General Order for Quiz PDF
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This document outlines the Chicago Fire Department's policies and procedures regarding physical violence, including definitions, procedures for reporting and disciplinary actions. It also details a random drug/alcohol testing program for uniformed employees. The policies aim to maintain safety and professionalism within the department.
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GENERAL ORDER 00-001 May25, 2000 SUBJECT: PHYSICAL VIOLENCE I. PURPOSE A. reaffirms department policy wit...
GENERAL ORDER 00-001 May25, 2000 SUBJECT: PHYSICAL VIOLENCE I. PURPOSE A. reaffirms department policy with.regard to prohibition against physical violence, aggression or provocation toward physical violence in any manner by employees ofthe Chicago Fire Department. B. establishes guidelines for disciplinary action to be instituted against offending employees. C. rescinds G.O. 93-009 dated June 28, 1993. II. POLICY It is the policy ofthe Chicago Fire Department that the disruption of it's operational efficiency, by the conduct of employees who engage in physical violence while on duty, will not be tolerated. While the following are guidelines for duty offenses, off duty conduct which is detrimental to departmental efficiency or reflects unfavorably against the department by the nature of such offender's representative capacity as an employee, will also be the subject of appropriate discipline. III. DEFINITIONS A. Physical Violence (fighting) - the actual, or attempted striking of another employee by any means or object including any part of the offender's body; B. Aggression - the communicated, immediate threat of physical violence, such as, approaching an employee while armed with any object in a threatening manner; C. Provocation- verbal abuse of another employee or communication of the non- immediate threat of physical violence, without striking or physical contact; D. Retaliation- A, B, C above committed in response to such conduct initiated by another employee. Page 1 of 3 IV. PROCEDURE A. Any employee who has been subjected to any abusive treatment as set forth above (A, B, C), must immediately report such action to their supervisor, and refrain from physical participation or retaliation even when provoked. Such action will insure the complying employee with protection against discipline. Retaliation is never justified by provocation or initial physical violence. B. Supervisors shall take appropriate action to avoid any escalation of arguments into physical violence or aggression wherever possible. Such action may include temporary detailing or relief from duty, if appropriate under the circumstances. C. Medical attention to any injured employee is of the utmost priority. D. I.R.#'s and compliance with current disciplinary procedures shall be instituted whenever physical violence, aggression or provocation has occurred. Full and thorough investigations and complete reports including all witnesses' statements, shall be forwarded through the chain of command without unnecessary delay. E. The Mayoral Policy on "Zero Tolerance for Violence in the Workplace", along with accompanying forms will be initiated and completed along with current Fire Department disciplinary investigative procedures. F. The Chicago Fire Department Office of Internal Investigations will be the Chicago Fire Department Violence in the Workplace Liaison with the city. G. Police authorities are to be notified in all cases which may be the subject of a criminal complaint by or against any employee. Page 2 of 3 V. DISCIPLINARY RANGES A. Where sustained cases of physical violence, aggression, provocation or similar retaliation has occurred, the disciplinary officer shall recommend appropriate discipline within the following guidelines, unless the seriousness of the incident warrants otherwise: Discipline Guidelines for Suspension Range in Calendar Days Offense Emergency Scene Non-Emergency Scene 1. Physical Violence 15-day minimum 9-day minimum 2. Aggression 9-15 days 3-9 days 3. Provocation 3-9 days Written Reprimand - 3 days 4. Retaliation (1-2-or 3 guidelines) (1-2 or 3 guidelines) B. The foregoing represents the recommended guidelines for assessing discipline for sustained incidents WITH NO PREVIOUS DISCIPLINE. Previous discipline of a related nature, the supervisory rank of an offender, and the severity of any of the prohibited acts or conduct, may mandate more severe discipline - including termination, where warranted. By Order Of: 9!:::yc( Fire Commissioner TO BE READ AT ROLL CALLS AND POSTED Distribution: C Page 3 of 3 GENERAL ORDER 00-003 August 21, 2000 SUBJECT: VISITORS TO FIRE DEPARTMENT FACILITIES I. PURPOSE This Order: A. re-affirms and amends the Department's established policies relative to visitors at Fire Department facilities. B. rescinds General Order #92-004, dated March 16, 1992. C. becomes effective September 1, 2000. II. POLICY A. The Fire Department recognizes the need for interaction between the employees of the Department and the citizens of the community we serve. With that in mind, the Chicago Fire Department encourages interested citizens and community groups to visit fire houses. Further, the Department recognizes the need for communication between employees and union representatives. B. As such, specific time frames and procedures will be established that do not interfere with regular Department operations, and which must be adhered to with regard to visitors. III. PROCEDURE A. The following time periods for visitation at Fire Department facilities will be strictly enforced. B. Visitors from the general public (includes friends and family members of employees) - 0930 hours until2100 hours. Union representatives- 1200 to 1300 hours and 1600 hours to 2100 hours for personnel assigned to platoon duty. - One half hour after the completion of the normal roll call period for personnel assigned to non-platoon duty. C. Ranking Company Officers/office supervisors shall be made aware of the presence of all visitors in company quarters and other Fire Department facilities and shall document same in the Company Journal, including the arrival and departure time of each visitor and the reason for the visit. Page2 IV. RESPONSIBILITY A. Visitation by the general public or union representatives is not to interfere with the normal operation of any Fire Department installation. Therefore, it. is the responsibility of the ranking Company Officer/office supervisor to ensure that the daily operation of the Fire Department installation is not interrupted by these visits. B. It is the responsibility of Fire Department employees and union representatives to comply with the above mentioned rules by reporting to the ranking Company Officer/office supervisor prior to commencing any visit. C. Ranking Company Officers/office supervisors will be held responsible for the enforcement of the above provisions and for the proper documentation of all visitors entering Fire Department facilities. By Order of: Fire Commissioner TO BE READ AT ROLL CALLS AND POSTED Distribution: B GENERAL ORDER 04-001 July 23, 2004 SUBJECT: CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT RANDOM DRUG/ALCOHOL TESTING PROGRAM I. PURPOSE This Order: A. establishes the Policy governing random drug/alcohol testing of all uniformed employees of the Department. B. describes responsibilities relative to this program. C. establishes the Random Drug/Alcohol Testing Unit (RDATU}. D. establishes the protocol for testing. E. date August 23, 2004. II. POLICY All Department uniformed employees will be subject to random drug/alcohol testing. Employees selected for drug/alcohol testing are required to cooperate in the te.sting process. Failure to cooperate, tamperjng with specimens for testing or any other activities designed to interfere with or impede the random drug/alcohol testing procedures shall be considered grounds for discipline up to and including discharge. A. The mission of the Chicago Fire Department, to protect life and property, demands efficient operations and the highest level of fitness of its members. The lives of citizens, employees and co-workers are critically dependent upon the physical fitness , stamina and alertness of emergency service employees. Department members must project a positive representative image which ensures the public confidence in them and governs their professional and personal conduct, both on and off duty, so as not to impair departmental efficiency or detract from a professional image or workplace. B. Any positive presence of illegal drugs and/or alcohol as defined in General Order 87-008 is prohibited. The standards for determination of positive presence of illegal drugs shall be in accordance with Attachment A. The standard for determination of positive presence of alcohol shall be.04 as measured on a certified/calibrated Breathalyzer. C. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including discharge. D. Nothing in this Program detracts from the provisions of General Order 87-008. Ill. GENERAL INFORMATION A. A computer program, generating no more than 20 employees and no more frequently than on a daily basis shall be utilized to randomly select employees for drug/alcohol testing. Such tests shall only be conducted on Mondays through Fridays between the hours of 0900 and 1600. There shall be no testing on holidays. Any on-duty employee selected by the computer program will be tested. If an employee selected is not available because of Daley Day, vacation, lay-up or otherwise off duty, the employee will not have to report for testing and no one else will be selected in the person's place. The City shall retain an independent outside consultant to develop a computer random program for use by the CFD. Prior to the implementation of such program, the Union may engage a consultant at its expense to review and verify the computer program, and the City will provide necessary data to the consultants for this purpose. The review and verification by the Union's consultant shall take place and be reported to the Department within 30 calendar days of receipt of the City's program and data to the Union's consultant. B. Drug testing will be conducted using a urine test. The employee's urine will be sent to a licensed Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration {SAMHSA) laboratory for a Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) confirmatory test and analysis. All alcohol testing will be done with a certified/calibrated Breathalyzer unit by a certified tester. C. Any employee who will not submit urine for testing will be considered in violation of this order and be subject to discipline up to and including discharge. D. Each day the City shall provide to the Union's Director of Contract Enforcement. or designee, a list of the employees selected that day (with an asterisk next to the names of the employees tested). Each month the City shall provide to the Union's Director of Contract Enforcement, or designee, an updated roster of all Department uniformed employees. 