Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual PDF

Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Chapter 9 - Safety Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved....

Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Chapter 9 - Safety Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Safety - 348 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 900 Procedures-Guidelines Manual General Safety (SOG) 900.1 PURPOSE Hanover Fire-EMS has an organizational commitment to safety. Providing a safe environment for all our members is a dynamic 24/7 responsibility of every member regardless of rank or experience. 900.2 SCOPE This policy applies to all operational members of Hanover Fire-EMS as it applies to training requirements. 900.3 PREREQUISITES None 900.4 RESPONSIBILITIES All members of Hanover Fire-EMS shall be responsible for the safety of personnel while on-duty. 900.5 PROCEDURE (a) The primary focus of all supervisors including acting officers shall be the safety of their crews. Unsafe acts will be stopped immediately. Unsafe conditions will be reported to the appropriate party. The condition will either be corrected or a warning device / barrier will be used to advise others of the potential hazards until repairs are made. 1. Emergency Incidents (a) Unless the Command Staff Officer or Safety positions are implemented via IMS, the Incident Commander shall be responsible for scene safety and all other functions of the Safety Officer. 2. Training Exercises (a) All safety practices shall be adhered to by all members during training exercises. The required minimum PPE shall be designated for the task assigned by the lead instructor. Heat and cold extremes should be considered in preparation for training. The officer in charge shall use due regard for safety considering the environment. 3. Station (a) All members shall act in a safe manner at all times. PPE such as eye protection and gloves shall be worn when deemed necessary by the officer in charge according to the needs of the task at hand. 4. Injuries (a) On duty injuries shall be managed in accordance to the Hanover County Policy as well as organizational policies and procedures. 900.6 REFERENCES Injury and Incident Reporting Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. General Safety (SOG) - 349 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual General Safety (SOG) 900.7 DEFINITIONS None 900.8 QUALITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY None Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. General Safety (SOG) - 350 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 901 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) 901.1 PURPOSE The purpose of the Metro Richmond Personnel Accountability System (PAS) is to ensure personnel and unit safety. The primary objective of the system is to assist supervisors in maintaining a constant awareness of the status, location, and functions of the personnel and/ or units under their command. The personnel accountability system is intended to meet the requirements of NFPA 1561 and will be operational on all fire/rescue incidents and training exercises. The PAS may be expanded, at the discretion of the incident commander, to meet the demands of the incident and provide basic incident-wide personnel accountability; or more detailed accounting of members working in high hazard areas or at major incidents. 901.2 DEFINITIONS Personal Responsibility: Each department member’s duty to understand his/her role in the accountability system including the use of Accountability components; the requirement to remain under supervision; the prohibition against freelancing; and the need to be constantly aware of the status of fellow crew members. Unit Accountability: A state of awareness whereby the status, locations, and functions of each individual in a unit are monitored and known by the Unit Leader and other command officer’s on- scene. Unit accountability should be documented by attaching name identifiers to Unit Riding Lists (URL’s). Scene Accountability: A state of awareness whereby the status, locations, functions and crew- count of each unit are monitored and known by the Incident Commander and other command officers on-scene. Scene accountability should be documented by attaching Unit Riding Lists to a Command Status Board. Unit Level Accountability: This level of accountability shall be implemented during the initial stages of incident operations, as responding units/crews arrive on scene and are given assignments by the initial IC (normally the officer/acting officer of the first arriving unit). Command Level Accountability: This level of accountability may be implemented by an officer / acting officer upon his/her arrival on the scene and after the transfer of command from the initial IC. Enhanced Command Level Accountability: This level of accountability may be initiated at the discretion of the IC when it becomes necessary to delegate the task of managing accountability and/or tracking a point-of-entry control due to complex accountability requirements. Check-in: A positive acknowledgement to a supervising authority that a person or unit is present or in attendance. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 351  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) PAR: Personnel Accountability Report is where each Unit/Crew Leader is contacted to positively affirm the unit’s location/assignment and the number of personnel attached to the unit. Site Credentials: An official accountability tag, ID tag, card or license that proves the individual is qualified to be on site and/or perform certain functions. Authorized Site Visitor: A qualified emergency responder that is neither from the department or mutual aid. (Example: VDOT, Homeland Security, FEMA, representative, etc.) or Non-emergency services personnel (example: news media, business/home owner, civilian contractor/utility worker) who at the Incident commanders discretion has a valid business reason to be present at the incident. Upon validation of credentials, the IC may attach the site visitor to his/her command. Freelancer: An emergency responder that is operating independent of supervision. Incident Perimeter: The area surrounding the site or incident that is off-limits to non-authorized personnel. Hot Zone or Hazardous Zone: The area within the incident perimeter that is dangerous and where entry is strictly controlled. Warm Zone: The area within the incident perimeter, but outside the hot zone, where operations are conducted and apparatus are staged. Cold Zone: The area outside the incident perimeter where there is no danger to civilians and where civilians will not interfere with operations. 901.3 EQUIPMENT The Richmond Metro PAS uses the following components to account for personnel: Metro Richmond Personnel Accountability Procedure: NAME IDENTIFIER Name Identifier - Every member will be issued individual accountability name identifiers. These identifiers will be printed with the member’s name and jurisdiction. UNIT IDENTIFER Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 352  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) Unit Identifier’s – Each department shall ensure that each emergency operations unit has an identifier that lists the apparatus name and the jurisdiction the unit represents. UNIT RIDING LIST Unit Riding List (URL) -- Each department shall ensure that each emergency operations division has a device that is capable of holding both the Unit and Name identifiers on a single mechanism that represents “who” from a department is riding on “which” apparatus. This URL shall be located in the cab of the vehicle in close visible proximity to the officer seat. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 353  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) COMMAND STATUS BOARD Command Status Board - Each Command Post will have some means to manage the accountability URLs. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 354  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) MAKE-UP KITS Each Department shall have an on-site ability to make-up all components of the accountability system. 901.4 ACCOUNTABILITY RESPONSIBILITIES It shall be the responsibility of the incident commander (IC) to ensure that the locations of all members operating at an emergency incident scene are tracked for the duration of the incident. The location of units/crews on the incident scene shall be continuously tracked, from the time of arrival to the time of departure from the scene. This task may be delegated, at the discretion of the IC, to allow the IC to focus on the overall management of incident scene operations. Members who are arriving in staff vehicles must report to staging/base, or to the IC to be assigned and properly accounted for. (a) All Crews - Work for division/group supervisors, section chiefs, branch directors, or the I.C. 1. Designated crews, assigned to the incident, and arriving on scene must maintain crew integrity. Minimum crew size is two (2) members. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 355  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) 2. Each crew must have at least one (1) portable radio; although one (1) portable radio for each crew member is recommended. 3. All crews must have a designated crew leader. 4. All crews will be assigned together, stay together and be demobilized together. (b) All Members 1. Must ensure that their individual identifier is placed in the proper riding position on the URL. 2. Must know who their unit/crew leader is at all times on the emergency incident scene. 3. Must maintain crew integrity at all times on the emergency incident scene. 4. Must maintain situational awareness, awareness of his/her exit air supply, and emergency escape route (if operating in an IDLH atmosphere). (c) Incident Commanders, Operations Section Chiefs and Branch Directors(StrategicApplication) 1. Addresses the strategic level of accountability by tracking all incident resources; branches, divisions/groups, and crews/units by location and assignment on a tactical worksheet. 2. Command/Operations must know who the branch directors and division/group supervisors are and the crews/units assigned to each branch/division/group. 3. Command must obtain personnel accountability reports (PAR) from division/ group supervisors and unit/crew leaders. (d) Division and Group Supervisors (Tactical Application) 1. Addresses tactical level Accountability by tracking all units/crews assigned to divisions/groups. 2. Division/group supervisors must know the location and function of all assigned units/crews. 3. Division/group supervisors must be in their assigned area to maintain close supervision of assigned resources. 4. Division/group supervisors must obtain PAR’s of all units/crews assigned to their division/group. (e) Unit and Crew Leaders (Task Application) 1. Addresses the task level of accountability and requires knowledge of the location of each firefighter and what they are doing at all times. 2. Unit/crew leader shall maintain a current Unit Riding List (URL) of all personnel responding on the unit. Unit/crew leaders must obtain PAR’s for their unit/crew, which is a confirmation that all members assigned are accounted for and have an adequate exit air supply (if operating in an IDLH atmosphere). Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 356  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) 3. Unit/crew leaders must maintain crew integrity, maintain situational awareness, and awareness of their crew’s exit air supply (if operating in an IDLH atmosphere). 4. Unit/crew leaders must ensure that the Unit Riding List (URL) is delivered to the regionally designated accountability location prior to performing their assignment on the emergency scene. 901.5 LEVELS OF ACCOUNTABILITY The PAS level activated depends on the size and magnitude of the incident, and the type and degree of hazards members are exposed to. The three levels of personnel accountability and related procedures are: (a) Unit Level – Unit Level Accountability shall be implemented during the initial stages of incident operations, as responding units/crews arrive on scene and are given assignments by the initial IC (normally the officer/acting officer of the first arriving unit). The following steps shall be taken to implement Unit Level Accountability: 1. The first arriving unit shall serve as the initial collection point for all Unit Riding Lists (URL’s). 2. Upon the arrival and assignment of a unit/crew at an incident scene, the officer/ crew leader shall be responsible for placing the Unit Riding List (URL) in the first arriving units’ Officers seat. 3. If a unit/crew is assigned to a remote area away from the initial collection point, the Unit Riding List (URL) shall remain accessible and visible in proximity to the Officer’s seat until collected by the accountability assistant. (b) Command Level – This level of accountability may be implemented by an officer/ acting officer upon his/her arrival on the scene and after the transfer of command from the initial IC. The following steps shall be taken to implement Command Level Accountability: 1. The IC’s designee shall retrieve the Unit Riding Lists (URL’s) of all on-scene units/crews from the Officer’s seat of the first arriving unit and take them to the command post. 2. Command Status Boards should be used by the IC to collect URL’s to track the location of units/crews under their command when Command Level Accountability has been established. 3. If tracking the location of units/crews on the incident scene becomes unmanageable due to the size or complexity of an incident, the IC should consider implementing Enhanced Level Accountability. (c) Enhanced Command Level – This level of accountability may be initiated at the discretion of the IC when it becomes necessary to delegate the task of collecting Unit Riding Lists (URL’s) to an accountability assistant. This action does not relieve the IC of the overall responsibility of incident accountability; rather it provides a more specific base of accountability. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 357  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) 1. All incidents which require point-of-entry control and/or those incidents with extremely hazardous conditions (confined space, big box, etc.) SHALL require Enhanced Command Level Accountability. 2. The following steps shall be taken to implement Enhanced Command Level Accountability: (a) Formally declare the initiation of Enhanced Command Level Accountability over the radio and relay the accountability expectations for on-scene and arriving units. (b) The tasks of collecting Unit Riding Tags and tracking the location of members may be delegated to the supervisory level in the command structure that is best suited for this assignment at a given incident. When selecting the supervisory level in the command structure for the delegation of accountability tasks, the IC should consider the ability of supervisors to effectively track the location of members while remaining in a non- hazardous area. Consider using: 1. Section Chiefs 2. Branch Directors 3. Division or Group Supervisors (c) Command Status Boards should be used by the IC to collect URL’s and track the location of units/crews under their command when Enhanced Command Level Accountability has been established. (d) Special considerations for Enhanced Level Accountability: (e) Point-of-Entry Control - When complex accountability incidents are encountered, (i.e., confined space, technical rescue incidents, high-rise, big box, hazardous materials incidents, etc.) the IC should consider establishing a point-of-entry control. This will provide stricter accountability for those members who enter into complex accountability environments. 1. When point-of-entry control is established, the tasks of collecting Unit Tags/ nametags and tracking the location of those members who are operating within a complex accountability area shall be delegated to the division/group supervisor or branch directors responsible for that area (i.e., Extrication Group, Haz-Mat Group, etc.) (f) Lobby Control Situations – When units/crews are working within the guidelines of the Metro Richmond High Rise Procedure, accountability URL’s will be collected by the Lobby officer. (g) Extreme Hazard Areas -- When tracking the location of members who are working in extremely hazardous areas (i.e. confined space rescue, building collapse search, big box), the supervisor or their designee, shall record the time each member entered the area, the air pressure in his/her SCBA cylinder and the time he/she exited the area. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 358  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) 901.6 PERSONNEL ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT (PAR) (a) Personnel Accountability Reports (PAR) involves a roll call and shall be used to confirm the safety and location of all members operating at an incident scene where IDLH environments exist (i.e., structure fires, carbon monoxide incidents, etc.) or at the discretion of the IC. 1. Should the situation arise in which a PAR results in a lost / missing unit or person, the accountability assistant/individual conducting the PAR will immediately notify the IC who will initiate appropriate departmental actions, while simultaneously completing the PAR. 2. Personnel Accountability Reports (PAR) shall include statements that relay the following information: (a) Unit, crew, division, group or team, designation (i.e., “Richmond Quint 5”). (b) Current location of the unit, crew, group, or team (i.e., “floor two (2)”). (c) Number of members present and accounted within the direct line of sight, touch or voice of the reporting leader. (i.e., “Henrico Engine 1, floor 2, PAR 3). (d) Any members not in the direct line of sight touch or voice of the reporting leader will be reported. (i.e., “Hanover Engine 10, floor 2, PAR 3 with one member outside). NOTE: This is not a statement of accountability, rather an indication to the IC or designee that the member is not with the reporting crew. (e) When a PAR results in an unaccounted member of a unit/crew, see section VII. Missing or Trapped Personnel. (b) The IC or designee shall be responsible for ensuring that PAR’s are requested on the assigned TAC channel from units, crews, divisions, groups or teams operating at an incident scene at the following times: 1. At 20 minutes elapsed time of working any incident presenting the danger for possible loss of crew accountability and every 20 minutes thereafter until it can be confirmed that an IDLH environment no longer exists at the discretion of the IC. 2. Whenever the IC feels that there is a need to confirm the location and assignment of any units, crews, divisions or groups. 