Manager are
responsible for providing the employee with protective shields, protective barriers, or
insulating materials as necessary to avoid inadvertent contact with these parts. Doors,
hinged panels, and similar items shall be secured to prevent their swinging and causing the
employee to contact exposed energized conductors.
PORTABLE LADDERS
All portable ladders must have nonconductive side rails if they are used where an employee
or the ladder could contact exposed energized parts.
WEARING CONDUCTIVE APPAREL
Employees are prohibited from wearing conductive apparel such as watches, bands,
bracelets, rings, key chains, necklaces, anything with conductive thread, or metal
headgear when working near energized parts. If such articles must be worn when the
employee is working near energized parts, they must be rendered nonconductive by
covering, wrapping or other insulating means.
The HR Manager is responsible for reviewing this policy annually.
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EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
The purpose of the Emergency Action Plan is to ensure that in the event of an emergency all
efforts are made to eliminate injury and damages. Emergencies can come in many forms; all
employees must be prepared for fire, toxic chemical releases, medical crises, tornadoes,
storms containing lightening, blizzards, floods, and any other unpredictable life-threatening
event.
WORKSITE
All emergencies on worksites that threaten the life of anyone require immediate notification to
911 or the first responder and securing the immediate area.
Notify the direct supervisor as soon as possible.
If it is necessary, make sure to evacuate the area and get to a secure location. Notify the
direct supervisor of your location.
All emergencies that could produce effects of becoming life-threatening, such as storms
containing lightning, tornado warnings, blizzards, and floods, require that all employees seek
shelter immediately. Only employees specifically authorized and trained on the hazards of the
elements are allowed to work during blizzard or flood conditions and must be fighting the
elements for the greater good of the community.
OFFICE BUILDING EMERGENCIES
Employees are alerted by the sounding of an alarm and/or verbal announcement.
• A supervisor will immediately call 911 or 1ST responder
• In the event of a fire, alarms will sound. All employees shall evacuate immediately by
means of the nearest available marked exit. A supervisor should make sure all
employees and customers are evacuated from the building.
• In the event of any other emergency, instructions will be given by the Supervisor
in charge as to what actions to take. All employees should follow the instructions
of the Supervisor on site for getting to a safe zone.
• In the event of a power outage, the emergency lighting system will turn on.
• Portable fire extinguishers are provided in the workplace for employee use. In the
event of a fire, any employee may use extinguishers to attempt to extinguish the
fire before evacuating.
• Critical operations shutdown procedures are not required, because no
employees are authorized to delay evacuation for this purpose.
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• Any employee who is certified in CPR/1st Aid training may use their medical
training in the case of an emergency.
• After an emergency evacuation, employees are to gather at your designated
staging area.
• The Supervisor on site is responsible for accounting for all employees in the event
of an emergency evacuation.
• Training on this program should occur on a yearly basis and be signed and
documented and kept by the HR Manager.
• For further assistance with emergency evacuation procedures, Human Resources
may be contacted.
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ERGONOMICS PROGRAM
EMTS, Inc. Ergonomics Program is put in place to eliminate strain and sprain injuries. All
employees must comply with the ergonomics program and be familiar with its contents.
Training on safe lift techniques as well as the contents of the ergonomics program is to be
completed during pre-employment orientation and at least annually thereafter.
Stretching warms up muscles to help prevent strain and sprain. All employees must
participate in daily group stretching. Foremen are responsible for recording stretching
participation and ensuring that all employees are stretching on a daily basis. The stretching
guides provided offer a suggested stretching routine. Each employee may do any stretches
they prefer and should adjust to personal abilities.
The following activities have been recognized as ergonomic hazards.
Manual Lifting
Prior to manually lifting, a hazard assessment must be completed. The assessment must
include: determining the size, bulk, weight of the object, if mechanical lifting is required, if
two-person lifting is required, whether the path is clear, if vision is obstructed while carrying
the object, if the path has any tripping hazards, and the conditions of the walking surface.
Training on safe lift techniques should be completed prior to the initial assignment and on
an annual basis. It should include at a minimum: safe lifting work practices, hazards, and
controls, proper ergonomics, procedures for proper stretching techniques, having the
appropriate PPE such as gloves, boots. Training is to be interactive and should include
case studies of previous injuries within the industry.
Foremen are responsible to ensure that means of mechanical lifting are available to crews
who will be working on projects where the need to lift considerably heavy objects can be
anticipated. Such as skid steers, forklifts amongst other pieces of equipment are to be used
to minimize manual lifting needs. Supervisor and Foreman are responsible for proper
planning to ensure mechanical lifting is utilized when needed, should the need arise
unexpectedly; employees may leave the job site to get the proper equipment. When an item
falls between manual lifting and mechanical lifting, assisted manual lifting should be utilized.
Should the use of lifting equipment be impractical and the load would suggest using
mechanical lifting two-man lifting must be used. Supervisors are responsible for enforcing
the use of provided lifting equipment.
Kneeling on pavement
Knee pads must be worn when kneeling on the pavement. Make sure the area has been
swept prior to kneeling to prevent a rough surface.
Shoveling
When shoveling make sure to keep your knees bent and switch positions. Strains and
sprains are more probable when the body is repeatedly twisting and in awkward positions.
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Wheelbarrow Operation
Employees must walk the wheelbarrow's intended path prior to operating to ensure that
there are no obstructions or hazards. Wheelbarrows should never be overloaded and the
load should be balanced to avoid tipping. When lifting, keep back straight, bend knees,
keep a firm grip and lean forward a little when beginning to lift. During the entire process,
shoulders must be kept square, back straight, with legs and upper body doing the work,
not the back. When a load is ready to be dumped, raise handles until the weight is on the
nose and then catch handles when they are vertical. The grip is switched during this
motion. Never run with an empty or loaded wheelbarrow and proceed slowly when working
on inclines. Use plywood to cover paths when wheeling on rough or soft terrain.
Stepping in and out of equipment
Use all steps and handrails provided - commonly referred to as the three-point rule, keep
three out of four hands and feet in contact at all times. Never jump down or race up into
equipment or trucks. Weight should slowly be put onto the ground and caution should be
taken to watch for muddy or slippery steps or rough terrain. If the need for being in
equipment for long hours is required, make sure to exit periodically to stretch.
Operating hand equipment and tools
Make sure you are using the appropriate tool for the job. Tools can get caught in construction
materials. Make sure your body is in a safe position so that strains and sprains will be
prevented.
Should an accident occur where an employee sustains a lift related/ergonomic injury, their
supervisor is to file an incident report immediately and have it into the office within 24 hours.
Upon receipt of the incident report, the HR Manager on location is to investigate the incident.
All injuries are to be reported and recorded in accordance with OSHA requirements, tracked
in a spreadsheet by the Safety Manager.
Trend analysis is to be done throughout the year and the findings are to be shared with
the employees as needed and at a minimum, annually.
Supervisors are to continually assess engineering control and work practices of employees
to determine if a change should be made. Supervisors are responsible for administering
these types of changes. For example, they could suggest rotating employees on job duties,
reducing the number of repetitions, using ergonomically friendly equipment, giving
rest/stretch periods, etc.
The following program is to be evaluated by the HR Manager annually to ensure that the
techniques and training outlined in this program are effective and pertinent to work activities.
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FALL PROTECTION
The purpose of the Fall Protection Program is to eliminate all danger associated with
working around falling hazards. All employees are required to be aware of every falling
hazard and to properly protect themselves prior to beginning work. The Supervisor or
Foreman is responsible for ensuring fall protection is available to all employees who request
it at no cost. Fall protection must meet all applicable OSHA, ANSI and ASTM requirements.
All employees are required to complete documented training on recognition and elimination
of falling hazards prior to work assignment and on an annual basis. The HR Manager is
responsible for keeping detailed records of training including names of participants and
training dates. The fall protection training program is to be evaluated by the HR Manager
yearly to ensure that it is as effective as possible and pertinent to the current work
environment.
All fall hazards must be identified and eliminated for each job prior to the beginning of work.
Fall protection is required whenever employees are exposed to falls from heights greater
than 6 feet. Guard rails, safety nets, harnesses or other safety mechanisms must be used to
eliminate the falling hazard. Supervisors and Foremen must be trained and able to properly
communicate fall hazards to all employees on site. All fall hazards should be reported on the
job site inspection (JSI) form and, per company policy, all near misses and falling incidents
need to be reported.
Prompt rescue of an employee shall be safely executed at all costs. Accident investigations
are to be conducted to evaluate the fall protection program for potential updates to current
practices or training to prevent reoccurrence.
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FATIGUE MANAGEMENT
The purpose of the Fatigue Managing program is to eliminate incidents due to fatigue at
the job site. All employees are required to be familiar with this program and to report
every case of fatigue to management. Training on fatigue hazards and countermeasures
is to be completed prior to work assignment and on an annual basis. The HR Manager is
responsible for evaluating this policy yearly.
Because most of our work is outdoors, weather dictates when we are able to perform
services. Many hours of work in a short time frame are necessary to complete projects on
time and on budget. Therefore, it is imperative that all employees practice fatigue
countermeasures while at work as well as in their own homes. Supervisors are responsible
for managing work hours and controlling job rotation schedules to limit fatigue, allow for
sufficient sleep, and increase mental fitness in an effort to minimize turnover and
absenteeism. To control fatigue, work tasks must be analyzed and evaluated periodically.
BREAK TIMES
Supervisors or Foreman are responsible for scheduling breaks for employees. When
working in extreme heat or other severe weather conditions, Supervisors or Foreman are
required to schedule breaks more frequently.
INCIDENT REPORTING
If an employee is feeling the effects of extreme fatigue from overexertion or working in
extreme weather, employees should report to their Supervisor or Foreman immediately.
Their Supervisor or Foreman should evaluate the situation and relieve them from duty
either temporarily or suspend their work activities for a determined period of time if
necessary. Inversely, if a Supervisor or Foreman sees someone experiencing extreme
fatigue they are to address the situation immediately and remove them from the work
environment to provide them sufficient rest and hydration as necessary.
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FIRST AID
EMTS, Inc. First Aid program is put in place to ensure proper medical treatment for
employees who are injured on the job site. This program applies to all EMTS, Inc.
employees. Training in the First Aid Program is to be done before the initial job assignment
and on an annual basis. The HR Manager is responsible for the review of this program and
ensuring its effectiveness within our organization.
Qualified individuals who are trained and certified in first aid shall receive their training
every two years from a certified trainer and a valid certificate in first aid training must be
obtained from the American Red Cross or equivalent that can be verified by documentary
evidence.
The HR Manager is responsible for ensuring each crew, job site, and every company
building has appropriate first aid materials available and that first aid kits shall consist of
appropriate items determined to be adequate for the environment in which they will be used.
Work areas where employees could be exposed to corrosive materials, such as shops and
garages are equipped with eyewash stations for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes
should such a need arise.
First aid kits are to be in every Foreman & Supervisors truck as well as in any trailer and will
be accessible at all times. Contents of the first aid kits shall be periodically assessed by the
Foreman to ensure the availability of adequate first aid supplies at each job site, the
Foreman will restock first aid kits if they are any deficiencies.
In case of an injury during working hours, all crews are equipped with vehicles to transport
the injured to the nearest medical facility for medical attention. If the injured person cannot
be moved safely, a person at the scene is to call 911.
In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, hospital, or physician, that is reasonably accessible in
terms of time and distance to the worksite, which is available for the treatment of injured
employees, a person who has a valid certificate in first aid shall be available at the worksite
to render first aid.
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FIRE PROTECTION / EXTINGUISHERS
ASSIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY
Fire safety is everyone's responsibility. All employees should know how to prevent and
respond to fires and are responsible for adhering to company policy regarding fire
emergencies.
The Safety Representative shall manage the Fire Prevention Plan for EMTS, Inc., and the HR
department shall maintain all records pertaining to the plan. The HR Manager shall also:
• Develop and administer the Company Name fire prevention training program.