2 IV. RESPONSIBILITIES A. Chief/Commanding Officer of the RDATU will be responsible for: 1. implementing agreed-upon standard operating procedures to ensure efficient operation and integrity of the RDATU. 2. ensuring the random selection of employees to be tested. 3. notifying the appropriate superior officer(s) of the employee selected for testing, which officer shall notify the employee. 4. ensuring the notification of the.appropriate superior officer upon completion of the specimen collection process. 5. notification of positive test results to the employee, his/her superior officers (as necessary and appropriate), and to the Union's Director of Contract Enforcement or designee. An employee who tests positive will be relieved of duty and put on administrative leave with pay for a review of the results by the Medical Review Officer. Notification to the appropriate Superior Officer to ensure proper staffing of affected unit shall be Initiated immediately by the RDATU staff. 6. maintaining the confidentiality and impartiality (randomness) of the testing process. B. Superior Officer/Company and Unit Commander/Uniformed Employee Responsibility 1. Superior Officers, Company and Unit Commanders and other uniformed employees are responsible for compliance with this Order. 2. Employees notified that they have been selected for testing will report on or before their appointed time at the RDATU facility, except that platoon employees will be transported to the RDATU facility. To ensure compliance with m1mmum manning requirements, platoon employees assigned to vehicles and · equipment covered under the minimum manning requirements of Article 16.4A and 8 of the Labor Agreement between the City and Local 2 shall be replaced until the employee returns to his/her assignment pursuant to subsections 4 and 5 below. A copy of the employee's attendance and assignment sheet which was completed at roll call will accompany the employee to the RDATU. 3 3. Upon arrival at the RDATU, employees will identify themselves (i.e. Department 10, drivers license if a requirement of employment, or other photo identification.) 4. No employee will be allowed to return to the employee's duty. assignment without completion of the testing process. 5. Upon completion of the collection process, the employee will return to the employee's duty assignment if the results of the tests are negative. BY ORDERS OF: TO:BE READ.AT ROLL CALL(S) AND POSTED Distribution: B · 4 GENERAL ORDER 06-001 January 13, 2006 SUBJECT: SMOKING POLICY I. PURPOSE This Order: A. Establishes Department policy regarding smoking in the work place. B. Delineates responsibility for compliance with the policy provisions of this Order. C. Applies Chapter 7-32 of the Municipal Code of Chicago, new Section 7-23-030 through 7-32-090, known as the "Clean Indoor Air Ordinance," which regulates smoking in enclosed public places and places of employment. D. Rescinds General Order 94-001 dated April20, 1994. E. Becomes effective January 16, 2006. II. DEFINITION As provided under the "Clean Indoor Air Ordinance," "place of employment" means any enclosed area under the control of a public or private employer that employees frequent during the course ofemployment, including without limitation work area, employee lounges, restrooms, conference rooms, classrooms, employee cafeterias, hallways and vehicles. III. POLICY It has been determined that tobacco smoke is a major contributor to indoor air pollution and that breathing second-hand smoke can cause lung cancer, respiratory diseases, allergies and other adverse health effects in non-smokers. City law now declares that the needs of non- smokers to breathe smoke free air takes priority over the needs of persons who smoke. Therefore, in accordance with the requirements of the "Clean Indoor Air Ordinance," it is the Chicago Fire Department's (CFD's) policy that smoking will not be permitted in any CFD place of employment, or within 15 feet of the entrance to any facility owned, leased or operated by the CFD. Furthermore, smoking will not be permitted in or on any CFD vehicle. Members are reminded that it is an offense, subject to discipline under Section 2.13 of the Code ofProfessional Conduct of the Chicago Fire Department, for failure to comply with this smoking prohibition. In addition, members need to be aware that the "Clean Indoor Air Ordinance" provides for fines of up to $100 for individuals who do not comply with the ordinance. BY ORDER OF: Fire Commissioner TO BE READ AT FOUR ROLL CALLS AND POSTED Distribution: C GENERAL ORDER 06-013 '6. ,,. October 2, 2006 SUBJECT: DRIVERS LICENSE REQUIREMENTS I. PURPOSE This order: A. Makes notification to all Department employees that driving a vehicle without a current valid Drivers License (examples: expired, suspended, revoked and improper classification) is a violation of the State of Illinois Criminal and Traffic laws. B. Re-affirms Department policy regarding the incorporation of the City and State Driver requirements into administrative regulations for both on-duty and off-duty driving. C. Identifies reporting requirements for all employees whose Drivers License is/becomes expired, suspended or revoked. D. Rescinds General Order 02-003 dated. July 1, 2002. E. Becomes effective immediately. II. POLICY A. The Illinois Criminal and Traffic Laws, Sections 5/6-101 provides, in general, that drivers must have a valid Illinois Drivers License or Permit to operate motor vehicles within the State ofillinois. Failure to have a proper Drivers License, while operating a vehicle, is a violation of this and other sections of the Illinois Criminal and Traffic Laws. B. All employees of the Chicago Fire Department shall comply with the policy provision of this order. Violation of this policy shall be an offense under the Code of Professional Conduct (General Order 92-011) subject to discipline. C. All employees hired as a result of the 1995 Firefighter entrance exam, as well as any employee required to drive Department vehicles or personal vehicles on Department business, shall have a current and valid Illinois Drivers License. III. PROCEDURE A. Any employee who has an expired, suspended or revoked Drivers License shall immediately report said information to his/hers supervisor, who shall promptly forward this information on a Form #2 through the chain of command. B. Command personnel/Chief Officers shall verify compliance with this order with all employees under their supervision who are required to drive Department vehicles and/or personal vehicles on Department business, during periodic company inspections. C. Company Officers, Ambulance Commanders and Paramedics in Charge shall verify compliance with this order with all employees under their supervision who are required to drive Department vehicles and/or personal vehicles on Department business, during daily inspections. D. Violation of this procedure shall be an offense under the Code of Professional Conduct and subject to discipline. APPROVED: Fire Commissioner TO BE READ AT FOUR (4) ROLL CALLS AND POSTED Distribution: C \'IR _ n 'I GENERAL ORDER 10-005 E" June 4, 2010 SUBJECT: BATTALION CHIEF, BUREAU OF OPERATIONS I. PURPOSE This order: A. reaffirms the responsibilities of Battalion Chiefs assigned to the Bureau of Operations; B. defines the authority of a Battalion Chief in the department chain of command; C. rescinds General Order #98-005, dated June 19, 1998; and D. becomes effective at 0800 hours, June 14,2010. II. AUTHORITY Battalion Chiefs in the Bureau of Operations derive their authority from the Fire Commissioner, superior officers, rules and regulations, general orders, department directives and from the ordinances of the City of Chicago. They are authorized to perform duties so as to effect the most efficient utilization of human and material resources at their disposal to maintain preparedness and initiate action to protect life and property. III. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES Battalion Chiefs in the Bureau of Operations shall: A. be directly responsible to the rank of Deputy District Chief; B. develop a knowledge of their immediate superior's duties and be prepared to act in the rank of Deputy District Chief when ordered; C. maintain an awareness in their command that the goals of the fire department are to protect life and property, and attempt to minimize the dangers inherent in achieving these goals through efficient and safe practices; D. develop and maintain a thorough and current knowledge of the laws, rules and regulations, orders, directives, operational procedures, management techniques and labor agreements; E. serve as role models by consistently displaying leadership through mentoring and preparing members of the Chicago Fire Department for upward mobility; I F. assume command at incidents to which they are assigned, and supervise the actions of subordinates in the performance of emergency duties until the scene is secured or relieved by a superior officer after he/she has been briefed; G. manage and be responsible for subordinates' work performance; H. be knowledgeable of Chicago Fire Department, City of Chicago, and State of Illinois rules and regulations as they pertain to driving an emergency vehicle; 1. maintain and carry during the entire tour of duty a valid Illinois driver's license; and J. possess the ability to drive a vehicle under emergency conditions in a safe and conscientious manner, through all types of weather and road conditions, with the safety of personnel and the general public being their first concern at all times. IV. ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES Battalion Chiefs in the Bureau of Operations shall: A. be responsible for ensuring the proper manning of companies under their command during their tour of duty, nnder the direction of the Deputy District Chief; B. ensure that records, requests for exchange of Daley Days and traded tours of' duty are correctly forwarded by subordinates, and then will approve or disapprove same as required; C. ensure that the current records management system, time and attendance procedures and staffing management procedures are adhered to; D. ensure that companies under their command are adhering to the current records management system, time and attendance procedures and staffing management procedures by logging on to the systems at the beginning ofthe tour of duty. E. ensure that department orders, directives, memos, announcements, and other communications are properly distributed and made available to companies and personnel assigned to their command, read at roll calls as required, and ensure adherence to such correspondence as required; D. initiate accurate, complete and concise reports; E. check reports of subordinates for accuracy and completeness and expedite them through channels with a recommendation for approval or disapproval; 2 F. maintain Battalion Journals, records and files as required and ensure that Company Journals, records and files are properly maintained; G. ensure that department correspondence, both written and verbal, is promptly delivered to subordinate personnel and implemented; H. promptly deliver paychecks, and assure that subordinates safeguard and distribute them per department policy; I. ensure that Fire companies, ALS companies, BLS companies, and Special Units maintain a roster of extra drivers, certified EMT-P's and EMT-B's; divers, and hazardous material technicians; J. ensure all companies maintain emergency recall rosters; K. under the direction of the Deputy District Chief, designate acting Company Officers and Engineers when necessary as per department policy; L. ensure compliance with the current labor agreement; M. conduct well-being checks of injured/ill members and make proper notifications; N. ensure that proper medical procedures are followed by subordinates, journal entries are completed, proper notifications are made and related reports and documents are forwarded upon completion of the Battalion Chief's tour of duty;. O. initiate the commendation and/or discipline of subordinate personnel in accordance with current department policy; and P. notify the Deputy District Chief or his designee of structural fires, pin-in accidents, hazardous materials incidents, EMS plans, FF/civilian injuries or any unusual incidents before being relieved of duty. V. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Battalion Chiefs in the Bureau of Operations shall: A. witness one roll call in the morning at 0800 hours and a minimum of two roll calls at separate quarters after 1800 hours. At each roll call visually check and question each employee regarding fitness for duty being vigilant for signs of alcohol or substance abuse and take necessary actions per department policy and enter his/her approval or disapproval in the Company Journal above their signature; B. witness an inventory and inspection of a BLS ambulance every Sunday, including personnel; 3 C. inspect all companies in their Battalion daily, quarters, apparatus and equipment. Conduct a thorough inspection of each company weekly recording approval or disapproval in the appropriate Journal and complete the appropriate documents; D. check Journal entries of each company from that platoon's previous work day to ensure consistency and compliance with the records management system; E. sign Company Journals indicating findings of inspections and receipt of all pertinent reports; F. direct hydrant inspections and supervise hose tests; G. ensure that company officers are holding drills and company school daily as required and forwarding appropriate documentation; H. enforce all department orders and policies regarding safety, safe driving practices, use of seat belts, and the proper use of approved personal protective equipment (PPE) and SCBA facepieces; 1. ensure that companies are conducting in-service inspections, school drills, and target hazards as required; J. monitor companies going to special events to assure that the Chicago Fire Department is represented positively; K. ensure all communication and correspondence by subordinates, both written and oral, follows the chain of command; L. ensure proper conduct of personnel under their command in accordance with the Department's Code of Professional Conduct; M. be vigilant for signs of alcohol or substance abuse in subordinates, and take necessary action per department policy; and N. complete/forward all reports by the end of his/her tour of duty. VI. OPERATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES Battalion Chiefs in the Bureau of Operations shall: A. review Journal when reporting for duty for a familiarization with events occurring while off duty, and pass on relevant information when relieved; B. hold monthly Battalion Staff meetings with subordinate officers, and submit a report of the meetings to District Headquarters upon completion ofthe Battalion Chiefs tour of duty; 4 C. drill each company at least twice a month; D. notify the Office of Emergency Management and Communication (OEMC) by radio or telephone to make proper notifications on fire prevention violations, dead animals, foodstuffs in mins, or dangerous walls left standing, and abandoned hazardous materials, etc., and forward written reports through channels; E. conduct comprehensive, accurate, impartial and conclusive investigations relative to: I. violations ofmles and regulations, orders and directives; 2. vehicular accidents; 3. duty injuries; a) still alarm chief will make initial investigation, b) second Battalion Chief may be requested to respond to hospital to make sure uniformed personnel are receiving proper medical care and treatment. Complete and forward the FD 160A by the end of his/her tour of duty. 4. off duty injuries (will be investigated by Battalion Chief nearest to the employee's residence or hospital where the employee is confined); 5. other investigations as assigned by the OEMC or superior officer; F. inspect vehicles claimed to be unsafe by company officers and, if in agreement,. notify the Deputy District Chief; G. attend hearings and court proceedings when subpoenaed or ordered; H. generate potential death reports for severely burned fire victims; 1. report all deficiencies and outstanding performance in order to identify and reinforce positive actions and modify negative performance; J. ensure the proper changing of platoons at the scene of an emergency; K. take command of all incidents that are responded to until relieved by a superior, and: 1. report on the scene and give an accurate description of the incident; 2. initiate and maintain communications and give thorough and descriptive progress reports; 3. initiate incident command procedures; 4. summon additional help when necessary and return compames promptly when they are no longer needed; 5. initiate ambulance response per advisement of ranking EMS personnel; 5 6. establish cordons and traffic control through the Chicago Police DepartmentiOEMC; 7. notify police to provide for security of open buildings; 8. initiate primary, secondary and final searches and communicate findings to the OEMC; 9. supervise the operations of suppression companies and maintain a constant vigil for the safety of personnel; 10. initiate salvage and overhaul operations to minimize damage to property; II. determine the cause and origin of the fire and summon O.F.r. per department policy; 12. maintain the chain of evidence; 13. make every effort to restore fire protection systems and/or leave with responsible party and notify OEMC and FPB; 14. assist police when called upon to do so, taking into consideration the safety of Chicago Fire Department personnel at all times; and 15. make proper notification to the Department of Buildings via OEMC of vacant, open and dangerous buildings. BY ORDER OF: Robert S. Hoff 1st Deputy Fire Commissioner TO BE READ AT ROLL CALLS AND POSTED. Distribution: B 6 GENERAL ORDER 10-013 November 30, 2010 SUBJECT: ABANDONED NEWBORN INFANT PROTECTION ACT I. PURPOSE This order: A. Ensures compliance with the Abandoned Newborn Infant Protection Act (the Act) of Illinois. B. Establishes procedures to be followed in the event that custody of a newborn infant is relinquished to Chicago Fire Department (CFD) firehouse personnel. C. Rescinds General Order 10-001. D. Becomes effective immediately. II. POLICY A. The Act is intended to provide a mechanism for a newborn infant, believed to be 30 days old or less, to be relinquished to a safe environment and for the parents of the infant to remain anonymous if they choose, and to avoid civil or criminal liability for the act of relinquishing the infant. B. The Act specifically designates Illinois hospitals, police stations and firehouses as relinquishment facilities, commonly known to this department as “Safe Havens.” As defined in the Act, “fire station” means a fire station within the State with at least one (1) staff person. C. If there is no evidence of abuse or neglect of the relinquished newborn infant, the relinquishing person has the right to remain anonymous and leave the firehouse without being followed. An infant shall not be considered abused for the sole reason that the infant has been relinquished. D. If abuse or neglect of a newborn is suspected, members are mandated to report such suspected abuse or neglect, under the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act. E. Firehouse personnel must accept a relinquished newborn infant and also: 1. Provide all necessary emergency care to the infant, according to the EMT’s scope of practice. 