3. When there is a report of a missing or trapped member or crew. 4. When any sudden hazardous event occurs (i.e., backdraft, flashover, explosion or collapse). 5. Following the evacuation of all members from a structure and/or a change in strategy from offensive to defensive mode. (c) During Unit Level and Command Level Accountability, the IC or designee (accountability assistant) may call individual units, crews, divisions or groups and request a PAR. When conducting a PAR, the following actions shall be taken: Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 359  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) 1. The IC or designee (accountability assistant) shall announce that a PAR will be conducted (i.e., “All Units from Command, stand-by for PAR.” 2. The IC or designee (accountability assistant) shall restrict normal radio transmissions on the assigned TAC channel during the PAR (i.e., “all traffic standby unless you have emergency traffic”). All members on the assigned TAC channel shall refrain from transmitting radio messages during a PAR, with the following exceptions: (1) they are Metro providing a PAR or (2) need to notify command of an “urgent” or emergency situation (i.e., structural collapse, flashover, mayday, member down, etc.) 3. The IC or designee (accountability assistant) shall contact each unit, crew, division or group operating at the incident scene on the assigned TAC channel and request a PAR (i.e., “Chesterfield Engine 1 from Accountability, PAR”). 4. Upon completing a PAR, an announcement shall be made on the assigned TAC channel that all members have been accounted for (i.e., “Hull Street Command from Accountability, all personnel have been accounted for”). 5. The IC shall release the TAC channel for normal radio transmissions (i.e., “All units from Command, Tac___ is no longer on Standby”). (d) During Enhanced Command Level Accountability, the following steps shall be taken when requesting PAR’s: 1. The IC or designee (accountability assistant) shall announce on the primary TAC channel that a PAR will be conducted. 2. The IC shall restrict normal radio transmissions on the assigned TAC channel during the PAR (i.e., “all traffic standby unless you have emergency traffic”). All members on the assigned TAC channel shall refrain from transmitting radio messages during a PAR, with the following exceptions: (1) they are providing a PAR or (2) need to notify command of an “urgent” or emergency situation (i.e., structural collapse, flashover, mayday, member down, etc.) 3. The IC or designee (accountability assistant) shall contact each division/group supervisor at the level of the command structure to which accountability tasks have been delegated, and confirm the units that have been assigned to his/ her area of responsibility (i.e., “Division 5 from Accountability, I show Richmond Quint 5, Chesterfield Engine 2, Hanover Truck 1, and Henrico Medic 13 assigned to your division”). 4. Upon receiving a confirmation of units assigned to a division/group supervisor, the IC or designee (accountability assistant) shall request a PAR from the division/group supervisor. (i.e., “Division 5 from Accountability, PAR”) 5. Each supervisor shall conduct a PAR of all units/crews operating in his/her area of responsibility (face-to-face is the preferred method). Upon completing a PAR, each supervisor shall report the status of members assigned to his/her area of responsibility to the IC or designee (accountability assistant) (i.e., “Accountability from Division 5, floor 5, PAR 12”). Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 360  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) 6. Upon receiving status reports from all supervisors at the level of the command structure to which accountability tasks have been delegated, an announcement shall be made on the primary TAC channel that all members have been accounted for. 7. The IC shall release the TAC channel for normal radio transmissions (i.e., “All units from Command, Tac___ is no longer on Standby”). 901.7 MISSING OR TRAPPED PERSONNEL (a) When a PAR results in an unaccounted member or critical life safety condition of a unit/crew, the following steps will be implemented, until the situation is resolved. Any member who is absent from any unit, crew, division or group should be presumed missing until he/she is otherwise determined to be safe. 1. The identity (Agency / unit, last name, and first name or names) and assignment shall be immediately reported to the IC through the appropriate supervisory levels of the command structure. 2. When notified of an unaccounted member or critical life safety condition of unit/ crew the IC shall initiate appropriate emergency actions. (b) NOTE: An unaccounted member or crew shall not stop the PAR. The IC can assign a resource to check on the unaccounted crew; however the PAR must continue to determine if more than one person or crew is unaccounted for. 901.8 DEMOBILIZATION (a) No individual is to collect or manipulate any accountability device without authorization from IC or designee. (b) No unit or crew is to leave without being properly released by command. (c) As units are released from the incident, the Unit/Crew Leader will retrieve the Unit Riding List (URL) from the IC or designee (accountability assistant). The IC or his designee (accountability assistant) will make sure that all Unit Riding Lists (URL’s) are retrieved and that all resources have been demobilized. (d) Hanover Fire EMS personnel will implement the PAS on all incidents. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 361  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Personnel Accountability System (Regional) (SOG) 901.9 ACCOUNTABILITY TAG COLOR SCHEME Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Personnel Accountability System (Regional) Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS (SOG) - 362  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 902 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Respiratory Protection (SOP) 902.1 PURPOSE The purpose of this procedure is to establish criteria for the selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment to protect employees and others from hazardous atmospheres. Additionally, it is to describe and outline the necessary testing, inspection, and documentation processes to support a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Plan to meet the requirements of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134, Respiratory Protection Standard. 902.2 SCOPE This SOP shall apply to all employees and volunteers of the department who may be or are required to wear respiratory protection during firefighting or other emergency operations where an immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) environment/condition or other respiratory hazard exists. 902.3 PREREQUISITES (a) Employees and volunteers must be categorized as “Entry” level responders with training and credentialing to enter and operate within an IDLH environment.This shall be department level endorsement/approval which will be documented and maintained with the Department’s records management system. (b) Annual Fit Testing for all employees and volunteers. (c) Annual Physicals for employees. (d) Semi-Annual respiratory clearance exams for our “entry” level emergency response volunteers. (e) Annual SCBA, Respirator, and Respiratory Protection Plan training. 902.4 RESPONSIBILITIES The Fire-EMS Chief shall have the overall responsibility of the administration of the Respiratory Protection Program including: (a) Development of Respiratory Protection Program (b) Development of policies, rules, and regulations (c) Developing and implementing a budget to administer the Respiratory Protection Program (d) Administrator appoint a Chief Officer to serve as the Respiratory Program (e) Determining those personnel required to participate in the program (f) Assist the Program Administrator in the Respiratory Protection Program The Program Administrator shall be the Battalion Chief of Risk Management and Health and Safety assigned to the Administrative Section of the Department. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Respiratory Protection (SOP) - 363 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Respiratory Protection (SOP) (a) Identify work areas or operations that require individuals to wear respirators. Select the respiratory protection options. (b) Develop and implement the Respiratory Protection Program. (c) Ensure that the medical and testing requirements as outlined in Pre-requisites portion of this SOP are meet and adhered. (d) Provide for annual fit testing for all individuals expected to wear a respirator. (e) Help develop respirator training with the Battalion Chief assigned to the Training Section and ensure proper respirator documentation. (f) Evaluate and update the program as needed. (g) Shall ensure that the air compressors, including air trailers, and fixed station cascade systems are serviced and tested annually. Company Officers shall be knowledgeable of the program requirements and ensure that the program is understood and followed by all personnel under their supervision. Duties of the Company Officer shall include: (a) Ensure that individuals under their supervision have received appropriate training and fit testing. (b) Ensure the availability of respiratory protection for all personnel working in a hazardous atmosphere (c) Enforce the use of respiratory protection when necessary. (d) Ensure that respiratory protection device is properly cleaned after each use, maintained, and stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions. (e) Monitor work areas and operations to identify respiratory hazards. (f) The Air Monitoring SOG (SOG 300.14) shall be one (1) reference that the Company Officer uses to make this assessment. (g) Report to the Program Administrator any individual having difficulty using respiratory protection. (h) Ensure that all personnel operating in hazardous atmospheres follow the Department SOG for Air Monitoring (SOG 300.14). The duties of Department personnel categorized as “entry” firefighters and outlined in the pre- requisites section of this SOP will include: (a) Shall wear respiratory protection when required and in the manner in which they were trained. (b) Shall care for, maintain, and store respiratory protection as instructed. (c) Shall inform their Company Officer if the SCBA face piece no longer fits well and request to be refitted with the proper fitting face piece. (d) Inform the Company Officer if they are having difficulty using the respiratory protection device. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Respiratory Protection (SOP) - 364 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Respiratory Protection (SOP) (e) Inform the Company Officer or Program Administrator of any respiratory hazards that are not adequately addressed in the workplace. 902.5 PROCEDURE Selection and Use of Respiratory Protection Devices (a) Respirators shall be selected for Hanover Fire-EMS purchase and use from those approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) under the provisions of 42 CFR 84. Current Department Approved Respirators 1. Scott AV 3000 Sure Seal, Scott AV3000HT Sure Seal 2. MSA Comfo-Elite. Model numbers 490492 (Small), 490491 (Medium), 490493 (Large) 3. Avon C50 Mask.Model Numbers 70501/189 (Small), 70501/188 (Medium), 70501/187 (Large) 4. Approved filter/cartridges for the MSA Comfo-Elite are: Item number 052683, P100 Cartridge, 40MM 5. Approved filter/cartridges for the Avon C50 Mask are: CSCF50, Part Number 72601-71, and CBRNFI2B, Part Number 71510-1 (a) Hanover Fire-EMS shall be responsible for ensuring proper respiratory protection for emergency field personnel.Respiratory protection will be provided by the SCBA.The SCBA shall be donned and used for firefighting and other hazards that are IDLH. 1. Scott Air Pak NxG2 SCBAs are the Department’s approved SCBAs to be used by Hanover Fire-EMS personnel for respiratory protection during field operations. 2. Removal of SCBA shall be in accordance to the Air Monitoring SOG (SOG 300.14) and/or at the discretion of the Incident Commander or Incident Safety Officer. (b) Respiratory Protection shall be required for personnel assigned to the Fire Marshal Office (FMO) in accordance to the Air Monitoring SOG (SOG 300.14).It shall the responsibility of the Incident Commander and/or the Fire Marshal assigned to the incident to determine if the Fire Marshal will use a traditional SCBA or air purifying respirator (APR) for respiratory protection as they conduct their investigation. When APRs are in use, individuals shall ensure they have appropriate eye protection when necessary. (c) Respiratory Protection shall be required for personnel assigned to the Hanover Fire- EMS Technical Rescue Team (TRT). 1. TRT personnel shall don and use the Department approved Scott SKA-PAK Plus or supplied air breathing apparatus (SABA System) for TRT operations in any potential IDLH atmospheres or where there is a potential for changing hazardous atmospheres to occur. 2. Personnel assigned to the Hanover Fire-EMS TRT may use air purifying respirators (APRs) for exterior concrete breeching or cutting operations with Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Respiratory Protection (SOP) - 365 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Respiratory Protection (SOP) the concurrence of the Incident Commander and/or the Incident Safety Officer. When APRs are in use, individuals shall ensure they have appropriate eye protection when necessary. 3. The TRT group/division supervisor, Incident Commander, and/or the Incident Safety Officer will determine whether the entry team(s) will use SCBA or SABA for any confined space or below grade incident. 4. The TRT group/division supervisor and/or the Incident Safety Officer will determine when the removal of breathing apparatus is permissible and notify the Incident Commander. (d) Respiratory Protection shall be required for personnel assigned to the Hanover Fire- EMS Tactical Medic Support Team for the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. (e) The Incident Commander and/or the group/division supervisor will determine the type of respiratory protection necessary including the appropriate filter selection for their assigned APR. SCBA Maintenance and Repair (a) All maintenance and repair for our Scott Air Packs will be facilitated and addressed by personnel assigned to SCBA Shop (Station 1).The SCBA Shop Lead Technician will maintain a roster of Scott certified technicians and specialist to conduct the necessary routine maintenance and repairs of Scott Air Packs and face pieces, RIT/RIC Paks, SKA-PAKS Plus, SABA System and mobile/stationary breathing air compressors. At no time, shall any personnel who is not a Scott certified technician or specialist from Scott attempt to replace components or make adjustments or repairs beyond the manufacturer’s recommendations. Under no circumstances shall station personnel make any repairs or alterations to breathing apparatus. 1. When a station or person has an air pack that is in need of repair, remove the pack from service, tag the pack with a detailed description of the problem, create a Corrigo Work Order and record the number on a Logistics pick up tag and place the pack in the Logistics pickup area at your station. A representative from the Logistics Section will pick up the pack, and whenever possible leave a spare behind for you to use. (b) All SCBA bottles will be maintained and serviced according to NFPA 1404 and NFPA 1852 standards, including the hydro testing of bottles every five (5) years with not more than two (2) cycles of hydro testing per bottle, making the useful recommended life of a SCBA bottle, fifteen (15) years. (c) The SCBA Shop will be responsible for the adherence and compliance to these standards. Respiratory Protection Program Records and Documentation (a) Documentation and Record Keeping is a critical element of the respiratory protection program.Records used shall be established approved department templates, including SCBA inspection records, SCBA Maintenance/Repair records, Fit Testing Records, Medical Exams and Respiratory Clearance Records (maintained by contracted Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Respiratory Protection (SOP) - 366 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Respiratory Protection (SOP) Occupational Health Services); and Air Utility/Air Trailer/Cascade Systems Air Quality Tests. (b) Records and Documentation will be maintained and archived for the following period of time: SCBA Inspections One (1) Year SCBA Maintenance/Repair Records Life of Equipment Air Quality Tests One (1) Year Fit Testing Records One (1) Year Respiratory Clearance Exams Length of employment/volunteer time + 30 Years Training Five (5) Years Records of Who Filled Cylinders One (1) Year Fit Testing (a) All employees and volunteer emergency responders who are categorized as “Entry” are required to have annual fit testing. (b) Personnel assigned APRs and SCBA Masks shall be fit tested annually and bemedically cleared to wear such devices. (c) Annual fit testing will be coordinated by the Airpack Specialty Shop. The Airpack Specialty Shop will work with each Station's leadership to coordinate the delivery of the fit testing machine for testing to take place. coordination will be mutually agreeable to the station scheduled for the fit testing and availability and schedule of Logistics Section personnel. (d) Scheduled fit testing will coordinate with the month of the calendar year and corresponding station number: For example, Station 1 will be scheduled for annual fit testing in January, Station 2 in February, etc. (a) If personnel are unable to attend their station’s assigned fit testing dates, then they are welcome to attend another station’s fit test date. (b) If a volunteer does not maintain their annual fit test requirement, then their department assigned turn-out gear and personal protective equipment (PPE) will be retrieved and held at the Eckert Logistic Warehouse until the employee or volunteer completes their fit testing. If after sixty (60) days, the person has not completed their required annual fit testing then their turn-out gear and PPE will be reassigned and the person will be categorized as “In-Active” in the Department’s records management system. (c) All personnel who qualify to be fit tested as defined in this SOP shall adhere to the Department’s grooming SOP, with specific emphasis on facial hair standards to not interfere with the mask seal on the employee or volunteer’s face. (d) Fit tests from other jurisdictions are not acceptable. (e) Fit testing documentation and record keeping will be maintained in Target Solutions. (f) It is the member's responsibility to upload their fit test record to Target Solutions. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Respiratory Protection (SOP) - 367 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Respiratory Protection (SOP) Medical Evaluations and Respiratory Clearance Exams (a) All annual physicals will be conducted in accordance with NFPA 1582. (b) Volunteer Emergency Responders who are categorized as “Entry” will have respiratory clearance examinations every two (2) years. (c) Volunteers in this category will not receive their annual fit testing until their semi-annual respiratory clearance exam is completed and they are approved to wear respiratory protection devices. (d) Medical physicals from other jurisdictions will not be accepted. (e) Volunteer Emergency Responders who are categorized as “Entry” will have their respiratory clearance examination scheduled through the Department of Fire-EMS Human Resource Section. (f) The Department Occupational Medical Provider (OMP) determines fit for duty status based on medical assessments. Their finding supersedes findings from personal medical providers. (g) Personnel who fail to attend scheduled appointments with the OMP are subject to a "no-show fee." (h) Personnel are required to be fit for duty as a minimum position requirement. The OMP may conduct additional screening or request additional testing from the members primary care provider. 902.6 REFERENCES 29 CFR 1910.134, Respiratory Protection Standard. OSHA 1910.156 NFPA 921, Guide to Fire and Explosion Investigations NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Programs. NFPA 1582, Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments NFPA 1852, Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Hanover County Health and Safety Manual, Section 8, Respiratory Protection Hanover Fire-EMS Air Monitoring SOG Hanover Fire-EMS Grooming SOP Hanover Fire-EMS Volunteer Personnel Classification and Requirement Scott NxG2 Air Pack Manual 902.7 QUALITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY (a) All personnel are accountable to the adherence of this SOP. (b) The governance section of this SOP clearly outlines the quality control measures to ensure the implementation and growth of this SOP.It is incumbent upon the Fire-EMS Chief, Program Administrator of the Respiratory Protection Plan, and the leaders, both formal and informal, to be accountable for the institution and imbedding of this SOP within the Department culture, behavior, and practices. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Respiratory Protection (SOP) - 368 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Respiratory Protection (SOP) Program Evaluation (a) Effectiveness of the Respiratory Protection Plan shall be evaluated and corrective actions taken to ensure the plan is properly implemented. Hanover Fire-EMS will regularly consult with personnel to assess their views on the effectiveness of the plan and identify any areas of improvement. (b) The evaluation will be conducted by the Program Administrator with assistance from the Operation Section Battalion Chiefs and the Battalion Chief assigned to the Training Section. The evaluation will ensure: Procedures for purchasing of approved equipment are in place; All firefighters are being properly fitted with respiratory protection; All firefighters are properly trained; The proper equipment, cleaning, inspection, and maintenance procedures are implemented; The required records are being kept; and Changes are implemented to correct deficiencies and areas of improvement. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Respiratory Protection (SOP) - 369 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 903 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Cancer Prevention (SOG) 903.1 PURPOSE Department personnel should take every reasonable action to reduce the risk of acute and chronic occupational exposure to carcinogens and other toxins. This document establishes a procedure for reducing exposure to hazardous substances during fire suppression and overhaul activities. This procedure has been developed to provide a quick method for the firefighter to immediately remove as much of the contaminants as possible from his/her skin, tools, equipment, and apparatus. This procedure is designed to be implemented immediately after a fire or other hazardous exposure. 903.2 SCOPE All department personnel. 903.3 PREREQUISITES None 903.4 RESPONSIBILITIES The company officer shall ensure that all decontamination equipment and tools are maintained and that their personnel consistently follow decontamination procedures. 903.5 PROCEDURE (a) Use Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) from initial attack to completion of overhaul. (b) Perform gross field decontamination of PPE to remove products of combustion with the provided decon kit and utilizing the following procedure: 1. Kit Contents (a) 5-gallon bucket with lid (x1) (b) Container baby soap (x1) (c) Container of hand wipes (x1) (d) Hand sanitizer (x1) (e) Brush with handle (x1) (f) Large trash bags (x6) (c) Recognize the need for and type of decontamination. 1. Dry – Brushing off materials 2. Wet – Flushing off materials (d) The priority list for conducting decontamination after exposure to any toxic environment or atmosphere should be: (a) Personnel (b) PPE and uniforms Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Cancer Prevention (SOG) - 370 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Cancer Prevention (SOG) (c) Apparatus passenger compartments (d) Tools and equipment (e) While utilizing the appropriate protective equipment (Full PPE with isolation gloves etc.), brush off all large particles from the firefighters PPE, working from the head down.Taking into consideration that brushing off particles will cause them to become airborne. (f) When wet decon is appropriate, fill the five gallon bucket with water and mix in an appropriate amount of soap. (g) Use soapy water and scrub brush to decontaminate the face piece, full PPE, SCBA harness and bottle. Rinse completely. (h) Use wipes to remove as much soot as possible from head, face, neck, arms and hands immediately and while still on scene. (i) Once back at the station, wash your contaminated uniform. (j) Shower and change into a clean uniform and undergarments. (k) All areas of the apparatus that are exposed to products of combustion should be cleaned thoroughly, paying particular attention to the interior riding compartment. (l) All tools and hose should be properly cleaned and placed back on the apparatus. (m) Restock the Emergency Scene Decontamination Kit as needed. (n) Use hand wipes to remove products of combustion from head, neck, jaw, throat, under arms and hands immediately on scene. (o) The department will carry out a hood exchange program on the emergency scene.After gross decon, personnel will deliver their hood to the Battalion Chief on scene and a clean hood will be provided in exchange. (p) After a gross decon on the scene, a detailed cleaning of PPE, gloves and helmets immediately after a fire at the station will be completed. (q) There shall be no transporting of contaminated PPE and/or uniforms in passenger compartments of department staff or personal vehicles.If no other transportation option exists, PPE shall be gross washed and placed in a closed plastic trash bag. (r) Shower thoroughly after a fire or other hazardous exposure. (s) While on duty, all operational personnel shall maintain a minimum of one (1) clean work uniform and undergarments at all times.Work uniforms should be laundered at stations to minimize the potential of contaminating family members and personal property. (t) Decon fire apparatus interior and equipment after a fire or other hazardous exposure, with cleaning wipes or soap and water. (u) Keep all PPE out of living, eating and/or sleeping quarters. (v) Utilize bay ventilation/exhaust removal system – Air scrubbers/Large exhaust fans/ Plymovent. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Cancer Prevention (SOG) - 371 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Cancer Prevention (SOG) (w) All gas powered equipment should be operated outside of the apparatus bay and away from any open doors.In situations where it is absolutely necessary to operate inside the apparatus bay (e.g. hazardous weather), all bay doors shall be opened prior to operating the equipment.Doors leading to living areas shall remain closed until the process is complete. (x) During the cleaning of apparatus bay floors, the floors shall be washed down.Personnel should be aware that sweeping can cause particulates to become airborne, and should consider the use of a dust mask.Leaf blowers are prohibited from being used to clean bay floors. (y) Vehicle idling time should be minimized in the apparatus bay.Any maintenance issues, such as air leaks, that cause units to idle in the bay for prolonged periods shall be reported through the appropriate process and addressed by Logistics as soon as possible. (z) Apparatus should not be started until all personnel are on board with the doors closed. (aa) Stop using any tobacco products. (ab) Use sunscreen and protective hats when appropriate. (ac) Follow annual cancer screening guidelines with your physician. 903.6 REFERENCES None 903.7 DEFINITIONS None 903.8 QUALITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY Decontamination equipment inventory shall be a part of regular apparatus checks to ensure a ready state. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Cancer Prevention (SOG) - 372 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 904 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Driving (SOP) 904.1 PURPOSE The purpose of this policy is to establish procedures for qualifying to drive and/or operate vehicles owned or used by the Department. It was developed to identify minimum standards for personnel who are allowed to drive or operate an emergency vehicle, and to establish minimum safety regulations for the operation of a motorized vehicles. In addition, this policy provides governance on punitive measures for preventable incidents/accidents and requalification expectations and standards for personnel to retain their driving status. 904.2 SCOPE This policy shall apply to all personnel of the Hanover Fire-EMS Department driving or operating County vehicles or vehicles that are doing business as Hanover County. 904.3 PREREQUISITES General (a) Drivers shall be members of the Department or authorized drivers by the insurance carrier. (b) Anyone operating a vehicle must possess a valid Virginia Driver’s License and be carried on their person. (c) All personnel shall furnish proof of their possession of a valid Virginia Driver’s License anytime that they are requested to do so by a supervisor. (d) All personnel of the Department shall comply with county government policies and guidelines regarding the operation of county vehicles. (e) The use of audible and/or visual alerting mechanisms such as, but not limited to, warning lights and sirens shall not be used in personnel’s personally owned vehicle (POV) when responding to emergencies. (f) Personnel shall not respond to to emergency incidents in their POV. (g) The privilege of driving a County vehicle shall be denied in the case of any applicant or Department personnel with any conviction of a felony involving the operation of a motor vehicle, or with a current DMV Record reflecting a total cumulative point total in excess of six (6) within in a twenty-four (24) month period.This is not the total point value.For example, if a person has +4 on their driving record in month 1 of the 24- month period, and then upon evaluation in month 23 the same person has a point value of -3, that person would be in violation of the county policy, because they had a cumulative point value of seven (7).Should there be a conflict in interpretation, the official county driving policy will supersede our Department driving policy. (h) The Fire-EMS Chief or their designee can suspend and/or deny driving privileges for any applicant or Department personnel whose pattern of driving, convictions/ pending charges, or physical condition is found to jeopardize the safe performance of County operations. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Driving (SOP) - 373 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Driving (SOP) Vehicle Classifications (a) For the purposes of this policy, motorized vehicles shall be divided into two (2) categories:Category 1 and Category 2. (b) Category 1 vehicles are those vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight of 26,000lbs or less. (c) Category 2 vehicles are those vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight of 26,000lbs or more. (d) No Personnel shall be allowed to drive or operate a Category 2 vehicle unless he/she has successfully completed the Department’s driver#training program, or is a student driver under the direct supervision of a qualified driver and/or officer while operating in a non#emergency setting. Training (a) Category 1 drivers must complete the Ambulance/Medic Driver Operations Guide (b) Category 2 drivers must complete Driver/Pump Operator Programs Manual: 104.1 Mission 904.4 RESPONSIBILITIES (a) Personnel shall provide verification of a valid VA driver’s license on the first duty day of each month to their immediate supervisor. (b) Personnel shall report any change in the status of their driver’s license to their immediate supervisor. The supervisor shall forward this information to the Department’s Human Resource Analyst through normal chain of command. (c) Drivers shall be responsible for the safe and prudent operation of their vehicle in all situations. (d) Officers or acting officers in the Operations Division are responsible for the actions of the driver. (e) The Department Safety Officer shall monitor the status of all personnel of the Department to ensure that all those who drive and operate vehicles have the proper training, possess valid driver’s licenses, are insurable, and have completed all requirements as outlined in this policy. (f) Drivers shall be responsible for ensuring that all of their vehicle’s safety equipment is functioning properly, equipment is secured, and their vehicles are safe to drive prior to operation. (g) Drivers should not operate the communications radio when there is a second member available. The driver should limit distractions and focus full attention on the safe operation of the vehicle. (h) Drivers of engines, trucks, rescues, and ambulances shall not use any form of mobile device while driving. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Driving (SOP) - 374 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Driving (SOP) (i) It shall be the responsibility of the immediate supervisor to ensure all applicable prerequisites, certifications; practical training, tests, and documentation have been completed and apply to all drivers. 