Henry County Fire Department Policy and Procedure Manual

Transcription

1 Henry County Fire Department Policy and Procedure Manual Rev Page 1

2 Page Left Blank Rev Page 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION HENRY COUNTY CODE OF ETHICS HENRY COUNTY MISSION STATEMENT DEFINITIONS STATEMENT OF POLICY CHAPTER 1 PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1.00 Appropriate Action Required 1.01 Bribery 1.02 Confidentiality of Department Business 1.03 Cooperation 1.04 Obey the Law 1.05 Public Criticism 1.06 Soliciting Gifts, Gratuities, Fees, Loans, Etc Threat and Violence to an Employee or Citizen 1.08 Transactions with Involved Persons 1.09 Truthfulness CHAPTER 2 GENERAL CONDUCT ON AND/OR OFF DUTY 2.00 Public Service 2.01 Courtesy 2.02 Responsibilities of Supervisors 2.03 Addressing Superior Officers 2.04 Manner of Issuing Orders 2.05 Improper Orders 2.06 Conflicting Orders 2.07 Obeying Supervisory Personnel 2.08 Chain of Command 2.09 Discrimination 2.10 Reporting Discrimination 2.11 Use of Substances 2.12 Physical and/or Psychological Fitness for Duty 2.13 Sleeping on Duty 2.14 Malingering or Pretending 2.15 Punctuality 2.16 Keeping Up to Date Rev Page 3

4 2.17 Submitting Reports 2.18 Peddling or Soliciting Prohibited 2.19 Department Correspondence 2.20 Recovered Property 2.21 Recommending Businesses and/or Services 2.22 Conformance to Directives 2.23 Job Actions Prohibited 2.24 Personality Clashes/Conflicts 2.25 Unsatisfactory Performance 2.26 Understanding Directives 2.27 Absent From Duty 2.28 Interfering with Radio Communication 2.29 Abuse of Authority 2.30 Unnecessary and/or Excessive Force Prohibited 2.31 Reporting Required when Force Used 2.32 Conflicts of Interests 2.33 Fraternizing with Persons of Questionable Character 2.34 Access to Places of Business 2.35 Supervisor-Subordinate Relationship 2.36 Business Transactions with Patients/Customers 2.37 Control of Contraband 2.38 Off-Duty Personnel, in Uniform, in Public 2.39 Selling Items On-Duty 2.40 Maintaining Duty Post 2.41 Personal Use of Property 2.42 Cowardice CHAPTER 3 SUBPEONA AND JURY DUTY POLICY 3.00 Subpoena Policy 3.01 Jury Duty Policy CHAPTER 4 APARATUS POLICIES 4.00 Responsibility for Examining County-Owned Vehicles 4.01 Operator to be Qualified and Authorized 4.02 Assignment and Use of County-Owned Vehicles 4.03 Operation of County-Owned Vehicles 4.04 Vehicle Appearance 4.05 Safe Driving Techniques 4.06 Apparatus Remaining in Station 4.07 Seatbelts 4.08 Securing Food 4.09 Apparatus Breakdown 4.10 Backing Fire Apparatus Rev Page 4

5 CHAPTER 5 OFF DUTY EMPLOYMENT 5.00 Policy CHAPTER 6 UNIFORM POLICY 6.00 Policy 6.01 Authority and Responsibility 6.02 General 6.03 Class A Uniforms 6.04 Class B Uniforms 6.05 Class C Work Uniform for Fire Suppression 6.06 Class C Work Uniform for Administrative Personnel 6.07 Uniforms Prevention Division 6.08 Tee Shirts 6.08 Sweat Shirts 6.09 Uniform Accessories 6.10 Personal Appearance Standards 6.11 Non-Certified Employees Uniform CHAPTER 7 PUBLIC ACTIVITIES 7.00 Endorsements and Testimonials 7.01 Publishing Books, Pamphlets or Articles 7.02 Improper Organizations 7.03 Soliciting Advertisement 7.04 Political Activity 7.05 Contributions 7.06 Press Communications CHAPTER 8 PERSONNEL POLICIES 8.00 Light Duty 8.01 Sick Leave 8.02 Abuse of Leave 8.03 Absent Without Leave (AWOL) 8.04 Shift Trade 8.05 Holiday 8.06 Tobacco Use 8.07 Overtime 8.08 Leave Request 8.09 Personnel Files 8.10 Probationary Period 8.11 Performance Evaluations 8.12 Inclement Weather Rev Page 5

6 8.13 Shift Assignment 8.14 Provide Telephone Number and Address 8.15 Report of Change of Address and/or Telephone Number 8.16 Separated Employees 8.17 Emergency Recall 8.18 Complaints Against Fire Department Personnel 8.19 Time Sheets For 40 Hour Personnel CHAPTER 9 EQUIPMENT POLICIES 9.00 Responsibility for Examining County-Owned Equipment 9.01 Personal Use of County-Owned Equipment 9.02 Maintaining Emergency Readiness 9.03 Equipment Repair and Maintenance 9.04 Driving on Fire Hose CHAPTER 10 STATION POLICIES Security Economy Flag Policy Loitering by Public Guest of Personnel Pets / Animals in Stations Work on Private Vehicles Telephone Use Purchasing Supplies Visitors Private Vehicles Television Use Computers Use of Training Facilities Cable Television Housekeeping Duties Rev Page 6

