Services Provided by the Physical Plant and Personal Protective Equipment: Difference between pages

From Appalachian State University Policy Manual
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Policy 507.3
Policy 303.4
 
== Introduction ==
== Introduction ==
You may copy this page's source to start a new policy page. Be sure to remove or overwrite the examples. Second level headings should NOT be altered.


== Scope ==
=== Occupational Safety and Health Act ===
1.1.1 The Occupational Safety and Health Act of North Carolina (OSHANC) requires that public employers, including State agencies, "[a]cquire, maintain, and require the use of safety equipment, personal protective equipment, and devices reasonably necessary to protect employees." As mandated by OSHANC, the State has adopted "occupational safety and health standards promulgated under the federal act," including those applicable to personal protective equipment ("PPE"). The applicable federal regulation requires that the employer provide (and that employees use):


1.1.2 Protective equipment, including personal protective equipment for eyes, face, head, and extremities, protective clothing, respiratory devices, and protective shields and barriers, ... wherever it is necessary by reason of hazards of processes or environment, chemical hazards, radiological hazards, or mechanical irritants encountered in a manner capable of causing injury or impairment in the function of any part of the body through absorption, inhalation or physical contact.


== Definitions  ==
=== Hazard Assessment and Equipment Selection ===


=== Definition phrase or word ===
1.2.1 North Carolina OSHA (NCOSHA) requires that an assessment of the workplace to determine if hazards are present, or likely to be present, that will necessitate the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). It is the responsibility of each area or department supervisor to perform a hazard assessment of the work site. If such hazards are present, or likely to be present, supervisors will:
: Definition summary
#Select and have each affected employee use the types of PPE that will protect the affected employee from the hazards identified in the hazard assessment.
#Communicate selection decisions to each employee; and
#Select PPE that properly fits each affected employee.


1.2.2 Supervisors will verify that the required workplace hazard assessment has been performed through a written certification that identifies the workplace evaluated, the person certifying that the evaluation has been performed, the dates of the hazard assessment and signatures certifying the completion of the hazard assessment. Contact the Occupational Safety and Health Office at Extension 4007 for additional information.


== Policy and Procedure Statements  ==
1.2.3 At no time shall defective or damaged PPE be used.
=== Services of Physical Plant ===
The Physical Plant provides a wide variety of services for University departments either on a routine maintenance basis or by special request. All requests for services are made by electronically submitting a REQUEST FOR PHYSICAL PLANT SERVICES, see Policy Four, to the Physical Plant Cost Control Center with the departmental budget code. The costs for any changes or additions to a building are the responsibility of the requesting department. If the repair is the responsibility of the Physical Plant the departmental budget code will not be charged. For emergency requests follow the instructions in Policy Five, OBTAINING EMERGENCY MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR SERVICE. For assistance call the Physical Plant between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at extension 3190. Between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. emergencies should be reported to the Office of Public Safety and University Police telephone number 262-2150.


==== Carpentry ====
== Scope ==
#Minor repairs and alterations to buildings, both interior and exterior. Changes to the building are the responsibility of the requesting department. Repairs of the originally constructed building are the responsibility of the Physical Plant.
#Furniture repairs: Regular classroom furniture is maintained by the Physical Plant Services; all other furniture is the property of the department concerned and can be repaired as a departmental service only.
#Minor furniture construction, such as work benches, book shelves, book drops, bulletin boards, cabinets, chalk boards, portable stages, etc. are charged to the department.


==== Housekeeping Services ====
Housekeeping services are rendered to academic areas on campus as a Physical Plant Service. Any housekeeping service performed for self-supporting activities is billed to those activities as a departmental service.


#Routine cleaning: Vacuuming, dusting, emptying trash containers and outside ashtrays, dust mopping, restroom cleaning, stripping, waxing and spray buffing.
== Definitions  ==
#Supplying such items as toilet tissue, paper towels, hand soap, trash can liners, door matting and runners, light bulbs and tubes.
#Cleaning of elevator interiors and minor cleaning of vents in the ventilating system.* Exterior window washing is done (depending on height) once a year.
#Interior window washing is done once a year.
#Snow removal within approximately 10 feet of the main building entries steps and walks.
#Major floor maintenance: Finishing or refinishing tile, terrazzo and concrete floors.
#Maintenance and monthly inspection of fire extinguishers: Fire extinguishers are purchased through the Physical Plant departmental budget and furnished to the academic areas.
#Classrooms, hallways and entrances are cleaned daily, Monday through Friday. Stairs are done twice weekly. Restrooms are cleaned daily and are given a complete cleaning once weekly. Office trash cans are emptied daily and a general cleaning is done once a week.


'''CUSTODIANS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO PERFORM PERSONAL OR UNAUTHORIZED SERVICES.'''
== Policy and Procedure Statements  ==


==== Lock Shop Services ====
=== Personal Protective Equipment ===
4.1.1 In compliance with the provisions of the following policy statement shall apply to personal protective equipment.


The Physical Plant Lock Shop is charged with maintaining physical security for all University buildings and properties, and maintaining all fire exit-ways to code.
4.1.2 The State of North Carolina as an employer will furnish, at no cost to the employee, certain personal protective equipment required by the job. Included in this policy is the "General Personal Protective Equipment Guide" as established by the North Carolina Department of Labor. The State's policy in providing this equipment is noted in each equipment category.


Specific areas for which services are provided:
=== Employees Whose Physical Conditions Necessitate Special Personal Protective Equipment ===


#Estimates for lock and key related work.
4.2.1 Personal Protective Equipment ("PPE") must be used at all times when employees are exposed to workplace hazards requiring the use of PPE, as evidenced by hazard assessments of their work areas. If an employee who is required to wear PPE has a chronic physical condition that requires custom designed and constructed PPE, as certified in writing by the employee's health care provider, that employee should present the health care provider's certification to his/her supervisor in return for authorization to obtain such custom-made PPE at the University's expense. Employee custom-made or specially designed PPE must meet current applicable American National Standards Institute ("ANSI") standards, as prescribed by NCOSHA.
#Cylinder recombinations.
#Providing duplicate keys.
#Maintenance to doors and all related hardware.
#Safe recombinations.


==== Painting Services ====
4.2.2 The University reserves the right to identify and use designated vendors/suppliers in providing custom-made PPE for employees whose condition requires such PPE.
#General interior and exterior painting resulting from routine maintenance, alterations, renovations, and damages due to leaks.
#All University buildings are painted on a regular cycle according to the availability of funding and personnel.


The desired goal for:
=== Employee Owned Equipment ===
# Academic Building Public Areas: Every ten years.
# Offices: Every ten years when requested.
# Classrooms: Every ten years.


Painting buildings at any time other than when regularly scheduled or painting buildings considered to be self-supporting is handled as a departmental service with the requesting department being billed for the cost.
4.3.1 Where University employees provide their own protective equipment, as authorized by their supervisors, the equipment must meet all applicable rules, procedures, standards, codes, and regulations specified in this section.
#Painting and finishing of items constructed by the carpentry shop.
#Drywall finishing
#Paper hanging
#Graffiti removal


==== Campus Signs ====
=== Training ===


Exterior Signs:
4.4.1 Supervisors will provide training to each employee who is required to use PPE. Each employee will be trained in the following areas:
#When PPE use is necessary,
#What PPE is necessary,
#How to properly apply, remove, adjust and wear PPE,
#The limitations of PPE, and
#The proper care, maintenance, useful life and disposal pf PPE.


Building signs are furnished by the Design & Construction Department or the Physical Plant for all campus buildings except self-supporting areas. For these buildings, signs may be furnished as a departmental service and the area involved billed for the service.
4.4.2 Note: Each employee shall demonstrate an understanding of the training and the ability to use PPE properly, before being allowed to perform work requiring the use of PPE.


As a general practice, one sign per building is installed on the main entrance side of the building. Signs contain the building name and are consistent in design throughout the campus.
4.4.3 If the supervisor has reason to believe that any employee who has received prior training does not have the understanding and skill required to use specific PPE, the supervisor shall provide additional training to the identified employee. Circumstances where additional training is required, includes but are not limited to the following situations:
#Changes in the workplace, rendering previous training obsolete;
#Changes in the type of PPE to be used, rendering previous training obsolete; and
#Inadequacies in an identified employee's knowledge or use of assigned PPe indicates the employee has not retained the required understanding or skill.


Interior Signs:
4.4.4 The supervisor shall verify that each identified employee has received and understood the required training using a written documentation ( training record) that contains the name of each trained employee, specific training dates and the training subject.