904.5 PROCEDURE General (a) Personnel operating emergency vehicles under non#emergency conditions will adhere to all rules, regulations, and laws set forth under the motor vehicle code for the Commonwealth of Virginia. (b) When operating under emergency conditions, personnel will exercise due regard for their safety, and the safety of others at all times. (c) Prior to placing vehicle in motion, the driver shall ensure that all crew personnel are seated and belted. Ambulance passengers in the front passenger seat of the vehicle shall wear their seat belt. (d) All occupants in the patient compartment care area of the ambulance should wear the restraints provided when practical. This is with the understanding that at times, the requirements of patient care may not allow personnel of the Department to remain in the provided restraints. (e) All traffic control devices, (traffic lights, stop signs, yield signs, etc.) shall be obeyed while responding to emergency calls. Vehicles will be brought to a complete stop prior to proceeding through an intersection with a stop sign, or red traffic signal. (f) Vehicles shall not be operated at speeds faster than conditions safely allow (e.g. fog, rain, snow and ice will require a slower speed to insure safety).It remains the responsibility of the driver and officer to always proceed with due regard for safety. (g) When responding under emergency response conditions, the audible siren and warning lights shall be activated continuously according to state law.When operating vehicles in emergency response mode, the driver shall not exceed more than ten (10) miles per hour (mph) of the posted speed limit. Approach to Intersections (a) When an emergency vehicle must approach an intersection where all lanes are blocked with traffic, the driver and officer must determine due regard for safety and make a decision to turn off emergency equipment until traffic proceeds.Do not “force” vehicles through an intersection. (b) When approaching a controlled intersection (stop sign or traffic light) with a negative right#of#way (red light or stop sign), the emergency vehicle shall come to a complete stop until all other traffic in the intersection has yielded the right-of#way. (c) The maximum allowable speed through any intersection shall be the posted speed limit. (d) Passing other emergency vehicles on an emergency response is dangerous.If necessary, this shall be done with extreme caution, and when possible, should only be conducted after the driver of the other emergency vehicle is informed. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Driving (SOP) - 375 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Driving (SOP) Approach to Arriving on Incident Location/Scene (a) The first officer on the scene shall evaluate the need for other responding apparatus to continue on an emergency response. Whenever possible, other responding apparatus shall be advised to continue in a non#emergency mode using radio terminology (non- emergent). (b) On approaching the emergency scene, all drivers and officers shall watch for emergency vehicles approaching from other directions. Backing of Apparatus (a) Personnel shall wear their traffic safety vest and/or bunker coat for visibility when assigned “spotter/guide” responsibilities. (b) The backing of apparatus shall be avoided whenever possible. All drivers shall use at least one (1) ground guide any time any emergency response vehicle needs to travel backwards. When possible, passenger cars, pickup trucks and SUVs shall utilize ground guides. (c) The ground guide shall assess the surrounding area and communicate any potential hazards to the driver. The ground guide shall be located on the driver side rear corner of the apparatus. If additional guides are available, they shall position themselves on the passenger side front corner, passenger side rear corner, and driver side front corner in that order. If the apparatus responded with driver only, the driver shall obtain assistance from other fire, EMS or law enforcement personnel to back up. Exceptions include: Where the safety of the apparatus or personnel aboard is threatened whereby the driver must back up immediately to avoid an accident or hazard. When conducting driver training in an area already secured as safe by the officer in charge. When waiting for a ground guide may compromise the care of a patient with a life threatening illness or injury. (a) When the vehicle must back up, spotters / guides will be deployed. The vehicle will not move until the following requirements are met: The driver can see all spotters and they are positioned correctly. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic has been stopped. Spotters know where the vehicle is being backed. Driver’s headset is off and windows are down when spotters are deployed. Hand Signals (a) All spotters/guides should use clear and concise hand signals when the vehicle is backing up. They should consist of the following: Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Driving (SOP) - 376 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Driving (SOP) Raised cross arms at the wrist will indicate “STOP IMMEDIATELY”. Any time this signal is given, all spotters will give the same signal, and the driver will stop the apparatus until it is clear exactly what needs to be done to proceed safely. If it is the intention to back the apparatus in a straight line, the “B” and “C” spotters will raise both arms - bent at the elbow with palms facing away from apparatus - and give a straight back and forward movement of the arms and hands. If it is the intention to move the apparatus either left or right, the “B” position (primary) will extend both arms in the direction of the turn. If more turning of the wheels is needed, the arm movements will be repeated until enough wheel turn is reached then the arms will remain stationary in the turn position until completed. Spotter Positions (a) Minimum of two (2) spotters will be deployed at all times as follows; additional spotters will be added as staffing dictates. Position A (Officer or Acting Officer) will be positioned at the right front of the apparatus. Position “C” (the firefighter behind the driver) will be positioned to the left rear of the apparatus and will be the primary spotter / guide. Position “B” (the firefighter behind the officer) will be positioned to the right rear of the apparatus and maintain position several steps behind position “C”. This is critical, so that the “B” position can not only observe the right side of the apparatus, but can keep position “C” in sight, assist him/her with apparatus movement, and be a safety valve for “B.” Position A (The Officer or Acting Officer) will maintain a close distance to apparatus so as to be able to verbally communicate with the driver, as well as move from side to side of the apparatus in order to observe the total backing maneuver. In the absence of the “C” position, “B” position will move into that location. 904.6 REFERENCES 601 - Driver-Operator Standards Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual: 601.1 Purpose Ambulance/Medic Driver Operations Guide Programs Manual: 104.1 Mission See attachment: Motor Vehicle Safety Policy for County Employees.pdf 904.7 DEFINITIONS None 904.8 QUALITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY None Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Driving (SOP) - 377 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Procedure Hanover Fire EMS 905 Procedures-Guidelines Manual Accident/Incident Reporting Program 905.1 PURPOSE (a) To establish program requirements for the reporting of all accidents/near miss/property damage events involving Hanover County Government personnel, property. (b) To establish uniform guidelines for conducting investigations into these events as well as determination of corrective actions to prevent further re-occurrences of accidents, incidents, near misses, and property damage events. 905.2 REFERENCES (a) See attachment: Career Recruit Injury Packet_Revised 032822.pdfOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1904 (b) Virginia Occupational Safety & Health (VOSH) 16 VAC 25-60 (c) See attachment: Career Injury Packet _Revised 032822.pdf (d) See attachment: Career Recruit Injury Packet_Revised 032822.pdf (e) See attachment: Volunteer Injury Packet_Revised 032822.pdf 905.3 APPLICABILITY (a) This Program shall apply to all employees of Hanover County Government, Community Services Board, constitutional officers. (b) This Program shall apply to all independent contractors performing work for the County as specified in the County Contractor Safety Program. 905.4 RESPONSIBILITIES 905.4.1 DEPARTMENT HEAD 1. Responsible for implementation of this procedure. 2. Responsible for contacting Safety & Risk Manager or designee and Director of Human Resources to notify them of event occurrence. 3. Responsible for oversight of the incident investigation/root cause analysis process as required under the guidelines established within this procedure for their department or school location. 4. Responsible for determining the need for a Root Cause Analysis investigation and for requesting a Root Cause Analysis to be conducted in conjunction with the Safety & Risk Management. 5. Responsible for ensuring all investigations adhere to the guidelines established within this document and for ensuring corrective action recommendations brought forth from any accident/incident investigation are implemented in a timely fashion. 6. Responsible for participating in the root cause analysis process as determined by the RCA team lead. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Accident/Incident Reporting Program - 378 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Accident/Incident Reporting Program 905.4.2 SAFETY & RISK MANAGER (OR DESIGNEE) 1. Responsible for development and maintenance of this procedure. 2. Responsible for assisting with accident investigations, serving as part of the Root Cause Analysis Team and reviewing reports. 3. Responsible for assisting departments with the develop & implementation of corrective action (s) as a result of an incidents 4. Responsible for investigating incidents when deemed appropriate. 