7 INTRODUCTION This document contains the general orders, rules and regulations of the Henry County Fire Department. For the good of the service, the Department reserves the rights to amend, revoke, or make additions thereto, as circumstances require. Members of the Department should clearly understand that the establishment of rules and regulations could not embrace all possible situations. In the general discharge of duties under our rules and regulations, some things must necessarily be left to the discretion and sound judgement of the individual. Nevertheless, all members should be aware that they might be required to answer personally for abuse of authority or indiscretion. The Board of Commissioners may supersede any of these rules and regulations. In any case where the policies of Henry County, as stated in the Personnel Policy Manual, conflict with this document, the County s personnel policies will govern. It shall be the responsibility of all personnel to familiarize themselves with and conform to the policies, regulations and procedures contained within the Policy Manual. It shall be the responsibility of all Fire Department Officers to supervise and command their subordinates within the guidelines and philosophies contained within the Policy Manual. The functions of the Fire Department are to save lives, provide emergency medical aid, prevent and suppress fires, protect lives and property, enforce laws and ordinances and provide safety education to the community. Rules and regulations properly regulate the personnel of the Fire Department. In order to insure compliance, violations will result in disciplinary action. A copy of the policy manual will be at Fire Department Headquarters and in the stations for ready reference. It is the employee s responsibility to keep this manual up-to-date as new policies are issued. This manual will remain the property of the Henry County Fire Department. Rev Page 7

8 Henry County Fire Department Code of Ethics I understand that I have the responsibility to conduct myself in a manner that reflects proper ethical behavior and integrity. In so doing, I will help foster a continuing positive public perception of the fire service. Therefore, I pledge the following Always conduct myself, on and off duty, in a manner that reflects positively on myself, my department and the fire service in general. Accept responsibility for my actions and for the consequences of my actions. Support the concept of fairness and the value of diverse thoughts and opinions. Avoid situations that would adversely affect the credibility or public perception of the fire service profession. Be truthful and honest at all times and report instances of cheating or other dishonest acts that compromise the integrity of the fire service. Conduct my personal affairs in a manner that does not improperly influence the performance of my duties, or bring discredit to my organization. Be respectful and conscious of each member s safety and welfare. Recognize that I serve in a position of public trust that requires stewardship in the honest and efficient use of publicly owned resources, including uniforms, facilities, vehicles and equipment and that these are protected from misuse and theft. Exercise professionalism, competence, respect and loyalty in the performance of my duties and use information, confidential or otherwise, gained by virtue of my position, only to benefit those I am entrusted to serve. Avoid financial investments, outside employment, outside business interests or activities that conflict with or are enhanced by my official position or have the potential to create the perception of impropriety. Never propose or accept personal rewards, special privileges, benefits, advancement, honors or gifts that may create a conflict of interest, or the appearance thereof. Never engage in activities involving alcohol or other substance use or abuse that can impair my mental state or the performance of my duties and compromise safety. Never discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual preference, medical condition or handicap. Never harass, intimidate or threaten fellow members of the service or the public and stop or report the actions of other firefighters who engage in such behaviors. Responsibly use social networking, electronic communications, or other media technology opportunities in a manner that does not discredit, dishonor or embarrass my organization, the fire service and the public. I also understand that failure to resolve or report inappropriate use of this media equates to condoning this behavior. Developed by the National Society of Executives Fire Officers Rev Page 8

9 Henry County Fire Department Mission Statement The Mission of the Henry County Fire Department is to provide safe, professional service through education, prevention, emergency services, and community relations. Rev Page 9

10 Definitions: General Order: A written order issued by the Chief of the Henry County Fire Department applicable to the Department as a whole or a division therein, which establishes a principle, policy, procedure or rule concerning a given subject, and which is effective permanently or until revoked by a subsequent order. Special Order: A written order that applies to the Department, a unit or an individual therein, and establishes a temporary principle, policy or procedure on a given subject, for a specified length of time. The order automatically becomes inoperative with the passing of the specified time. Special Orders will not be included in this manual but will be on file in the administrative office at the fire department headquarters. Special Orders also include memoranda from the County Manager, Board of Commissioners, other departments, etc. Direct Order: An order, whether written or spoken that applies to the Department, a unit, or an individual, that is based upon the good judgment, experience, and training of the issuer. Direct order may expire by a passage of time. Rev Page 10

11 STATEMENT OF POLICY When a person accepts a position with the Henry County Fire Department, it is their duty to serve Henry County faithfully and to the best of their ability. The position of a Firefighter is an honorable one. This statement applies to all Fire Department employees, both on and off duty. The public realizes this profession is a hazardous one and that personnel are willing to endanger their lives to protect and save the lives and property of others. This results in respect for the people who wear the uniform of a Henry County Firefighter. Because of the visibility of the profession, it is important for each member to be careful not to jeopardize the good reputation of the Henry County Fire Department through neglect of duty or through conduct which is unbecoming a member of the Department. The public bases their opinion on what they see and hear. It is the responsibility of all personnel in the department to conduct themselves in accordance with the Henry County Policy Manual. This includes conduct, appearance, and remarks made in public. Rev Page 11

12 CHAPTER 1 PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND RESPONSIBILITIES Purpose Because of the responsibilities of employees with the Henry County Fire Department and their visible positions within the community, both publicly and privately, employees shall obey the following work rules at all times Appropriate Action Required The demands for Fire Department service are many, varied and often extreme. Employees shall meet these demands by: Bribery a. Responding, in an appropriate manner, to every situation encountered. b. Being considerate of the rights, feelings and interests of all persons. c. Taking appropriate action in each situation by providing the necessary service and insuring the notification of the appropriate superior(s) when indicated by the circumstances. d. Requesting the assistance of supervisors when the appropriate action required is neither clear nor possible under the circumstances nor within the scope of authority of the employee of whom action was requested. e. Performing official acts in a reasonable, restrained, dignified, impartial, and lawful manner. Employees of the Department shall not accept money, gifts, or any other thing of value, from any person, which may tend to influence employees in the performance of their duties Confidentiality of Department Business Employees of the Department shall treat the business, activities, files and reports of the Department as confidential. They must not impart knowledge of the above noted, through the use of any form of media, including cameras, except to those who have a right to know. Rev Page 12

13 1.03 Cooperation Employees of the Department shall promptly cooperate with all Department employees, public agencies, and citizens toward the accomplishment of any public responsibility, task or assignment Obey the Law At all times, employees of the Department shall obey, and be held accountable for all laws, statutes, and ordinances of the Federal, State, County and City governments Public Criticism Employees of the Department, except as officially required, shall not publicly criticize any employee, order, action or policy of the Department. Criticism, when required, shall be directed only through official Department channels to correct any deficiency and shall not be used to injure or harm the reputation or operations of the Department or its employees Soliciting Gifts, Gratuities, Fees, Loans, Etc. At no time shall an employee of the Department solicit any gift, gratuity, loan or fee where there is a direct or indirect connection between the solicitation and their employment with the Department Threat and Violence to an Employee or Citizen a. Employees of the Department, whether in uniform, on duty or representing the department, shall not threaten another employee or citizen. b. Employees of the Department, whether in uniform, on duty or representing the department, shall not maliciously strike, push, lay hands on, or attempt to strike, push, or lay hands on any other employee or citizen Transactions with Involved Persons Employees of the Department shall not engage in any transactions with any complainant, suspect, defendant, prisoner or other person involved in a Department case, whereby the successful prosecution of the case or an employee s personal integrity may be jeopardized Truthfulness Employees of the Department shall be truthful in both their spoken and written words. Official reports and/or court testimony shall be as factual and accurate as possible. Rev Page 13

14 CHAPTER 2 GENERAL CONDUCT ON AND/OR OFF DUTY Purpose To establish general rules and guidelines to regulate employee s general conduct on and/or off duty Public Service It is the principle responsibility of every employee of the Department to promptly, courteously, and effectively assist the public. Employees shall render prompt assistance whether requested in person, by telephone or by letter. Employees shall render immediate attention to the needs of any person when called upon to do so Courtesy Employees of the Department shall be civil, orderly, and courteous to the public, coworkers, and supervisors and shall not use inappropriate language or action Responsibilities of Supervisors Supervisory employees shall enforce the rules and regulations of the Department and ensure the proper conformity to Department directives and procedures at all times. Supervisors shall take immediate, appropriate action when the conduct of an employee is contrary to the public interest, the good reputation or proper operation of the Department. Supervisors shall take this action even if the involved employee is not assigned to their unit Addressing Superior Officers While on duty, personnel will address officers by their respective titles Manner of Issuing Orders Orders from supervisors to employees shall be clear, understandable, and expressed in a civil tone Improper Orders An employee receiving an order that he/she believes to be improper, unsafe or unlawful shall, at the first opportunity, report in writing via the chain of command. This report shall contain the facts of the incident and the action taken. Rev Page 14

15 2.06 Conflicting Orders Upon receipt of an order conflicting with any previous order, instruction, or directive, the affected employee shall, when practical, advise the person issuing the second order of this, either verbally or in writing. Responsibility for countermanding the original order then rests with the individual issuing the second order. If so directed, by a supervisor, the latter command shall be obeyed Obeying Supervisory Personnel Employees of the Department shall promptly obey all orders of supervisors and other employees assigned to act in a supervisory capacity Chain of Command Employees of the Department shall conduct official business through the chain of command. While lateral communication is encouraged, employees shall inform immediate supervisors and parties involved of significant matters in such lateral communications Discrimination Employees of the Department shall not discriminate based on race, religion, national origin, age or disability. Discrimination includes any verbal, written or physical conduct relating to age, disability, race, religion or national origin or any other factors protected by law Reporting Discrimination If you witness or experience harassment or discrimination from a co-worker or visitor, immediately advise the person to stop. If harassment continues, report it immediately to your supervisor. Report it even if you believe the conduct has been reported by someone else. Do not assume management is already aware of the problem. This report should be made in writing through the Chain of Command Use of Substances Employees of the Department are absolutely prohibited from using, possessing, manufacturing, and/or distributing any illegal drug and/or controlled substance, at any time or place, including while at their workplace. a. The consumption and/or use of alcohol, while on duty, is absolutely prohibited. Rev Page 15

16 b. The abusive use of prescription and/or other legal drugs and substances, while on duty, is absolutely prohibited. c. Employees must not report to work or be subject to duty if their ability to perform their job duties is impaired due to the use and/or abuse of alcohol, illegal drugs, legal drugs, prescription drugs and/or other substances. d. Employees must report to their supervisor when they are taking medication that states Do not operate machinery. e. Employees who have been prescribed medication that may impair their ability to do their job, must have a release from their physician to come back to work Physical and/or Psychological Fitness for Duty Employees of the Department shall maintain such physical and/or psychological condition that they can fulfill the duties of their assignment(s). Failure will result in the employee being removed from duty while a Fit for Duty Evaluation is conducted Sleeping on Duty a. Employees shall not sleep while on duty between 0700 and 1900; with the exception of weekends and holidays at the discretion of the Lieutenant. Someone in uniform must remain alert and ready to greet the public at all times. b. Personnel shall arise by 0630 hours. c. It is left to the discretion of the Lieutenant to allow employees to sleep while on duty in cases of sickness or fatigue. d. Allowing employees to sleep while on duty should never interfere with the day to day operations of the department Malingering or Pretending Employees of the Department shall not avoid their duties by feigning and/or faking illness or injury. Malingering, pretending or otherwise giving a false impression that they are performing their duties is also prohibited Punctuality a. Employees of the Department shall be punctual when reporting for duty or performing an official act. Rev Page 16

17 b. Employees of the Department shall report for duty, promptly, by their scheduled reporting time unless prior approval to report otherwise is granted by the on duty Battalion Officer. Administrative personnel must grant approval by their assigned supervisor. c. If an employee is more than thirty (30) minutes late for the scheduled shift, and is unexcused, said employee will be considered AWOL. d. In the event that a circumstance beyond the employee s control causes the tardiness, the employee shall make every effort to notify the on duty Battalion Officer of the problem so a decision can be made about filling the position. e. If an employee cannot report to work due to illness, they must call the on duty Battalion Officer at least 30 minutes before the start of their shift. Administrative personnel must contact their immediate supervisor 30 minutes prior to start time in the instances where they are unable to report to work Keeping Up to Date Employees of the Department shall acquaint themselves with the events that have occurred (which pertain to their responsibilities) since their last tour of duty, upon their return to work. This includes, but is not limited to checking bulletin boards, department s, and the station Pass Down log from the previous shift. Employees should make every effort to brief the oncoming shift Submitting Reports Employees of the Department shall submit all reports, which are required of them, as promptly, correctly, and completely as possible. Reports shall be completed prior to being relieved from duty Peddling or Soliciting Prohibited Peddling or soliciting is prohibited on or in County property and facilities, unless written authorization is received from the Fire Chief Department Correspondence Employees of the Department shall not use Departmental stationary, postage, copies, fax machines, internet, etc., except for conducting official Department or County business. Rev Page 17

18 2.20 Recovered Property Employees of the Department shall ensure that all recovered County or personal property, coming into their possession, is returned to the appropriate Division Chief immediately Recommending Businesses and/or Services Employees of the Department, in their official capacity, shall not recommend any business or service to the public without the approval of the Fire Chief, or his designee Conformance to Directives Employees of the Department shall familiarize themselves with and conform to the rules, regulations, directives, and standard operating guidelines of the Department. It is the responsibility of the Supervising Officer to ensure that subordinates acknowledge receiving and understanding all rules, regulations directives and SOP s Job Actions Prohibited Employees of the Department shall not, at any time and under any circumstances, organize or participate in any apparent job action (i.e. strikes, walkouts, sickouts, work slowdowns, work stoppages, etc.) Personality Clashes/Conflicts Employees of the Department, experiencing a personality problem with another employee, which cannot be resolved amicably, shall notify their immediate supervisor or chain of command, in writing, of the conflict. Supervisors shall be responsible for resolving the problem in the best interest of the employees involved and the Department, within a reasonable time frame Unsatisfactory Performance a. Employees of the Department shall maintain sufficient competency to assume and perform their duties and responsibilities of the position. Employees shall perform their duties, in the manner that tends to establish and maintain the highest standards of efficiency, in carrying out the functions and objectives of the Department. b. Unsatisfactory performance may be demonstrated by a lack of knowledge of the application of the laws required to be enforced; an unwillingness or inability to perform assigned tasks; failure to conform to work standards established for the employee s rank, grade, or position; failure to take appropriate action in a situation or incident deserving a public safety employee s attention; absence without leave; or absence from duty, and excessive tardiness. Rev Page 18

19 c. Repeated, poor performance evaluations or repeated violations of Department directives shall be considered primary source of evidence of unsatisfactory performance Understanding Directives Employees of the Department, who do not understand an official Department directive or procedure, shall seek the advice of their supervisor Absent From Duty On-duty employees shall keep themselves available for service and shall not absent themselves from their assignment without permission from their Battalion Officer or until properly relieved. Employees in violation of this rule will be considered Absent Without Leave (AWOL) Interfering with Radio Communication Employees of the Department shall not willfully or intentionally interfere with radio communications, unless an emergency exists Abuse of Authority Employees of the Department shall not use their authority as a Fire Department employee to abuse, harass, oppress, or persecute any person(s) Unnecessary and/or Excessive Force Prohibited Employees of the Department shall not use unnecessary or excessive force against any person or property and shall only use force that is necessary to gain entry into a building/vehicle, effect and arrest, prevent an escape, or defend themselves or another from physical assault. Only the amount of force deemed reasonable by a prudent person shall be used Reporting Required when Force Used Employees of the Department, who use force against any person or property, shall immediately notify the Battalion Officer and make a detailed report of the incident Conflicts of Interests Employees of the Department shall not, directly nor indirectly, invest in or hold investments in any financial, business, commercial, or other private transaction, Rev Page 19

20 which creates or gives the appearance of creating a conflict of interest with their official duties; except as provided by law, business with Henry County Government is also prohibited Fraternizing with Persons of Questionable Character Employees of the Department, while in uniform or representing the department, shall not fraternize/associate with any person of questionable character, not loiter or spend unnecessary time in or around a place of ill-repute or questionable reputation, except when acting in the line of duty with the knowledge and consent of their supervisor Access to Places of Business Employees of the Department shall not have a key to any place of business, other than their own, without written permission of the Fire Chief or his designee Supervisor-Subordinate Relationship Supervisors shall not borrow money nor use their position to solicit or gain personal favors from a subordinate Business Transactions with Patients / Customers Employees of the Department shall not buy, sell, receive, or transfer anything of value from any patient/customer Control of Contraband Employees of the Department shall not be negligent in the control of contraband. Employees will turn over any illegal substances found on an emergency scene to the police immediately Off-Duty Personnel, in Uniform, in Public Employees of the Department appearing in public, in uniform (though off-duty), shall have an obligation to act and must be prepared to help the public by taking whatever action is appropriate and necessary. Any departmental issued uniforms items are not to be worn while working part-time jobs. Rev Page 20

21 2.39 Selling Items On-Duty Employees of the Department shall not sell, offer for sale, or have in their possession with the intention of selling, any goods, tickets, or other type of merchandise or service without the written permission of the Fire Chief Maintaining Duty Post Employees shall not absent themselves from duty at their stations or other places of assignment without the permission from their Station Officer, Captain or Battalion Officer Personal Use of Property Employees of the Department shall not convert to their own use or have any claim on found and/or recovered property, property held as evidence, or property purchased by the County Cowardice Employees of the Department, who shrink from danger and fail to discharge their duties under emergencies, shall be guilty of cowardice. They will be dealt with in accordance with the County Policy manual regarding incompetence or inefficiency in performance of work related duties. Rev Page 21

22 CHAPTER 3 SUBPOENA AND JURY DUTY POLICY 3.00 Subpoena Policy a. The Fire Department shall operate in accordance with County policy concerning employees subpoenaed for court appearance. b. Members who are served a subpoena involving a matter directly relating to the course of their employment shall notify their immediate supervisor and submit to same a copy of the subpoena. c. Members who are served a subpoena as a private individual, which will require them to be absent from work in order to appear, shall notify their immediate supervisor and submit to same a copy of the subpoena. d. Members shall be entitled to a leave of absence with pay while serving as a subpoenaed witness by any court on official County business. e. Members who are required to appear in court on County related matters, during periods in which they would normally not be on duty, shall receive regular time and a half pay according to the amount of time involved. f. Fire Department members appearing in court, where the County is a party to a proceeding, shall wear the uniform specified by the Fire Chief. g. Employees of the Department, when called upon to appear in court, shall be punctual and prepared, conform to the court s rules of conduct, obey all orders of the court and be truthful at all times. h. Employees of the Department who are served, in their official capacity, regarding a civil case in which liability may attach to the employee, officials of the Department or the County, shall immediately forward the document, along with a statement indicating the time, place and date of service, to the Fire Chief via the chain of command. Rev Page 22

23 3.01 Jury Duty Policy a. The Fire Department shall operate in accordance with County policy concerning jury duty. b. Members shall notify their direct supervisor and submit to same a copy of the notice requiring them to serve as a juror. c. Members shall be entitled to a leave of absence with pay while on jury duty and may accept a jury fee. Rev Page 23

24 CHAPTER 4 APPARATUS POLICIES Purpose To establish policies for all employees acting in an official capacity regarding Fire Department apparatus and vehicles Responsibility for Examining County-Owned Vehicles a. Employees of the Department shall be responsible for the condition and the prompt reporting of loss, damage, or defect of any County-owned vehicle in their custody. b. Before use, employees shall examine any County-owned vehicle assigned to them, note any loss, damage, and/or defect, and submit the necessary report(s) to the Station Officer, immediately Operator to be Qualified and Authorized Employees of the Department shall not operate a County-owned vehicle unless they are authorized to do so and are in possession of a valid Georgia Driver s License, with the proper class for the vehicle to be operated Assignment and Use of County-Owned Vehicles Employees of the Department shall not assign or use a County-owned vehicle for any purpose, other than for official business, nor shall they transport any unauthorized person, without approval of their supervisor Operation of County-Owned Vehicles a. Employees of the Department shall operate a County-owned vehicle in such a manner as to avoid injury to persons or damage to property, at all times. b. Employees shall not use County vehicles for personal errands, business, etc Vehicle Appearance Employees of the Department, assigned to drive or operate a County-owned vehicle, are responsible for ensuring its cleanliness. Rev Page 24

25 4.05 Safe Driving Techniques Employees of the Department shall exercise due caution, exhibit good driving habits and obey State and local traffic laws when operating County-owned vehicles Apparatus Remaining in Station With the exception of emergency calls, training, and/or details assigned by the Station Officer, apparatus will remain in the assigned station. Personnel will notify the dispatcher when leaving the station and state the reason Seatbelts Seat belts shall be worn at all times by all drivers and passengers riding in all County vehicles. This includes personnel not actively providing patient care in the back of an ambulance Securing Food Employees will not use apparatus to secure food unless authorized by the Station Officer. When securing food the vehicle must be parked away from the business in an approved parking spot Apparatus Breakdown When a breakdown occurs in an emergency vehicle, notify the Battalion Officer and dispatch immediately. The Battalion Officer will notify the Mechanic Backing Fire Apparatus Drivers shall not back an apparatus unless at least one employee is at the rear to guide them. If there are no personnel available to assist in backing, the driver will go to the rear and confirm that the area is clear before attempting to back the vehicle unguided. If a driver is observed backing an apparatus without a guide, and personnel are available to assist, disciplinary action will result. If a driver is alone and is unsure about backing the vehicle, they may request another apparatus to the scene as a spotter. Rev Page 25

26 CHAPTER 5 OFF DUTY EMPLOYMENT 5.00 Policy 1. Members shall not conduct any outside business, employment or transactions while using County telephones and computers. 2. Fire Department equipment and facilities shall not be used to conduct or support any outside business or employment engaged in by any member. 3. Members shall not be involved or engaged in any outside business or employment which may: a. Obstruct, impede or hinder Fire Department operations in any way or form. b. Bring discredit or criticism upon the Fire Department. c. Cause conflict of interest relating to their position within the Fire Department. 4. Members shall not utilize the Fire Department name or their position within the Department to further their outside business or employment. 5. Off duty employment shall not lessen the efficiency in which the employee carries out his/her duties with the Fire Department. Employees are prohibited from working outside of Henry County Fire Department within 8 hours prior to the beginning of their shift. 6. Off-duty or outside employment shall be considered to be any gainful occupation (other than the Fire Department) requiring time and energy, whether working for others or self-employed. Rev Page 26

27 CHAPTER 6 UNIFORM POLICY 6.00 Policy 1. All uniform clothing worn by Fire Department members shall meet Henry County Fire Department specifications and shall be neat in appearance at all times. 2. Fire Department members shall maintain, at least, the minimum amount of uniform clothing necessary to meet the standards set forth in this policy. 3. Members shall not remain in a state of undress or semi-undress during waking hours. 4. Those uniforms, which are listed within this policy, shall be the only officially recognized uniforms of the Henry County Fire Department. 5. Members shall not sleep in uniforms during normal sleeping hours Authority and Responsibility 1. The Fire Chief shall have the authority to establish or change Fire Department uniform standards and policies. 2. All members are responsible for maintaining a neat and professional appearance within the guidelines of this policy. 3. All officers are responsible to insure that those whom they supervise comply with Fire Department uniform standards General 1. Fire personnel shall wear and maintain their uniforms in such a manner to present a neat and clean appearance. 2. Uniforms shall be clean and free of rips, tears, holes, other signs of wear and shall not be missing any required parts such as buttons, patches, and accessories. 3. Only those uniform accessories that are listed within this policy are approved to be worn with Fire Department uniforms. 4. Uniforms are to be worn only during on-duty working hours unless otherwise approved by the Fire Chief. Members shall not wear uniforms for private purposes such as, working around the house, outside employment, or other like activities. It shall be Rev Page 27

28 permitted for members to wear uniforms while off duty if they are attending school or representing the Fire Department. 5. When reporting for normal duty, all line personnel shall wear a Class C uniform (NOMEX III-A). During cold weather and with the approval of the Station Officer, approved sweatshirts and job shirts may be worn outside of the Class C uniform. 6. Employees must wear their full uniform at all times during daytime working hours. a. The Station Officer may make necessary exceptions as the situation dictates (i.e. outdoor station duties on hot days). b. Personnel will be allowed to wear tee-shirts approved by the fire chief after 21:00 hrs. This includes responding to emergency alarms. c. During firefighting activities or during live fire-training evolutions, personnel shall wear NOMEX III-A station uniforms whenever possible. This includes uniform shirt and pants. d. All uniforms shall conform to the standards established in this policy by the Fire Chief. e. Members shall keep a complete Class "C" uniform at their station at all times which will be available for use or inspection when requested. f. Members shall report to normal duty in a clean uniform. g. No civilian clothing will be worn over the top of any Fire Department uniform at any time while on duty Class A Uniforms Personnel shall purchase and maintain a complete Class A Uniform by the end of their third year of service with The Henry County Fire Department. This Uniform will be worn as required for formal events and department functions. The following are the items required for the Class A Uniform: Firefighters Class A 1. Black dress cap with silver band and firefighter hat badge. 2. Black dress coat with silver buttons and Henry County patch on both sleeves. Rev Page 28

29 3. Silver Maltese crosses may be added to the left sleeve of the coat to indicate number of years in the fire service. One cross will represent four (4) years of service. 4. HCFD collar insignias should be worn centered on the upper collar area. 5. Silver Firefighter badge should be worn on the left side centered over the pocket. 6. Any awards that may have been received will be worn on the left side under the badge centered and aligned appropriately. 7. Silver name tag will be worn on the right side of the coat centered on the chest. It should be in line with the top of the pocket on that is on the left side of the coat. 8. Long sleeve white uniform shirt. (Hardware is not required on the shirt if the coat is going to be worn the majority of the presentation or event). 9. White tee shirt. 10. Black neck tie 11. Black trousers. 12. Black socks 13. Black, high gloss dress shoes. Officers Class A 1. Black dress coat with gold buttons and Henry County patch on both sleeves. Gold stripes shall be installed on each sleeve to indicate rank. a. Lieutenant One gold stripe. b. Captain Two gold stripes. c. Battalion Chief Three gold stripes - two bold and one narrow. d. Division Chief Three bold gold stripes. e. Deputy Chief Four gold stripes. f. Chief of Department Five gold stripes. 2. Black Dress Cap: a. Lieutenant black cap, gold band, and Lt s cap badge. b. Captain black cap, gold band, and Captain s cap badge. c. Battalion Chief White cap, gold band, and Battalion Chief s cap badge. Rev Page 29

30 d. Division Chief White cap, scrambles on bill, gold band, and Division Chief s cap badge. e. Deputy Chief White cap, scrambles on bill, gold band, and Deputy Chief s cap badge. f. Chief of Department White cap, scrambles on bill, gold band, and Chief s cap badge. 3. Gold Maltese crosses may be added to the left sleeve of the coat to indicate number of years in the fire service. One cross will represent four (4) years of service. 4. Collar insignias for the appropriate rank should be worn centered on the upper collar area. 5. Gold Badge, appropriate for rank, should be worn on the left side centered over the pocket. 6. Any awards that may have been received will be worn on the left side under the badge centered and aligned appropriately. 7. Gold name tag will be worn on the right side of the coat centered on the chest. It should be in line with the top of the pocket that is on the left side of the coat. 8. Long sleeve white uniform shirt. (Hardware is not required on the shirt if the coat is going to be worn the majority of the presentation or event). 9. White tee shirt 10. Black neck tie 11. Black trousers. 12. Black socks 13. Black, high gloss dress shoes Class B Uniform 1. Long sleeve white uniform shirt. 2. Collar insignias, appropriate for rank, should be worn centered on each collar. 3. Badge, appropriate for rank, should be worn on the left side centered over the pocket. Rev Page 30

31 4. Any awards that may have been received will be worn on the left side under the badge centered and aligned appropriately. 5. Name tag, appropriate for rank, will be worn on the right side of the shirt centered over the pocket. 6. White tee shirt 7. Black neck tie 8. Black trousers. 9. Black socks 10. Black dress shoes Class C Work Uniform for Fire Suppression Personnel A. All personnel assigned to the Fire Suppression force, from Firefighter to Captain, will wear the work uniform (Class C ). The work uniform is an optional uniform for 40-hour workweek suppression personnel, depending on the type of activities in which they may be engaged. 1. Short or long sleeve shirt, made of NOMEX III-A, navy blue for all personnel. 2. Navy blue trousers made of NOMEX III-A. 3. Navy blue bomber style jacket or lightweight cloth jacket. 4. Black rescue belt or ranger belt. 5. Department issued black uniform boots or other boots approved by the Fire Chief. 6. Department approved navy blue tee shirts. 7. Department approved navy blue sweatshirts or job shirt. 8. Appropriate rank insignia for collar. 9. Fire Department patch on left sleeve with rocker. Company patch or Department patch on right sleeve. Rev Page 31

32 10. Appropriate EMS certification on left sleeve. 11. Appropriate navy blue short made of NOMEX III-A.. B. The optional summer uniform may be worn from June 1 st until August 31 st. The uniform consists of the following: 1. Short sleeve uniform shirt, made of Nomex III-a, navy blue for all personnel. 2. Navy blue Workrite Nomex III-a (regular rise) shorts, the hem is required to be two (2) inches above or below the midline of the knee cap. 3. Black rescue belt or black ranger belt. 4. High-Tech, Thorogood, Rocky or comparable 7 inch cut boots or lower, with black or navy socks showing outside the boot. Boots must be zipped, laced, or tied. 5. Department approved navy blue tee shirt. 6. Appropriate rank insignia for collar. 7. Fire Department patch of left sleeve. Battalion Officers (Chiefs and Captains) and Administrative Personnel are not permitted to wear shorts. It is the responsibility of the station officer to see that uniform requirements are met by each employee. Shorts are intended to provide relief from heat related operational duties and are not intended for special functions such as awards ceremonies, commissioner meetings, formal presentations, etc. A complete uniform shall be maintained at the station at all times to include long pants Class C Work Uniform for Administrative Personnel The work uniform for administrative personnel is worn by all day shift administrative employees of the Henry County Fire Department. This will include the Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, Division Chiefs, Battalion Chiefs, Training Lieutenants, and Certified Administrative personnel. 1. Short or long sleeve white uniform shirt. Rev Page 32