Name plates and signs for doors, etc., denoting occupants of offices, labs, and other specific areas in buildings on campus must be in accordance with established University standards; these signs should be requested through the Physical Plant and charged to the department.
=== General Personal Protective Equitment Guide ===


==== Motor Pool Services ====
{|border="1"
The Motor Pool is located in the Physical Plant Complex on Dale St. off State Farm Road. The office dispatching hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the garage hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
!|Equipment
 
!|Funding
The Motor Pool provides vehicle rentals, van and bus services, and on occasion, local shuttle service for seminars, conventions, etc. The following types of vehicles are available through the Motor Pool:
!|Guide
 
|-
{|
|Eye Protection Safety Glasses ||100% State funded except that employees who wear prescription glasses pay for the cost of the exam ||As required to protect employee from eye hazards, such as optical radiation or glare when only frontal protection is required. Shaded or special purpose lenses may be required.
|Sedans
|-
|For up to five passengers; recommended for extended field trips.
|Safety Glasses with side shields ||100% State funded except that employees who wear prescription glasses pay for the cost of the exam ||As required to protect employee from flying fragments, objects, large chips, particles, sand, dirt,etc. For severe exposure,add face-shield over safety glasses.  
|-
|Goggles Chemical/Dust Nuisance ||100% State funded ||As reguired to protect employee from chemical splashes, mist, sprays or nuisance dust. For severe exposure, add face shield over gogles.  
|-
|Welding Goggles-Indirect Ventilation ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee against hazards of welding, cutting, and brazing operations.  
|-
|Cup Goggles - Direct Ventilation ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee against eye hazards.  
|-
|Cup Goggles - Indirect Ventilation ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee against eye hazards
|-
|Welding Helmet ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee against eye hazards of welding, cutting, and brazing operations.
|-
|Face Shield ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee's eyes and face.
|-
|Hard Hat ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee's head against impact and falling or flying objects. Class A - used in construction and general industry where there is no exposure to high voltage, electrical shock or burns. Class B - use to protect the head against high voltage electricity. Reference: ANSI-Z89.1-1986
|-
|Hard Hat Liners ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee against the cold weather if hard hat is worn.  
|-
|Respirators ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee from airborne contaminants.  
|-
|Gloves ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee from physical, biological, chemical, radiation, or electrical hazards. Gloves used for electrical protection must be marked as to class of equipment and whether or not they are ozone-resistant, and shall meet the (ASYM) D 120-87 Specification for Rubber Insulating Gloves.  
|-
|Coverall or Aprons Canvas ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee from contact with hazardous substances when canvas provides adequate protection.
|-
|Non-Porous (Plastic/Rubber) ||100 % State funded ||As required to protect employee from contact with hazardous substance when plastic or rubber is needed to provide adequate protection.
|-
|Leather or Other Flame Resistant Material ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee from hazardous substances when leather is needed to provide adequate protection and when leather or other flame-resistant material is required to protect employee from fire hazards.
|-
|Body Protection - Personal protective footies, vest, aprons, coats, pants, coverallls and suits in a range of suitable materials and sizes||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee against biological, radiation, physical, or chemical hazards. Base selection on information in the workplace hazards control program. Reference: Appropriate OSHA-NC standard(s) purchase request.
|-
|Foot Protection Safety Shoes ||State funds for on pair per year, cost not to exceed dollar amount established by the Office of State Budget and Management, which includes inflationary cost increase. (See Safety Procedures for more information) ||As required to protect employee working in areas where there is a danger of foot injuries due to falling or rolling objects piercing the sole or where protection is needed against electrical hazards. In general, does not apply to office employees. NOTE: Protective footwear purchased shall comply with ANSI Z41-1991, "American National Standard for Personal Protection-Protective Footwear." (See Foot Protection Section For More Information).
|-
|Rubber and Specialized Safety Boots ||100% State funded ||As required to keep employee's feet dry when employee routinely works in wet locations such as flooded ditches and to protect from electrical hazards or other hazards requiring specialized safety boots.
|-
|Safety Belts, Harnesses and Life Lines ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employees from falling while working at elevated (10ft. or greater) locations not protected by standard guardrails or safety nets or as required when working in confined spaces.  
|-
|-
|Station Wagons
|Safety Nets ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employees working over 25 feet above ground or water surface where other protective devices are impractical and conventional fall protection system cannot practically be made use of.  
|For up to nine passengers or light, clean cargo.
|-
|-
|Passenger Vans
|Ear Protection ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee against hearing loss due to noise.
|For up to 15 passengers.
|-
|-
|Cargo Vans
|Life Ring ||100% State funded ||As required to protect employee from drowning
|For light, clean cargo.
|-
|-
|Buses (with University driver provided)
|Life Jacket (flotation vest) ||100% State funded ||As required for employees working over or near water where the danger of drowning exists.  
|For up to 47 passengers.
|}
|}


Charges made to departments for the use of University or Department of Administration vehicles provide for the operation and maintenance of vehicles and are adjusted periodically to more accurately reflect current costs.
Per Office of State Personnel


