Public Safety Oral Examination Guidelines

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Questions and Answers

What is the minimum number of days LFUCG must notify Local 526 before implementing new work rules?

5 calendar days

15 calendar days

30 calendar days

10 calendar days (correct)

Which of the following is NOT a valid reason for LFUCG to implement a change immediately?

State directives

Federal directives

Emergency situations

Routine policy updates (correct)

Which statement accurately reflects the non-discrimination clause?

Discrimination is allowed if it pertains to political affiliation.

Discrimination on the basis of race is prohibited. (correct)

Discrimination is allowed based on Union membership status only.

Discrimination is acceptable if based on lawful activity.

Local 526 agrees not to engage in which of the following actions?

Strikes and work stoppages Signup and view all the answers

What can Local 526 request within the ten-day notice period from LFUCG?

A meeting to discuss proposed changes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is required for work rules to be valid?

Prior notice to affected employees Signup and view all the answers

Which group is protected from discrimination under the outlined agreement?

All members of the Collective Bargaining Unit Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of Local 526 engaging in mass absenteeism according to the agreement?

It violates the agreement. Signup and view all the answers

How many hours of paid leave can Local 526 representatives use for grievances each month?

Ten hours Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence if an individual is granted paid leave to attend a session?

Their leave is deducted from the total hours allowed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum number of Union representatives that can be designated by Local 526?

Ten representatives Signup and view all the answers

When does seniority apply to employees in the LFUCG Division of Fire and Emergency Services?

After completion of the probationary period Signup and view all the answers

What happens to an employee's seniority if they resign from their position?

It is lost permanently. Signup and view all the answers

How is seniority determined among employees with the same employment date?

By ranking on the eligibility list. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the paid leave and AWL leave outlined in the content?

To ensure employees do not lose pay while attending sessions. Signup and view all the answers

What should Local 526 provide to the Fire Chief regarding Union representatives?

An official written roster with names and positions. Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the total score is allocated to the oral examination?

20% Signup and view all the answers

How long will a promotional list remain in existence?

Two years Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum time allowed to fill or abolish vacancies after they arise?

Ninety days Signup and view all the answers

Can an applicant in an 'acting' capacity receive special promotional consideration?

No, they cannot receive any special consideration Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of a suspension lasting more than twenty-four hours for an applicant eligible for promotion?

They are automatically removed from the promotion list Signup and view all the answers

Who is defined as a 'grievant' in the grievance procedure?

A Bargaining Unit member or group of Bargaining Unit members Signup and view all the answers

Which entity is exclusively allowed to file a grievance?

Local 526 Signup and view all the answers

What must be included in a written grievance for it to be recognized?

It must be signed by the grievant or group members Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the total score is attributed to questions developed by the Division of Human Resources?

15% Signup and view all the answers

What is considered as absenteeism in the context of the oral examination?

AWOL absences Signup and view all the answers

How many top-ranking candidates will be forwarded to the Fire Chief for consideration?

Five Signup and view all the answers

What happens to candidates after they have been certified to the Fire Chief five times without being selected?

They are permanently removed from the list. Signup and view all the answers

If a candidate scores high enough, who may interview them after the oral examination?

The Fire Chief Signup and view all the answers

What weighted percentage is given to a candidate's absenteeism record in the total examination score?

5% Signup and view all the answers

What is the combined total percentage for the written examination and practical performance examination?

80% Signup and view all the answers

What requirement must be met regarding the questions asked during the oral examination?

All candidates receive the same questions Signup and view all the answers

What substances are Bargaining Unit members tested for?

Alcohol and/or drugs Signup and view all the answers

Who reviews confirmed positive drug test results?

The Medical Review Officer (MRO) Signup and view all the answers

What is required before the LFUCG can obtain drug screening test results?

A medical release executed by the Bargaining Unit member Signup and view all the answers

How are employees selected for random testing?

Through a computer-generated program for random selection Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum percentage of Division of Fire and Emergency Services employees tested weekly?

1.5% Signup and view all the answers

What identification must an employee provide at the testing facility?

Photo identification Signup and view all the answers

What happens to employees on vacation or leave regarding random testing?

They are exempt from random testing Signup and view all the answers

What must be authorized by the Bargaining Unit member for additional medical findings to be released?

Employee's written permission Signup and view all the answers

What action may result in disciplinary measures up to termination for Bargaining Unit members?

Taking part in certain unauthorized activities Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for certifying the amount of dues to be deducted from employee pay?

The Treasurer of Local 526 Signup and view all the answers

What happens to dues obligations for a member called up to active military duty?

