(A) The city’s first priority is to maintain a safe working environment for its employees and the public. Job-related injuries, accidents or illnesses must be immediately reported for the employee’s protection in accordance with the city safety and accident policy.
(B) Each department will consider the need for adopting safety practices, policies or procedures warranted by the hazards that department employees encounter. Supervisors are encouraged to involve employees in this process.
(C) A copy of such practices, policies or procedures will be delivered and explained in detail. Each department employee will then sign a receipt which will be placed in the individual employee’s personnel file stating that they have read and understand these rules. Supervisors will also explain to their employees that a violation of these safety rules could lead to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
(D) Every employee must be safety-conscious and responsible for helping the city achieve the goal of providing a safe workplace.
(E) Employees will immediately report any unsafe or hazardous conditions to their supervisor or any supervisor they feel comfortable reporting such information.
(F) Supervisors will immediately report any unsafe or hazardous condition that has been reported to them or that the supervisor is aware of to the Mayor.
(G) Any employee or supervisor who does not report unsafe or hazardous conditions is subject to disciplinary action.
(H) (1) Employees are expected to use common sense and good judgment in their work habits and to follow safe work practices. Supervisors will ensure that safe work practices are utilized.
(2) Examples of safe work practices are as follows:
(a) Using the proper safety equipment when performing a work assignment;
(b) Not operating equipment or machinery while using prescribed medication without a doctor’s written approval;
(c) When working extended hours (see hours of operation and work schedules policy within § 36.069);
(d) Under no circumstances should an employee operate any type of machinery or equipment while under the influence of drugs or alcohol;
(e) Operating only equipment or machinery for which training or orientation has been received;
(f) Warning coworkers of unsafe conditions or practices;
(g) Following all safety and operating rules posted on equipment and machinery;
(h) Refraining from horseplay at all times;
(i) Wearing safety belts when operating city owned vehicles or private owned vehicles when on city business; and
(j) Following Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rules and guidelines. All employees are responsible for maintaining current knowledge of periodic rule/regulation changes made by the issuing state and federal safety agencies.
(I) Periodic training will be arranged when appropriate in the judgment of the employee’s supervisor. Employees will be required to participate in all required safety training programs offered by the city.