• Ensure that fire control equipment and systems are properly maintained.
• Control fuel source hazards.
• Conduct fire risk surveys (see Appendix A) and make recommendations.
Supervisors or Foreman are responsible for ensuring that employees receive appropriate fire
safety training, and for notifying Supervisors or Foreman when changes in operation increase
the risk of fire. Supervisors and Foreman are also responsible for enforcing fire prevention
and protection policies. All employees shall:
• Complete all required training before working without supervision.
• Conduct operations safely to limit the risk of fire.
• Report potential fire hazards to their Supervisors or Foreman.
• Follow fire emergency procedures.
GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
To limit the risk of fires, employees shall take the following precautions:
• Minimize the storage of combustible materials.
• Make sure that doors, hallways, stairs, and other exit routes are kept free of
obstructions.
• Dispose of combustible waste in covered, airtight, metal containers.
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• Use and store flammable materials in well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources.
• Use only nonflammable cleaning products.
• Keep incompatible (i.e., chemically reactive) substances away from each other.
• Perform “hot work” (i.e., welding or working with an open flame or other ignition
sources) in controlled and well-ventilated areas.
• Keep equipment in good working order (i.e., inspect electrical wiring and appliances
regularly and keep motors and machine tools free of dust and grease.
• Ensure that heating units are safeguarded.
• Report all gas leaks immediately. Supervisor or Foreman shall ensure that all gas
leaks are repaired immediately upon notification.
• Repair and clean up flammable liquid leaks immediately.
• Keep work areas free of dust, lint, sawdust, scraps, and similar material.
• Do not rely on extension cords if wiring improvements are needed, and take care, not
to overload circuits with multiple pieces of equipment.
• Ensure that required hot work permits are obtained.
• Turn off electrical equipment when not in use.
MAINTENANCE
Supervisor and Foreman(s) will ensure that equipment is maintained according to
manufacturers' specifications. EMTS, Inc. will also comply with requirements of the National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes for specific equipment. Only properly trained
individuals shall perform maintenance work. The following equipment is subject to the
maintenance, inspection, and testing procedures:
• Equipment installed to detect fuel leaks, control heating, and control pressurized
systems.
• Portable fire extinguishers are subjected to monthly visual inspections and an annual
maintenance check, also to include annual checks of automatic sprinkler systems and
fixed extinguishing systems.
• Detection systems for smoke, heat, or flame.
• Fire alarm systems.
• Emergency backup systems and the equipment they support.
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TYPES OF HAZARDS
The following sections address the major workplace fire hazards and the procedures for
controlling the hazards.
Electrical Fire Hazards
Electrical system failures and the misuse of electrical equipment are the leading causes of
workplace fires. Fires can result from loose ground connections, wiring with frayed insulation,
or overloaded fuses, circuits, motors, or outlets. To prevent electrical fires, employees shall:
• Make sure that worn wires are replaced.
• Use only appropriately rated fuses.
• Never use extension cords as substitutes for wiring improvements.
• Use only approved extension cords [i.e., those with the Underwriters Laboratory (UL)
or Factory Mutual (FM) label].
• Check the wiring in hazardous locations where the risk of fire is especially high.
• Check electrical equipment to ensure that it is either properly grounded or double
insulated.
• Ensure adequate spacing while performing maintenance.
Portable Heaters
All portable heaters shall be approved by a Supervisor or Foreman. Portable electric heaters
shall have tip-over protection that automatically shuts off the unit when it is tipped over. There
shall be adequate clearance between the heater and combustible furnishings or other
materials at all times.
Office Fire Hazards
Fire risks are not limited to industrial facilities. To prevent office fires, employees shall:
• Avoid overloading circuits with office equipment.
• Turn off nonessential electrical equipment at the end of each workday.
• Keep storage areas clear of rubbish.
• Ensure that extension cords are not placed under carpets.
• Ensure that trash and paper set aside for recycling is not allowed to accumulate.
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Cutting, Welding, and Open Flame Work
Supervisor or Foreman will ensure the following:
• All necessary hot work permits have been obtained prior to work beginning.
• Cutting and welding are done by authorized personnel in designated cutting and
welding areas whenever possible.
• Adequate ventilation is provided.
• Torches, regulators, pressure-reducing valves, and manifolds are UL listed or FM
approved.
• Oxygen-fuel gas systems are equipped with listed and/or approved backflow valves
and pressure-relief devices.
• Cutters, welders, and helpers are wearing eye protection and protective clothing as
appropriate.
• Cutting or welding is prohibited in sprinkler areas while sprinkler protection is out of
service.
• Cutting or welding is prohibited in areas where explosive atmospheres of gases,
vapors, or dust could develop from residues or accumulations in confined spaces.
• Cutting or welding is prohibited on metal walls, ceilings, or roofs built of combustible
sandwich-type panel construction or having combustible covering.
• Confined spaces such as tanks are tested to ensure that the atmosphere is not over
ten percent of the lower flammable limit before cutting or welding in or on the tank.
• Small tanks, piping, or containers that cannot be entered are cleaned, purged, and
tested before cutting or welding on them begins.
• A fire watch has been established.
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Flammable and Combustible Materials
Supervisor or Foreman shall regularly evaluate the presence of combustible materials (see
Appendix D). Certain types of substances can ignite at relatively low temperatures or pose a
risk of catastrophic explosion if ignited. Such substances obviously require special care and
handling.
Class A combustibles
These include common combustible materials (wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and plastics) that
can act as fuel and are found in non-specialized areas. To handle Class A combustibles
safely dispose of waste daily. Keep trash in metal-lined receptacles with tight-fitting covers
(metal wastebaskets that are emptied every day do not need to be covered). Keep work
areas clean and free of fuel paths that could allow a fire to spread. Keep combustibles away
from accidental ignition sources, such as hot plates, soldering irons, or other heat- or spark-
producing devices. Store paper stock in metal cabinets. Store rags in metal bins with self-
closing lids. Do not order excessive amounts of combustibles. Make frequent inspections to
anticipate fires before they start.
Water, multi-purpose dry chemical (ABC), and halon 1211 are approved fire extinguishing
agents for Class A combustibles.
Class B combustibles
These include flammable and combustible liquids (oils, greases, tars, oil-based paints, and
lacquers), flammable gases, and flammable aerosols. To handle Class B combustibles
safely: Use only approved pumps, taking suction from the top, to dispense liquids from tanks,
drums, barrels, or similar containers (or use approved self-closing valves or faucets).
Do not dispense Class B flammable liquids into containers unless the nozzle and container
are electrically interconnected by contact or by a bonding wire. Either the tank or container
must be grounded. Store, handle and use Class B combustibles only in approved locations
where vapors are prevented from reaching ignition sources such as heating or electric
equipment, open flames, or mechanical or electric sparks.
Do not use a flammable liquid as a cleaning agent inside a building (the only exception is in a
closed machine approved for cleaning with flammable liquids).
Do not use, handle, or store Class B combustibles near exits, stairs, or any other areas
normally used as exits.
Do not weld, cut, grind, or use unsafe electrical appliances or equipment near Class B
combustibles.
Do not generate heat, allow an open flame or smoke near Class B combustibles.
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Know the location of and how to use the nearest portable fire extinguisher rated for Class B
fire.
Water should not be used to extinguish Class B fires caused by flammable liquids. Water can
cause the burning liquid to spread, making the fire worse. To extinguish a fire caused by
flammable liquids, exclude the air around the burning liquid.
The following fire-extinguishing agents are approved for Class B combustibles: carbon
dioxide, multi-purpose dry chemical (ABC), halon 1301, and halon 1211. (NOTE: Halon has
been determined to be an ozone-depleting substance and is no longer being manufactured.
Existing systems using halon can be kept in place.)
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in all buildings. Certain outdoor areas may also be designated as no-
smoking areas. The areas in which smoking is allowed outdoors are identified by SMOKING
signs.
TRAINING
Supervisors or Foreman shall present basic fire prevention training to all employees upon
employment, The HR Manager shall maintain documentation of the training, which includes a
review of 29 CFR 1910.38, including how it can be accessed and the Fire Prevention Plan.
Good housekeeping practices and proper response and notification in the event of a fire and
including instruction on the use of portable fire extinguishers (as determined by company
policy in the Emergency Action Plan); and recognition of potential fire hazards.
Supervisors shall train employees about the fire hazards associated with the specific
materials and processes to which they are exposed, and will maintain documentation of the
training. Employees will receive this training at their initial assignment; annually; and when
changes in work processes necessitate additional training.
HR Manager shall review this Fire Prevention Plan at least annually for necessary changes.
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FORKLIFT & INDUSTRIAL TRUCKS
TRAINING AND CERTIFICATES
The Forklift & Industrial Trucks Program is put in place to ensure that all employees have
the proper training and documentation necessary to safely operate Power Industrial Trucks
(forklifts).
Before operating a forklift all operators must first be certified by a certified trainer and an
evaluation form must be filled out. At least once every 3 years’ forklift operators must be re-
evaluated for their performance. Operators must inspect the equipment daily and report all
defects immediately to their Supervisor or Foreman.
A forklift is any mobile power-propelled truck used to carry, push, pull, lift, stack or tier
materials. Forklifts can be ridden or controlled by a walking operator. Earthmoving and
over the road haulage trucks even if modified to accept forks are not forklifts.
At EMTS, Inc. all forklifts are considered powered industrial trucks (forklift).
All operator training and evaluation shall be conducted by persons who are certified to have
the knowledge, training, and experience to train powered industrial truck operators and
evaluate their competence. Certification for forklift training can be obtained from the Safety
Manager.
The forklift trainer must focus on the general principles of safe truck operation, the type of
vehicle(s) being used in the workplace, the hazards in the workplace created by the use of
the vehicle(s), and the general safety requirements of forklift operation. The trainer must
evaluate trained operators in the workplace to see if they can do the job properly and
safely. Both formal (lecture, video, etc.) AND practical (demonstration and practical
exercises) training must be provided by the certified forklift trainer.
• Refresher training must be provided when the operator has been observed to
operate the forklift in an unsafe manner, the operator has been involved in an
accident or near-miss, the operator evaluation reveals the operator is not operating
safely, the operator is assigned to a different type of forklift, or the condition of the
workplace changes in a manner that could affect safe operation of the forklift.
• Evaluation of an operator’s performance is to be accomplished by observing the
employee operating the forklift and discussing safe operating procedures with the
employee so that they understand how to operate safely.
• The certified trainer is required to train employees in all operating instructions,
warnings, and precautions listed in the operator’s manual for the type of vehicle
which the employee is being trained to operate, including the proper use of seatbelts,
load capacity/stability, refueling, controls, & visibility.
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TRUCK OPERATIONS
Seatbelts must be worn at all times
Trucks shall not be driven up to anyone standing in front of a bench or other fixed object
No person is allowed to stand or pass under the elevated portion of any truck, whether
loaded or empty.
No riders allowed under any circumstance
Arms and legs are prohibited from being placed between the uprights of the mast or
outside the running lines of the truck.
When a truck is left unattended (25 ft. or more away from the vehicle if in view or whenever
out of view), load engaging means shall be fully lowered, controls shall be neutralized, power
shall be shut off, and breaks set. Wheels shall be blocked if the truck is parked on an incline.
When the operator of an industrial truck is dismounted and within 25 ft. of the truck still in
his view, the load engaging means shall be fully lowered, controls neutralized, and the
brakes set to prevent movement.
A safe distance shall be maintained from the edge of ramps or platforms while on any
elevated dock, or platform or freight car. Trucks shall not be used for opening or closing
freight doors.
Breaks shall be set and wheel blocks shall be in place to prevent movement of trucks,
trailers, or railroad cars while loading or unloading. Fixed jacks may be necessary to
support a semitrailer during loading or unloading when the trailer is not coupled to a tractor.