They are temporarily relieved of dues obligations Signup and view all the answers

What must LFUCG do upon the return of a Bargaining Unit member from military duty?

Resume dues deductions Signup and view all the answers

Which remedy can be pursued in case of a violation of the agreement related to dues checkoff?

Legal actions seeking reimbursement for defense costs Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a responsibility of Local 526 when a member is on active military duty?

Suspend all union activities Signup and view all the answers

What principle regarding dues does Local 526 uphold while members are on active military duty?

Obligations to pay dues are waived during service Signup and view all the answers

How often does LFUCG remit dues to the Treasurer of Local 526?

Monthly Signup and view all the answers

What expenses are Bargaining Unit members responsible for when it comes to rehabilitation costs?

Costs not covered by their medical insurance Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is explicitly prohibited for Bargaining Unit members during work hours?

Being impaired due to alcohol or illegal drugs Signup and view all the answers

What must Bargaining Unit members do if they are called back to duty but feel impaired?

Immediately notify their supervisor via telephone Signup and view all the answers

What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for operating a government-owned vehicle?

0.02% Signup and view all the answers

Which behavior is NOT considered prohibited under the outlined rules?

Using a controlled substance in a legal manner Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes impairment for Bargaining Unit members according to the rules?

The use of alcohol or illegal drugs and misusing prescribed medications Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of operating safety-sensitive functions with any level of drug impairment?

Immediate disciplinary action, possibly dismissal Signup and view all the answers

How is the use of alcohol on the job site treated under the outlined rules?

Strictly prohibited at all times Signup and view all the answers

What defines a substance in the context provided?

Any chemical compound that will adversely alter the mind or body Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) established by LFUCG?

To inform members about the dangers of substance abuse and offer assistance Signup and view all the answers

Which method is used to confirm positive urine drug test results?

Gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GCMS) Signup and view all the answers

When may an employee acknowledge their substance abuse to seek assistance?

Before random testing notification Signup and view all the answers

What kind of testing facilities are recognized by LFUCG for drug testing?

Facilities contracted and designed for scientifically approved tests Signup and view all the answers

What is the criterion for a urine sample to be considered positive in the EIA methodology?

Samples must exceed defined cutoffs Signup and view all the answers

What are the responsibilities of a reasonable individual when identifying substance abuse?

To believe based on observations of symptoms of use Signup and view all the answers

Which is a requirement for laboratories conducting urine drug screens?

Must be accredited by CAP or SAMHSA Signup and view all the answers

What happens if both the member and the Union accept the Chief's recommended discipline but the Council rejects it?

The process will revert to Article 19, section 9. Signup and view all the answers

What type of work does LFUCG agree not to contract out?

Traditional work of fire suppression and emergency medical/rescue services. Signup and view all the answers

How is the order of layoffs determined for Bargaining Unit members?

Based on seniority in inverse order. Signup and view all the answers

For how long can a laid-off Bargaining Unit member be eligible for recall after a layoff?

36 months. Signup and view all the answers

What does not count as contracting out according to the agreement?

Mutual aid and support between emergency services. Signup and view all the answers

Which traditional work related to fire suppression is included in the agreement?

Fire prevention and investigation. Signup and view all the answers

What must the parties agree to before proceeding to arbitration in case of rejected discipline?

Council must bind to the arbitrator’s decisions. Signup and view all the answers

What does LFUCG reserve the right to do in Bureaus not specifically mentioned in the agreement?

Subcontract work as long as it does not cause direct loss of Bargaining Unit positions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of exercises that must be included in the Assessment Center process?

Three exercises Signup and view all the answers

Which attribute is specifically required to be tested in at least one of the exercises during the Assessment Center?

Fire Ground Tactical Scenario Signup and view all the answers

Who is involved in the panel reviewing and recommending the proposal for the Assessment Center contract?

Local 526 president Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the orientation sessions provided before the Assessment Center is convened?

To explain the Assessment Center process Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following attributes is NOT mentioned as part of the Assessment Center evaluation?

Technical Skills Signup and view all the answers

How long before the first day of the Assessment Center must orientation sessions take place?

Thirty days Signup and view all the answers

What role does the consultant play in the Assessment Center process?

They administer and prepare the entire Assessment Center process. Signup and view all the answers

Which exercise attribute involves evaluating a candidate's ability to adapt in changing situations?

Adaptability Signup and view all the answers

What is required for reproducing or distributing parts of this publication?

The publisher's written permission Signup and view all the answers

Which company was involved in printing and binding this book?

R.R. Donnelly & Sons Company Signup and view all the answers

What may McGraw-Hill books be used for according to the content provided?