The Motor Pool operates an automotive garage as a related function and provides the following garage services for their rental vehicles and other University and State owned vehicles:
Respiratory Protection
#Fuel - 24 hours a day with key access
#Oil - 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
#Washing/waxing
#Lubrication and oil change
#Battery service
#Motor tune-up
#Brake service
#Minor repairs
#Complete tire service
#State inspection
#Automatic transmission repair/rebuild
#Complete overhaul on engine and standard transmissions
#Body repair and painting for all University vehicles
#Making arrangements for major repairs on heavy equipment


Complete and continuing records are kept on individual vehicles serviced. Charges cover labor and material costs only.
Numerous NCOSHA regulations exist for use of respiratory protective equipment by campus employees. The ASU Respiratory Protection program is contained in Policy 11.


Each department is responsible for identifying from their departmental budget adequate funds to cover Motor Pool services requested.
=== Foot Protection ===


==== Mechanical Services ====
4.6.1 Steel toed protective footwear must comply with the most current ANSI standard for protective footwear, that provides impact and compression protection, and can include puncture protection, metatarsal protection or electrical conductive/insulating protection. Impact protection would be required for carrying or handling packages, objects, parts or heavy tools which could be dropped or where objects might fall on the feet. Compression protection would be required when working with the aid of skid trucks, hand trucks or other equipment moving devices around bulk rolls or around heavy pipes that could roll over on employee's feet. Puncture protection would be required when sharp objects such as nails, tacks, screws, large staples, scrap metal, etc., could be stepped on by employees.
#Steam heat and hot water distribution.
#Distribution and maintenance of Potable water lines. Water treatment is the responsibility of the Water Plant.
#Sewage disposal.
#Maintenance and repair of heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
#Maintenance and repair of plumbing systems.
#Installation of plumbing involved with minor repairs, alterations, and renovations.
#Metal fabrications involved with mechanical systems.


==== Electrical Services ====
4.6.2 One pair of steel toed shoes will be provided by the University for each covered employee (See Acquiring Safety Shoes for more information). Certain Categories are known to need steel toed safety shoes and are listed below (NOTE: This is NOT a complete listing):
#Electrical repair and maintenance within the buildings.
#Maintenance of secondary electrical systems which include switchgear, interior circuitry, panels, etc.
#Installation of interior electrical wiring.
#Emergency generators.
#Oversees the operation of all campus elevators.
#Maintenance of exterior lighting connected to and adjacent to University buildings.


==== Electronics/Telecommunication Services ====
4.6.3 For additional information, contact your supervisor or the Occupational Safety and Health Office.
#Maintenance and repair of bells and clocks.
#Installation and maintenance of data and television cables within the building walls.
#Maintenance and repair of public address systems.
#Telephone repairs and line checks for noise or other problems.
#Maintenance and repair of fire alarm systems.
#Services outside the basic utilities can be provided; however, the requesting department will be billed for these services. Examples include: installation, testing and maintenance of department equipment and new installations.


==== Landscape Services ====
{|border="1"
#Campus clean-up.
|'''Job Classification''' ||'''When Needed'''
#Landscape Design.
|-
#Operation of Physical Plant Greenhouse.
|Automobile mechanics, helpers ||At all times
#Trash and garbage removal from dumpsters, outside trash receptacles, and grounds.
|-
#Maintenance and repair to steps, walks, decorative and retaining rock, block walls and brick work.
|Carpenters and helpers ||At all times
#Cleaning, grading and repairs to roads, sidewalks, parking lots, ditches, catch basins and campus street sweeping..
|-
#Removal of snow and ice from steps, sidewalks, curb cuts, campus streets, parking lot lanes, handicapped parking spaces and ramps.
|Dishwashers ||At all times
#Maintenance of athletic fields (i.e. mowing, fertilize aerating, top dressing, overseeding, herbicides, pesticides control, insects, fungi).
|-
#Planting of shrubs, trees and plants around buildings and in campus gardens.
|Electricians ||At all times
#Mulching of new and existing landscaped areas.
|-
#Pruning shrubs and trees and tree removal as necessary.
|Faculty, Instructors ||When teaching involves heavy machinery or material lifting
#Plant Health Care and Integrated Pest Management (i.e. spraying, fertilization of shrubs, trees, ground covers and lawns).
|-
#Mowing of campus lawns, removal of leaves, limbs and other debris from campus.
|Grounds Workers ||At all times
#Sign installation and hanging of banners.
|-
#Moving services with five work day notice (Major moves related to new construction or renovations should be contracted):
|Housekeepers ||When lifting, maintenance, using heavy machinery
##Furniture and equipment within buildings, departments, etc.
|-
##Bulk materials and furniture from warehouse to departments involved.
|Laborers, Movers ||At all times
##Delivery and set up of furniture and equipment after receiving a work order with the departmental budget code.
|-
##Installation and/or setup of a significant amount of equipment or furniture should be included in the vendor's contract price.
|Locksmiths ||At all times
##Areas to be carpeted with a significant amount of furniture to be moved in and out should have the moving included in the vendor's contract price.
|-
 
