Environmental Health & Safety
Department Specific Safe Work Practices
In addition to the general safe work practices, these department-specific practices are provided for your information and education. They are intended to provide employees with basic safety and health information that will assist them in avoiding injury while performing your daily activities.
These safe work practices are part of Employee Training, of the Injury & Illness Prevention Program of Cabrillo Community College District, and are required by Section 3203 of Title 8, the mandatory safety legislation of Cal/OSHA. You are obliged to follow these safe work practices while performing your work activities.
Bloodborne Pathogen (BBP) training is a separate program. Information on BBP Safety and the different Exposure Risk Categories can be found on the EH&S Bloodborne Pathogens website.
Job categories that require BBP training are listed at the bottom of each department's specific safe work practices.
Category I - Tasks that involve exposure to human blood, body fluids, or tissues.
Category II - Tasks that involve no exposure to human blood, body fluids, or tissues but employment may require performing unplanned Category I tasks.
Category III - Tasks that involve no exposure to human blood, body fluids or tissues, AND Category I tasks are not a condition of employment.
You are encouraged to contribute ideas to expand or improve these safe work practices.
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of Adaptive PE as listed below.
Bloodborne Pathogen training is a separate program and can be found in a separate binder or on the BBP Safety website.
Always use proper body mechanics when lifting individuals, weights, and equipment to avoid back injuries. Alternate position on transfers of upper and lower body i.e., lift one- upper body position, lift two – lower body position.
Always place mats and equipment out of the student’s pathway.
Check cables regularly on exercise equipment.
Secure cords to avoid falling accidents.
Check all exercise equipment on a regular basis to make sure it is operating correctly and safely.
All instructors should have clear procedures in place in the event of an emergency.
Employ proper techniques to avoid heat stress.
Bloodborne Pathogens – Exposure Risk Category I, II
Bloodborne Pathogen training is required to be completed EVERY year by all Adaptive PE instructors.
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of Allied Health as listed below.
If staff members become aware of a faulty piece of equipment, it should be taken out of use and reported to the department supervisor immediately.
Staff members should be knowledgeable about proper lifting techniques and ensure they use them when lifting patients or equipment.
All staff are required to wash and disinfect their hands often to avoid the spread of germs. Appropriate hand soap is provided for this purpose.
Spills on floors should be cleaned up immediately to avoid slipping. Spills of blood or other potentially infectious materials will be handled using Universal Precautions.
Non-disposable equipment must be disinfected and sterilized daily following approved procedures.
Staff should maintain a current immunization against Hepatitis B Virus (HBV).
Staff are encouraged to stay at home when ill.
To protect the health and safety of staff and patients, horizontal surfaces must be cleaned each day with antibacterial, veridical solution in all active clinical service areas
Staff must attend annual review and training classes on CCSHS policies and procedures.
Dental Hygiene Only
Staff must wear radiation detection badges at all times.
Ensure that toxic waste such as x-ray fixer solution and vapocide are handled and disposed of in accordance with the Cabrillo College Hazardous Communication plan.
Radiologic Technology Only
Specific Rules Of Radiation Protection
Stand behind the lead barrier during exposure.
Wear a lead apron and gloves when appropriate.
Stay 6 feet or more away from the source whenever possible.
Be aware of rules and precautions, which make the occupation of Radiologic Technology safe.
You may not, by law, act as a radiographer without wearing a film badge. It should be worn at all times when there is a potential for occupational exposure to ionizing radiation. Check film badge readouts monthly. The badge may be clipped on the collar of a shirt or dress, the front portion of the torso, or at the waist. It is advisable to continue using the chosen position for a full wear period. You would normally wear the badge at the body location that would be likely to get the highest exposure.
Close the doors to the radiographic room when making an exposure.
Do not enter a room without checking the exposure status first.
Do not turn your back on the X-ray beam when wearing a one sided apron.
Wear the film badge on the outside of the apron, attached to your collar.
Check for pregnancy status of student technologists of reproductive age prior to radiographic examinations that utilize phantoms in both the Radiologic Technology and Mammography Laboratories.
