Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual PDF

Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 100 Procedures-Guidelines Manual General Provisions (POLICY) 100.1 PRECEDENCE OF AUTHORITIES Members who are employees of Hanover County are governed by the Human Resou...

Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 100 Procedures-Guidelines Manual General Provisions (POLICY) 100.1 PRECEDENCE OF AUTHORITIES Members who are employees of Hanover County are governed by the Human Resources Policies of Hanover County in addition to this Policy Manual. Any provision of the Human Resources Policies of Hanover County that conflicts with any provision of the Department Policy Manual shall supersede such provision of the Department Policy Manual, as applied to employees. All Department regulations, orders, procedures, guidelines, protocols or other authority shall supersede any volunteer fire company or volunteer rescue squad constitution and by-laws, general operating rules or other individual organization authority. Where such volunteer fire company or volunteer rescue squad authority conflicts with a Department policy or other authority, the Department policy or authority shall apply. All Department authorities shall be minimum standards unless specifically defined otherwise. When one Department authority conflicts with another applicable Department authority, the more stringent authority or the higher standard or requirement shall apply. In no event shall Department authorities be interpreted to waive or supersede federal, State or local laws and regulations. In all Department matters and operations, the conduct of all members shall be in conformance with federal, State and local laws and regulations. References in this Policy Manual to the Chief of the Department shall include designees of the Chief. 100.2 APPLICABILITY This Policy Manual shall apply to all members and to all Department operations and functions. The Policy Manual may be supplemented by regulations, orders, procedures, guidelines and protocols. 100.3 ENFORCEMENT Failure to comply with any part of this Policy Manual or with Department regulations, orders, procedures, guidelines or protocols shall be deemed insubordination and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Every member is required to establish and maintain a working knowledge of this Policy Manual and all Department regulations, orders, procedures, guidelines and protocols. In the event of improper action or breach of discipline, it will be presumed that the offending member was familiar with the authority in question. If any part of this Policy Manual is held to be unconstitutional, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, that part shall be deemed severable and the holding shall not affect the validity and enforceability of the remainder. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. General Provisions (POLICY) - 8 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 101 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Orders (POLICY) 101.1 SPECIAL ORDERS The Chief or any Assistant Chief may issue a special order for the general management of the Department. Special orders shall be made in writing. These orders shall carry the same weight as regulations. Special orders shall be compiled by the Department administration, distributed to all members and made available at the Department’s administrative office. It is the duty of each member to carry out any valid special order. Failure to comply shall be deemed insubordination and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. 101.2 GENERAL ORDERS Any officer of the Department may issue a general order, either verbally or in writing. General orders shall be related to the goals of the Department and to the completion of work or assignments. It is the duty of each member to carry out any valid general order given by a superior officer. Failure to comply shall be deemed insubordination and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Orders (POLICY) - 9 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 102 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Standard Operating Procedures (POLICY) 102.1 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Standard Operating Procedures are general orders issued by the Chief in writing that provide direction for normally encountered situations and assist members in meeting the intent of the policies and regulations of the Department and Hanover County. Failure to comply with a Standard Operating Procedure shall be deemed insubordination and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Standard Operating Procedures are included in this procedures manual. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Standard Operating Procedures (POLICY) - 10 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 103 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Standard Operating Guidelines (POLICY) 103.1 STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES Standard Operating Guidelines are issued in writing by any officer at or above the battalion level and serve as a management tool to outline expectations and provide guidance to members. Standard Operating Guidelines do not constitute orders; they are intended to provide guidance and advice. If, in the judgment of the member, a Standard Operating Guideline is not applicable to a particular situation, the member is not bound to comply with such Guideline. Standard Operating Guidelines are included as Appendix B of this Policy Manual. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Standard Operating Guidelines (POLICY) - 11 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 104 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Patient Care Protocols and Guidelines (POLICY) 104.1 PATIENT CARE PROTOCOLS AND GUIDELINES The Department conducts EMS functions under the coordination of the Old Dominion EMS Alliance (“ODEMSA”) and the guidance of the Hanover County Operational Medical Director, Assistant Medical Directors and the Hanover County Medical Control Board. All medical treatment provided by the Department shall be defined and governed by the Standard of Care and patient care protocols established by the ODEMSA Medical Direction Committee and any guidelines issued by the Hanover County Operational Medical Director, Assistant Medical Directors or the Hanover County Medical Control Board. The regional patient care protocols ofthe ODEMSA Medical Direction Committee, derived from frequent enhancement of the Standard of Care, can be found at http://odemsa.vaems.org. The rules, policies and guidelines of the Hanover County Medical Director, Assistant Medical Directors and the Hanover County Medical Control Board are published in the form of Patient Care Guidelines and are included as Appendix C this Policy Manual. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Patient Care Protocols and Guidelines Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (POLICY) - 12  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 105 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Privacy and Security Compliance Plan (POLICY) 105.1 PRIVACY AND SECURITY COMPLIANCE PLAN In the course of providing services, the Department creates and receives confidential information about individuals, such as their life history, physical or mental health and financial information. Members of the Department have an obligation to safeguard the privacy of that confidential information. The Department has adopted a Privacy and Security Compliance Plan, which contains policies governing the privacy of health information and the security of its information systems. The Hanover County Department of Fire-EMS Privacy and Security Compliance Plan is available here: See attachment: Privacy and Security Plan.pdf. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Privacy and Security Compliance Plan Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (POLICY) - 13  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 106 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Organization (POLICY) 106.1 CHAIN OF COMMAND The Department is organized as a paramilitary organization. Good order requires adherence to the chain of command. The unbroken line of authority extends from the County Administrator to the Chief, and through a single subordinate at each level of command, down to the level of execution. The chain of command is the proper route for vertical communication among Department members. While all officers have an “open door policy,” it is the responsibility of each member to inform his or her immediate supervisor when he or she wishes to breach the normal chain of command by utilizing the “open door policy.” This includes the use of carbon copies and blind copies on standard or electronic correspondence. The style of management of the Department shall be participatory. This style necessitates standard exceptions to chain of command communications. Such standard exceptions include open meetings (e.g. Chief’s Staff, Steering Committee, Fire or Rescue Squad Associations, town hall meetings or committee or task force meetings). Additionally, the chain of command may be breached to report infractions committed by superior officers of this Policy Manual, Department regulations, orders, procedures, guidelines or protocols, or federal, State or local law and/or misconduct of superior officers. Requests for interpretation of this Policy Manual shall be directed through the chain of command to the member’s supervisory officer, who may consult with the Chief. The authority of the Chief pursuant to Title 27 of the Code of Virginia and Chapter 9 the Hanover County Code shall be automatically delegated, as permitted by law, to the highest ranking officer on the scene of an emergency incident following the chain of command. Each of the Department’s Assistant Chiefs, Battalion Chiefs, District Chiefs, Assistant District Chiefs, Captains, Lieutenants and any staff or volunteer member appointed by the Chief shall hereby be designated an authorized officer of the Department and is granted the authority of an “authorized officer,” as defined by Title 27 of the Code of Virginia. Operational officers’ delegated authority to operate at an emergency incident is at the discretion of the Chief. Officers may be removed or their authority limited as deemed appropriate by the Chief. 106.2 CONTACT WITH ELECTED OFFICIALS This regulation is intended to prescribe on-duty conduct related to contact with elected officials. Nothing in this regulation shall be construed to limit a member’s rights to free speech and expression. No member shall breach the chain of command to discuss departmental issues with elected officials without providing the courtesy of notifying his or her supervisory officer, except in the case of reporting wrong#doing, a legal infraction or a complaint that is federally protected. It is the policy Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Organization (POLICY) - 14 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Organization (POLICY) of the Department to provide adequate opportunity for input and to air grievances and therefore, all members should utilize these opportunities prior to breaching the chain of command. When contacting an elected official, members shall emphasize that they represent themselves as individuals, noting that they do not speak on behalf of the Department or its recognized advisory groups. Only those members authorized by the Chief shall have the authority to speak on behalf of the Department. Only the Chairman of the Chief’s Staff and the presidents of the respective associations shall have the authority to speak on behalf of the recognized advisory groups. Political activities while on duty are prohibited. Uniforms shall not be worn while conducting political activities unless approved by the Chief. If a member is contacted by an elected official while on duty, the member shall meet the individual’s request if it is within the scope of his or her authority and report the contact as soon as practical to his or her immediate supervisory officer. If the request is not within the member’s scope of authority, he or she shall contact the appropriate superior officer and refer the request. Any member contact with elected officials shall meet the same standards for courteous and dignified discourse as is required for contact with any citizen. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Organization (POLICY) - 15 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 107 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Membership (POLICY) 107.1 GENERAL MEMBERSHIP Membership in the Department is a privilege that is extended on the condition of the individual’s adherence to applicable regulations, orders, procedures, guidelines and protocol of the Department. To be an unrestricted member of the Department, an individual must be a minimum of 18 years of age and a legal citizen of or legally present in the United States of America. 107.2 CATEGORIES OF MEMBERSHIP 107.2.1 VOLUNTEER MEMBER - OPERATIONAL Volunteer operational members fall within one of two sub-categories: entry qualified and non- entry qualified. Entry qualified members are volunteer firefighters who have met all necessary conditions to operate fully and are therefore permitted to enter burning structures and other hazardous environments. Non-entry qualified members include volunteer firefighters who have not met the conditions necessary to enter burning structures or other hazardous environments and EMS volunteer members who respond to emergency incidents and render patient care. Non-entry qualified volunteers may operate as driver/operators or in other capacities as training and policy allow. All operational volunteer members, both entry and non-entry qualified, must undergo a background investigation conducted by Department administration and be approved for membership by the Chief. All operational volunteer members serve at the discretion of the Chief. 107.2.2 VOLUNTEER MEMBER - NON-OPERATIONAL Volunteer non-operational members do not respond to emergency incidents or render patient care. Such membership classifications include auxiliary, associate, life member and any other classification as determined by an individual fire company or rescue squad. All non-operational members must undergo a background investigation conducted by Department administration. Non-operational members must be approved for membership by and serve at the discretion of their individual fire company or rescue squad. 107.2.3 VOLUNTEER MEMBER - OFFICER Volunteer officers are appointed by the Chief as officers of the Department, in accordance with the selection and appointment practices defined by the Department’s Standard Operating Procedures. They are within the chain of command and are authorized to give orders and exercise authority consistent with their appointed rank. All officers of the Department serve at the discretion of the Chief. This category of membership does not include corporate officers of the individual volunteer fire companies and rescue squads – corporate officers are not officers of the Department. Corporate officers serve at the discretion of their individual fire company or rescue squad and in accordance with that fire company or rescue squad’s constitution and by-laws. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Membership (POLICY) - 16 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Membership (POLICY) 107.2.4 VOLUNTEER MEMBER - CHAPLAIN Chaplains are uniformed volunteer members who provide spiritual and emotional guidance to members of the Department and victims at the scene of an emergency incident. All chaplains must undergo a background investigation conducted by Department administration and be approved for membership by the Chief. All chaplains serve at the discretion of the Chief. 107.2.5 VOLUNTEER MEMBER - INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Firefighters and EMS personnel from a foreign government may be invited to participate in Department training and education at the discretion of the Chief. Individuals participating in an academy format or a long-term program shall become volunteer members of the Department. International students shall be defined as those with an A-2 visa (diplomats and foreign government officials) approved by the United States Department of State, who have received a formal letter of invitation from the Chief. International students shall be at least 18 years old. All international students must undergo a background investigation conducted by Department administration, a physical examination, including a drug screen, and a fitness evaluation, if deemed necessary. International students shall be subject to all Departmental policies, regulations, orders, procedures, guidelines, protocols and memorandums of understandings. 107.2.6 COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM The Community Emergency Response Team (“CERT”) is a group of specially trained, non- operational civilians who provide support to the Department’s response team during times of disaster relief. All CERT members must undergo a background investigation conducted by Department administration and be approved for membership by the Chief. All CERT members serve at the discretion of the Chief. 107.2.7 EMPLOYEE This category of membership includes all members of the Department, including administrative staff, who are full or part-time employees of Hanover County. Employees may be uniformed or non-uniformed and are governed by all Department, as well as all Hanover County policies and procedures. 107.2.8 EMPLOYEE - OFFICER Uniformed employees who are promoted or appointed to rank may serve as officers of the Department. These officers are within the chain of command and are authorized to give orders and exercise authority consistent with their appointed rank. All officers of the Department serve at the discretion of the Chief. 107.2.9 HONORARY Retired employees, volunteers and citizens of Hanover County may be granted honorary membership by the Chief in recognition of outstanding contributions made to the Department. Individual volunteer fire companies and rescue squads may also grant honorary membership to their organizations as allowed by their individual constitutions and bylaws. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Membership (POLICY) - 17 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Membership (POLICY) 107.2.10 MINORS - RESTRICTED MEMBERSHIP Minors between the ages of 16 and 18 may join the Department as junior volunteer members with a restricted membership. The Department’s junior volunteer program includes the High School Program and any junior program within an individual fire company or rescue squad. Prior to a minor’s participation in any Department activities, written parental permission must be obtained and filed with Department administration on forms provided by the Department. All junior members serve at the discretion of the Chief. Special Rules Relating to Minors The following rules shall govern the conduct of minors and of responsible adult members in addition to all applicable provisions of this Policy Manual, all other Department authorities, the policies and regulations of Hanover County and Hanover County Code § 9-9. Responsible adult member shall be defined as an individual over the age of 21. No one under 18 years of age is permitted in any Department building at any time without the presence and supervision of two responsible adults. This requirement does not apply if a minor’s parent is on the premises. No one under 18 years of age is permitted in any Department building while public schools are in session after 10:00 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and after 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. No one under 18 years of age is permitted in any Department building during holidays and other times when public school is not in session after 11:00 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and after 12:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. If a junior member is on a call and does not return to a Department building until after the above-stated curfews, the individual must leave the premises within 15 minutes of returning from the call. It shall be the responsibility of all responsible adult members, regardless of rank, to properly supervise any junior member in their presence. It shall be the responsibility of all responsible adult members to enforce this regulation. Junior members shall be enrolled in high school or junior high school, as required, and shall maintain a minimum grade of “C” in each class taken, as evidenced by copies of grade reports submitted in accordance with prescribed Standard Operating Procedures. Failure to maintain a “C” grade in each class shall result in suspension from the Department until the next scholastic grading period or receipt by Department administration of an interim report to provide proof the grade has been improved. Junior members may not participate in any firefighting or support activities unless certified under the National Fire Protection Association Standard 1001, Firefighter Level 1. Training for this certification must be through an approved class with all the proper documentation complete and on file with the Hanover County Training Division and the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Junior members must undergo an NFPA 1582 Medical Examination prior to participating in an approved certification training class. Junior members shall not drive Department Fire/EMS apparatus. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Membership (POLICY) - 18 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Membership (POLICY) Junior members shall not serve in a command role at an emergency scene. Junior EMS members shall not serve as the attendant in charge on an ambulance. Junior members are prohibited from responding to an emergency incident in a personal vehicle. Junior members are prohibited from the use of alcohol and tobacco products in the station or during any function related to the Department or Hanover County. No waiver of the requirements of this regulation shall be permitted. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Membership (POLICY) - 19 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 108 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) 108.1 EMPLOYEES Employees of the Department shall be governed by the Human Resources Policies of Hanover County and all other policies and regulations applicable to Hanover County employees, in addition to the applicable sections of this Policy Manual and all other Department authorities. 108.2 VOLUNTEERS Volunteer members of the Department shall be governed by the following regulations and standards of conduct: 108.2.1 NON DISCRIMINATION Hanover County and the Department are committed to the maintenance and promotion of a policy of nondiscrimination by incorporating sound merit principles in all aspects of personnel management affecting the Department. All buildings and premises owned by the Department and each individual fire company and rescue squad shall be free from such prohibited personnel practices as discrimination, sexual harassment, bullying or any other conduct inconsistent with sound merit principles. Hanover County and the Department do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, political affiliation, disability, sex or age. Any volunteer member who has a complaint relating to discrimination is encouraged to report the complaint to his or her supervising officer or the Department’s Human Resources Analyst, or to use the Volunteer Review Process found in the Department’s Standard Operating Procedures. Hanover County and the Department prohibit any form of retaliation for bringing bona fide complaints relating to discrimination, sexual harassment or other prohibited practices or for providing information about such practices. 108.2.2 ETHICAL OBLIGATIONS OF VOLUNTEER MEMBERS All volunteer members are expected to: (a) Represent Hanover County and the Department and to carry out their work with professionalism at all times. (b) Fulfill the responsibilities of their membership with honesty and integrity and make serving the needs of the citizens of Hanover County their primary goal. (c) Serve with respect, concern, courtesy and responsiveness while carrying out the mission, vision and goals of Hanover County and the Department. (d) Avoid using their positions for personal gain. (e) Adhere to federal, State and local laws. (f) Engage in off-duty conduct that does not tarnish the reputation of Hanover County or the Department. (g) Refrain from engaging in a private business enterprise and soliciting sales of goods or services while on property owned by the Department and/or Hanover County. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) - 20 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) (h) Refrain from accepting services, tickets to amusement places or other material benefits at a discounted rate or at a rate lower than offered to the general public while on duty or by virtue of their position with the Department, unless previously approved by the Chief, or necessary for the performance of duties. 108.2.3 USE OF COUNTY VEHICLES AND PROPERTY Hanover County vehicles, material, equipment and supplies used by or assigned to a volunteer member shall only be used for official Department or Hanover County business. Any unauthorized usage is strictly prohibited and will be handled as the Human Resources Policies and the law provide. Hanover County’s Motor Vehicle Safety Policy contains additional details regarding the use of County vehicles. 108.2.4 WORKPLACE HARASSMENT It is the policy of Hanover County and the Department that all members have the right to work in an environment free of discrimination, which includes freedom from harassment, whether that harassment is based on sex, age, race, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, disability or membership in other protected groups. Hanover County and the Department prohibit harassment and bullying of its members in any form by supervisory officers, co#workers, customers, citizens or suppliers. Conduct of members in violation of this regulation may result in disciplinary action, as provided in this Policy Manual, for both the member who harasses others and any supervisory officer who tolerates such conduct. Persons who are not employees or volunteer members who engage in offensive and/or harassing behaviors or language will be asked by a supervisory officer or the Chief to leave the premises. No supervisory officer shall threaten, insinuate or imply that any member’s submission to or rejection of sexual advances will in any way influence any decision regarding that member’s employment, performance appraisal, wages, advancement, assigned duties, shifts or any other condition of employment, membership or career development, as applicable. Other harassing conduct in the workplace, whether physical or verbal, committed by members, including supervisory officers, is also prohibited. This includes: slurs, jokes or degrading comments concerning sex, age, race, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, disability or membership in other protected groups; repeated offensive sexual flirtation, advances or propositions; continual or repeated abuse of a sexual nature; graphic verbal comments about an individual’s body; and the display in the workplace of sexually suggestive objects or pictures. 108.2.5 WORKPLACE VIOLENCE Violence, threatened violence and inappropriate behavior conducive to violence are prohibited. Prohibited acts include aggression or threatened aggression, which may be verbal or physical, and which may include harassment, name-calling, swearing, inappropriate or excessive displays of anger, verbal or physical intimidation and physical attack toward persons or property. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) - 21 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) Hanover County and the Department will not tolerate violence or threatened violence in the work place in any form, whether directed at another person or displayed at random. Volunteer members shall immediately report any behavior or language which threatens the safety of themselves or others to their supervisory officer and the Department’s Human Resources Analyst. Any supervisory officer who receives a complaint or has knowledge of violence or threatened violence occurring in the work place shall ensure that the matter is investigated appropriately. In instances where criminal laws may have been violated, the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office shall be notified. 108.2.6 EMPLOYEE DRESS While on duty, volunteer members are considered to be representatives of Hanover County and are required to dress and groom themselves in a manner that portrays a professional image. The Chief shall determine what constitutes appropriate appearance and apparel, and such standards shall be included in the Department’s Standard Operating Procedures. Any manner of dress or personal hygiene that is disruptive to the work of the Department or to those being served by the Department shall be considered inappropriate. Volunteer members issued uniforms or protective clothing are required to wear them while on duty and are expected to maintain them in a neat, clean and operational state. Position descriptions shall specify those volunteer positions where there are special grooming and/or dress requirements imposed to insure the safety of the volunteer members. 108.2.7 CONFIDENTIALITY Volunteer members having access to personal information or data in the course of providing services to citizens shall maintain the confidentiality of that information and shall release that information only in accordance with the Government Data Collection and Dissemination Practices Act, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and any other applicable laws or regulations. Non#Department members may observe Department operations only in accordance with procedures established by the Chief, and shall not have access to personal information. 108.2.8 WORKPLACE HEALTH SERVICE Due to the nature of their positions, volunteer members may be required to undergo certain medical examinations and/or tests. Such examinations and/or tests shall be directly related to the safe performance of their duties and to maintaining the general health and well-being of such members as well as employees and other volunteer members and the public with whom they are or may have been in contact. The costs for such examination and/or tests will be borne in full by Hanover County. Should the volunteer member choose another medical resource outside of the referral made by the Department, such costs will then be his or her responsibility. Failure of a member to submit to such required examination and/or test may provide just cause for disciplinary action to be taken against that volunteer. Medical examinations and tests required of volunteer members shall be addressed in greater detail in the Department’s Standard Operating Procedures. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) - 22 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) 108.2.9 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY Volunteer members shall comply with all regulations issued by the Hanover County Administrator pursuant to Policy 13.14 of the Human Resources Policies of Hanover County. Such regulations may require the reporting of possible exposure to communicable diseases and hazardous materials, identification and education of volunteer members who may be exposed to communicable diseases or hazardous materials and precautionary measures to be required of those members. 108.3 GENERAL CONDUCT - ALL MEMBERS 108.3.1 PERFORMANCE OF DUTY Members shall perform their duties as required or directed by law, this Policy Manual and Departmental regulations, orders, procedures, guidelines and protocols. All lawful duties required by competent authority shall be performed promptly as directed, notwithstanding the general assignment of duties and responsibilities. Uniformed members assigned to special duties are not relieved from taking proper action outside the scope of their specialized assignment when necessary. Members shall report for duty at the time and place required by assignment or orders and shall be properly uniformed, equipped and prepared to assume duty. 108.3.2 HUMAN RELATIONS Members are expected to perform their duties in an efficient, courteous and orderly manner, employing patience and good judgment at all times. Members shall refrain from harsh, profane or insolent language or acts, and shall be respectful and civil in their dealings with others. Displays of bias toward any person are prohibited. Members shall coordinate their efforts with all other members of the Department, Hanover County and other public and private agencies with the objective of ensuring maximum achievement and continuity of purpose through teamwork. All members are charged with the responsibility of fostering and maintaining a high degree of cooperation both within the Department and with all other agencies. Members shall conduct themselves in a manner which will best accomplish the Department’s mission and in accordance with this Policy Manual and the Human Resources Policies of Hanover County, as applicable. 108.3.3 PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY Members shall be held personally accountable for their actions. It is incumbent upon each member to fulfill his or her respective duties and advance the goals, mission, vision and values of the Department. Respect for and fulfillment of each individual’s responsibility is a basic condition of membership within the Department. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) - 23 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) 108.3.4 TRUTHFULNESS Members shall supply complete and truthful information when questioned by any authority in the chain of command about matters related to the performance of the member’s official duty and/or fitness to perform such duty. Members reporting infractions or violations or submitting complaints shall report only information that they know to be factual. Misrepresentation of facts and spreading of rumors is prohibited. 108.3.5 UNBECOMING CONDUCT Members shall conduct themselves at all times, both on and off duty, in such a manner as to reflect most favorably on the Department. Conduct shall be deemed to fail to meet that standard if it brings the Department into disrepute or reflects discredit upon the member or impairs the operation or efficiency of the Department or member. 108.3.6 FIREARMS Firearms shall not be carried by members while on#duty or while on any Department or Hanover County equipment. Firearms shall not be permitted or stored in any Department facility or vehicle unless approved by the Chief. Firearms on the person of a sworn officer of the Hanover County Fire Marshal’s Office, Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Virginia State Police, ATF or FBI are permitted on/in any Department or Hanover County facility or equipment at the discretion of the officer. 108.3.7 GAMBLING Members shall not indulge in gambling while on duty or while wearing a Department uniform or parts thereof, or any clothing bearing the Department’s identification. 108.3.8 DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE Members shall not have their ability to perform the duties of their position impaired by any alcohol or drugs, either legal or illegal, while on active duty or on call, while on Department property or Hanover County property in an official capacity, or at any time while operating a Department or Hanover County vehicle or equipment. Members shall not be under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol while on active duty or on call, while on Department property or Hanover County property in an official capacity, or at any time while operating a Department or Hanover County vehicle or equipment. Members shall not use alcohol at all while on duty or report for duty with the odor of alcohol on their breath. Members shall not transport drugs or alcohol in any Department or Hanover County vehicle. Members shall not wear the Department uniform or parts thereof, or any clothing bearing the Department’s identification while consuming or purchasing alcohol. Members shall not use, possess, sell, distribute or manufacture illegal drugs at any time, or assist another in such acts at any time. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) - 24 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) Members shall not bring onto, store or possess drugs or alcohol on Department premises, except for approved fund raising or other functions approved by the Chief and consistent with requirements of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. Members shall submit to alcohol or drug testing when requested to do so by a supervisory officer, as required under Section 15 of the Human Resources Policies of Hanover County. For purposes of this regulation, “drug” is defined as any substance, including any controlled substance, but excluding alcohol, taken into the body, which may impair one’s mental faculties and/or physical performance. 