The flooring of trucks, trailers, and railroad cars shall be checked for breaks and weak
areas before driving on them.
There shall be sufficient headroom under overhead installations, lights, pipes, sprinkler
systems, etc.
An overhead guard shall be used as protection against falling objects. It should be noted
that an overhead guard is intended to offer protection from the impact of small packages,
boxes, bagged material, etc., but not to withstand the impact of a falling capacity load.
A load backrest extension shall be used whenever necessary to minimize the possibility of
the load or part of it from falling rearward.
Only approved industrial trucks shall be used in hazardous locations.
Fire aisles, access to stairways and fire equipment shall be kept clear.
All traffic regulations shall be observed, including authorized plant speed limits. A safe
distance shall be maintained approximately three truck lengths from the truck ahead, and the
truck shall be kept under control at all times.
The right of way shall be yielded to ambulances, fire trucks, or other vehicles in emergency
situations.
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Other trucks traveling in the same direction at intersections, blind spots, or other dangerous
locations shall not be passed.
The driver shall be required to slow down and sound the horn at cross aisles and other
locations where vision is obstructed. If the load being carried obstructs forward view, the
driver shall be required to travel with the load trailing.
Railroad tracks shall be crossed diagonally wherever possible. Parking closer than 8 feet
from the center of railroad tracks is prohibited.
The driver shall be required to look in the direction of, and keep a clear view of the path of
travel.
Grades shall be ascended and descended slowly.
When ascending or descending grades in excess of 10 percent, loaded trucks shall be driven
with the load upgrade.
On all grades the load and load engaging means shall be tilted back if applicable, and raised
only as far as necessary to clear the road surface.
Under all travel conditions, the truck shall be operated at a speed that will permit it to be
brought to a stop in a safe manner.
Stunt driving and horseplay shall not be permitted.
The driver shall be required to slow down for wet and slippery floors.
Dockboards or bridge plates shall be navigated carefully and slowly, never exceeding their
rated capacity, and shall be properly secured before they are driven over.
Elevators shall be approached slowly, and then entered squarely after the elevator car is
properly leveled. Once on the elevator, the controls shall be neutralized, power shut off, and
the brakes set.
Motorized hand trucks must enter an elevator or other confined areas with load end forward.
Running over loose objects on the roadway surface shall be avoided.
Negotiating turns by turning the hand steering wheel in a smooth, sweeping motion with speed
reduced to a safe level. Except when maneuvering at a very low speed, the hand steering wheel
shall be turned at a moderate, even rate.
Only stable or safely arranged loads shall be handled. Caution shall be exercised when
handling off-center loads which cannot be centered.
Only loads within the rated capacity of the truck shall be handled.
The long or high (including multiple-tiered) loads which may affect capacity shall be adjusted.
Trucks equipped with attachments shall be operated as partially loaded trucks when not
handling a load.
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A load engaging means shall be placed under the load as far as possible; the mast shall be
carefully tilted backward to stabilize the load.
Extreme care shall be used when tilting the load forward or backward, particularly when high
tiering. Tilting forward with load engaging means elevated shall be prohibited except to pick
up a load. An elevated load shall not be tilted forward except when the load is in a deposit
position over a rack or stack. When stacking or tiering, only enough backward tilt to stabilize
the load shall be used.
If at any time a powered industrial truck is found to be in need of repair, defective, or in any
way unsafe, the truck shall be taken out of service until it has been restored to safe operating
condition.
Fuel tanks shall not be filled while the engine is running. Spillage shall be avoided.
Spillage of oil or fuel shall be carefully washed away or completely evaporated and the fuel
tank cap replaced before restarting the engine.
No truck shall be operated with a leak in the fuel system until the leak has been corrected.
Open flames shall not be used for checking electrolyte levels in storage batteries or gasoline
levels in fuel tanks. Any power-operated industrial truck not in safe operating condition shall
be removed from service. All repairs shall be made by authorized personnel.
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HAND & POWER TOOLS
Hand and power tool safety is necessary for the prevention of disabling injuries. All hand
tools and power tools either provided by EMTS, Inc. or by the individual employee
themselves must be maintained in a safe condition. All hand and power tools are to be
inspected for damage, hazards and, if applicable, check fluids prior to each use. If upon
inspection, the hand or power tools do not appear to be in a safe, operable condition, the tool
must immediately be removed from service, tagged, and brought to the shop for repairs or
replacement.
BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR HAND TOOL SAFETY
Each tool is designed for a certain job. Use tools for their intended purpose.
Keep tools in good condition: sharp, clean, oiled, dressed and not abused.
Worn tools are dangerous. For example, the teeth in a pipe wrench can slip if worn smooth,
an adjustable wrench will slip if its jaws are sprung and hammerheads can fly off loose
handles.
Tools subject to impact (chisels, star drill, punches, etc.) tend to "mushroom". Keep them
dressed (sharpened) to avoid flying spalls. Use tool holders.
Do not force tools beyond their capacity or use "cheaters" to increase their capacity.
Chisels, screwdrivers or other pointed tools should never be carried in clothing pockets. Use
toolbelts designed for carrying tools.
Hammers should have heads ground properly. They should not have broken claws or
handles. Check for loose handles. Always use the proper size and weight for the job.
Cutting tools should be kept sharp to ensure good smooth cutting. Always use proper
handles. Stay out of the line of fire.
Drill Bits should be kept sharp, not dull, chipped, rounded, or tapered.
Screwdriver points should not be badly worn and handles should be in good condition. Use
the proper size and type of screwdriver for the job.
Wrenches, if adjustable, must work freely and adjust properly. Gripping teeth or smooth jaws
should not be worn. Always use the proper size for the job.
Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.
Never yank the cord or the hose to disconnect it from the receptacle.
Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil, and sharp edges. Disconnect tools when not
using them, before servicing and cleaning them, and when changing accessories such as
blades, bits, and cutters.
Keep all people not involved with the work at a safe distance from the work area.
Secure work with clamps or a vise, freeing both hands to operate the tool.
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Avoid accidental starting. Do not hold fingers on the switch button while carrying a plugged-in
tool. Always keep machines in neutral and throttle in ‘low speed’ positions when starting.
Maintain tools with care; keep them sharp and clean for best performance.
Be sure to keep good footing and maintain a good balance when operating power tools. If
operating on an inclined stand on the uphill side of the machine. Move up and down the
incline rather than across it to avoid tipping.
When operating a vibrator tamper, never run it over unyielding surfaces such as concrete or
bricks. This will damage the machine and void the warranty.
Always use safety guards installed on hand and power tools. Never bypass this step.
GUARDING
Where required, all power tools that are in need of equipment guarding shall be so equipped
with guards and those guards shall be utilized during all phases of operation. Machines shall
be guarded to ANSI standards so that all exposed moving parts are guarded to prevent
exposing hazards to employees.
Machine guards are not to be manipulated or removed in any way. If the tool’s guarding
devices are not in place, found defective or not operating correctly, the tool should be
removed from service immediately, tagged and sent to the shop for repairs, or replacement.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Employees using hand and power tools who are exposed to the hazards of falling, noise,
flying, abrasive, and splashing objects, or exposed to harmful dust, fumes, mists, vapors, or
gases shall be provided with the particular personal protective equipment necessary to
protect them from the hazard. All personal protective equipment shall meet the applicable
OSHA and ANSI standards.
TYPES OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Respiratory Protection
Carbon and paper-based filters are used in a variety of different respirators to purify the air
and ensure you are only breathing in clean, non-toxic air. This type of PPE should always be
used when you could potentially be exposed to dust, mist, and fumes, and should always be
a prime consideration when operating power tools.
Auditory Protection
It is recommended for all instances where power tools or machinery are in use. The louder
the equipment or power tool, the more important the protection. Besides the class number, all
hearing protection will have a decibel rating. This is the specific level of noise from which the
user can be protected.
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Visual Protection
It should always be used when operating any power tool, as there are many flying particles
that are capable of entering and damaging your eye. There are three main types of PPE for
your eyes; safety glasses, safety goggles, and face shields.
Physical Protection
Prevents physical harm from hand or power tools, construction materials, concrete, and
chemicals. It is generally in the form of boots, gloves, and hard hats.
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HAZARD COMMUNICATION
The Hazard Communication Program is put in place to ensure all employees are aware of the
hazards on the job and are properly trained at safeguarding these hazards. Employees must
be informed of the hazards of the job prior to initial job assignment and whenever a new
physical or health hazard is introduced into their work area. Written Hazard Communication
such as container labeling, Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), warning signs and additional periodic
training will be maintained at each workplace to ensure additional hazard communication.
WRITTEN HAZARD COMMUNICATION
Each container of hazardous chemicals on a job site must be properly labeled. The labels will
list:
• The contents of the container.
• Appropriate hazard warnings.
• The name and address of the manufacturer, importer or other responsible parties.
To further ensure that employees are aware of the chemical hazards of materials used in
their work areas all secondary containers must be labeled. Secondary containers will be
labeled with either an extra copy of the manufacturer’s label or with a sign or generic label
that lists the container’s contents and appropriate hazard warnings. This is the responsibility
of the HR Manager at each location.
A list of all hazardous chemicals that will be used on the worksite will be maintained by the
Manager. SDS books for all hazardous chemicals to which employees may be exposed are
to be kept in all offices, shops and foreman pickups. The HR Manager is responsible for the
update of these books and the office manager, shop foreman, & foreman are responsible for
getting the updated copy as needed and being familiar with the hazardous chemicals that
they use on their job site.
HAZARD COMMUNICATION TRAINING
Employees are to be trained on hazardous chemicals in their work area prior to job
assignment and at least annually. The HR Manager will have the responsibility of
implementing the program. The Supervisor or Foreman will maintain the hazard
communication program at each workplace.
The HR Manager is responsible for making sure the trainer covers the following:
• An overview of the hazard communication requirements.
• A review of the chemicals present in workplace operations.
• The location and availability of written hazard communication program, the list of
hazardous chemicals, & SDS book.
• Methods and observation techniques that may be used to detect the presence or
release of hazardous chemicals in the work area.
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• The physical hazards of the chemicals in the work area.
• The health hazards of the chemicals in the work area, including signs and symptoms of
exposure and any medical condition known to be aggravated by exposure to the
chemical.
• How to lessen or prevent exposure to hazardous workplace chemicals by using good
work practices, personal protective equipment, etc.
• Emergency procedures to follow if employees are exposed to hazardous chemicals.
• An explanation of our hazard communication program, including how to read labels
and SDS to obtain appropriate hazard information.
Information for hazards of non-routine tasks will be communicated by having a safety meeting
on the hazards of the non-routine tasks prior to performing the task. Non-routine tasks are to
be identified by the Supervisor or Foreman of each crew.
To ensure that the employees of other contractors have access to information on the
hazardous chemicals at a job site, it is the responsibility of the bidder/estimator to provide the
other contractors the following information:
• Where the SDSs are available.
• The name and location of the hazardous chemicals to which their employees may be
exposed and any appropriate protective measures required to minimize their
exposure; and an explanation of the labeling system used at the job site.
Each contractor bringing chemicals onto a job site must provide EMTS, Inc. with the
appropriate hazard information on those substances to which our own employees may be
exposed on a job site.
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HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT
EMTS, Inc. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment Program is put in place to ensure that
all hazards are properly identified and the associated risks are eliminated. Job Site
Inspection/Hazard Prevention Report (JSI) is a tool to be used to identify hazards and
eliminate incidents in the workplace. All employees are responsible for identifying hazards
and reporting them immediately to their direct supervisor.
All Supervisors must complete a JSI before the start of every job. JSI must be completed
before all routine and non-routine jobs as well as any before any changes in operation that
occur after the job has begun. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that all hazards are
identified, assessed, prioritized based on the risk associated with the task, communicated to
all employees and documented on the JSI form. A safety meeting prior to the start of every
job must be held to identify any additional safety hazards that may have been overlooked and
to communicate to all employees and subcontractors the identified hazards on the JSI.