Bloodborne Pathogens - Exposure Risk Category I, II
Bloodborne Pathogen training is required to be completed EVERY year. Only the following employees:
Student Health Center
Director (Category I)
Clinical Nurses (Category I)
Nurse Practitioners (Category I)
Program Specialist I/II (Category II)
Dental Hygiene Instructors (Category I)
Nursing Education Instructors (Category I)
Radiology Instructors (Category I)
Nursing Education LIA’s (Category I)
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of Anatomy, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as listed below.
All employees should know the location of fire extinguishers and have some familiarity with their use. If necessary, specific training should be given.
All employees should know the location of the fire blankets and should have some training in rapid response in how to use fire blankets.
All chemicals should be labeled properly and clearly. The date the material was acquired should also be identified on the label so that inventory procedures can be followed in the future. Potentially harmful chemicals should be labeled, stored, and handled with special precautions.
All chemical storage areas should have containment in the front of doors that close and special retaining devices or sturdy lip extensions installed in front portions of the shelves.
Scalpels and dissecting needles for the lab experiments should be stored in clear breakers with the sharp edge or points in a downward position.
Because of possible contamination of food products, eating and drinking is not allowed in laboratories or in the preparation room. Food or beverage containers should never be used to store materials in laboratories.
When spills involve classified hazardous materials, you should activate emergency procedures that involve hazardous spills. If you are unfamiliar with such procedures, contact your Campus Safety Officer.
Incompatible chemicals should not be stored in the same vicinity or in the same cabinet.
All flammable materials should be stored in special cabinets. These are of steel construction with special ventilation and are usually labeled by Factory Mutual or Underwriters Laboratories.
Corrosive material should be stored in special corrosive cabinets. This is for the protection of both employees and facilities.
Certain operations may require the use of an appropriate dust mask or respirator. Only trained employees who have had a medical clearance may use a respirator. Contact the NCCCP JPA Safety Coordinator, Program Coordinator of designee for information on the District respiratory protection program.
Gloves and goggles should always be worn while diluting strong acids, working with volatile materials, utilizing flammable liquids, or when fume hoods are being used.
All employees should know the location of the Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), which are on hand for all chemicals in the laboratory. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the SDSs to understand the hazard of the materials and know emergency procedures and first aid response. New SDSs or revised SDSs should be reviewed as soon as received. See the District’s Hazard Communication Program.
Place broken glass in the appropriate waste containers. If broken glass containers are not available, place the broken glass in a paper bag. Seal the bag and label it as broken glass. Place next to the garbage can for the Custodial Department to see. Please be cautious about disposing of broken glass and other sharp objects. Be aware that another person must handle your trash.
Bloodborne Pathogens – Exposure Risk Category II
Bloodborne Pathogen training is required to be completed EVERY year.
• Anatomy, Biology, and Physiology Instructors
• Biology Laboratory Technicians
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of The Children’s Center as listed below.
Whenever possible, the lifting of children is to be kept to a minimum. Teaching staff should participate in back care workshops to teach the correct way to lift children and other heavy objects. When it is necessary to lift or move heavy objects, it is extremely important that everyone practice the safe lifting method of bending the knees and not the back. Staff is encouraged to ask for assistance if moving large objects such as children’s classroom furniture.
Teaching staff and teacher assistants are required to use gloves whenever they are required to touch any bodily fluids. Teaching staff and teacher assistants should carry latex gloves in their pockets at all times when at work.
The floors, particularly the main walking paths in the classroom, are kept clean and free of debris to avoid tripping. Wet floors should be dry mopped to avoid slipping.
The outdoor pavement should be kept free of standing water (rain) to avoid slippage.
All staff are required to wash and disinfect their hands often to avoid the spread of germs. Disinfectant hand soap is provided in a dispenser for this purpose. Hand cream is offered to keep hands from cracking.
All staff are encouraged to take breaks; one 15 minute break per four hours of work.
All staff are encouraged to stay at home when ill.
Paper towel dispensers with individual paper towels are available for all staff.