108.3.9 TOBACCO FREE POLICY Facilities, buildings and vehicles owned and operated by the Department and/or Hanover County shall be tobacco free. As such, smoking, e-cigarettes and all other tobacco products are prohibited in the interior of all facilities, buildings and vehicles owned and operated by the Department and/ or Hanover County. 108.3.10 MALINGERING Members shall be absent from duty because of sickness only when suffering from an illness or injury which would prevent the proper performance of duty or as otherwise provided for in Section 8 of the Human Resources Policies of Hanover County. Members shall not feign sickness or disability, or attempt to deceive a supervisory officer concerning a physical or medical condition. Notification of an absence due to sickness shall be made to the member’s supervisory officer prior to his or her scheduled reporting time as required in the Department’s Standard Operating Procedures. 108.3.11 CRIMINAL CHARGES AND CONVICTIONS Members, regardless of position title or status, are required to report all criminal charges and convictions against them through the chain of command to Assistant Chief of Administration immediately. Failure to report criminal charges and convictions may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the provisions of Section 13.3 of the Human Resources Policies of Hanover County. 108.3.12 REPORTING VIOLATIONS Members shall be alert to possible violations of this Policy Manual, applicable Hanover County or Department orders, regulations, procedures, guidelines and protocols, and applicable federal, State and local laws, and are expected to report such violations promptly. Such violations shall be reported to a superior officer, the Department’s Human Resources Analyst, Hanover County’s Internal Audit Department and/or Hanover County’s Human Resources Department, as appropriate. The chain of command may be bypassed for purposes of reporting a violation. The Fraud, Waste and Abuse Hotline is a means for reporting suspected wrongdoing involving fraud, waste and abuse of Hanover County and Hanover County Public Schools assets or Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) - 25 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) resources. The Hotline phone number is 365-6813. More information is available at https:// www.hanovercounty.gov/342/Reporting-Fraud-Waste-or-Abuse. Failure to report a violation shall be deemed complicity in the act and that member may be punished as a party to the infraction. 108.4 HONOR CODE Members shall subscribe to the following commitment throughout their tenure within the Department: I will not lie, cheat, steal, nor tolerate those who do. 108.5 DEPARTMENT VALUES 108.5.1 PRIDE Pride: The quality or state of being proud of one's own achievements or the achievements of those with whom he or she is closely associated. Members shall be held to high standards with attention to detail, accuracy, professional appearance, treatment of citizens, customers and coworkers, accountability, growth, willingness to learn and work ethic, and will be expected to behave in a manner that represents a strict adherence to moral and ethical values. 108.5.2 ACCOUNTABILITY Accountability: An obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions. Members shall display self-respect. They shall treat others as they wish to be treated. They shall hold great regard for all whom they serve, and protect their dignity by admitting to mistakes, using time wisely, knowing their position, apologizing when necessary and taking ownership by being honest, as well as having strong ethics and character. 108.5.3 COURAGE Courage: Mental or moral strength to venture, persevere and withstand danger, fear or difficulty. Members shall hold others accountable, ask questions when appropriate and speak succinctly and with candor. Members shall take the initiative to stand up for these values, combat complacency and act as strategic advisors. 108.5.4 TEAMWORK Teamwork: The combined action of a group of people, especially when effective and efficient. Members shall help others, be trustworthy and support and embrace the goals of the Department. They shall be committed to the team and open to accept and give constructive criticism. While participating in activities as active listeners, members shall make suggestions in a positive manner which will improve the team. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Conduct & Workforce Relations (POLICY) - 26 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 109 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Disciplinary Procedures and Review Process 109.1 EMPLOYEE DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES Employee members are subject to the Human Resources Policies of Hanover County, including those policies related to discipline and the Employee Grievance Procedure. The questioning of an employee member in relation to potential disciplinary action shall comply with the requirements outlined by the Firefighters and Emergency Medical Medical Technicians Procedural Guarantee Act in Title 9.1 Chapter 3 of the Code of Virginia. 109.2 VOLUNTEER DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES AND REVIEW PROCESS Volunteer members are subject to the Department’s Standard Operating Procedures relating to discipline and the volunteer review process for disciplinary issues that are not successfully resolved through informal methods. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Disciplinary Procedures and Review Process - Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS 27  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Chapter 2 - Organization and Administration Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Organization and Administration - 28 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS