Workplace Offenses and Termination Guidelines

Serious Offenses Warranting Termination

• Deviation from work, safety rules, or city policies can result in termination.
• Usage of alcohol or illegal drugs during working hours is a first offense that may lead to dismissal.
• Possession of unauthorized weapons on the premises is strictly prohibited.
• Willful destruction of city property is deemed a serious violation.
• Insubordination towards supervisors or management can prompt immediate termination.
• Engaging in physical altercations or assault against employees or citizens is not tolerated.
• Falsifying or misusing time sheets or records through intentional misstatement or omission is grounds for dismissal.
• Theft or unauthorized possession of city property or funds is a serious offense.
• Failing to disclose requested information or providing false answers in official documents may result in termination.
• Making false statements in investigations or official inquiries is a serious policy violation.
• Abandonment of position is treated as a serious offense warranting termination.
• Acts prohibited by state or federal statutes related to the employee's duties can lead to dismissal.
• Demonstrating gross incompetence in performing job duties is grounds for termination.

Lifeguard Health and Wellbeing

• Lifeguarding is a physically and mentally demanding profession requiring self-care to prevent burnout and illness.
• Proper hydration and nutrition are vital for maintaining health as a lifeguard.
• Emphasis on a balanced diet consisting of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to fuel the body.

Daily Pass Information

• Daily passes can be purchased via the Yodel app for patrons without beach season passes.
• Passes are valid for the day of purchase and can be used at any beach, with age exceptions for children under one year.

Beach Accessibility

• All swimming beaches feature mobility mats to enhance accessibility.
• Two adult-sized and one child-sized beach wheelchairs are available for patron use.

Lakefront Office Locations

• The Dempster Street Beach Office serves as the hub for lakefront operations and supervises lifeguard activities and aquatic programs.
• Patrons can purchase daily and seasonal passes through the Viply App for convenience.

Parking Regulations

• Vehicles lack required Evanston wheel tax must pay parking fees along designated lakefront streets.
• Parking rates are 3perhourfromApril1toOctober31;3 per hour from April 1 to October 31; 3perhourfromApril1toOctober31;0.50 per hour during the colder months.
• Vehicles with a current year paid wheel tax from Evanston are exempt from parking fees.

Beach Regulations

• Restrictions on using inflatable objects or non-USCG approved flotation devices to ensure safety.
• Non-motorized boat launching is only allowed at designated facilities with appropriate permits.
• Scuba diving and snorkeling are permitted under specific conditions at Greenwood Beach.
• Children require adult supervision; those under 10 must be accompanied by an adult, while those aged 11-14 can supervise with parental permission.
• Alcohol, glass containers, smoking, and loud music are prohibited on the beach.

Dog Beach Regulations

• Designated dog beach area allows dogs to enter water only within specified boundaries.
• Dog Beach operates seasonally from March 1 until weather conditions require closure.
• All dogs must possess a non-transferable season pass to access the dog beach.
• Pass holders must display their dog’s season pass upon entry and exit.

General Guidelines for Beach Activities

• Sand activities like ball playing and kite flying are allowed only in designated areas by staff.
• Fires, barbecues, and loud music are banned to maintain decorum at the beach.
• Patrons must properly dispose of trash in designated containers to maintain cleanliness.
• Specific areas may be reserved for recreation programs, while commercial photography requires a permit.

Employee Offenses and Discipline

• Serious offenses may lead to suspension or termination for a first offense.
• Key violations include:
  • Deviating from work, safety rules, or City policy.
  • Use of alcohol or illegal drugs during work.
  • Falsifying time sheets or records.
  • Fighting or assaulting employees or citizens.
  • Theft or unauthorized possession of City property.
  • Insubordination and abuse of sick leave.
  • Providing false information on City documents.
  • Making false statements in official inquiries or investigations.
  • Acts prohibited by state or federal law impacting job performance.
  • Negligence in job duties or conduct unbecoming a City employee.
  • Gross incompetence defined as significant failures in job duties impacting City business.
• Suspension durations depend on the severity of the offense and are documented in personnel files.
• Department Directors can issue suspensions of up to five days for non-union employees with prior HR approval.
• Police and Fire Chiefs can suspend sworn employees for up to 24 hours with HR approval.

Termination of Employment

• Termination involves a complete severance of the employer-employee relationship.
• It may occur after previous disciplinary steps fail to correct employee misconduct.

Lifeguard Injuries

• Overuse injuries can occur from repetitive or incorrect actions, causing strain and inflammation.
• Common injuries include:
  • Back injuries from lifting or moving victims.
  • Shoulder tendonitis and neck/back strain from paddle use.
  • Runner’s knee, shin splints, and plantar fasciitis from running.
  • Achilles tendonitis and foot strains from running on sand.
  • Lacerations or puncture wounds from natural and human-made hazards on the beach.
  • Injuries from lifeguard equipment during dismounts.

Beach Access and Fees

• Daily passes can be purchased through the Yodel app for access to beaches.
• All swimming beaches are equipped with Mobi-Mats for better accessibility.
• Beach wheelchairs are available for patrons, including adult and child sizes.

Locations and Operations

• Dempster St. Beach Office serves as the main hub for lakefront operations, selling daily and seasonal passes.
• Church St. Boat Ramp is designated for launching trailered vessels; swimming is prohibited in the harbor.
• Dempster St. Sailing Beach is strictly for non-motorized boat activities, requiring separate launch permits for entry.

Miscellaneous

• Important identification for children includes school IDs, parent insurance, and tax returns to prove residency.
• Dog Beach operates from 6 AM to 11 PM, subject to weather conditions and safety regulations.

This quiz explores serious workplace offenses that can lead to termination even on a first occurrence. Topics include deviations from safety rules, substance abuse, and insubordination. Test your understanding of policies regarding employee conduct and workplace safety.