Staff use different sponges (labeled) for cleaning the floor and cleaning countertops. This helps in preventing the spread of germs. The floor sponges have one corner cut off for identification purposes.
Floors and rugs are to be thoroughly vacuumed at least once each day.
First aid for the children’s minor cuts, bruises, scrapes, abrasions consist of only one or more of the following: hugs, ice, soap & water, or band-aid. If an injury requires more attention than this the parent must come to the school to do things such as administer antibiotic creams, take out slivers, etc.
Staff is required to renew first aid certificates and CPR certificates on a regular basis. These certificates must be current.
Staff is encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and closed, flat shoes with rubber soles.
Staff is requested not to reach or lift articles from high shelves. They are encouraged to request assistance and/or use a ladder to reach higher items.
Garbage is removed frequently, at least once a day.
If staff becomes aware of a faulty piece of equipment, it should be taken out of use immediately and reported to the director. If staff become aware of a hazardous condition of the physical plant such as a crack in the sidewalk where people could trip or a broken fence, etc. they should immediately report it to the director.
All employees are required to educate themselves on the emergency procedures for responding to fire, earthquakes, and other emergencies. The children’s center has an emergency preparedness plan, which is available for staff and parents, and practices on a yearly basis.
The Children’s Center children and staff practice emergency drills that include setting off the fire alarm and evacuating to a safe place at least once each semester.
Bloodborne Pathogens – Exposure Risk Category II
Bloodborne Pathogen training is required to be completed EVERY year. Children’s Center:
• Teachers
• Lab Assistants
• Child Care Specialists & Temps
• ECE Instructors
• Program Spec I/II
• Office Assistant
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of Visual and Performing Arts as listed below.
CERAMICS/SCULPTURE/PAINTING/JEWELRY
To be effective, the hood exhaust system must be operating at peak efficiency. Filters should be changed regularly so that residue does not build-up and restrict the effectiveness of the exhaust system.
Proper eye protection should be worn at all times when either using or observing others who are using equipment that produces flying particles as a result of grinding, drilling, cutting, or turning metal or wood stock in process. In addition, all grinding and buffing equipment should be equipped with properly adjusted tool rests and shields.
All compressed gas cylinders, whether in storage or being used, should be contained in a cart or secured to the building structure by two sturdy, metal chains that are tightly installed about one-third and two-thirds of the way up the cylinder so that the cylinder cannot tip.
Properly approved eye protection should be worn at all times when performing welding or brazing activities.
Hoses, gauges, or other equipment should be inspected regularly. Repairs should be made to faulty equipment immediately or it should be removed from service.
Arc welders should be inspected periodically, and all necessary repairs should be completed.
Portable oxygen/acetylene welding units should be equipped with a fire extinguisher.
Housekeeping is an important issue in maintaining a safe work environment. The general area should be maintained in a neat, orderly condition. The floors should be cleaned regularly to reduce the amount of airborne particles.
Because of possible contamination of food products, eating and drinking is not allowed in the art studio. Food or beverage containers should never be used to store materials in the studio.
All employees should know the location of the fire extinguisher and have some familiarity with their use. If necessary, specific training should be given.
If the fire blankets are provided, employees should have some training in rapid response in how to use fire blankets.
All chemicals should be labeled properly and clearly. The date the material was acquired should also be identified on the label so that inventory procedures can be followed in the future. Potentially harmful chemicals should be labeled, stored, and handled with special precautions.
All chemical storage areas should have containment in the form of doors that close, and special retaining devices or sturdy lip extensions installed in front portions of the shelves.
When spills involve classified materials, you should activate emergency procedures that involve hazardous spills. If you are unfamiliar with such procedures, contact your Campus Safety Officer.
Incompatible chemicals should not be stored in the same vicinity or in the same cabinet.
All flammable materials should be stored in special cabinets. These are of steel construction with special ventilation and are usually labeled by Factory Mutual or Underwriters Laboratories.
Corrosive material should be stored in special corrosive cabinets. This is for the protection of both employees and the college facilities.
Gloves and goggles should always be worn while diluting strong acids, working with volatile materials, utilizing flammable liquids, or when fume hoods are being used.
All employees should know the location of the Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), which are on hand for all chemicals in the laboratory. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the SDSs so as to understand the hazard of the material and know emergency procedures and first aid response. New SDSs or revised SDSs should be reviewed as soon as received. See the District Hazard Communication Program.
Soiled rags that contain hydrocarbon solvents or other flammable materials should be stored and/or contained in special air tight, covered metal containers.
THEATER ARTS
Activities in the theater area often involve lifting or moving heavy materials. These are specific methods and procedures, which should be followed whenever lifting is required. A basic summary involves bending your knees and keeping your back straight. It is your responsibility to periodically review and follow those guidelines.
Appropriate safeguards must be in place when using the radial arm saw.
The saw should not pull or extend past the worktable being used.
There should be an automatic retracting spring or cable to return the radial arm to the rear position after it has been used.
The blade of the saw should be covered except at the actual work surface.
Dust collection devices on equipment such as saws and grinders should not be removed except for servicing. Equipment should not be used if the dust collection devices appear to be malfunctioning. Remove the piece of equipment from use if this occurs.
Care should be taken to ensure that fire lanes and exit doors remain clear at all times.
Use of open flame or firearms on stage requires prior approval of theater management.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of Photography as listed below.
You are encouraged to contribute ideas to expand or improve these safe work practices.
A variety of chemicals are used in the processing of negative film and developing of photographs. All employees and students should be familiar with the Safety Data Sheets for the chemicals used in the photography lab, including requirements of the Cabrillo Community College District Hazard Communication Program.
Some individuals may have a sensitivity or susceptibility to developing rashes or superficial skin abnormalities when handling photographic chemicals. At the first indication of a skin condition developing, care should be taken to utilize protective gloves or barrier creams. Proper washing after handling processing chemicals and using an effective moisturizer can also help to control skin conditions.
The ventilation system should be inspected as serviced on a regular basis.
WELDING
All compressed cylinders, whether in storage or being used, should be contained in a cart or secured to the building structure by two metal chains that are tightly installed about one-third and two-thirds of the way up the cylinder so that the cylinder cannot tip.
Properly approved eye protection should be worn at all times when performing welding or brazing activities.
Oxygen and fuel gas cylinders should be separated as described by the NFPA standards.
Hoses, gauges, or other equipment should be inspected regularly. Repairs should be made to faulty equipment immediately or be removed from service.
Arc welders should be inspected periodically, and all necessary repairs should be completed.
Soiled rags, which contain hydrocarbon solvents or other flammable materials, should be stored and/or contained in special air tight, covered metal containers.
Portable oxygen/acetylene welding units should be equipped with a fire extinguisher.
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management/Food Service as listed below.
Never operate a machine or perform a task until you understand all aspects of the job and are authorized to do so. Jewelry can be caught by equipment, no dangling jewelry is allowed in the workplace.
To protect yourself and others from infection, hand-washing procedures are critical. Throughout a shift you should wash your hands frequently. Know the key tasks that must be followed by hand washing.
Spills must be cleaned up immediately taking care not to leave a greasy film. Never leave a large spill unattended, have someone watch the spill while someone else gets the clean up equipment. Post a “wet floor” sign until mopped areas are fully dry.
Always lift correctly. Bend your knees, firm your grip, keep the object close to the body and lift, taking care not to twist the back. Get help when needed (loads over 25 lbs.)
Use a proper ladder for access to elevated heights. Do not use top steps on the stepladder, do not overreach, but rather move the ladder closer.
Use a proper knife for the job. Cut away from the body and other workers; never store knives in the drawer or under a towel. Never send a knife to the dish room and never put a knife in a sink with water. Always wear a whizard glove when using a knife.
Nitrile gloves must be worn if helping another person with a cut or if cleaning up blood from a cut. Appropriate safety procedures must be followed whenever blood is present.
Use a hot mitt or hot pads when picking up hot items. Never use a wet towel in the place of a hot pad.
To prevent slips and falls, appropriate footwear must be worn at all times. Shoes with a hard leather surface and rubber slip resistant soles are required. Shoes with open toes or heels, or in poor repair are never acceptable.