2. Arrange for the transportation of the infant to the nearest participating hospital as soon as possible. 3. Inform the parent of the name and location of the hospital to which the infant was transported, only if the parent returns within 72 hours of relinquishing the infant. 4. Tell the parent that by relinquishing the infant anonymously, the parent will have to petition the court if they want to prevent the termination of parental rights and retain custody. III. PROCEDURES In the event that a parent comes to a firehouse for the purpose of relinquishing an infant, pursuant to the Act, CFD personnel shall adhere to the following: A. Provide an immediate assessment of the infant and emergency medical care, according to the EMT’s scope of practice. B. Notify the OEMC of the incident, ambulance assist status, and to request the response of an ALS Ambulance and Paramedic Field Chief. C. Advise the parent that by relinquishing the infant anonymously, they will have to petition the court if they want to prevent the termination of parental rights and retain custody. D. Offer the parent a Safe Haven Information Packet, which includes all information required by the Act. Acceptance by the parent is voluntary. E. The Paramedic Field Chief shall: 1. Oversee the evaluation and transport of the infant to the nearest medically appropriate hospital. 2. Ensure that Safe Haven Information Packet paperwork is taken to the nearest participating hospital with the infant, if the relinquishing parent elects to complete paperwork. F. Record the details of the event using the appropriate Fire or EMS records management system and HIPAA compliant protocols. IV. RESPONSIBILITIES A. Chief Officers and Company Commanders shall ensure “Safe Haven” signage is maintained and visible at firehouses and that the Safe Haven Information Packet is inspected, complete and available for use. Safe Haven Information Packets can be requested through the appropriate chain of command. B. It shall be the responsibility of Chief and Company Officers, or those acting in that capacity, to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of this order. BY ORDER OF: Robert S. Hoff Fire Commissioner TO BE READ AT FOUR ROLL CALLS AND POSTED Distribution: B GENERAL ORDER 12-008 November 29, 2012 SUBJECT: DEPARTMENT RADIO COMMUNICATIONS I. PURPOSE This Order: A. Establishes the duties and responsibilities for uniformed members involved in radio communications using the UHF digital radio; B. Establishes the operations of the Chicago Fire Department (CFD) UHF Digital Radio System for both Fire Suppression and Rescue (FS&R) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS); C. Outlines specialized situations for tactical usage of UHF Digital Radio channels; D. Issues an operational change to the following CFD documents, which remain in effect: 1. General Order 03-004, Incident Command 2. General Order 04-002, Incident Command (High-Rise) 3. General Order 07-001, First Responder Companies 4. General Order 07-004, Advanced Life Support (ALS) Response 5. General Order 07-008, Basic Life Support (BLS) 5. General Order 07-015, Emergency Medical Services Response Plan 6. EMS Drills: BLS Upgrade 1 (May 2010) and Motorola Digital Portable Radios (March 2008) 7. Any other CFD documents pertaining to the VHF fire radio system (analog or digital) not explicitly listed in this document 8. Any other CFD documents pertaining to the EMS Radio System (analog or digital) not explicitly listed in this document E. Establishes guidelines for radio communication procedures for CFD units/members, which shall be used in order to standardize radio communications and may only be modified when absolutely necessary by the Incident Commander; and F. Becomes effective at 0800 hours, December 9, 2012 II. POLICY It is the policy of the Chicago Fire Department (CFD) to provide suitable digital radio communications for all on-duty members to fulfill administrative and operational needs of the department. General Order: 12-008 Page 1 of 12 III. DISTRIBUTION A. A portable UHF digital radio, programed with channels for day to day operations, as well as multiple zones to allow interoperable communications on a city, county, state, federal, and national level, will be assigned to each member in the following capacities: 1. All on-duty members in the Bureau of Operations (Division of FS&R, EMS, and Special Operations). 2. Other members assigned or detailed to other bureaus for their administrative responsibilities. 3. Command Staff with response authority. IV. USAGE A. FS&R Procedures 1. All FS&R companies that have transitioned to the UHF digital portable radios shall monitor the FDW zone (See Attachment A) which is the CFDs Wide Band Zone. To comply with the Federal Communications Commission regulations, the CFD will be mandated to switch to the FD zone, which is a narrow band zone, at a future date. All members will be notified of this change in advance of the date. 2. Any reference in CFD written directives referring to radio operations utilizing Administrative Channel 3 shall be replaced with UHF ADMIN, with the exception of communications with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) vehicles, which shall remain on VHF Administrative Channel 3 or be relayed through the OEMC. 3. Any reference in CFD written directives to Fireground Channel 4 shall be replaced with UHF FIREGRND. 4. Any reference in CFD written directives to Command Channel 5 shall be replaced with UHF FIRE CMD. 5. When FS&R companies and EMS companies need to communicate with each other, the ADMIN channel shall be used. 6. Company Officers and Chief Officers shall be responsible for maintaining communications with the OEMC and, when necessary, shall designate a member to monitor/communicate on a different channel (EMS OPS, ADMIN, etc) or a zone (telemetry zones, special event zone, etc.) based on operational needs. General Order: 12-008 Page 2 of 12 B. EMS Procedures 1. All EMS companies and personnel currently using digital radios shall utilize the UHF digital EMSW code plug channel plan (See Attachment B) which is the CFD’s EMS Wide Band Zone. To comply with the Federal Communications Commission regulations, the CFD will be mandated to switch to the EMS zone, which is a narrow band zone, at a future date. All members will be notified of this change in advance of the date. 2. When FS&R companies and EMS companies need to communicate with each other, the ADMIN channel shall be used. 3. Any reference in CFD written directives to EMS Command Channel 4 shall be replaced with EMS CMD channel. 4. During EMS Plan incidents, the EMS CMD channel shall be used as the EMS tactical channel. All responding EMS units and one member from designated EMS Plan Fire Companies (Firefighter/Paramedic from an ALS Fire Company or Firefighter/EMT from a BLS Fire Company) shall switch their portable radios to the EMS CMD channel and remain on the EMS CMD channel until the company is released from the scene. 5. When necessary, the EMS Command Chief shall designate an alternate EMS tactical channel (EMS OPS, OPS 8, OPS 9, etc.) depending on the channel’s availability and the operational needs of the incident. The EMS Command Chief shall confirm the alternate EMS tactical channel’s availability with the Incident Commander. Upon confirmation of the channel’s availability, the EMS Command Chief shall notify the OEMC to announce on the EMS MAIN and EMS ENGL channels the alternate EMS tactical channel being utilized. 6. When operating at a high-rise fire, under the direction of the ranking EMS Chief Officer, EMS companies shall utilize the EMS OPS channel for communications. 7. Company Officers and Chief Officers shall be responsible for maintaining communications with the OEMC and, when necessary, shall designate a member to monitor/communicate on a different channel (EMS OPS, ADMIN, etc) or a zone (telemetry zones, special event zone, etc.) based on operational needs. V. GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR RADIO OPERATIONS Every riding position in the Bureau of Operations shall be issued a portable radio. In addition, other Bureaus shall be issued radios as department needs dictate. All CFD members shall adhere to the following rules and regulations to ensure a professional performance: A. Organize your thoughts before transmitting. General Order: 12-008 Page 3 of 12 B. Monitor the radio channel being utilized for at least three seconds before transmitting, to make certain the channel is clear. C. Shield the microphone from noise sources by turning or moving away from the noise source. D. When using the portable/mobile radio, speak directly into the grill of the microphone for best transmission/clarity. The portable radios are equipped with technology to reduce background noise, which requires transmissions to be spoken directly into the grill to be most effective. E. Ensure that the microphone is placed 1 to 2 inches from the mouth or SCBA voice port with the microphone positioned directly in front of the audio source. F. Press the microphone button down firmly and pause momentarily to allow the radio to connect to the repeater system. Speak in a clear and controlled voice to maximize audio intelligibility; do not shout into the microphone. This shall eliminate the need to repeat transmissions. G. Speak distinctly and pronounce words carefully. Radio conversations should be brief and concise. H. Indecent and profane language is prohibited. I. Use face-to-face communications when possible to keep airways clear at an incident, unless your message or announcement should be heard by everyone on the fireground (MAYDAY, EMERGENCY ALERT, holes in floor, sagging walls, establishment of collapse zones, etc.). J. Use official signatures and authorized apparatus unit numbers when initiating and receiving messages. Do not use nicknames or first names. K. If possible, avoid transmitting while sirens or air horns are being operated. L. When finished using the microphone, secure it in a position to avoid an “open microphone” which could be detrimental to essential and emergency radio traffic. M. Upon announcement by OEMC of an “open microphone”, all members shall check their UHF digital portable radios and those members in the immediate area to ensure that they do not have an open/keyed microphone. N. Listen to ongoing radio traffic to avoid interrupting or distorting another company’s message. When a working fire is in progress, companies not responding must keep the frequency clear by avoiding unnecessary messages, such as “Returning to quarters,” “On the air for hydrants,” etc. The Portable Data Terminal (PDT) can be used to report the status of the company. General Order: 12-008 Page 4 of 12 O. When one or more units are “In service on the air” the OEMC shall select and notify the unit or units to respond to an incident. This notification must be promptly acknowledged. Units shall not respond unless directed by dispatcher. P. If a call is not acknowledged by the designated OEMC office within 15 seconds, press the handset button and repeat the call. 1. Do not make more than three attempts to contact the dispatcher on that radio. 