Corporate training programs and promotions Signup and view all the answers

Who is dedicated in the book's acknowledgment section?

The author's family and children Signup and view all the answers

What is the ISBN number of the book mentioned in the content?

0-07-140194-6 Signup and view all the answers

What typeface was used to set the book?

R Life Roman Signup and view all the answers

What does the excerpt from Robert Frost's poem suggest about decision-making?

It reflects the significance of choosing a unique path. Signup and view all the answers

Who among the following is acknowledged for their creativity and discipline?

Mindy Waite Signup and view all the answers

Which individual is recognized as a master of crucial conversations in the acknowledgments?

Nancy Hancock Signup and view all the answers

What sentiment is expressed about the path less traveled in Frost's poem?

It symbolizes adventurous thinking. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'made all the difference' imply in the context of choice?

Choices shape personal journeys significantly. Signup and view all the answers

Which group is thanked for providing invaluable feedback for refining concepts?

Colleagues and associate friends Signup and view all the answers

What element of Robert Frost's poem underscores the theme of reflection on choices?

The notion of looking back in time. Signup and view all the answers

How are the colleagues at VitalSmarts described in the acknowledgments?

Creative, disciplined, and competent. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common behavior of couples who eventually split up?

They avoid high-stakes conversations. Signup and view all the answers

What key factor differentiates the best communities from others when facing problems?

How they handle pivotal conversations. Signup and view all the answers

What is likely to happen in communities that fail to improve?

People insult each other during meetings. Signup and view all the answers

What do couples who maintain long-term relationships commonly do?

Express their opinions honestly. Signup and view all the answers

During community meetings, how do people in unsuccessful communities often act?

They act indignant towards differing views. Signup and view all the answers

What outcome is associated with individuals who hold back their opinions?

Frequent outbursts of sarcasm. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of conversations are pivotal for successful relationships and communities?

Conversations that involve respectful dialogue on important issues. Signup and view all the answers

What often happens when individuals handle crucial conversations poorly?

Trust and respect in relationships erode. Signup and view all the answers

What can result from a free flow of meaning during discussions?

Better decision-making Signup and view all the answers

Why do individuals often hold back their opinions in group settings?

Fear of angering those in power Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic is important for fostering synergy in group discussions?

An open environment for sharing ideas Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the discussion among Kevin's group?

A fully supported new idea Signup and view all the answers

How does the Pool of Shared Meaning affect individual commitment to decisions?

It fosters a sense of collective responsibility Signup and view all the answers

What often happens when people do not feel safe to express their ideas?

Stifled innovation Signup and view all the answers

Which factor most directly contributes to the creation of synergy in a team?

Open sharing of opinions Signup and view all the answers

How does the process of discussing varying opinions affect decision quality?

It enhances understanding and choice clarity Signup and view all the answers

What was the criterion used to identify top performers within organizations?

The number of colleagues who named them Signup and view all the answers

What did the researchers initially wonder about after observing Kevin's work routine?

If he was just popular Signup and view all the answers

Which outcome was observed during the executive meeting when Chris, the CEO, presented his preference?

People attempted to challenge his idea Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the individuals identified as having high influence?

A select group recognized extensively by peers Signup and view all the answers

After observing Kevin for a week, what discovery was surprising to the researchers?

Kevin's influence was subtle and unremarkable Signup and view all the answers

What role did the full team play during the discussion on office relocation?

They posed critical questions to clarify the arguments Signup and view all the answers

What was a key aspect distinguishing individuals named frequently from those named less often?

Their ability to influence others effectively Signup and view all the answers

What might be implied about Chris's leadership style based on his reaction to disagreement?

He was unprepared for challenges Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Work Rules and Policies

LFUCG has the right to establish reasonable work rules, policies, and procedures.
Local 526 must be notified at least ten calendar days prior to the implementation of new work rules.
If requested by Local 526, discussions regarding proposed changes will occur within the notice period.
Newly written rules must be communicated to affected employees, including through email, except in emergencies.

Non-Discrimination Clause

LFUCG and Local 526 cannot discriminate against members based on union membership, lawful union activities, or personal attributes.
Protected characteristics include race, color, sex, creed, religion, marital status, age, national origin, disability, political affiliation, and sexual orientation.

Strikes, Work Stoppages, and Representation

Engaging in strikes, work stoppages, or slowdowns is deemed unlawful by Local 526.
Local 526 can appoint one additional member to attend meetings, with specific leave provisions in place.
Union representatives can process grievances with up to ten hours of paid leave per month.