Pants must be worn to protect the legs from hot items and spills.
Clean as you go. Always keep your work area neat and orderly. Clean after each task.
Place broken glass in the appropriate container. Use a broom and dustpan to remove broken glass. Never use your bare hands.
Before using a piece of equipment make sure it is in good repair. Always adhere to lock out/tag out procedures.
Be aware of what chemicals you are using, review SDS binder for appropriate PPE. Use gloves when handling potentially hazardous chemicals.
Always be aware of your surroundings, calling out “behind you”, “hot” or “coming through “ to make other people aware of your presence.
If able to correct minor hazards, do so immediately, report all hazards to a manager or supervisor immediately.
Bloodborne Pathogens – Exposure Risk Category II
Bloodborne Pathogen training is required to be completed EVERY year.
Culinary Arts Positions
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of Facilities, Planning, and Plant Operations as listed below.
Working in the heat of the day can pose serious threats if precautions are not taken. Usually the heavy work will be scheduled in the early hours of the day. Please observe the following to cope with working outdoors on hot days:
Try to increase salt intake by adding extra salt to your food, unless you have been advised by a physician to avoid salt.
b) During break, go to a shaded spot or air-conditioned room.
c) Drink lots of water, taking small amounts often, rather than large quantities at infrequent intervals.
Heavy lifting work presents many opportunities for injury. Take a moment to plan the lift or move. A two-person job is a two-person job. Do not be a hero by doing it yourself. Follow a standard lifting procedure at all times.
Grounds crew should wear appropriate safety clothing and equipment. Steel-toe safety shoes, gloves, goggles/safety glasses, dust mask, respirator, hearing protectors, hats, hard hats, coveralls, and kneepads as required.
Transport heavy equipment only after proper care in securing the equipment has been exercised. Observe all traffic laws with special regard to speed limits. Heavy loads increase braking distances, and top-heavy loads are likely to topple in sharp turns.
Operate heavy equipment, i.e. the backhoe, with great care. In many operations, such as when digging with the backhoe, someone will be assigned to act as a spotter.
Trenching and excavation work presents serious risks to all workers. The greatest risk and one of the primary concerns, is that of a cave in. The following safety precautions must be taken when performing trenching and excavation.
Someone will be assigned to act as the spotter.
Barriers will be placed around the excavations as soon as it is possible.
Trenches 5’ deep or deeper will be braced with approved trench shields to avoid cave-ins.
Keep materials or equipment that might fall into the trench at least 2’ away from the edge of the excavation.
Anyone operating equipment that produces a noise level greater than 85 dBA (voice communication between employees is difficult), hearing protection must be worn. If you are in doubt, contact your supervisor to have the sound level checked. Department policy requires the use of hearing protection when using blowers, tractors, chain saws, mowers, pavement cutters, and other noisy equipment.
Only certified drivers can use the forklift. Follow safety guidelines set forth in the District’s Industrial Truck Program. The driver should check forklifts each day prior to operation. If found unsafe, report the problems to the division dean immediately for repair. No riders are permitted on these vehicles.
All chemicals should be labeled properly and clearly. The date the material was acquired should also be identified on the label so that inventory procedures can be followed in the future. Potentially harmful chemicals should be labeled, stored, and handled with special precaution.
All chemical storage areas should have containment in the form of doors that close, and special retaining devices or study lip extensions installed in front portions of the shelves.
Incompatible chemicals should not be stored in the same vicinity or in the same cabinet.
All flammable materials should be stored in special corrosive cabinets. These are of steel construction with special ventilation and are usually labeled by Factory Mutual or Underwriters Laboratories.
Corrosive material should be stored in special corrosive cabinets. This is for the protection of both employees and the college facilities.
All employees should know the location of the Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), which are on hand for all chemicals in the laboratory. Take time to familiarize yourself with the SDSs so as to understand the hazards of the materials and know emergency procedures and first aid response. New SDSs or revised SDSs should be reviewed as soon as received. See District’s Hazard Communication Program.