2. If the third call is not acknowledged, assume the radio is inoperative and transmit your message from another radio (portable or mobile). 3. If no radio response is received after three attempts have been made from the second radio, or there are indications of a problem with the designated OEMC frequency, the member operating the radio shall switch to another OEMC frequency and advise the dispatcher of the difficulty that has been encountered. VI. RADIO SCANNERS A. One radio scanner shall be issued to each firehouse. 1. The radio scanner shall be kept in the tower of the firehouse to allow members on floor watch to be aware of radio traffic. 2. All radio scanners shall be entered on the house inventory according to department policies and procedures. B. One radio scanner shall also be issued to each Battalion quarters, Field Chief quarters, District, Field Division and Bureau Office. This scanner shall be kept at the appropriate office/headquarters and entered on the appropriate inventory. VII. SIGNATURES OF PORTABLE RADIOS The following procedures are to be followed regarding the assignment and signatures of portable radios; A. Company Officers shall use the company signature. Example: “Engine 1,” “Truck 13.” B. Engineers, drivers of trucks and ambulances shall use the company signature followed by “X.” Example: “Engine 1X,” “Truck 13X.” C. Radios assigned to firefighters shall carry the signature for a firefighter’s particular assignment at the incident. For example, a firefighter assigned to the roof at Truck 13 shall use the signature “Truck 13 ROOF.” A firefighter assigned to the pipe at Engine 1 shall use the signature “Engine 1 PIPE.” General Order: 12-008 Page 5 of 12 Radio Assignment Examples (Operations) Engine Company Truck Company Ambulance Special Operations Company Officer Officer Officer Officer “Engine 1” “Truck 13” “Ambulance 45” “Squad 2” Engineer Roof 1 Driver Position Specific as “Engine 1 X” “Truck 13 ROOF 1” “Ambulance 45X” needed Pipe Roof 2 “Engine 1 PIPE” “Truck 13 ROOF 2” Heel Search and Rescue 1 “Engine 1 HEEL” “Truck 13 SEARCH 1” Hydrant Search and Rescue 2 “Engine 1 HYDRANT” “Truck 13 SEARCH 2” VIII. PROPER RADIO COMMUNICATION PROCEDURES The following radio communication procedures shall be used by companies: A. When communicating on the radio, the assigned company number shall be used to identify the company. For example: “Ambulance 99”, “Engine 1,” “Truck 13,” “Tower Ladder 34.” B. When OEMC is requesting communication with a company via the Main or Englewood frequency, OEMC shall first identify the requesting office and then call the assigned company number. For example: “Main to Engine 1,” “Englewood to Ambulance 99.” C. After OEMC requests a company via the Main or Englewood frequency, the company shall respond with the assigned company number. For example: “Engine 1,” “Ambulance 99.” D. When transmitting an assignment or message to a company via the Main or Englewood frequency, OEMC shall announce the assigned company number and then the assignment. For example: “Ambulance 99, take the person down at Van Buren and Canal” or “Engine 46, take a natural gas leak investigation at 95th and Colfax.” E. When receiving a transmission from OEMC via the Main or Englewood frequency, the company shall announce its unit number and repeat the assignment. For example: “Ambulance 99 to Van Buren and Canal for the person down,” or “Engine 46 to the gas leak at 95th and Colfax”. General Order: 12-008 Page 6 of 12 F. Do not use preliminary calls to establish contact. When a unit is responding or on location, the unit shall identify itself and give its message in a single transmission. 1. Correct transmission: “Engine 67 to Englewood, we are on the scene of the ambulance assist at 115th and Halsted, Southbound.” “Message received Engine 67.” 2. Incorrect transmission: “Engine 67 to Englewood.” “Go ahead Engine 67.” “We are on the scene of the ambulance assist at 115th and Halsted, Southbound.” “Message received Engine 67.” G. When a company is requesting communication with the OEMC via the Main or Englewood frequency, the company shall announce its signature and the appropriate frequency. For example, “Engine 3 to Main,” “Ambulance 99 to Englewood.” H. When one or more units are “In service on the air” the OEMC shall select and notify the unit or units to respond to an incident. This notification must be promptly acknowledged. To prevent unnecessary radio traffic, units shall not volunteer for an assignment unless directed by OEMC. I. When communicating between CFD units on Fireground Channel 4 or another designated channel, company signatures shall be used. For example: “Engine 1 to Engine 13.” J. No slang or improper terminology shall be used for radio communications. 1. Correct transmission: “Engine three is on the scene at 123 south Main for the Ambulance Assist. Engine 3 is southbound” 2. Incorrect transmission: “Engine three is on the scene at 123 south Main for the A and A. Engine 3 is southbound” K. In the event a member is having trouble communicating through the remote microphone, attempt to use the microphone on the body of the radio. This will raise the antenna allowing for better reception. L. A message transmitted, but not responded to, should be considered not received. General Order: 12-008 Page 7 of 12 IX. CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF PORTABLE RADIOS AND EQUIPMENT A. Members reporting for duty shall conduct a complete inspection of their portable radio upon making relief and document the results on the company’s Daily Portable Radio Inspection Form. B. Batteries shall be changed upon making relief and as needed throughout the tour of duty. C. Daily care and maintenance shall be performed per the CFD Radio Manual. Accessories associated with the radio, including the antenna and remote microphone, shall not be removed or replaced. This will jeopardize the waterproof integrity of the radio. D. Any member assigned a digital UHF radio shall be responsible for the proper wearing and security of their radio throughout their tour of duty. E. Company Officers shall be responsible for securing additional portable radios assigned to the company as a result of variances. F. All Company Officers, Chief Officers, and Bureau/District/Division Commanders, shall maintain a radio equipment binder to document daily inspections, inventory and equipment movement. Binders shall contain the following documents: 1. Current CFD orders relating to radio operational procedures and care; 2. Portable and mobile radio manuals; 3. Applicable charger manual; 4. Current CFD code plug (zone and channel layout); 5. Portable radio master inventory; 6. Daily Portable Radio Inspection Form; 7. Portable Radio Tracking Form; 8. Portable Equipment Repair Log; and 9. Radio Equipment Operational Evaluation Form. G. If a member discovers operational issues with radio equipment or infrastructure (dead spot, dropped frequencies, etc.), a Radio Equipment Operational Evaluation Form shall be completed and forwarded through the chain of command to the Deputy Fire Commissioner of Operations at CFD Headquarters. General Order: 12-008 Page 8 of 12 H. If at any time a member finds a portable radio not functioning properly, they shall immediately notify the supervising officer and the radio shall be placed out of service. I. The supervising officer shall ensure the member with the out of service radio is paired with a member who has a working radio until a replacement radio can be issued. J. If the Company Officer finds their portable radio not functioning properly, they shall immediately notify the supervising officer and the radio shall be placed out of service. The Company Officer shall use a company member’s radio until the officer can be issued a replacement radio. The officer must ensure the member now without a radio is paired with a member who has a working radio until a replacement radio is issued. K. Procedures to be followed by supervising officers for a portable radio or related radio equipment that needs repair: 1. Notify their immediate supervisor of the radio’s condition and need for replacement. 2. Obtain a Work Order Number through Breathing Apparatus Service. 3. Complete the appropriate sections of the Portable Radio Tracking Form. 4. Document all information in the Company Journal and on the Radio Equipment Repair Log. 5. If the radio needs service send only the radio, remote microphone and attached antenna for repair. Do not send radio with battery, carrying case or strap. Forward the radio along with the Portable Radio Tracking Form, to their immediate supervisor for transport to District/Bureau/Field Division Headquarters. 6. If a strap or carrying case needs service, forward the strap and carrying case along with the Portable Radio Tracking Form, to their immediate supervisor for transport to District/Bureau/Field Division Headquarters. L. Upon receipt of a portable radio or related equipment that needs repair, Deputy District Chiefs/Assistant Deputy Chief Paramedics shall: 1. Record receipt of the portable radio/equipment on the Portable Radio Tracking Form. 2. Record all movement to or from District Headquarters on the HQ Radio Equipment Movement Log. 3. Issue a spare radio/equipment to the company/member and document the replacement on the Portable Radio Tracking Form. General Order: 12-008 Page 9 of 12 4. Copy the Portable Radio Tracking Form and position the original in the storage compartment in place of the spare radio issued. 