Seniority Definition

Seniority defined by continuous service in the LFUCG Division of Fire, starting from the initial employment date.
Retroactive seniority begins post-probation period, with breaks in service due to resignation, termination, or retirement affecting continuity.
Candidates with the same employment date are ranked by eligibility list performance.

Promotional Examination Process

Promotion criteria: 40% written exam, 40% practical exam, 20% oral exam.
Top five candidates for promotional roles (Lieutenant, Captain, Major) will be forwarded to the Fire Chief for selection.
Promotional lists remain valid for two years or until a new list is established and must be created at least 30 days before expiration.

Grievance Procedure

Grievances concerning the Agreement's interpretation, work rules, or disciplinary actions must be documented and filed by Local 526.
A "grievant" can be an individual or group member from the Bargaining Unit, requiring written grievances to be signed by individuals alleging harm.

Drug Testing and Confidentiality

Random drug testing will occur using a computer-generated selection process, with testing rates capped at 1.5% weekly.
Employees must present photo identification within two hours of selection for testing.
Positive drug test results will be confidential, shared only with authorized personnel upon employee consent.

Disciplinary Actions

Actions by Bargaining Unit members may lead to disciplinary measures, including termination.
Local 526 shall actively discourage any improper actions.
LFUCG will not lock out employees.

Dues Checkoff

LFUCG will deduct monthly dues for Local 526 members from their pay, with no cost to the union.
Dues deductions are suspended for members called to military service but resume upon return to duty.
Local 526 is responsible for notifying LFUCG about resuming dues deductions after military service.

Union Business/Representation

Assessment Center process for promotions may involve an independent consultant.
The Local 526 president will participate in panel recommendations for the contract regarding the Assessment Center.
Assessment exercises will test various attributes, including judgment, leadership, and communication skills.

Contracting Out

LFUCG must not contract out traditional fire suppression or emergency medical services.
Cooperation with other emergency services for mutual aid does not qualify as contracting out.
LFUCG reserves the right to subcontract non-traditional work, ensuring no direct loss of Bargaining Unit positions.

Layoff Procedures

Layoffs will occur based on the inverse order of service length, irrespective of rank.
Laid-off members are eligible for recall for 36 months post-layoff.

Reasonable Suspicion and Substance Testing

Reasonable suspicion is determined by trained individuals observing possible substance use.
Urinalysis will be conducted using enzyme immunoassay and gas chromatography mass spectrometry for confirmation.
Only approved laboratories will conduct drug testing to ensure validity.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

LFUCG provides an EAP that offers support for alcohol and drug abuse.
Members may seek help before being notified of testing and can take a leave of absence for rehabilitation.
LFUCG will cover rehabilitation costs under applicable medical insurance.

Prohibited Behaviors

Use, possession, or distribution of substances like alcohol and illegal drugs on government property is strictly forbidden.
Impairment during work hours or when operating government vehicles is prohibited.
Bargaining Unit members must report impairment to their supervisor immediately if called back to duty.
Operating safety-sensitive functions with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or higher is not allowed.

Copyright and Publication Information

Publication follows the United States Copyright Act of 1976, requiring permissions for reproduction or distribution.
ISBN 0-07-140194-6 identifies the book.
Set in R Life Roman font and printed by R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company.

Dedication

Dedicated to supportive individuals in the authors' lives including family and colleagues.

Acknowledgments

Gratitude expressed to colleagues at VitalSmarts and contributors who aided in teaching and testing crucial conversation concepts.
Mention of researchers predicting relationship outcomes, highlighting the importance of communication in maintaining long-term relationships.

Importance of Crucial Conversations

Crucial conversations significantly impact personal and professional relationships.
Healthy dialogue leads to better community interactions and decision-making.
Communities thrive when pivotal conversations are handled effectively, unlike those that result in conflict and division.

Influence in Organizations

Recognition of opinion leaders who effectively influence others, observed through patterns in feedback from colleagues.
A case study of Kevin, a vice president noted for his significant influence within his organization.

Decision-Making Dynamics

Effective meetings encourage open communication, allowing for the exchange of ideas and fostering a shared understanding of decisions.
Fear stifles input from team members, as seen in the case of Chris the CEO, when contributors hesitated to challenge poorly chosen options.
A conducive environment for sharing ideas leads to better decision-making outcomes and collective ownership of decisions.

The Pool of Shared Meaning

A key concept where open discussions lead to increased synergy, allowing for innovative solutions.
The shared pool of meaning enhances decision quality and commitment to agreed actions due to collective understanding.

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Description

This quiz covers the oral examination structure for public safety candidates. It highlights the weight given to questions from the Division of Human Resources and absenteeism records in scoring. Prepare to understand these components thoroughly to excel in the selection process.