Quarterly the HR Manager is responsible for ensuring a group of upper management
conducts quarterly inspections for random site audits to include the entire workplace. This
should review all operations in its entirety.
These inspections are to be documented and include the corrective actions taken and the
names of the individuals conducting the inspections. The HR Manager should inspect and
review all corrective actions. All corrective actions should be done so in a timely manner. The
individual who made the correction and the date the correction happened on will be
documented on the Inspection Form to ensure timely completion.
The HR Manager is responsible for ensuring that the “Job site Inspection/Hazard Prevention
Report” is generated for each and every job with the job name and number listed. See below
for an example of the Safety Manager’s responsibility in yellow. Also listed will be the date, a
phone number for the 1ST responder if working out of city limits and the locate ticket number
and work begin time and date. A copy of the locate information will also be attached to the
report.
JOB SITE INSPECTION/HAZARD PREVENTION REPORT
Job Name: Date:
Person Starting Inspection:
Person Continuing Inspection:
If out of city limits--Phone number for emergency 1st Responder:
Locates completed on this date: Time: Ticket Number:
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A potential hazard is defined as a condition or practice with the potential for accidental loss.
Employees must be trained prior to work assignment and on at least an annual basis on the
hazard identification process including the use and care of proper Personal Protective
Equipment.
The HR Manager and any assigned key employees will audit the use of this report and proper
PPE during their document site audits and also for accident investigation purposes.
The “Job Site Inspection/Hazard Prevention Report” will be turned into the HR Manager’s basket upon completion of the job or when a locate refresher has been called in (whichever one comes first). All assigned key employees are to send the “Job Site Inspection/Hazard Prevention Report” for their location to the HR Manager weekly.
The HR Manager is to keep the Job Site Inspection/Hazard Prevention Reports on file for a
period of 5 years. These are to be available to upper management as needed. The
information that is gathered on these forms should be used to generate statistics on safety
and work performance and be used to further train and educate our employees.
The HR Manager will review this procedure each year to evaluate the effectiveness of the
program.
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HOUSEKEEPING
Construction sites can present many hazards to workers performing construction-related
activities. Keeping a construction site clean of debris can help reduce these hazards. The
benefits of good housekeeping far exceed the small additional effort required to establish
good housekeeping practices at a construction site.
WORKING AREAS
• Safe accesses to the job site will be provided for all workers.
• W alking/working surfaces to be kept clear and any liquid spills cleaned up
immediately.
• Stairways, passageways, and gangways are to be kept free of material, supplies, or
obstructions.
• All debris and trash will be picked up and placed in their proper containers.
• Protruding nails, forms, scrap lumber, and other debris need to be kept clear from
work areas, passageways, and stairs, and in and around buildings or other structures.
MATERIALS AND STORAGE
• Items not being used (e.g., tools, cords, or chains) will be stored in their proper
locations.
• Materials storage areas should be kept clean and free of unnecessary materials and
debris.
• Is loose scrap or light materials that may be blown off by high winds, should be
properly secured.
• Are empty cement bags and other dust-producing materials need to be removed from
the work areas.
• Store and chain all compressed gas cylinders in an upright position.
WASTE
• Trash and recycling containers should be self-closing covers placed throughout the job
site, marked for proper use, and emptied at regular intervals.
• Drip pans need to be used to collect oils and fluids.
• All scrap, waste, recyclable, and surplus materials should be disposed of in
accordance with federal regulations and local codes.
• All oil-soaked and paint-saturated rags, clothing, waste, or combustible refuse need
to be placed in non-combustible receptacles with self-closing covers.
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• Combustible waste will be scheduled for frequent collection and removal.
• Used oil containers and dumpsters should be locked to secure them from unwanted
waste.
DUST AND DIRT REMOVAL
• Vacuum cleaners will be suitable for removing light dust and dirt.
• Dampening (wetting) floors or using sweeping compounds before sweeping reduces
the amount of airborne dust.
• Dust and grime that collect in places on shelves, piping, conduits, light fixtures,
reflectors, windows, cupboards, and lockers may require manual cleaning.
• Compressed air will not be used for removing dust, dirt or chips from equipment or
work surfaces.
EMPLOYEE FACILITIES
• Employee facilities need to be adequate, clean and well maintained and supply with
soap, towels plus disinfectants if needed.
• Smoking, eating or drinking in the work area will be prohibited where toxic materials
are handled. The eating area will be separate from the work area and should be
cleaned properly each shift.
MAINTAIN LIGHT FIXTURES
• Dirty light fixtures reduce essential light levels. Clean light fixtures can improve lighting
efficiency.
FLAMMABLE/EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS
• Store flammable or explosive materials such as gasoline, oil and cleaning agents apart
from other materials.
• Keep flammable and explosive materials in proper containers with contents clearly
marked.
• All oil-soaked and paint-saturated rags, clothing, waste, or combustible refuse need to
be placed in non-combustible receptacles with self-closing covers.
• Store full barrels in an upright position.
• Keep gasoline and oil barrels on a barrel rack.
• Store empty barrels separately.
• Post signs prohibiting smoking, open flames and other ignition sources in areas where
flammable and explosive materials are stored or used.
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• Store and chain all compressed gas cylinders in an upright position.
• Mark empty cylinders with the letters "MT," and store them separately from full or
partially full cylinders.
• Ventilate all storage areas properly.
• Ensure that all-electric fixtures and switches are explosion-proof where flammable
materials are stored.
• Use grounding straps equipped with clamps on containers to prevent static electricity
buildup.
• Provide the appropriate fire extinguishers for the materials found on-site. Keep fire
extinguisher stations clear and accessible.
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INCIDENT INVESTIGATION & REPORTING
Incident Reports & Investigations are used for the prevention and reduction of injuries &
quality control in the workplace. Incidents are prevented and quality is improved by
determining a root cause and improving systems and work methods or by eliminating
potential hazards for employees, the company and the public. Employees are to be familiar
with incident investigation and reporting.
INCIDENT REPORTING
Every employee is responsible for verbally reporting each incident immediately to their
supervisor or manager. The direct Supervisor or Foreman is responsible for filling out a
written incident investigation report within 24 hours of the incident. All deaths and/or incident
causing the hospitalization of 3 or more employees must be orally reported by the HR
Manager to OSHA within 8 hours of discovery and as soon as possible within 24 hours to the
owner client.
The Incident of Injury, Near Miss, Property Damage, Vandalism/Theft report, is used to report
any injury, near miss, rework pertaining to quality issues, damage to the company or other
personal property and vandalism and theft on the job site. All areas in the incident report that
are not grayed out should be filled out completely within 24 hours.
In the event of a natural death or an injury resulting in death on any of EMTS, Inc. job sites or place of business an immediate call to 911 will be made.
The Supervisor will immediately secure the area and ensure that no statements to anyone are made. If questioned by anyone the Supervisor and all employees will simply answer “No Comment” and will politely refer any question to the Owner. The Owner will be responsible for notifying and informing any family and giving any statements to the public. OSHA is to be informed by the HR Manager within 24 hours.
INCIDENT INVESTIGATION
The purpose of the incident investigation is to gather facts regarding the incident. Incident
Investigations are the responsibility of the Manager and Supervisor at each location. All
incidents must be investigated and the extent of the investigation is to reflect the seriousness
of the incident. The knowledge gained from investigations is crucial in eliminating future
accidents by determining and eliminating the root cause of the incident.
A Root Cause Analysis is to be completed for each incident with the assistance of the
employee(s) involved, the direct Manager and Supervisor of the employee(s) involved, and
the Safety Manager. All of the facts on the incident report should be reviewed to determine
the root cause. The root cause determined is to be used to assist in re-training the
employee(s). The HR Manager will review the facts and determine a conclusion after the root
cause has been determined and re-training completed.
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Initial identification of facts during an investigation should include but not be limited to items
such as weather, lighting, noise, temperature, ventilation, fatigue, age, physical condition,
and medical condition. Any physical evidence that must be secured can be done so by
photographs, notes, statements by witnesses and impounding equipment and or documents.
Statements by witnesses should be collected when necessary. Making sure the witness is
unbiased and taking detailed notes are the key to successful interviews.
The need for follow-ups should be addressed. Proper equipment necessary to assist in an
investigation will be provided such as pens, measuring equipment, cameras, PPE, etc.
In cases of an injury requiring medical attention or rework costing $1,000 or more, the crew
must complete a Job Hazard Analysis of the root cause. The HR Manager will make sure the
proper root cause is identified, that the proper re-training procedure is conducted, and that
the employee warning (if needed) is documented and filed with HR. The HR Manager will
then sign the form indicating all of the above were addressed.
This program is to be reviewed annually by the HR Manager. Employee(s) must receive
training prior to work assignment and annually on their role in the incident investigation and
reporting process. They should all be familiar with different incident investigation techniques
and processes.
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Direct Supervisor
Notifies HR Manager
of Action Taken
HR Manager Notifies
All Upper
Management
HR Manager
Notifies All Upper
Management
Drug & Alcohol
testing required
within 2 hours
HR Files 1st
reporting with if
needed
INCIDENT OF INJURY FLOW CHART
Incident takes place
Near Miss 1st Aid Medical Need In case of death or injury
resulting
in death
Notify Direct
Supervisor
Direct Supervisor
File Incident Report
Incident
investigation by
Safety Manager
If needed 1st
dial 911 or first
responder
Notify Direct
Supervisor
Photograph Scene Of
Incident Notify
Safety Manager
Dial 911 and secure area
NO STATEMENTS TO
ANYONE
Call Company OWNER
Data filed
Incident Investigation
Notify OSHA
Data filed
Employee Retrained
&/or Warned by
Direct Supervisor
If no answer
contact other
members
Safety Manager
Employee Retrained
or hazard guarded by
Direct Supervisor
The crew meets with Safety Manager, Field or Project Manager prior to the start of next workday
Incident Report
Filed by Direct
Supervisor
OWNER Responsible
for all statements &
informing family
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JOB COMPETENCY
EMTS, Inc. Job Competency Program is put in place to ensure that employees are capable of
safely and successfully completing the tasks required by their job duties.
Job Descriptions are to be maintained by the HR Manager. All employees are required to sign
their job description acknowledging they are able to safely and successfully complete all of the
tasks listed for their position.
SAFETY TRAINING PROGRAM
Management believes that employee involvement in this safety training program can only be
successful when everyone on the site receives sufficient training to understand their safety
responsibilities and opportunities and how to fulfill them. Therefore, training is a high priority to
ensure a safe workplace.
All new employees are to receive two hours of safety orientation prior to job assignment. This
training can be broken down into several components.
• General Safety Requirements.
• Ergonomics Program.
• Hazard Recognition Program.
• Incident Investigation/Near Miss Program.
• General Job Description and Job Requirements.
• Safe Operating Procedures specific to each Division and Type of Equipment.
• Emergency Action Plans.
• Hazard Communication Program.
• Motor Vehicle Operation.
• Personal Protective Equipment.
• Substance Abuse Policy and Program.
This training further extends throughout employment to include weekly toolbox safety meetings
and bi-annual training.
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ON THE JOB TRAINING
Foreman on each crew and have been certified by EMTS, Inc. to complete new hire and on the
job training.
TOOLBOX TALKS
Weekly safety topics that are industry-specific. Foremen are responsible for administering the
toolbox talks. Foremen are trained to encourage crew participation and relating toolbox talks to
current job sites. All forms must be signed by all employees present.
JOB HAZARD ANALYSIS
Weekly job task-specific topics are analyzed by job steps and the hazards are identified and
elimination ideas are discussed. Foremen are responsible for administering the Job Hazard
Analysis and are trained to encourage participation.