5. Transport the copy of the Portable Radio Tracking Form along with the portable radio/equipment to the radio shops via Breathing Apparatus Service. X. RESPONSIBILITIES A. It is the responsibility of all members to have a thorough knowledge of this order. B. It shall be the duty of all members operating a portable radio to become proficient with the operation of the radio. BY ORDER OF: José A. Santiago Fire Commissioner TO BE READ AT FOUR ROLL CALLS AND POSTED. Distribution: B General Order: 12-008 Page 10 of 12 Attachment A FDW/FD Zone FIREMAIN Used by FS&R companies in the North jurisdiction for communications with the OEMC. FIREENGL Used by FS&R companies in the South jurisdiction for communications with the OEMC. ADMIN For communications between FS&R companies and ambulances. Used as alternate Fireground channel if a MAYDAY is requested. FIREGRND For FS&R communications at the scene of an incident. FIRE CMD Used by Chief Officers to coordinate activities at the scene of an extra alarm or other large-scale incident. EMS CMD Used as the EMS tactical channel during EMS Plan incidents. EMS OPS Under the direction of the ranking EMS Command Chief, EMS companies shall utilize the EMS OPS channel for communications when operating at a high-rise fire. May be designated by the EMS Command Chief as a EMS tactical channel at a large incident. OPS 8 May be designated by the Incident Commander as a tactical channel at a large incident (Search and rescue, support, alternate EMS tactical channel, etc.). Used as an alternate Fireground channel at a second incident, if a MAYDAY is requested at an incident in close proximity. OPS 9 May be designated by the Incident Commander as a tactical channel at a large incident (Search and rescue, support, alternate EMS tactical channel, etc.). For FS&R communications at the scene of a second incident if an incident in close proximity is already using FIREGRND. OPS 10 May be designated by the Incident Commander as a tactical channel at a large incident (Search and rescue, support, , alternate EMS tactical channel, etc.). Used by Chief Officers to coordinate activities at the scene of a second extra alarm or large-scale incident if another extra alarm or large-scale incident is already using FIRE CMD. CTA FIRE Used by Department units/members working on the scene of an incident within the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) tunnel/subway. UMETRO 3 Interoperable channel to communicate with other city/county agencies. With permission from the Incident Commander, can be used as a backup channel for CTA to FS&R communication at the scene of a CTA subway incident. CW FIRE Alternate dispatch channel used by the OEMC during high-volume periods. LAKEFRNT Used to communicate with Chicago Park District lifeguards on the beaches. FIREENGL Used by FS&R companies in the South jurisdiction for communications with the OEMC. FIREMAIN Used by FS&R companies in the North jurisdiction for communications with the OEMC. General Order: 12-008 Page 11 of 12 Attachment B EMSW/EMS Zone EMS MAIN Used by EMS companies in the North jurisdiction for communications with the OEMC. EMS ENGL Used by EMS companies in the South jurisdiction for communications with the OEMC. ADMIN For communications between FS&R companies and ambulances. Used as alternate Fireground channel if a MAYDAY is requested. FIREGRND For FS&R communications at the scene of an incident. FIRE CMD Used by Chief Officers to coordinate activities at the scene of an extra alarm or other large-scale incident. EMS CMD Used as the EMS tactical channel during EMS Plan incidents. EMS OPS Under the direction of the ranking EMS Command Chief, EMS companies shall utilize the EMS OPS channel for communications when operating at a high-rise fire. May be designated by the EMS Command Chief as a EMS tactical channel at a large incident. OPS 8 May be designated by the Incident Commander as a tactical channel at a large incident (Search and rescue, support, alternate EMS tactical channel, etc.). Used as an alternate Fireground channel at a second incident, if a MAYDAY is requested at an incident in close proximity. OPS 9 May be designated by the Incident Commander as a tactical channel at a large incident (Search and rescue, support, alternate EMS tactical channel, etc.). For FS&R communications at the scene of a second incident if an incident in close proximity is already using FIREGRND. OPS 10 May be designated by the Incident Commander as a tactical channel at a large incident (Search and rescue, support, alternate EMS tactical channel, etc.). Used by Chief Officers to coordinate activities at the scene of a second extra alarm or large-scale incident if another extra alarm or large-scale incident is already using FIRE CMD. CTA FIRE Used by Department units/members working on the scene of an incident within the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) tunnel/subway. CITY W5 Used by Chicago Police as a Special Events Channel monitored by OEMC. CW FIRE Alternate dispatch channel used by the OEMC during high-volume periods. LAKEFRNT Used to communicate with Chicago Park District lifeguards on the beaches. FIRE ENGL Used by FS&R companies in the South jurisdiction for communications with the OEMC. FIRE MAIN Used by FS&R companies in the North jurisdiction for communications with the OEMC. General Order: 12-008 Page 12 of 12 GENERAL ORDER 13-004 February 8, 2013 SUBJECT: ELECTRONIC MAIL (E-MAIL) POLICY I. PURPOSE This Order: A. establishes the Chicago Fire Department's (CFD) policy relative to the utilization of Department issued electronic mail (E-Mail) accounts; B. outlines the responsibilities of officers and members issued a CFD E-Mail account; C. reinforces current CFD policies and procedures on information infrastructure access and usage; and D. becomes effective February 18, 2013. II. POLICY It is the policy of the CFD to establish effective and efficient means of electronic communications for CFD members. This electronic communication means shall be utilized to communicate information to department members including the distribution of orders, directives, memos, and training material. In addition, electronic mail may also be used to communicate outside the fire department for work-related issues. A. E-Mail accounts provide a means for CFD members to communicate quickly and effectively with other Department members and non-members for work-related (City of Chicago) business. B. E-Mail accounts afford authorized CFD users direct links to the public. Similarly, use of E-Mail facilitates collaborative work among City of Chicago departments and agencies. C. Authorized CFD members are encouraged to use these technologies to improve the quality and effectiveness of City of Chicago services. D. The City and CFD E-Mail resources are for approved City of Chicago business consistent with CFD goals of: 1. enhancing information dissemination capabilities; 2. promoting collaborative communication related to CFD business; 3. providing residents and businesses with accurate and timely information; and 4. building a broader infrastructure in support of professional, work-related activities. General Order: 13-004 Page 1 of 5 III. GENERAL USAGE A. CFD members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner, when using CFD email resources, which includes but is not limited to: 1. Remain on-line only for the time required to use the services accessed. 2. Respect the privacy of other users. a. Do not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or make modifications to, existing data or passwords belonging to other users. b. Do not represent yourself as another user. 3. Be aware that an E-Mail may not be secure or private, and that such messages may be disseminated to third parties and posted publically. 4. Be aware that an E-Mail is subject to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) disclosure rules. 5. All emails sent and received are saved by the City of Chicago. 6. Use common courtesies that would be extended in letter correspondence or other official department communication as per current policies and procedures for written communication. 7. "Reply All" shall only be used when all parties have the authority to receive the response and the sender has the authority to directly contact the party. 8. Carbon copy or “CC” shall be used to notify the senders direct supervisor of a message sent, as a courtesy to people directly referenced in a message or has a germane reason to see the message. B. Regularly delete any SPAM, duplicate copies of e-mails, CFD System generated E- Mails, and any E-Mail not related to the performance of the duties as a member of the CFD. C. E-Mail Composition 1. Read and spell-check all documents before sending. 2. Be clear, and concise in communications. 3. Do not use all capital letters, since this is the equivalent of "yelling" on the Internet. 4. Be cognizant of the tone of E-Mail messages. Sarcasm may be interpreted as hostility. General Order: 13-004 Page 2 of 5 D. Giving your username and password to other people is prohibited. IV. PERMITTED USAGE A. Communications, with other government employees, businesses and the public in direct support of work-related functions are permitted. This includes the use of E- Mail to transmit work-related documents, files, and correspondence between authorized users. B. All communication via E-Mail must comply with existing Department policies regarding information dissemination. V. EXAMPLES OF UNAUTHORIZED USAGE Unauthorized usage of E-Mail can result in discipline. A. Department members shall not use E-Mail to circumvent the chain-of- command. 