Due to the presence of flammable liquids, extreme care is exercised to reduce the likelihood of fire:
NO SMOKING
NO OILY RAGS are placed in the safety cans after use
SPRAY CANS and other containers of flammable substances are kept in the flammable storage cabinet
Dust collection devices on equipment such as saws and grinders should not be removed except for servicing. Equipment should not be used if the dust collection devices appear to be malfunctioning. Remove the piece of equipment from use if this occurs.
WELDING
All compressed cylinders, whether in storage or being used, should be contained in a cart or secured to the building structure by two metal chains that are tightly installed about one-third and two-thirds of the way up the cylinder so that the cylinder cannot tip.
Properly approved eye protection should be worn at all times when performing welding or brazing activities.
Oxygen and fuel gas cylinders should be separated as described by the NFPA standards.
Hoses, gauges, or other equipment should be inspected regularly. Repairs should be made to faulty equipment immediately or be removed from service.
Arc welders should be inspected periodically, and all necessary repairs should be completed.
Soiled rags, which contain hydrocarbon solvents or other flammable materials, should be stored and/or contained in special air tight, covered metal containers.
Portable oxygen/acetylene welding units should be equipped with a fire extinguisher.
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
Never get under a vehicle to perform maintenance, even for only a few seconds, unless it is supported on jack stands or on a proper floor hoist. Never get under a vehicle supported by bumper jack, floor jack, or similar temporary lifting device. Never exceed the load rating of jack stands.
Whenever possible, eliminate using brake shoes, pads, or other materials including asbestos as a raw material. If this is not possible, or if you are not absolutely sure that asbestos is not present, use formal safety procedures to control possible asbestos exposure.
Gloves and goggles should always be worn while diluting strong acids, working with volatile materials, or utilizing flammable liquids.
Extreme care should be exercised whenever tire maintenance is performed. Using air pressure to set tires is an acceptable practice; however, there should be a maximum pressure control on the tire equipment.
Automotive batteries are recharged outside to avoid the possible build-up of flammable gases. Avoid causing an arc when connecting the charging cables; the hydrogen and oxygen gases which evolve in charging operations could explode.
Collection of chlorofluorocarbons/air conditioning fluid should occur only using the Environmental Protection Agency approved capturing and recycling equipment.
When working on a car that is running, either work outside or use the hose ventilation system when working inside.
CUSTODIAL DEPARTMENT
These safe work practices are provided for your information and education. They are intended to provide you with basic safety and health information that will assist you in avoiding injury while performing your daily activities.
These safe work practices are part of Employee Training, of the Injury & Illness Prevention Program of Cabrillo Community College District, and are required by Section 3203 of Title 8, the mandatory safety legislation of Cal/OSHA. You are obliged to follow these safe work practices while performing your work activities
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of the Custodial Department as listed below.
Bloodborne Pathogen training is a separate program and can be found in a separate Binder or on Cabrillo’s safety website.
You are encouraged to contribute ideas to expand or improve these safe work practices.
Do not attempt to lift heavy or bulky objects that could cause strain to the back or other body parts. Use lifting aids or seek the assistance of fellow workers.
It is the professional responsibility of everyone who lifts or moves heavy materials to practice safe lifting methods. The basic method to avoid back injuries is to bend your knees when you lift.
Use eye protection when using strong chemicals for cleaning/clearing drain problems and other uses. One splash of this material into an eye could cause permanent damage.
Avoid storing cardboard, paper products, and other combustible materials in equipment rooms containing devices with open flame heating elements such as water heaters, boilers, and furnaces.
Exercise extreme care when cleaning and removing trash from science rooms and areas where broken glass could exist. People are not always cautious about discarding dangerous materials such as broken glass, needles, and other devices that could cause injuries.
Always identify wet floors or spills with caution signs to avoid injury to yourself, fellow workers, and the public. Wipe up the spill immediately, if possible.
Always inspect power tools for safe power cords. This is especially important for tools that use water, such as wet vacuums, floor strippers, or carpet cleaners. Any break in a cord should be reported to the supervisor immediately. Equipment should not be used until the cord is repaired.
Never permanently secure the power switch of a buffer or similar piece of equipment; it could cause damage to property and possibly injury to you or others.
Do not operate a buffer close to a power cord. The cord can get wound up in the equipment and cause damage to the equipment and possible injury to you.
Never use flammable solvents such as gasoline or similar materials to remove stains or spots from tile or other surfaces. The vapors can be explosive and dangerous.
All employees should read the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) that are available for all hazardous materials used in custodial operations.
Chemicals have been provided for specific tasks. Specific guidelines should be followed when handling, using, and dispensing chemicals:
Never mix chemicals, other than to dilute them with water or following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Wear appropriate safety equipment (goggles, gloves, boots, etc.).
Check the SDSs for details for the chemical’s properties, hazards, and first aid procedures.If you are not familiar with a specific chemical or are not comfortable with its appropriateness to the process at hand, contact your supervisor for instructions.
Ladders (either wood or fiberglass) are provided for cleaning light fixtures or high surfaces. Never stand on the upper two rungs of the ladder. Never stand on furniture to reach elevated surfaces.
Be careful when cleaning near electrical devices such as light switches. If you notice covers are missing on light switches or electrical outlets, contact your supervisor for repairs.
All Custodians should wear appropriate safety clothing and safety equipment.
Approved gloves should be worn when handling chemicals, during restroom sanitation, and when removing garbage.
Rain gear is provided for inclement weather.
Since work is often at night, carry a flashlight.
Rubber boots are to be used when using the floor scrubber.
Use mechanical means, such as a hoe or broom, to push garbage down. Never use a hand, foot, or other body part.
Hygiene is important, especially after restroom sanitation. Hands should be washed frequently.
Certain job activities require the use of a respirator. The District’s Respiratory Protection Program will be used to train and fit test those employees that will be given respirators.
Only certified drivers can use the forklift. Follow safety guidelines set forth in the District’s Industrial Truck Program. The driver should check forklifts each day prior to operation. If found unsafe, report the problems to the division dean immediately for repair. No riders are permitted on these vehicles.
When working in the shooting range, the safe work practices specifically designed for the shooting range cleaning and maintenance must be followed.
Earplugs or earmuffs should be used when operating any equipment if the noise level makes it difficult to converse at a distance of 3’ or less. Earplugs or earmuffs must be worn when using a gasoline-powered blower.
WAREHOUSE
All shipping/receiving employees who may handle containers or boxes should follow this proper lifting procedure:
First squat down and use the legs and arms instead of the back to lift the box. Once you are in a squat position, lift the box with your arms and place it on your thighs for balance; if necessary, place your knee on the ground for balance. Make sure you have a good grasp on the box, and slowly rise, remembering to keep your back straight. Never bend over at the waist and lift with your back. Never twist your torso while lifting or carrying items.
Box cutters, knives, and other cutting devices are potentially dangerous and should be treated with respect. Always cut away from yourself. First, slit the topside edges of the box on both sides, and then pull up the middle and cut down the centerline. Take care not to hurt yourself or damage the merchandise inside. If the knife is equipped with a safety, keep the safety in position at all times. If the knife has a moveable blade, always store the knife within the handle when not in use.
A pallet jack is a potential dangerous piece of equipment if not used properly. Refrain from any kind of horseplay when using pallet jacks.
Always use the pallet jack in such a way as to reduce potential injury to your feet by maintaining an adequate amount of room to maneuver. If others are in the area, be sure to leave a safe distance to work around them. Make sure they are aware of your presence and that a pallet jack is in use.
Do not use the pallet jack in a hurry or move it around too quickly. It is possible to lose control and injure someone.
Take time to become familiar with emergency exits in order to respond properly in an emergency or evacuation.
Only certified drivers can use the forklift. Follow the safety guidelines set forth in the District’s Industrial Truck Program. The driver should check forklifts each day prior to operation. If found unsafe, report the problems to the warehouse supervisor immediately for repair. No riders are permitted on these vehicles.
Place all hazardous materials in the appropriate storage cabinet prior to the end of the receiving day. Check the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) if unsure of handling procedures for new materials.