The cooperation of every person in our company is necessary to ensure the high standards of
job safety and quality work we must maintain. One of the conditions of employment is to
understand and follow the work rules as outlined in the safety program. Our Supervisors,
Managers, and Foreman are charged with the responsibility of introducing, explaining, and
enforcing them.
The key to a successful program, as always, rests with each individual employee who makes
the commitment to being safety and quality conscious every minute of every day.
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LADDER SAFETY
The ladder safety program has been put in place to reduce the risk of incident or injury to
team members while working on our around ladders.
LADDER LOAD LIMITS/SIZE/CONSTRUCTION
Ladders shall be capable of supporting loads for which they were intended and not for
anything beyond the manufacturer’s rating.
All ladders shall have rungs, steps, and cleats that are parallel, level and uniformly spaced
when being positioned for use and shall be constructed to the proper dimensions per the
applicable OSHA standard for the particular ladder type.
LADDER SELECTION
When choosing a ladder, remember:
• Portable ladders must be of proper construction, size, and type for the work to be
completed
• Metal ladders cannot be used around electrical equipment (use wood or fiberglass)
• Ladders must be of sufficient height to perform the necessary work. Standing on the
top two steps of a step ladder or the top three steps of a straight ladder is prohibited.
• Step ladders cannot be used as straight ladders.
• When attempting to gain access to a platform, roof or other elevated areas, a straight
ladder shall be used.
• The straight ladder must extend at least 3 feet above the surface area to be accessed.
• If the ladder is to be used at a height of 8 feet or more, it shall be tied off, held in place
by a spotter or otherwise prevented from movement.
LADDER INSPECTION
Ladders should be thoroughly and periodically inspected:
• Upon receipt of a new ladder, inspect the ladder to make sure it has no visible
damage, loose or missing parts, and is free of recognized danger that could cause
injury. Label the ladder as belonging to EMTS, Inc..
• Ladders are to be inspected upon each use and thoroughly every 6 months for
damage and deficiencies.
• Any ladder found to be damaged beyond repair should be disposed of after complete
dismantling or breakage to ensure the ladder is not used again. If the ladder can be
repaired, it should be removed from service, tagged out, and brought to the shop for
repairs.
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GENERAL LADDER SAFETY
• Use ladders for their intended purposes only. Never use ladders horizontally or as
scaffolding.
• Always face the ladder when ascending or descending and use both hands to hold on.
• Tools should be carried in a tool belt.
• Never place a ladder in front of an obstacle that could cause the ladder to move, such
as a door. If you must, make sure the door is locked and use appropriate signage to
inform other employees that there is someone working on the ladder.
• Never place a ladder on anything to bring it higher like concrete blocks or buckets.
• Keep ladders free of oil, grease, and other slipping hazards. Use sand or other means
to secure the ladder in place on snowy or other slippery conditions.
• Only one person at a time is allowed on a ladder.
• Do not load a ladder beyond the maximum intended load or carry loads that could
cause a person to lose balance and fall.
• Ladders shall be placed against the intended surface so that the horizontal distance
from the top support to the foot of the ladder is one-quarter of the working length of the
ladder.
• It is the responsibility of each Supervisor or Foreman to oversee the implementation
and enforcement of this policy.
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LOCK-OUT/TAG-OUT
Energy control procedures protect employees during machine and equipment servicing &
maintenance where unexpected energization, start-up or release of stored energy could
occur and cause injury, as well as while working on or near exposed de-energized electrical
conductors and parts of electrical equipment. The lock-out/tag-out procedure ensures that
machines and equipment are properly isolated from hazardous or potentially hazardous
energy sources during servicing and maintenance by protecting against re-energization.
Potential energy may include any source of electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic,
chemical, thermal, or other energy.
This procedure is to be used to ensure the machine or equipment is stopped, isolated from all
potentially hazardous energy sources and tagged out before employees perform any
servicing or maintenance where the unexpected energization or start-up of the machine or
equipment or release of stored energy could cause injury.
Only trained, authorized employees can perform lockout/tagout procedures. All affected
employees who are entering an area where lockout/tagout is performed must be trained.
The first step is to determine all energy isolating devices requiring lockout/tagout to ensure
effective control of hazardous energy. Before the shutdown of equipment or machine identify
the type and magnitude of the energy that the machine or equipment utilizes, understand the
hazards of the energy, and know the methods to control the energy. Shutdown the equipment
or machine by normal procedures and locate the necessary energy isolating device(s) for the
equipment or machine and operate them to isolate the energy sources and lockout the
energy isolating the device. Lockout and tagout devices should include the name of the
employee placing the device and the equipment should have an “Out of Service” sign taped
over the ignition.
Multiple employees shall utilize a procedure that affords the employee a level of protection
equal to that provided by a personal lockout or tagout device. An authorized employee must
have primary responsibility for the set number of employees involved in the group lockout or
tagout.
The authorized employee is to designate and coordinate affected workforces and is to ensure
continual protection to all employees. Each employee shall have a personal lockout or tagout
device bearing their name to the group lockout device when they begin work and shall
remove the device when they stop working on the machine being serviced. Shift or personnel
change procedures shall be utilized during changes to ensure the continuity of lockout or
tagout protection.
All potentially hazardous stored or residual energy shall be relieved, disconnected, restrained
& otherwise rendered safe. If there is a possibility of re-accumulation of stored energy, level
verification of isolation shall be continued until the servicing or maintenance is completed, or
until the possibility of such accumulation no longer exists.
Prior to starting work on machines or equipment that have been locked/tagged out, verify that
isolation & de-energization of the machine or equipment have been accomplished. Then
perform the servicing and maintenance.
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Removal of the lockout tagout device and “Out of Service” sign can only be done by the
person who placed it there and must be the last step to putting the unit back in service.
Safely restore machines or equipment to normal production by replacing all guards and safety
devices and removing tools and equipment. In no case is an employee allowed to go under
any machine that is not locked out and blocked up. (Jacks are not blocks.) Any time a truck
box or loader bucket is raised so that the mechanic can work beneath it, blocks must be
positioned to support the weight of the elevated part in case the hydraulics fail.
Any employee who fails to follow this procedure will face disciplinary action in accordance
with those listed in the company handbook. Lock-out/Tag-out procedure will be reviewed &
taught annually by the Safety Representative & include documented training with date,
equipment, employees & inspector to ensure proper procedures are being followed.
Training will include recognition of:
• Hazardous energy source.
• Type & magnitude of the energy available.
• Methods & means necessary for energy isolation & control.
Each authorized employee shall receive adequate training. Re-training is required when there
is a change in job assignment, in machines, a change in the energy control procedures, or a
new hazard is introduced. All affected employees must be instructed in the proper use of the
energy control procedure.
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LONE WORKER
The Lone Worker Program is put in place to ensure that only qualified and authorized team
members work alone and that they check in to prevent severe injury or death as a result of
being unaccounted for. No employee is authorized to perform work alone until their new hire
status has been removed; this is 30 days from their start date. This is standard for even the
simplest of tasks. The only exception would be that if the employee is qualified and
authorized to drive company vehicles they could operate the vehicle to drive to and from job
sites alone.
If an employee has met the 30-day requirement, they may work alone but they must be aware
of the dangers of doing so. These dangers and hazards differ from job site to job site and
include but are not limited to accidents associated with fatigue, issues with personal disease
or sickness, unexpected third party actions, extreme weather conditions, and more.
If a qualified employee is working alone he is to check-in at least once every two hours with
his Supervisor or Foreman. If required to work alone in extreme weather or working
conditions they should check in with Supervisors or Foreman in half or one-hour increments,
whichever is determined appropriate by their Supervisor or Foreman.
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MOBILE EQUIPMENT
EMTS, Inc.’s Mobile Equipment Program is put in place to ensure that only qualified and
authorized employees operate equipment. The Mobile Equipment Program applies to all
employees at EMTS, Inc. Supervisors, Managers, and Foreman are responsible for enforcing
the Mobile Equipment Program and ensuring only qualified & authorized operators are
operating equipment.
Only qualified and authorized operators are allowed to operate equipment. To be qualified,
operators must be familiar with the operation of the equipment as well as all of the guidelines
in this program. To be authorized, operators must be trained by a qualified trainer on the
specific equipment to be operated, have approval from the Supervisors or Foreman on-site
and have all of the paperwork and company training complete and on file with the HR
Manager.
Qualified Trainers must ensure the following:
• The employee shall read through the operator’s manual and understand its material.
• The employee must be familiar with all safety regulations applicable to the equipment
in use.
• The employee must first operate the equipment under the DIRECT observation from
the qualified trainer.
Once the trainer is convinced the trainee is familiar with the equipment safety controls and
believes the employee can safely operate the equipment on-site and around hazards, he or
she can then authorize the employee to work freely in the equipment at job sites by filling out
the training authorization form to be signed by trainer and trainee.
All trainers are responsible for observing the behavior of operators to ensure safe operation.
Any trainer observing unsafe behavior must immediately stop operation and complete written
documentation of the performance issue and re-train the employee following the guidelines
stated here. Unsafe operations can warrant disciplinary action up to and including
termination.
Once an employee is trained to be an operator on a crew, he or she must follow general
guidelines for operating company equipment to maintain and operate the equipment in the
safest way possible. Authorization to operate company equipment can be revoked at any
time.
All equipment should be inspected by the operator prior to each use. This includes checking
all fluids, brakes, back up alarm systems, steering, lighting, and control system. The operator
should also ensure that the back-up alarm is operating while the equipment is backing up.
If a piece of equipment is found defective in any way it should immediately be removed from
service, the Shop Superintendent should be informed and the equipment should be locked
out/tagged out for repair.
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Prior to operation, the equipment should be given ample time to warm up to prevent
equipment damage. All equipment should be maintained in a safe and clean manner.
Operators are to wear their seatbelt at all times prior to starting the engine and during
operation when so equipped. All mobile equipment with a roll bar is required to have seatbelts
that are worn at all times.
Operators are only to use the equipment in the manner in which it was designed and should
choose equipment based on what is appropriate for the task at hand.
Operators should not load the equipment beyond its established load limit should ensure that
they are secured for safe transport and unloading.
Passengers on equipment are strictly prohibited unless the equipment or vehicle is equipped
to handle passengers and in that instance, passengers must wear their seat belt.
When fueling, the operator shall shut off the engine before filling the fuel tank and shall
ensure that the nozzle of the filling hose is inside with the filling neck of the tank. No one shall
be on the vehicle during fueling operations except as specifically required by design. There
shall be no smoking or open flames in the immediate area during fueling operation.
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NOISE EXPOSURE / HEARING CONSERVATION
The Noise Exposure/Hearing Conservation Program is put in place to ensure that the
appropriate hearing protection is used properly when needed. All employees are subject to
this program and are required to be trained prior to work assignments and on at least an
annual basis. The HR Manager is responsible for ensuring the enforcement of this program
and the contents of training. Annual training should consist of changes in PPE and work
processes, as well as, the appropriate technique for ensuring proper use of hearing
protection. All employees have hearing protection available to them.
HEARING CONSERVATION PROGRAM
Once employee exposure is presumed to equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average
of 85 decibels or greater, all employees must follow the Hearing Conservation Program.
When this is presumed (the action level is reached), the HR Manager will enforce the
monitoring of noise levels using a sound level meter to identify the employees to be included
in the hearing conservation program. Monitoring will be repeated whenever a change in
production, process, equipment or controls increases noise exposures to a level at or above
the action level, the current PPE is rendered inadequate, or employees reach their exposure
time limit.
EMTS, Inc. will provide, at no cost, an audiometric testing program to employees whose
exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels.
Within six months of the employee being exposed to the action level, a baseline audiogram
will be performed against which subsequent audiograms can be compared.
Before the baseline audiogram can be established the employee should be exposed to 14
hours of no workplace noise.
EMTS, Inc. will inform the employees of the need to avoid high levels of non-occupational
noise exposure during the 14 hours preceding the audiogram.