1. Apply the current policies and procedures for the proper routing of a Form 2 or Form 2A. 2. Example: In the Bureau of Operations all written communication by non- exempt rank personnel shall not be addressed to an authority higher than the Assistant Deputy Fire Commissioner, unless specifically directed otherwise by an Assistant Deputy Fire Commissioner or Deputy Fire Commissioner. B. Non-work related uses include, but are not limited to: 1. games; wagering or gambling of any kind; 2. junk mail and chain letters; 3. private business activities; 4. unsanctioned raffles; 5. unsanctioned fundraisers; 6. partisan political lobbying; 7. religious activities; 8. solicitations; 9. personal travel arrangements; and/or, 10. endorsement of commercial enterprises. C. Soliciting or distributing information with the intent of using such information to cause personal harm, the intentional infliction of emotional distress or threat of bodily injury. General Order: 13-004 Page 3 of 5 D. Soliciting or distributing information which may contain sexually explicit images or information. E. Distributing statements that could be considered harassing or disparaging of others on the basis of race, national origin, gender, sexual preference, color, marital status, age, disability, religion, ancestry, parental status, military discharge status, or lawful source of income. F. Knowingly and intentionally spreading computer viruses. G. Users may not develop programs to harass others (e.g. create programs that loop repeatedly), infiltrate a computer system without authorization, or damage or alter without authorization the software components of a computer or computer system. H. Distributing statements likely or intended to incite violence, or describing or promoting the use of weapons or devices associated with terrorist activities. I. Use of copyright or proprietary information without permission of the author. J. Attempting to circumvent or disable technologies or methods implemented by the City of Chicago or CFD designed to block access to certain web links (e.g., pornographic or criminal skill web sites). K. Accessing external chat sites, external instant messaging services, external electronic bulletin boards, or any sites restricted by City of Chicago content filtering systems. 1. Users with a legitimate requirement to access prohibited sites should obtain approval from their bureau head or his/her designee, through the chain-of- command. VI. PRIVACY INFORMATION A. Users do not have a personal privacy interest in anything created, received, or stored on City of Chicago or Chicago Fire Department Internet or E-Mail systems. B. The City of Chicago and the CFD have the right to search all E-Mail accounts without prior notification and at any time. C. All information on a City of Chicago computer system, including all E-Mails, may be intercepted, preserved, stored, recorded, read, copied, and disclosed by authorized personnel, for official purposes, including criminal investigations, administrative investigations, or parties to civil litigation. D. Any E-Mail may be subject to disclosure and discovery in litigation and/or used in a court of law. 1. Discovery production can include all E-Mails and any attached data or reports in the E-Mail. General Order: 13-004 Page 4 of 5 2. Labeling an E-Mail as “confidential” or “privileged” shall not, in and of itself, prevent the E-Mail from being produced in a lawsuit. 3. Under certain circumstances, an attorney/client privilege may be attached to keep communications confidential where an attorney/client relationship exists, or where an E-Mail contains the work product of an attorney. This privilege can be lost if the E-Mail is shared with someone not within the attorney/client relationship or who is outside the purview of the work product privilege. E. Inappropriate use of the City of Chicago or CFD E-Mail resources, in violation of this General Order, and any unauthorized access or improper use of E-Mail may subject violators to criminal, civil, and/or administrative disciplinary action. VII. RESPONSIBILITIES A. It is the responsibility of all Company Officers, Chief Officers, and those acting in that capacity to promote the legal, ethical, and authorized work-related use of City of Chicago and CFD E-Mail resources. B. All CFD members must adhere to the provisions of this E-mail use order. C. Distributing unauthorized information regarding other users' passwords or security systems is prohibited. Authorized access to E-Mail accounts is restricted to the user of each account. Unauthorized information distribution shall result in discipline. D. All members must promptly report any breaches of computer security to their immediate supervisor. E. Company Officers shall immediately report any breaches of computer security to their District/Field Division, Bureau Office through the chain of command. F. All authorized users of the City of Chicago and the CFD E-Mail resources must be in compliance with all federal, state and local laws. Use of these resources must also conform to all City of Chicago ordinances and policies, such as CFD General Orders, Special Directives, and the Code of Professional Conduct. G. CFD E-Mail resources are to be used for CFD business only. BY ORDER OF: José A. Santiago Fire Commissioner TO BE READ AT FOUR ROLL CALLS AND POSTED. Distribution: B General Order: 13-004 Page 5 of 5 GENERAL ORDER 13-007 April 4, 2013 SUBJECT: CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT OF THE CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT I. PURPOSE This Order: A. serves to incorporate the Code of Professional Conduct of the Chicago Fire Department into this General Order; B. rescinds General Order 92-011 and all prior Codes of Professional Conduct; C. becomes effective immediately. II. POLICY A. The Code of Professional Conduct of the Chicago Fire Department made part and affixed to this General Order shall be incorporated in its entirety into each member's Order Manual. B. Each member shall review and become familiar with the Code of Professional Conduct of the Chicago Fire Department. C. This General Order adopts in whole the City of Chicago Diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity Policy (the “City EEO Policy”). III. PROCEDURE Members shall refer to the Code of Professional Conduct dated April 4, 2013, in place of General Order 92-011. BY ORDER OF: José A. Santiago Fire Commissioner TO BE READ AT FOUR (4) ROLL CALLS AND POSTED. Distribution: B Page 1 of 9 April 4, 2013 CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT – CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT Protection of life and property is the mission of the Chicago Fire Department and employees comprising its membership. The duties of professional fire and emergency medical services require that members shall maintain themselves at the highest possible level of physical, mental and psychological fitness. The physical demands of providing emergency firefighting, rescue and medical services requires stamina, alertness, sobriety and agility. The lives of not only the public, but the employee and his/her co-workers are critically dependent upon this professional level of fitness. Member’s shall maintain and strive to improve the skills and knowledge required of them as professionals, and their conduct, both personally and professionally, must be such that enhances departmental harmony and efficiency and promotes a professional work environment. Personal conduct, both on duty and off duty, must be such that preserves the reputation of the department and the confidence of the public in whose service their duty is founded. The goal of the most professional, efficient and service-oriented department possible is a mutual, cooperative one toward which every member must continually strive. Where performance of duties or conduct does not meet acceptable standards, the department shall act to correct such performance or behavior through appropriate measures including discipline. Failure to correct unacceptable performance or behavior will result in termination. Both in the performance of their professional duties and their personal conduct which reflects upon the department in its representative capacity, members must dedicate themselves to the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct. Members must continually strive to represent their Department, Bureau, Division, Section, Unit and position in such a manner as to reflect favorably in the view of the public and preserve the highest degree of confidence in fire and emergency medical services. The maintenance of order and efficiency in departmental operations requires a harmonious, professional environment to assure performance of prescribed duties. Conduct which causes disruption or interposes in a way which hinders or impedes department operations or a professional work environment will not be tolerated in any form. Abuse or harassment of any member by another, including sexual or racial harassment as defined in the City EEO Policy, is strictly prohibited and will be disciplined appropriately, as will any resort to physical violence against any member, or member of the public. CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT Any behavior or conduct which detracts from a member's fitness for duty, including but not limited to conduct prohibited in the current General Order on Substance Abuse: Drugs/Alcohol, is strictly prohibited and will be disciplined appropriately. Personal conduct off duty which reflects upon the Department, Unit or position must be such as will promote the confidence of the public and the representative integrity of the department. Both when in uniform and under circumstances which reflect upon the Department, members must govern themselves by standards of law- abiding, moral men and women who are also public servants. Conduct which is derogatory to the integrity of the Department as a whole or to the reputation of the overwhelming majority of dedicated and exemplary members, impairs the Page 2 of 9 April 4, 2013 efficiency of departmental operations and will not be tolerated. Such behavior will be disciplined appropriately as conduct which is unbecoming a member of the Department. Conduct unbecoming a member of the Chicago Fire Department is any conduct, on or off duty, which: 1. reflects unfavorably upon the Department, its subdivisions, or membership by the nature of its representative capacity; or 2. impairs the efficiency of departmental operations or detracts from a harmonious