5. Responsible for providing training related to incident investigation and reporting. 6. Responsible for reviewing incident analysis reports and corrective actions. 7. Responsible for assisting with verifying that corrective actions are implemented in a timely manner. 8. Responsible for performing trend and other statistical analyses of incidents. 9. Responsible for attending and supporting any VOSH investigation. 10. Responsible for contacting the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry to notify them of any incident that result in in-patient hospitalization for injury treatment of one (1) or more employees, event resulting in a workplace fatality, amputation or loss of an eye. Notices of fatality are required to be reported within eight (8) hours of occurrence and hospitalizations, amputations or loss of an eye cases must be reported within twenty-four (24) hours of occurrence. 905.4.3 SUPERVISOR 1. Responsible for providing for immediate treatment of onsite injuries and illnesses as well as reporting all employee injury events to appropriate department leadership in a timely manner. 2. Responsible for monitoring the recovery of any employee with a lost-time injury. If possible the employee should be contacted once a week to see if they need assistance and encourage him / her to work with their Worker’s Compensation case manager. Arrange for that employee to return to work on light or restricted duty if available. 3. Responsible for securing the accident site and any material items that may assist in the Root Cause Analysis investigation as well as ensuring that the incident scene is left in or rendered in a safe condition prior to the incident investigation taking place. 4. Responsible for visiting the location where the incident occurred with the affected employee prior to the start of the RCA. The supervisor and the employee shall discuss the events that led up to the incident to determine the preliminary primary and any secondary cause(s) and discuss corrective actions. 5. Supervisor shall start his/her comments with the following phrase: I have personally visited the accident/incident site with the employee and observed the following details associated with the task and work environment...(Describe only the cause(s) and potential corrective action recommendation(s) immediately apparent that may prevent further injury at the time of the event. Additional corrective actions will be determined via the RCA and the RCA team investigation). Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Accident/Incident Reporting Program - 379 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Accident/Incident Reporting Program 6. Responsible for contacting the Department Director as soon as possible whenever offsite medical attention is required for an employee or employees or if extensive property damage has occurred. 7. Responsible for determining if drug & alcohol testing, in consultation with concurrence from Human Resources, if post-accident drug and alcohol screening is required. 8. Responsible for participating in the Root Cause Analysis investigation of accidents/ incidents/near miss/property damage events that involve his or her employees as identified by the RCA team 9. Responsible for making sure all appropriate documentation is completed in a timely manner. 10. Responsible for submitting a Supervisor’s Statement of Employee Return to Work form to Safety & Risk Management/Human Resources within 24 hours of the employee returning to work. 11. Responsible for documenting all follow-up related to Injury/Incident corrective actions and submitting to Safety & Risk Management/Human Resources. 905.4.4 EMPLOYEE 1. Responsible. for immediately reporting accident/incidents/near miss/property damage to supervision. 2. Responsible for participation in Root cause Analysis investigations as requested. 905.5 PROCEDURE 905.5.1 INJURY / INCIDENT REPORTING 1. All incidents involving Hanover County employees, vehicles, and property; all incidents or claims against Hanover County that involve the public and all incidents involving fires on county premises must be reported as soon as possible to the affected Department Head, the Director of Human Resources and the Safety & Risk Manager for Hanover County. 2. In the event of an accident/incident/near miss/property damage event, the following guidelines will be utilized to ensure proper reporting of the event as (Note: guidelines assume that supervisor has been notified by the employee(s) involved of the event requiring reporting): (a) Provide for immediate medical care of injured employee. If employee sustains injuries requiring medical assistance beyond the capabilities of site first aid, immediate offsite medical attention must be facilitated. Completion of necessary reports is secondary to the process and should be completed after appropriate level of care has been provided. (b) Report Event to CompCare/VRSA. All injury events requiring treatment beyond on-site first aid must be reported to CompCare/VRSA as soon as the affected employee becomes aware of the injury. CompCare can be reached by dialing 1-877-234-0898. (Does not apply to volunteer injuries) Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Accident/Incident Reporting Program - 380 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Accident/Incident Reporting Program (c) Notify Department Head. Notify the Department Head of the injured employee’s department on all injuries/near miss/property damage events. (d) Notify Safety & Risk Management. Notify the Safety & Risk Manager or designee on all injuries/near miss/property damage events no matter when they occur. NOTE: DO NOT DELAY IN REPORTING FATALITY, AMPUTATION, LOSS OF AN EYE OR INPATIENT HOSPITALIZATION EVENTS TO SAFETY & RISK MANAGEMENT. THESE MUST BE REPORTED AS SOON AS FEASIBLE AFTER THE OCCURRENCE OF THE EVENT! (e) Complete the Panel Physician Form. This form must be completed for all injuries or work-related diseases whether or not the employee seeks medical attention for the injury event. Completed document is to be included with all accident related files. It is noted that the County Occupational Medical Provider is a Workers' Compensation provider; and volunteers may select any provider when they sustain and document an accident or injury. Employees and volunteers are encouraged to use the County Occupational Medical Provider for medical care as needed, unless care is required during non-business hours. (f) Complete Employee Basic Injury Report form. This form must be completed for all injuries/illnesses, including first aid events treated outside of a clinical environment. (g) For Volunteer injury or illness, complete the Chesterfield Insurers Form in addition to the other forms listed in this procedure. (h) Volunteers are required to report any personal illness or injury,outside of their volunteer duties to station leadership that may impact their performance or the safety of other members. (i) For events involving vehicle accidents, employees must complete a Vehicle Incident Report Form. If an injury due to a vehicle accident, an Employee Basic Injury Report must be completed along with the Vehicle Accident Report. (j) For events involving injury to visitors to Hanover County facilities or citizens on Hanover County property, employees must complete a Visitor & Citizen Incident Report Form. A copy of this form must be forwarded to Safety & Risk Management for system entry and tracking. 3. A drug and alcohol screen may be required after an incident. See Hanover County Personnel Policy Manual Section 15.3 B.3 and consult with Human Resources to determine if the event meets requirements for Drug & Alcohol testing. 4. In the event of a significant accident/incident/near miss/property damage event, the following guidelines will be utilized to ensure that all accidents/incidents/near misses or property damage events are investigated appropriately, that all root/latent causes of the event are determined, and that corrective actions are established to prevent reoccurrence of similar events in the future: (a) The department head or designee shall lead the incident review for all OSHA recordable injuries, significant near misses, and/or major property damage events occurring within their department. Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/05/01, All Rights Reserved. Accident/Incident Reporting Program - 381 Published with permission by Hanover Fire EMS  Hanover Fire EMS Procedures-Guidelines Manual Procedures-Guidelines Manual Accident/Incident Reporting Program (b) Once the Department Head determines that a root cause analysis is required based on the nature & severity of the event, the department head or designee shall select and assign a Root Cause Analysis Team Leader. (c) The Root Cause Analysis Team Leader shall select and assemble a team to participate in investigation of the accident/incident/near miss/property damage event. The team may consist of any personnel that