After each annual audiogram, technicians will evaluate results. If there is a threshold shift, the
following will happen:
• A retest will be set within 30 days, with a review of whether there is a need for further
evaluation.
• The employee will be informed in writing within 21 days of evaluation.
• If the employee is not using hearing protection, he or she shall be fitted, trained and
required to use hearing protection.
• If the employee is using hearing protection, he or she shall be refitted and retrained in
the use of the PPE and provided hearing protectors offering greater protection if
necessary.
• If deemed necessary by the technician, the employee can be referred for a clinical
ontological exam.
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HEARING PROTECTION
EMTS, Inc. will make hearing protection available to all employees who are exposed to an 8-
hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels or greater at no cost to the employees. Hearing
protection will be replaced as needed.
EMTS, Inc. will provide a variety of hearing protection and train employees in the correct use
and care of hearing protection as well as proper fitting.
Employees will be trained that they must wear hearing protection if they are required to wear
that PPE for the job they are doing, or if they are exposed to an 8-hour time-weighted
average of 85 decibels or greater and have not had a baseline audiogram or have
experienced a threshold shift.
The need for hearing protection will be evaluated for the specific work environment in order to
attenuate employee exposure to at least an 8-hour time-weighted average of 90 decibels or
lower, or for those employees who have experienced a threshold shift, 85 decibels or lower.
TRAINING PROGRAM
All employees will be trained annually on threshold limits of noise exposure, PPE, the effects
of noise on hearing, and all employees will have access to training information and materials.
RECORD KEEPING
Exposure measurements will be recorded and kept on file. All audiometric tests shall be
retained in the employee’s medical files.
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PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT / ASSESSMENT
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and clothing are essential to protect the safety and
health of all workers on job sites. The types of PPE and clothing will depend on the nature of
the operations being performed. Employees are responsible for wearing appropriate PPE in
operations where they are exposed to hazardous conditions or where hazards need to be
reduced.
All employees will be required to wear some type of PPE at some time during their workday.
It is imperative that they are trained on which to use and when. All employees are trained in
basic PPE (Eye, Hand, Head, Feet, ear, visibility, etc.) upon hire and annually thereafter.
Should the worksites, equipment used, or PPE regulations change significantly and/or make
the type of PPE used obsolete, the training will be updated to reflect the changes. All original
training and ongoing training is documented and kept on file with the HR Manager.
All PPE is to be provided to employees. It is kept in both office locations and is stored in a
safe and sanitary manner. PPE is available in all standard sizes. Should EMTS, Inc.. not have
the appropriate size for an employee, it will be special ordered immediately. Employees are
required to wear properly fitting PPE.
Once an employee has PPE and it becomes unusable or unsafe to use due to excessive use
or damage, he must return it to his Supervisor or Foreman for replacement. Replacement
PPE is available at no cost to the employee. Employees are not to abuse PPE or use
damaged PPE.
EMTS, Inc. will inspect the work environment. Through these job site inspections, it is
determined which tasks require what types of PPE. Employees are trained on these upon
hire and annually each year. If a new work activity arises and a new type of PPE is required
to complete this task, the employees affected are trained immediately.
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PROCESS SAFETY MANAGEMENT / CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS
Process Safety Management is put in place to eliminate hazardous consequences of a
catastrophic release of toxic, reactive, flammable or explosive chemicals in various industries
such as refineries, etc.
Each employee must be trained in the work practices necessary to perform their job. All
employees shall be advised of any unique hazards created or encountered by work or work
practices.
Each employee must be trained in the known potential fire, explosion or toxic release hazards
related to their job and the process and applicable provisions of the emergency action plan.
The training is to be documented and include the identity of the employee, the date of training
and verification that the employee understood the training. The HR Manager is responsible
for maintaining this documentation.
Employees must follow EMTS, Inc.’s safe work practices during all operations such as
lockout/tagout, confined space entry, etc.
Hot work should not be performed until a hot work permit has been obtained.
All employees must immediately report all accidents, injuries and near misses using our
incident reporting procedure.
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SAFE VEHICLE OPERATION
The Safe Vehicle Operation Program is put in place to eliminate hazards associated with
operating Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV). Only qualified & authorized operators are
allowed to operate an EMTS, Inc. CMV.
To be qualified, drivers must possess and carry a valid and specific license or permit and
carry a current medical card, including any applicable exemptions, issued by a licensed
physician deeming them medically capable of driving a commercial motor vehicle.
To be authorized, drivers must be covered under our commercial fleet insurance, have the
approval of their direct Supervisor or Foreman, and have all company training including the
required DOT and company paperwork on file with the HR Manager.
Authorization is to be based on the ability to put company training into practice and follow all
applicable safety rules and regulations set forth in this program.
DRIVER REQUIREMENTS (NON-DOT DRIVERS)
Medical Qualifications
A person shall not drive a CMV unless he is physically qualified to do so. The original or
photocopy of a medical examiners certificate MUST be carried by the driver at ALL TIMES
while operating a CMV. Medical cards need to be updated at least every 24 months unless
your medical provider informs you otherwise. EMTS, Inc. does not cover the cost of medical
cards. Medical examinations must be performed by a licensed medical examiner.
General Qualifications
• Drivers must be at least 21 years of age.
• Drivers must read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the
general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals, to respond to official
inquiries and to make entries on reports and records.
• Drivers must be able to, by reason of experience, training or both, safely operate the
type of CMV they drive.
• Drivers must be physically qualified to drive a CMV.
• Drivers must have prepared and furnished to EMTS, Inc. the list of violations or the
certificate as required by section 391.27.
• Drivers must not be disqualified from driving a CMV under the rules in section 391.15.
• Drivers must present an operator’s license or certificate to EMTS, Inc..
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DRIVER REQUIREMENTS (DOT DRIVERS):
*DOT drivers are subject to the same General and Medical Qualification as NON-DOT
drivers.
Hours of service for Drivers
EMTS, INC. will not permit or require any driver, nor shall any driver drive:
• More than 11 cumulative hours following 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• For any period after the end of the 14th hour after coming on duty following 10
consecutive hours off duty.
• After having been on duty 60 hours in any 7 consecutive days. *
• After having been on duty 70 hours in any 8 consecutive days. *
*Any period of 7 or 8 consecutive days may end with the beginning of any off duty period of
34 or more consecutive hours.
On-duty time means all time from the time a driver begins to work or is required to be in
readiness to work until the time he or she is relieved from work and all responsibilities for
performing work.
395.1(m) Exemption for construction materials and equipment
• Any period of 7 or 8 consecutive days may end with the beginning of any off duty
period of 24 or more consecutive hours.
• Construction and pavement materials, construction equipment and construction
maintenance vehicles.
• To or from an active construction site.
• Within a 60-mile radius of the normal work reporting the location of the driver.
• It does not apply to hazardous materials.
Drivers must record their duty status for each 24-hour period using the methods prescribes by
the DOT in section 395.8.
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Drug Testing
DOT drivers are subject to a federally regulated drug testing program. EMTS, Inc.’s Drug-
Free Workplace Policy complies with the federal requirements.
Drivers are required to obey all federal, state, DOT and local motor vehicle laws applicable to
the operation of their vehicle.
Drivers are required to take a defensive driving class at least once every three years.
Defensive driving topics include safe speeds, following distances, and driving without
distractions like the radio or cell phones.
Seatbelts are to be worn by all drivers and passengers at all times. The use of alcohol, drugs
or prescription medication that inhibits one’s ability to drive or operate equipment is strictly
prohibited while driving.
DRIVER INFORMATION
Driving Procedures
• Drivers must report all accidents immediately to the safety committee.
• Drivers must report arrests and traffic convictions to the safety committee within 24
hours.
Inspection of Driving Equipment
• Drivers shall inspect the vehicle daily, including checking all the fluid levels, before
starting in accordance with any applicable DOT regulations and maintenance
recommendations set forth by EMTS, Inc. mechanics and management.
• Drivers shall determine that brakes are in proper working condition before operating
equipment. If not working, they must be repaired before the vehicle is used. Report
any defects to your supervisor.
• Company vehicles will be maintained in clean and safe working order.
Vehicle Operation
• Drivers must always wear seat belts.
• Drivers are prohibited from texting or operating a CMV distracted.
• Clearly signal intentions of turning, passing, or stopping. Be extra careful at
intersections. Use turn signals and remember to look around for other people and cars.
• Drivers shall be courteous toward other operators and always allow pedestrians the
right of way.
• Drivers shall yield the right of way in all instances to avoid accidents.
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• Drivers will maintain a safe following distance observing the 4-second rule on
highways and 3-second rule in residential areas.
When Backing
• Check blind spots when changing lanes or backing up.
• Keep your rearview and side mirrors adjusted for maximum visibility.
• Keep a constant lookout during the entire driving time.
• Back slowly.
• Use a spotter if necessary. Always keep the spotter in view and be able to
communicate with them.
When Changing Lanes
• Always check your side and rearview mirrors for traffic approaching you from behind.
Signal to communicate with other drivers your intention to change lanes.
• When driving on a multi-lane highway, stay in the right-hand lane if you are driving
slower than the traffic around you.
Vehicle Maintenance
• EMTS, Inc. requires all personnel responsible for driving a vehicle to check the oil
EACH time the vehicle is filled up with gas. Clean out garbage daily.
• Pre-trip vehicle inspections that examine common problem areas on CMVs must be
performed daily.
• Any vehicle with mechanical problems MUST be withdrawn from service
IMMEDIATELY.
• Vehicles are periodically withdrawn from service at scheduled checkups for a
comprehensive inspection and scheduled vehicle maintenance.
• Vehicles are to be maintained on a DAILY basis. They are to be parked neatly in the
lineup. All doors and windows must be closed and lights turned off with keys out of the
ignition. Drivers will be held accountable for the condition of the vehicles they drive.
Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken for violators of the Vehicle Operational Policy
or Fleet Safety Compliance. Supervisors and Foremen will be trained on the requirements
and will be responsible for ensuring no operating takes place without first fulfilling all of the
necessary requirements.
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SANDBLASTING AND GRINDING
Only EMTS, Inc. employees who have been trained on how to safely operate sandblasters
and grinders are permitted to perform these functions. Prior to doing any sandblasting and
grinding, all equipment used is to be inspected for damage, functionality and to ensure that all
safety guards are in place. Should any defects be found, equipment is to be tagged and
removed from service immediately and sent to the shop for repairs.
The following are some general guidelines to follow when sandblasting and grinding.
All sandblasting is to be done outside. When sandblasting employees are to use the following
personal protective equipment: hard hat, face shield with safety glasses, earplugs, respirator,
heavy canvas or leather gloves and apron, and leatherwork shoes.
All grinding machines shall be supplied with sufficient power to maintain the spindle speed at
safe levels and be equipped with safety guards. Employees are to always wear earplugs as
well as safety glasses when using a hand grinder.
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SCAFFOLD SAFETY
The purpose of the Scaffold Safety program is to ensure all employees properly set up and
use scaffolds to prevent falling. All employees are subject to our Scaffold Safety Program.
Scaffolds shall be used whenever work cannot be done safely from ground level. The
scaffolds must have solid footing or anchoring capable of holding the load without settling or
shifting.
No unstable objects such as barrels, loose bricks, rocks, boxes or similar unstable items
should be used to support the scaffold or planks. Scaffolds shall be capable of supporting
four times the maximum intended load.
It is the policy of EMTS, Inc. that if an employee needs to work on a scaffold that they must
be trained by a person qualified in the subject matter to recognize hazards. The training shall
include the following:
Identifying and eliminating Electrical hazards and falling object hazards; Procedures for dealing
with these hazards, operating and maintaining fall protection systems, proper use of scaffolds,
load limits, and any other pertinent information related to the specific job site.
Other topics covered in this training will include:
• Scaffolds must be maintained in a safe condition and not be altered or moved
horizontally when they are in use or occupied.
• Tools, materials, and other debris shall not be allowed to accumulate in any quantities
that could be hazardous to workers on a scaffold.
• Guardrails and toe boards will be installed on all open sides and end of platforms more
than 10 feet above the ground or floor. Scaffolds 4 to 10 feet high which are less than
45 inches wide must also have guardrails installed on all sides and ends.
• Planking will be scaffold grade or equivalent. Overlap planking a minimum of 12 inches
or secure from any movement. All scaffolding planks shall extend over their end
supports no less than 6 inches or more than 18 inches.
• Scaffold with tubular welded frames will be properly braced by cross bracing or
diagonal braces, or both, for securing vertical members together laterally. Cross
braces will be of such length as will automatically square and align vertical members
so that the erected scaffold is always plumb, square, and rigid. All brace connections
will be made secure. The frames shall be placed one on top of the other with coupling
or stacking pins to provide proper vertical alignment of the legs.
This policy and the training are communicated to employees annually and thereafter. Safety
training is done on-site should change in the types of scaffolds, fall protection or other
equipment or circumstances have changed and the employee hasn’t previously been trained
on them. The employee is to be retrained when he or she has proven that he or she did not
retain the proficient knowledge to operate around scaffolds safely.
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Prior to each use and periodically throughout the shift and/or job duration scaffolds are to be
inspected by a competent person for damage and to be determined fit for safe use. All
scaffolds are to be maintained in a safe condition. If there is a defect discovered or some
element of the inspection makes the scaffold unfit for use it should immediately be removed
from service, tagged for repairs or replaced.
The General Manager is responsible for enforcing this program and will review it annually.
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STOP WORK AUTHORITY
Stop Work Authority is put in place to ensure any employee has the authority to stop work
when control of health and safety risk is not established or understood. Stop Work Authority
applies to all employees at EMTS, Inc.. Employees are to complete documented training on
the contents of this program before initial job assignment and on an annual basis.
All employees at EMTS, Inc. have the authority to stop any task or operation where there are
concerns that a Health and Safety Risk (HSE) is not controlled or understood. No work is to
resume until all stop work issues and concerns have been addressed and the HSE risk is
controlled and/or understood by all affected employees. Supervisors or Foreman are
responsible for issuing a Stop Work Intervention. No employee will be disciplined to any
degree for issuing a stop-work for an HSE concern. It is management’s responsibility to
create a culture where the Stop Work Authority can be exercised freely.
The steps of the Stop Work Intervention are to notify your Supervisor or Foreman when an
unsafe condition is identified. Stop Work intervention is then initiated by your supervisor in a
positive manner by notifying all affected personnel and correcting the issues. Work will
resume only when safe to do so. Supervisors or Foreman are responsible for documenting
the Stop Work Intervention and noting lessons learned and the corrective measures used
prior to resuming work.
Management will review all documentation of the Stop Work Intervention. Follow up is
important to ensure all parties are satisfied with the outcome of the Stop Work Intervention.
Most Stop Work Interventions can be resolved in a timely manner at the job site.
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SUBCONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT PLAN
This program is put in place to ensure all sub-contractors comply with the standards of the
industry while performing work for clients of EMTS, Inc. Subcontractors must pre-qualify prior
to being awarded contracts. Subcontractors will be qualified based on their safety program,
training documents and safety statistics.
EMTS, Inc. will utilize acceptable methods such as Experience Modification Rate (EMR)
statistics when selecting subcontractors.
Subcontractors are to be included in any pre-job meetings and safety specific orientations.
During the project, all subcontractors must be included in weekly tailgate meetings, job
hazard analysis, and any safety inspections.
The HR Manager is responsible for reviewing this management plan annually.
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TRENCHING / SHORING / EXCAVATIONS
The Trenching/Shoring/Excavations Program is put in place to protect employees from the
hazards associated with digging. All employees are subject to the contents of this program.
Documented training is to be completed prior to work assignment and on at least an annual
basis thereafter.
The location of underground utilities should be determined prior to excavation. Foremen are
responsible for having public utilities marked, ensuring they are properly refreshed and
ensuring the customer has had the private lines marked. Employees are prohibited from
mechanical digging on job sites where public and private utilities are not marked at the
request of EMTS, INC. and the pertinent locate number is in their possession.
COMPETENT PERSON
A competent person is a trained employee who is capable of identifying existing and
predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary,
hazardous or dangerous to employees and who has the authority to take prompt corrective
measures to eliminate them. They must be knowledgeable of standards, can identify hazards
specific to operations, and have the authority and knowledge to correct seen hazards. They
are responsible for performing daily inspections, or as warranted by job site conditions.
SOIL MECHANICS AND CLASSIFICATION
The soil make up of a trench or excavation can affect the hazards present. Soil collapse in
trenches can happen in many different ways. Most commonly they happen in the form of
tension cracks, sliding rock, toppling spoils, bulging, heaving or boiling excavations.
Competent persons are trained on how to evaluate soil mechanics and identify warning signs
of these types of soil collapses.
Visual and manual tests are imperative for detecting warning signs of soil collapse. Soil
classification tests vary depending on the type of soil. Type A: Clay, Silty Clay, and Clay
Loam would use a manual test. Type B: angular gravel, silt, silty loam, and sandy loam,
would use a visual or manual test. Type C: Gravel, sand, loamy sand, would require a visual
test only and Stable rock like granite and sandstone could be done using a testing device.
There is further detail on the testing types below. Each competent person is trained on which
tests to use on what types of soils.
Soil Classification Identification can be done a number of ways. EMTS, Inc. utilizes the
following methods: Visual tests such as viewing the visual appearance of the soil identifying
clumps and grains, and examining the excavation. Manual Tests involve taking a sample of
the soil and rolling it into a ball or thread to see if it clumps or crumbles.
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TESTING EQUIPMENT
Testing equipment can be used to identify soil types and EMTS, Inc. educates employees on
three types:
• Thumb penetration.
• Pocket penetrometer.
• Shear vane.
The Thumb penetration involves pushing a thumb into the soil and, based on the depth of the
imprint, the soil classification can be determined in conjunction with visual tests. Pocket
penetrometers are pressed into the soil at a specific depth and the device gives a direct
reading of the unconfined compression strength which will identify the soil type. A shear vane
tool’s blades are pressed into a level section of undisturbed soil and the torsional knob is
turned until soil failure occurs. The dial reads strength at failure and from that one can deduce
the soil type.
TRENCH PROTECTIVE SYSTEMS
Excavation depth, soil type, and job site characteristics will determine the type of protective
system to use on a job site. Methods to use are shoring, shielding, sloping and benching.
Competent persons are educated in all these methods which are outlined below.
Shoring can be timber, aluminum hydraulic, pneumatic, screw jacks, and underpinning.
Competent persons are trained on the advantages and disadvantages of using each method
and which situations warrant certain types of shoring.
Shielding in the form of trench boxes is a costly option and often installed in combined use
with shoring. Installation and load-bearing restrictions are extensive.
Sloping is the most commonly used protective system used alone or in combined use.
Sloping ratios needed for sloping alone or sloping used in conjunction with a support or shield
system are as follows: Type A soil has a ¾: 1 ratio. Type B Soil has a 1:1 ratio and Type C
Soil has a 1 ½: 1 ratio.
Ratios for sloping as a stand-alone option are the same but if there are multiple soil types
layered within one excavation the highest ratio must be used.
Benching has two options; Single (aka Simple) or Multiple. Benching is used in combination
with sloping. The ratios of benching systems are the same as the sloping system.
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SURFACE CROSSING OF TRENCHES
Must be designed by a professional engineer and if walkways or bridges are provided for foot
traffic they must have a safety factor of 4 ratios of material strength to design load, i.e. If
plywood is being used and plywood can hold 45 lbs. and what is being transported is 200 lbs.
(a man) that is a factor of .225 or not strong enough to be used as a means of crossing a
trench), minimum width of 20 inches, be fitted with standard rails and extend a minimum of 24
inches past surface of trench edge.
INGRESS AND EGRESS OF TRENCHES
Trenches with a depth of 4 feet or more must have fixed means of ingress and egress and
should be within 25 feet of lateral travel. Ladders must be fixed and extend beyond the
excavation or trench three feet.
EXPOSURE TO AND PROTECTION FROM VEHICLES AND FALLING LOADS
Trenches should be barricaded and traffic directed by a certified flag person or protected by
barricades. Employees must wear high visibility PPE. Employees are prohibited from working
under loads of digging equipment where loads may fall.
WARNING SYSTEMS FOR EQUIPMENT
All trenches and excavations must be barricaded, use spotters, stop logs and grade soil away
from excavations to prevent equipment and vehicles from falling into trenches.
HAZARDOUS ATMOSPHERES AND CONFINED SPACES
Team members are to have a competent person test for air contaminants before entry and at
regular intervals throughout the duration of the job. Tests should occur more frequently if
equipment is operating near or in the trench that could cause the atmosphere of the trench to
change (i.e. welding, cutting or burning)
WATER ACCUMULATION
Water accumulation in trenches affects the makeup of the soil type and can severely alter the
strength of the wall of the trench or excavation. All employees must use the required support
or shield system and re-evaluate if that is the right system after water has been introduced to
the work area. Water removal equipment should be used and water levels monitored by a
competent person. Surface water should be diverted away from trenches and excavations.
Employees are not to work in trenches or excavations during or right after rainstorms.
Trenches and excavations should be inspected by a competent person after each rain before
team members are allowed to re-enter excavations.
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INSPECTIONS
Competent persons working on trench and excavation job sites are to do inspections
frequently. They are trained to do inspections at the following times: Daily and before each
shift; as dictated by the work being done in the trench; after each rain; after other events that
could increase hazards; when fissures, tensions cracks, sloughing, undercutting, water
seepage, bulging or similar conditions occur; when there is a change in size, location or
placement of the spoil pile; or when there is any indication of change or movement in
adjacent structures.
The HR Manager will review this program on an annual basis to determine its effectiveness
within our organization.
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VALLEY FEVER
The purpose of this program is to prevent illness of Valley Fever, employee exposure to the
microscopic fungus Coccidioides, and to comply with the provisions of California Assembly
Bill No. 203 and Section 6709 of the Labor Code.
SCOPE
This program is applicable in every work area where Valley Fever is endemic. In California,
this includes, but is not limited to, Fresno, Kings, Madera, Merced, Monterey, San Joaquin,
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Tulare, and Ventura counties.
DEFINITIONS
Valley fever, also called Coccidioidomycosis, is an infection caused by the fungus
Coccidioides. The fungus is known to live in the soil in the southwestern United States,
California’s Central Valley, and parts of Mexico and Central and South America. The fungus
was also recently found in south-central Washington.
PEOPLE AT RISK
Anyone who lives in or travels to an area where the fungus lives in the environment can get
Valley Fever. Valley fever can affect people of any age, but it most common in adults age 60
or older. Additionally, certain groups of people may be at higher risk for developing the severe
forms of Valley Fever, such as:
• People who have weakened immune systems, for example, people who:
o Have HIV/AIDS
o Have had an organ transplant
o Are taking medications such as corticosteroids or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)
inhibitors
• Pregnant women
• Have diabetes
• Are of African American or Filipino descent
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SYMPTOMS
Many people exposed to the fungus never have symptoms. Other people may have flu-like
symptoms, including:
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Cough
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Night sweats
• Muscle aches or joint pain
• Rash on upper body or legs
The symptoms of Valley Fever can be similar to those of other common illnesses, which may
cause delays in getting diagnosed and treated. For many people, symptoms will go away
without any treatment after a few weeks or months. Healthcare providers prescribe antifungal
medication for some people to try to reduce symptoms or prevent the infection from getting
worse. People who have severe lung infections or infections that have spread to other parts
of the body always need antifungal treatment and may need to stay in the hospital.