and professional work environment. DEPARTMENT DISCIPLINARY POLICY It is the policy of the Chicago Fire Department that the use of disciplinary action up to and including discharge is for the purpose of preventing and/or correcting unacceptable performance or conduct which falls below established standards. These standards are set forth with specificity wherever possible in the Personnel Codes or Departmental Codes, and strict adherence to them must be the goal of every member of this department. DEPARTMENT STANDARDS Clearly defined and enforced regulations is one of the most important bulwarks of good morale, professionalism and dedication, and is a shared responsibility of all members of the Chicago Fire Department. EMPLOYEE STANDARDS All employees regardless of rank or seniority must be held to the standards of efficiency, performance, and personal conduct established for all employees of the City of Chicago as those specifically applicable to the members of the Chicago Fire Department. OFFICER/SUPERVISOR STANDARDS Within the guidelines established, individual officers/supervisors must conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, within the city and departmental rules and regulations, to provide the basis for appropriate discipline. They must carry out enforcement of discipline as their duty to their employer, the public, and the members under their command/authority. DUTY STANDARDS Members are held to a standard of professionalism in the representative image conveyed off duty, as well as on duty. When the performance or conduct of any member falls short of established standards, the disciplinary code shall be utilized within the appropriate guidelines. Page 3 of 9 April 4, 2013 DISCIPLINARY GUIDELINES AND CONSIDERATIONS The following guidelines shall be utilized in the implementation of disciplinary action. Discipline shall be: 1. Constructive Discipline shall be used toward the goal of correcting behavior or performance which does not meet departmental standards. 2. Impartial Discipline shall be applied with consideration to only the facts of each particular case without prejudgment or personal bias. 3. Consistent Discipline shall be applied throughout the Department to implement consistent treatment in closely identical situations. Discipline shall be consistently enforced in all similar instances of violations of regulations. 4. Appropriate Discipline shall be fitting to both the nature and severity of the offense. 5. Progressive Discipline shall increase in severity with repetition of identical or closely related offenses. 6. Not Punitive Discipline shall not be invoked as a punitive measure or for personal retribution. 7. Within Established Procedures Discipline shall not be implemented outside the established applicable procedures. 8. Applied Without Ridicule or to Cause Embarrassment Discipline shall not be applied in a manner which subjects the member to embarrassment or ridicule before other members of the department or the public. Counseling of an individual should be attempted in matters of minor infractions, prior to invoking initial discipline. Page 4 of 9 April 4, 2013 RULES AND REGULATIONS These rules shall apply to all members of the Chicago Fire Department. Members shall safeguard and be responsible for their copy of said rules and regulations issued to them and shall continually update same. Officers in charge shall be responsible for distribution of all copies of books and orders. Members of the Fire Department shall be responsible for knowledge of all applicable rules, regulations, laws and ordinances affecting the Department. Ignorance of laws, rules, regulations, procedures, rights or duties shall not relieve members of the duty to obey superior officers, or from penalties in respect to violations prescribed herein. 1.01 Residency Requirement. Members of the Department shall be actual residents of the City of Chicago. 1.02 Visiting Headquarters by Members. Members of the Fire Department shall not visit except on official business, or loiter in or about Department headquarters, unless by permission of superior officers or when ordered to appear therein. 1.03 Pay Checks. Pay checks shall be distributed pursuant to the current policy and practice. Communications pertaining to pay checks shall be made in writing, through the chain of command, to the Division of Finance. Members shall be entitled to all of their salaries without deduction except as required by law or voluntarily permitted by them. 1.04 Use of Telephones. Telephones in Company quarters, other than public telephones, are official Fire Department phones and shall be used for official or emergency use only, and the numbers thereof not made public. 1.05 Report of Change of Residence or Telephone Number. Members shall promptly notify their superior officers of a change of their residence or home telephone number. These changes shall be reported on form PER 72 and forwarded through channels to CFD Human Resources. 1.06 Visitors. Visitors and citizens shall be politely escorted about company quarters and acquainted with department equipment and operations. Children shall be allowed in company quarters only under proper adult supervision. Visitors shall be permitted in quarters between 0930 and 2100 hours. 1.07 Social Gatherings in Quarters. Social gatherings, of any nature, shall not interfere with departmental operation or efficiency, and shall be permitted only upon approval of district chief, or his designee. 1.08 Occupying Beds. Members shall not be permitted to occupy their beds in quarters, between 0700 and 1800 hours, nor will sleeping or lounging be allowed in or about company quarters. 1.09 Disturbing Sleeping Members. Members, when asleep shall not be unnecessarily disturbed or awakened. 1.10 Games in Company Quarters. Members shall not conduct or participate in any gambling activities while on duty. Games or authorized sports may be played with the approval of the company officer, but participation is voluntary. Page 5 of 9 April 4, 2013 1.11 Lounging in Front of Quarters Prohibited. Members shall not lounge upon the sidewalk in front of company quarters. Seats shall not be allowed in or about the front doors thereof. 1.12 Pets or Mascots Not Permitted. Pets or mascots shall not be permitted in fire stations or on fire apparatus, except by permission of the Fire Commissioner. 1.13 Private Vehicles of Members. The storing, repairing, and maintaining of vehicles other than those owned by the City of Chicago shall be strictly prohibited in or about Company quarters. The parking of private automobiles of members near company quarters shall be in strict accordance with traffic regulations and in such a manner as to promote good public relations. The parking or keeping of private vehicles inside of company quarters is prohibited except by permission of the Fire Commissioner or designee. All vehicles of members shall be properly licensed by state and city with such license properly displayed. No commercial vehicles of any type shall be stored or parked on premises. 1.14 Duty to Assist Police. Members shall, at all times, assist law enforcement when so requested by an officer in their official capacity. Whenever a request is made for emergency assistance by the police, it shall be the duty of the commanding officers to detail as many men as can be spared to aid in that work. 1.15 Use of Vending Machines in Fire Stations. The vending machines dispensing only soft drinks and candy, located in fire stations are for the use of Fire Department personnel only and shall be so labeled or marked. Under no circumstances will other persons be allowed to use the facilities or products dispensed by these vending machines. 1.16 Time Off Due to a Death in the Family. Time off duty will be granted to all members of the Chicago Fire Department when a death occurs in the immediate family of the member, consistent with current General Order and the Labor Contract. 1.17 Proper Personal Appearance. All members of the Chicago Fire Department shall present a clean and proper appearance in personal care and attire at all times, consistent with current Departmental Personal Appearance Standards and General Orders. 1.18 General Conduct of Officers. Officers shall be just, dignified, and firm in their relations with subordinates and abstain from violent, abusive, or disrespectful language in giving orders and directions. Officers shall enforce strict obedience of all rules, regulations, and practices by members or employees under their commands. 1.19 Rewards or Fees for services. The receipt of money or gifts by members, from governmental agencies, private corporations, or individuals for services rendered by them in their capacity as members of the Fire Department shall be reported in writing by the members concerned, through channels, to the Fire Commissioner, within five (5) days after the receipt thereof. All such monies or gifts shall be subject to the disposition by the Fire Commissioner and the current Ethics Policies. 1.20 Solicitation for Money, Gifts, or Sale of Tickets Forbidden. Members shall not in their official capacity solicit subscriptions from or sell tickets to citizens or businesses for company or other purposes, except by authority of the Fire Commissioner. Page 6 of 9 April 4, 2013 1.21 Political Privileges. The right of members and employees of the Fire Department to entertain political opinions and of suffrage, shall not be abridged. The exercise of those rights shall not interfere with department efficiency or operations. 1.22 Oath of Office. All members shall take, by oath or affirmation, the Department oath of office and subscribe their adherence to said oath upon entry into the Department and upon any promotion or appointment. 1.23 Soliciting Promotions or Transfers. Members of the Fire Department shall not directly or indirectly solicit or offer the influence or intercession of any person to effect promotions or transfers. 1.24 Obedience of Orders. Members of the Fire Department shall be held strictly accountable for the obedience of orders of superior officers. Should a member receive an order that conflicts with a previous order, the member should notify the officer who