33 2. Black cotton/blend trousers. 3. Black bomber style jacket. 4. Black rescue belt or ranger belt. 5. Black Hi-Gloss shoes or High-Tech or Thorogood boots. 6. White tee shirt. 7. Appropriate rank insignia for collar. 8. Appropriate badge. 9. Appropriate nametag. 10. Administrative Officers may also wear Nomex uniforms Class C Work Uniform for Fire Prevention The work uniform for fire prevention personnel is worn by all of prevention employees of the Henry County Fire Department. This will include the Captains and Lieutenants. 1. Short or long sleeve navy blue uniform shirt for Inspectors / Investigators. 2. Navy blue cotton/blend trousers for Inspectors / Investigators. 3. Blue bomber style jacket or lightweight game jacket for Inspectors / Investigators. 4. Department approved navy blue tee shirt for Inspectors / Investigators. 5. Short or long sleeve white uniform shirt for Fire Safety Educators. 6. Black cotton/blend trousers for Fire Safety Educators. 7. Black bomber style jacket or lightweight game jacket for Fire Safety Educators. 8. White tee shirt for Fire Safety Educators. 9. Black rescue belt or ranger belt. Rev Page 33

34 10. Department issued black Hi-Gloss shoes or black uniform shoes or boots or other boots approved by the Fire Chief. 11. Appropriate rank insignia for collar. 12. Appropriate badge. 13. Appropriate nametag. 14. Prevention staff may also wear Nomex uniforms. 15. Prevention staff may also wear job shirt with navy blue uniforms. 16. Fire Department patch on left sleeve with Paramedic/EMT rocker. 17. Division patch or Department patch on right sleeve Tee-Shirts 1. Tee shirts will not be worn instead of proper uniform while in public or while visitors are in the station. 2. Tee shirts will be tucked in at all times. They must be an approved HCFD tee shirt. 3. Approved departmental tee shirts may be worn when responding to emergency alarms after 21:00 hrs. 4. The Fire Chief will approve all tee shirts Sweat Shirts 1. Only approved navy blue sweatshirts may be worn. 2. When the sweat shirts are worn over the Class C uniform shirt, the uniform shirt collar will be worn outside of the sweatshirt Uniform Accessories a) Patches, badges, insignias, or any other type of accessories shall be worn only upon approval of the Fire Chief. b) Patches Rev Page 34

35 a. The HCFD patch shall be worn on both sleeves of the uniform shirt with the EMS certification rocker placed under the left patch. b. Approved company patches can be placed on the right sleeve. c. The Fire Chief shall approve specialized training patches before being placed on the uniform. The patch will only be worn on the right sleeve of the uniform shirt. c) Collar Insignia a. Collar insignias issued by the Department shall be worn one (1) inch above the collar of the uniform shirt and shall be centered on the collar. b. Appropriate collar insignia will be worn according to rank of personnel. d) Badges a. Fire Suppression personnel Class C badges are sewn onto the uniform shirt on the left chest above the pocket. b. Administrative Class C badges are pin through badges and are attached onto the left chest above the pocket of the uniform shirt. c. Class A badges are metal clip through type badges and are attached on the left chest area of the uniform shirt. e) Name Badges or Plates a. Fire suppression personnel Class C uniform nametags are sewn onto the right chest just above the pocket. Firefighter writing will be in red. Officer writing will be in gold. b. Administrative nametags are metal pin-on types that attach on the right chest of the uniform shirt just above the pocket. f) Only official Department accessories may be worn on the uniform of personnel Personal Appearance Standards At 0700 hours, shift personnel should be dressed in a clean uniform and ready to work. Men shall be clean-shaven and women shall have their hair arranged according to policy before beginning his/her shift. If someone is not ready to work by 0700 hours, they will be considered tardy. Rev Page 35

36 All officers are responsible for insuring that those whom they supervise comply with Departmental grooming standards. The following safety and personal appearance policies will apply to all personnel, with the exception of civilian administrative personnel, while in department uniform: 1. No beards, goatees or chin whiskers. 2 Sideburns will be neatly trimmed and not extend below the ear lobe. 3. Neckline hair will not extend below the top of the shirt collar when the collar is buttoned and the head is held erect. Neckline hair will be neat and trimmed. 4. The hair length may extend down the side, halfway over the ear. The density of the hair at this point will not stand off or extend outward from the side of the ear more than 1½ inches. The side hair will be neatly trimmed. 5. Mustaches are to be neatly trimmed and not bushy. Mustaches may extend past the corners of the mouth up to 1 inch in length. It falls upon the station officer to judge if the appearance and neatness of the mustache is appropriate for operating in the public. 6. Bangs shall not extend below ½ inch above the eyebrows. 7. Female hairstyles are to be neatly styled and will follow the descriptions in #3 and #4. Female hair styles that are Pony tailed shall be consistent with hair length regulations. 8. Exceptions for female hairstyles are as follows: Hair may be arranged on the back of the head, pony tailed or braided provided it allows a helmet and self-contained breathing apparatus to be worn safely. Hair must not cause any interference with the donning of breathing apparatus. While on duty, hair must be off the collar at all times. This includes calls run during the night. 9. For safety purposes, no jewelry will be worn above the neckline Work Uniform for Non-Certified Employees Non-Certified employees working in the Henry County Fire Department shall be issued approved clothing and shall dress in a manner that will reflect a conservative and businesslike appearance compatible with the fire department image. Various members of the Henry County Fire Department may be required to wear business or business casual attire as ordered by the Fire Chief or affected Division Chiefs. All items Rev Page 36