TREATMENT
Most people who breathe in the spores don’t get sick. Usually, people who get sick with
Valley Fever will get better on their own within a few weeks or months, but some people will
need antifungal medication.
Many, if not most, people from Valley Fever areas have already had it and have immunity for
the rest of their lives.
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KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Safety Manager
• Assure that this written program is implemented, reviewed, and updated, as needed.
• Assist managers, supervisors, and employees with the implementation of this program.
Managers and Supervisors
• Responsible for ensuring that EMTS’s Valley Fever prevention procedures are
implemented as required before work starts for the day.
• Responsible for ensuring that all employees, and/or contractors have been trained in
Elite’s Valley Fever prevention procedures.
Employees
• Responsible for following the elements contained in the written program.
Work Practices
Our Company policy is to:
• Keep dust down – use water on dusty close-up work and keep water trucks running.
• Pay special attention to the area with 20% opacity (the condition of lacking
transparency or translucence).
• Use enclosed vehicle cab equipment with air filters – HEPA filters will keep out dust
which carries Valley Fever spores.
• Use N-95 masks and respirators – if you have a half-face respirator use it properly in
accordance with Elite’s written Respiratory Protection Program.
• Keep clean and wash dusty clothes – shower as soon as possible after getting dusty
and only eat and drink away from dust.
• Wet clean dusty vehicle cabs – periodically clean dusty cabs with water or a HEPA
vacuum.
• Stay away from dusty conditions – especially in previously undisturbed areas, stay
upwind, and stay back from dust.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE VALLEY FEVER
If symptoms aren’t getting better, tell your supervisor and ask to go to the clinic. You won’t be
discriminated against or punished at Elite for reporting and getting checked out. Treating
Valley Fever early and well is the best approach.
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TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
EMTS, Inc. is required to train all employees that work in areas where Valley Fever is
endemic. The supervisor shall assure that each employee who performs work in an area
where Valley Fever is endemic be trained by a person qualified in the subject matter to
recognize the hazards associated with exposure to Valley Fever and to understand the
procedures to control or minimize those hazards.
The training shall be documented, occur before work begins, and shall include the following
topics:
• What Valley Fever is and how it is contracted.
• High-risk areas and types of work and environmental conditions during which the risk
of contracting Valley Fever is highest.
• Personal risk factors that may create a higher risk for some individuals including
pregnancy, diabetes, having a compromised immune system due to causes including,
but not limited to, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency
syndrome (AIDS), having received an organ transplant, or taking immunosuppressant
drugs such as corticosteroids or tumor necrosis factor inhibitors.
• Personal and environmental exposure prevention methods that may include, but are
not limited to, water-based dust suppression, good hygiene with skin and clothing
soiled by dust, limiting contamination of drinks and food, working upwind from dusty
areas when feasible, wet cleaning dusty equipment when feasible, and wearing a
respirator when exposure to dust cannot be avoided.
• The importance of early detection, diagnosis, and treatment to help prevent the
disease from progressing.
• Recognizing common signs and symptoms of Valley Fever, which include fatigue,
cough, fever, shortness of breath, headache, muscle aches or joint pain, rash on upper
body or legs, and symptoms similar to influenza that linger longer than usual.
• The importance of reporting your symptoms to your supervisor and seeking medical
attention form a physician for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
• Common treatment prognosis for Valley Fever.
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WELDING, CUTTING, AND HEATING
Only EMTS, Inc. shop mechanics trained in the safe operation of their equipment and the
safe use of the process are permitted to use welding or cutting equipment. Before welding,
operators should inspect equipment to ensure guards are in place and that there are no
defects or hazards associated with the equipment or with the worksite. If hazards or defects
are found the equipment is to be tagged and removed from service immediately.
The following are guidelines the shop mechanics and trained employees are to follow when
heating or cutting and operating in or around these conditions:
• Always wear approved tinted eye protection when welding or in areas where welding is
being done.
• All welding that is to be done in a confined space needs to be approved and a permit
requested and granted before welding can occur.
• Use fans and other ventilation systems to keep areas ventilated.
• Keep a fully charged fire extinguisher near the work area.
• Eliminate fire hazards by removing combustibles from the work area or provide a fire
watch.
• No welding, cutting or other hot work shall be performed on used barrels, drums,
tanks, or other containers until they have been cleaned so thoroughly as to make
absolutely certain that there are no flammable materials present or any substances
such as greases, tars, acids or other materials which, when subjected to heat, might
produce flammable or toxic vapors. Any pipelines or connections to the drum or vessel
shall be disconnected or covered.
• Any hollow spaces, barrels, drums or other containers shall be vented to permit the
escape of air or gases before preheating, cutting or welding.
• When welding or cutting over combustible floors, protect the floor with fire-resistant
shields or damp sand.
• When electrode holders are left unattended, electrodes will be removed and the holder
will be placed or protected so it cannot make electrical contact.
• Never coil or loop welding cable around your body.
• Unplug welder when it is unattended.
• Inspect cables and fuel and oxygen hoses periodically. Replace any that are
defective.
• When removing the regulator to switch tanks, first close the valve and release the gas
pressure from the regulator.
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• Be sure that a red hose is used for acetylene or other fuel and that a green hose is
used for oxygen.
• When finishing cutting or heating, be sure to close all valves.
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WASTE MANAGEMENT
Our Waste Management Policy is put in place to ensure that every effort is made to minimize
and properly manage waste and dispose of it in accordance with all applicable federal, state,
and local regulations. Continually improving and utilizing recycling systems for various
materials is of prime importance.
Prior to the beginning of a project, it is management’s responsibility to estimate the waste that
will be generated so the type and size of waste containers and other waste removal systems
can be determined and planned. All waste should be properly maintained to minimize the
potential for a spill. Waste should be in containers, covered or removed from the site to
prevent run-off. Waste materials should be segregated from the beginning of the project to
optimize recycling opportunities.
Concrete and asphalt chunks, as well as gravel removed from job sites, are typically loaded
in separate trucks and hauled to the appropriate recycle pile west of the asphalt plant. Dirt,
sod, clay, etc. are typically loaded separately and brought to the corresponding recycle pile at
our yard.
Any metal objects salvaged from a job site are to be brought to the shop to be recycled “in
house” or sold as scrap metal, at the discretion of Shop Foreman and Superintendent.
Liquids are typically not to be stored at a job site. Gasoline, diesel, oil, cure, etc. are to be
brought to a job site by truck or pickup and transferred directly to equipment tanks or
dispensers.
If the size and remote location of a job site should ever make this policy impractical, a proper
containment area must be constructed that complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
Every effort must be made to minimize personal and non-hazardous construction waste on
the job site. Management will help determine the type and size of trash containers to be used
for this type of waste. These containers are to be emptied in the dumpster behind EMTS,
Inc.’s Shop. Forms, stakes steel bars, and other reusable materials are to be salvaged and
reused as many times as possible.
Any Hazardous materials used or encountered will be handled and discarded in accordance
with appropriate federal, state and local regulations and safety data sheet instructions.
Employees are comprehensively trained in Waste Management annually. In addition, waste
management, spill prevention and response, stormwater pollution prevention and hazmat
training are regular topics at our weekly safety meetings.
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WILDFIRE SMOKE
Section 5141.1(a): SCOPE
This section applies to workplaces where the current Air Quality Index (AQI) for particulate
matter 2.5 microns (PM2.5) is 151 or greater, regardless of the AQI for other pollutants, and
when Elite should reasonably anticipate employees may be exposed to wildfire smoke.
The following workplaces and operations are exempt from this section:
• Enclosed buildings or structures in which the air is filtered by a mechanical ventilation
system and EMTS ensures windows, doors, bays, and other openings are kept closed to
minimize contamination by outdoor or unfiltered air.
• Enclosed vehicles in which the air is filtered by a cabin air filter and EMTS ensures that
windows, doors, and other openings are kept closed to minimize contamination by outdoor
or unfiltered air.
• When EMTS can demonstrate that the concentration of PM2.5 in the air does not exceed
a concentration that corresponds to a current AQI of 151 or greater by measuring PM2.5
levels at the worksite.
• Employees exposed to a current AQI for PM2.5 of 151 or greater for a total of one hour or
less during a shift.
Section 5141.1 (3)(c): IDENTIFICATION OF HARMFUL EXPOSURES
EMTS will determine employee exposure to PM2.5 for worksites prior to each shift and
periodically thereafter, as needed, to protect the health of the employee, by the following
methods:
• Current AQI forecasts will be checked from any of the following: U.S. EPA, AirNow
website, US Forest Service Wildland Air Quality Response Program website, California
Air Resources Board website, local air pollution control district website, or local air
quality management district website.
• Obtain AQI forecasts and the current AQI for PM2.5 directly from the EPA, California
Air Resources Board, local air pollution district, or local air quality management district
by telephone, email, text or another effective method.
• Measure PM2.5 levels at the worksite and convert the PM2.5 levels to the
corresponding AQI in accordance with Appendix A of Section 5141.1.
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Appendix A
Section 5141.1 (3)(d): COMMUNICATION
EMTS will establish and implement a system for communicating wildfire smoke hazards in a
form readily understandable by all affected employees, including encouraging employees to
report wildfire smoke hazards at the worksite without fear of reprisal.
The communication system will inform employees of:
• The current AQI for PM2.5 at the worksite
• Protective measures are available to our employees to reduce wildfire smoke
exposures.
Employees are encouraged to report worsening air quality and/or any adverse symptoms that
may be the result of wildfire smoke exposure, such as asthma attacks, difficulty breathing,
and chest pain.
Section 5141.1 (3)(e): TRAINING AND INSTRUCTION
EMTS, INC. will provide effective training and instruction that covers, at a minimum, the
following topics:
• The health effects of wildfire smoke.
• The right to obtain medical treatment without fear of reprisal.
• How employees can obtain the current AQI for PM2.5.
• The requirements of Title 8, Section 5141.1.
• EMTS’s two-way communication system.
• EMTS’s methods to protect employees from wildfire smoke.
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• The importance, limitations, and benefits of using a respirator when exposed to wildfire
smoke.
• How to properly put on, use, and maintain a respirator.
Section 5141.1 (3)(f): CONTROL OF HARMFUL EXPOSURES TO EMPLOYEES
• Engineering Controls will be used to reduce employee exposure to PM2.5 to less than
a current AQI of 151. This includes: providing enclosed buildings, structures, or
vehicles where the air is filtered. If engineering controls are not sufficient to reduce
exposure to PM2.5 to less than a current AQI of 151, EMTS will reduce employee
exposures as much as feasible.
• Administrative Controls will be utilized where engineering controls are not feasible and
could include relocating work to a location where the AQI for PM2.5 is lower, changing
work schedules, reducing work intensity, or providing additional rest periods.
• Control by Respiratory Protective Equipment. W here the current AQI for PM2.5 is
equal to or greater than 151 but does not exceed 500, EMTS will provide respirators to
all employees for voluntary use in accordance with Section 5144 and encourage
employees to use respirators. Respirators shall be NIOSH-approved devices that
effectively protect the wearers from inhalation of PM2.5 such as N95 filtering facepiece
respirators. Respirators shall be cleaned, stored, maintained, and replaced so that
they do not present a health hazard to users.
• Training for Voluntary Use of Respirators shall be provided by EMTS for all employees
wearing respirators utilizing the content provided in Appendix B of Title 8 Section
5141.1.
Appendix B
PROGRAM REVIEW
A Safety Representative will be assigned to conduct a thorough review of this Protection from
Wildfire Smoke Program at a minimum of the following intervals:
• At least annually to assure that the plan has been effective in protecting employees
working outdoors from the effects of wildfire smoke.
*Source: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
2972 Larkin Avenue
Clovis, CA 93612
Phone: (559) 292-2900
Fax: (559) 292-7756
www.EliteTeamOffices.com