In transporting hazardous materials on campus, ensure that the load is secure. Segregate incompatible materials from each other. Use secondary containment if available. Check the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) in case of a spill for handling and clean up procedures.
Never accept a leaking hazardous material container from a distributor.
Warehouse employees should wear appropriate safety clothing and equipment: Steel-toe safety shoes and as required: gloves, safety glasses, and lifting belts.
Use of hand trucks to move boxes or equipment requires proper care in securing the load. Never stack the load above the frame of the hand truck. Observe the nose plate of the hand truck as you return it empty. The nose plate could cause an injury to the feet or ankles of others.
Delivery van operators are responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle at all times. Vehicle should be checked by the driver each day prior to use; perform safety checks of the tires, mirrors, lights, horn, steering gear, brakes, wipers, and seat belt, etc. Report any defects to the warehouse supervisor for repair.
Bloodborne Pathogens - Exposure Risk Category I, II
Bloodborne Pathogen training is required to be completed EVERY year. Custodial Department:
• Custodial Supervisor
• Custodial Specialist
• Custodian I/II
• Lead Custodian
• Maintenance Technician (Plumber only)
• Maintenance Worker I/II
• FPPO Director
• Utility Maintenance Worker
Additional safe work practices exist for employees of Office Employees as listed below.
Warn others working in the area when a file drawer is open so they do not turn around or straighten up quickly.
Paper cutter should be provided with a finger guard.
Retaining spring on the paper cutter should be adjusted to hold the blade in the up position.
Lock paper cutter blade in down position when not in use.
Do not leave a knife or scissors on the desk with the point towards you.
Thumbtacks, razor blades, and other sharp objects should not be stored loose in a drawer.
Use caution when cleaning up broken glass. Do not place it loose in the trash can. Wrap in heavy paper and mark “Broken Glass”.
Fans used in work areas should be equipped with proper guards, which prevent fingers from being inserted through the mesh.
Copiers should be turned off before attempting to remove jammed paper.
Organize workstations so that all materials are within easy reach.
Working at Computer Stations
Proper placement and adjustment of computer equipment can prevent strain and repetitive stress injuries. The following guidelines will help prevent common occupational injuries found in an office setting.
Keyboard should be positioned so wrists and hands are straight or at no less than a 10% upward angle.
Keyboard slope should be between 0-25 degrees.
Adjust the backrest of the chair to maintain the natural curve of the lower back (a lower back pad, such as a pillow or rolled up towel, can support the lower back).
Adjust chair height so weight is shifted forward off spine and at keyboard level.
Keep feet flat on the floor to help maintain good posture and leg circulation.
If above adjustments do not permit your feet to rest on the floor, a footrest should be used.
Shift position frequently.
If possible, alternate different tasks throughout the day.
Be aware of the early warning symptoms of fatigue. When the arm, hand, back, or neck begins to feel tired or strained, the body is signaling that it needs to take a break.
Adjust the monitor screen to avoid glare. Use contrast/brightness controls, position angle of screen, adjust nearby blinds or drapes, or use anti-glare filters.
Adjust the height of the chair to allow eyes and hands to be in the proper position in relation to the screen and keyboard.
Adjust the screen to be at least 18-30” from eyes.
Eye to keyboard distance when seated should be between 17-20”.
Eye to copy reading distance should be 12-16”.
Adjust the monitor so that the top of the screen is below eye level; viewing angle should be 20 degrees or less.
Learn and practice eye exercises that help to prevent and relieve digital eye strain and fatigue, for example:
Blinking: While comfortably seated with your shoulders relaxed, blink quickly for 15 seconds. This is most effective if you repeat the process every hour.
20/20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes, focus on a surface or object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Figure-8: Focus on a blank surface that is 8 feet away. Begin to draw out a figure 8 with your eyes. Do that for 30 seconds, then switch directions, and do the other direction for another 30 seconds.
Another way to do this is to extend your thumb in front of you, focus on it and move your arm in the shape of an 8. Again, do this for 30 seconds, then switch directions.