(A) To assist in providing a safe and healthful work environment for employees, residents, customers of town services, and visitors, the town has established a workplace safety program. This program is a top priority for the town. Individual departments have responsibility for implementing, administering, monitoring, and evaluating the safety program. Its success depends on the alertness and personal commitment of all.
(B) Each employee is expected to comply with occupational safety and health standards and all rules and regulations governed by the state, and orders issued relative to the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), which are applicable to his or her own actions.
(C) All employees must wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) required to perform their job safely or while in certain designated areas of the work environment. If an employee is unsure what PPE he or she is required to wear at any given time he or she should consult his or her department head, or the Town Manager.
(D) If an accident results in an injury, no matter how minor the injury may be, employees are required to report the incident to their department head, the Town Manager, or the Clerk-Treasurer. At the time the injury occurs, the need to see a doctor will be determined. All workplace injuries will be seen by a physician and/or facility selected by the town and in accordance with state laws. Reports of injury are necessary to comply with both federal and state laws and initiate insurance and workers’ compensation benefits. In the event that an employee does not report an accident or injury, there may be a delay in the benefits paid, including the possibility that medical bills will not be paid at all. Refer to Policy #306—Workers’ Compensation Insurance (§ 35.059) for additional information.
(E) Any employee injured on the job may be subject to a drug and alcohol test. Refusal to submit or positive results may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Refer to Policy #702—Drugs and Alcohol Use/Testing (§ 35.151) for additional information.
(F) Some of the best safety improvement ideas come from employees. Those with ideas, concerns, or suggestions for improved safety in the workplace are encouraged to discuss them with their department head, or with the Town Manager. Reports and concerns about workplace safety issues may be made anonymously if the employee wishes. All reports may be made without fear of reprisal.
(F) Each employee is expected to obey safety rules and to exercise caution in all work activities. Employees must immediately report any unsafe condition to the appropriate department head. Employees who violate safety standards, who cause hazardous or dangerous situations, or who fail to report, or remedy such situations, may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
(Ord. 2020-26, passed 1-12-21)