Fire Department Employee Standards of Behavior

Introduction

• The Los Angeles County Fire Department (Department) expects behavior norms from all employees as set forth in these standards.
• These standards of behavior apply to both on- and off-duty conduct of all employees.
• The Deputy Fire Chief of the Leadership and Professional Standards Bureau is responsible for the content, revision, and annual review of the Standards of Behavior.
• A business day is defined as Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
• Employee reporting requirements are the employee's next work day or within one business day, whichever comes first.

Responsibilities

• All employees must read and adhere to the Standards of Behavior.
• Supervisors:
  • Must review the Standards of Behavior with new employees within 30 calendar days of employment or transfer.
  • Must review the Standards of Behavior with employees annually.
  • Must report possible violations of the Standards of Behavior to their next level of management.
• Managers must:
  • Ensure the Standards of Behavior are available for review at each administrative site.
  • Gather information on reportable violations pursuant to the Firefighters Procedural Bill of Rights (FBOR).
  • Report possible violations of the Standards of Behavior to their next level of management.

Policy

• When carrying out official duties, all employees must comply with:
  • The County's and Department's rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
  • The FBOR and/or Peace Officers Bill of Rights, if applicable.
  • Department safety procedures and exercise good judgment.
• Employees must perform all assigned duties and responsibilities.
• Licenses, certificates, or suspensions must be reported to the immediate supervisor.
• Lawful orders issued by a supervisor must be carried out.
• Unusual occurrences, matters adversely affecting the Department, or violations of rules must be reported to the immediate supervisor.
• Arrests by law enforcement agencies, whether misdemeanor or felony charges, and any convictions must be reported to the immediate supervisor.
• Department property, vehicles, equipment, and identification must be secured and protected against damage or loss.
  • Damage or loss must be reported according to Department procedures.
  • Department property, equipment, or identification cannot be lent, given away, or appropriated for personal use without proper authority.
  • Department vehicles must be driven in a safe and efficient manner.
• Monies or valuables must be delivered that come into an employee's possession through the performance of official duties to the proper authority.
• Employees cannot use their employment or standing in the Department for personal gain without authorization.
• Rewards, fees, or gifts cannot be accepted, except as authorized by the Fire Chief.
• All persons must be treated in a respectful and courteous manner while on duty, and employees must:
  • Not use coarse, profane, or insulting language.
  • Not threaten, defame, or demean any individual.
  • Not subject any person to harassing behavior.
• Employees must be truthful in written and oral Department communications.
  • Reports or records must not be falsified.
  • Full and accurate information must be provided when requested by a supervisor.
• Smoking is prohibited within any Department facility.
• Employees cannot engage in political campaigning while on duty or in uniform.
• Public statements regarding Department matters, other than those affecting public policy, cannot be made or provide information to residents, community groups, the press without authorization.
• Department grooming and uniform standards must be conformed to, and appearance appropriate to the work location must be maintained.
• Employees must report for duty on time each scheduled work day and remain at the designated area unless authorized to leave.
  • Notice must be provided in accordance with Department procedure regarding any absence or late arrival.
  • Documentation must be provided regarding unscheduled absences after receiving a notice of Absence Certification.
• Current address, telephone, and emergency information must be maintained with the Department, and any changes must be reported.
• Employees cannot report for duty under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or when taking medication that may impair performance or safety.
• Illegal drugs or controlled substances cannot be used, whether on- or off-duty.
• Firearms or weapons cannot be brought or used on Department premises unless authorized by the Fire Chief.
• Employees cannot bring discredit or embarrassment upon the Department through on- or off-duty behavior.
• Employees cannot engage in conduct that impairs or discredits Department duties, even when off-duty or in a non-Department capacity.
  • Fire Fighter series employees activities that violate the standard:
    • Acts of dishonesty or theft.
    • Destruction of property or arson.
    • Domestic violence or offenses against children.
    • Assaults against another person.
    • Illegal use/possession of drugs.
    • Belligerence with law enforcement.
• Off-duty conduct by other employees may also violate these standards, depending on their duties and responsibilities.