|Machine operators ||At all times
==== Sports Facilities Services ====
|-
#Care of football stadium turf and gym floors.
|Maintenance mechanics ||At all times
#Setup for athletic sporting events (equipment and furnishing are supplies by the user).
#Sports equipment maintenance, housekeeping and setup.
#Operation of swimming pool and care of stadium.
 
==== Zone Maintenance Services ====
 
*Perform maintenance and repair to building heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
*Perform maintenance and repair to plumbing fixtures and water distribution system.
*Perform maintenance and repair to building electrical fixtures and distribution systems.
*Perform maintenance and repair to building structures, furnishings and fixtures.
 
===== Preventive Maintenance ====
 
*Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems.
*Perform scheduled preventive maintenance, inspect and repair doors, locks and building interior structures.
 
==== Equipment Installation ====
 
Work Requirements for Installing Special Equipment - The installation of special equipment ordered by a requesting department or activity for laboratories, offices, or classrooms usually imposes some work requirement on the Physical Plant. This may involve electrical and/or other utility connections and special controls peculiar to the particular equipment operation.
 
Location with respect to existing or required operation needs, physical space, and access to the area involved also must receive early consideration and coordination.
 
Requirements for additional power or electrical panels other than what is originally installed in the building will be a responsibility of the department.
 
Verifying Operational Characteristics - When the purchase of such special equipment is contemplated by a department or activity, the Physical Plant should be contacted to:
 
*Determine if the equipment to be ordered is compatible with existing utilities in the building.
*Determine what must be done to make the building compatible with the equipment.
*Determine what installation material will need to be provided by the Physical Plant.
 
Advance Notice - As much advance notice as possible, as to expected delivery date and required operational date, should be furnished to the Physical Plant to facilitate scheduling of installation. This will not only assist the Physical Plant with timely scheduling, but will preclude undue delays in placing the equipment in service.
 
==== Setting Up for Special Events ====
 
When a program or event requires special physical facilities, the setting up of the facilities may be accomplished by the Physical Plant as a departmental service. The services available from the Physical Plant include seating, stages, lighting, sound systems, and scenery, etc. The Physical Plant does not provide seating. The requesting department must locate the seating needed and then contact the Physical Plant for moving and arranging.
 
This type of service is provided by each Physical Plant department supplying its qualified services in coordination with the other departments. The following example illustrates the services that could be required, and who would provide them:
 
{|
|'''Department'''                             
|'''Service Provided'''
|-  
|-  
|Landscape Services
|Maintenance workers ||At all times
|Moving furniture and equipment; setting up seating; providing trash cans or dumpsters
|-
|-
|Electrical                             
|Meat cutters ||At all times
|Sound system; special lighting; special electrical
|-
|-
|Electronics/Telecommunications         
|Painters ||At all times
|Electronic effects
|-
|-
|Carpentry                             
|Plumbers ||At all times
|Construction of stage
|-
|-
|Painting                               
|Print Shop personnel ||At all times
|Painting items constructed by the carpentry shop
|-
|-
|Housekeeping                           
|Procurement personnel ||At all times
|Cleaning of facility after special events
|-
|-
|Motor Pool                           
|Roofers ||At all times
|Transportation Services
|-
|-
|Physical Plant                        
|Safety & WC Office|| When lifting, in construction, maintenance, warehouse areas
|Sports Facilities Preparation, setup and break down
|-
|Steam Plant personnel ||At all times
|-
|Truck drivers ||At all times
|-
|Warehouse personnel ||At all times
|-
|Welders ||At all times
|-
|Other Workers ||When lifting, performing maintenance, using heavy machinery, on construction sites
|}
|}


When special set-ups are required for an event on campus, a REQUEST FOR PHYSICAL PLANT SERVICES must be submitted. A sufficient amount of advance notice should be given so that the request does not disrupt regular scheduling. As in any departmental service, the department requesting the service is billed.
=== Acquiring Safety Shoes ===
4.7.1 Employees who are required to wear steel toed safety shoes as determined by the results of a hazard assessment in their workplace may either acquire them through a vendor/shoemobile program set up annually by the Purchasing Department or purchase them from an outside vendor and be reimbursed. In the latter case, the employee must pay the full amount (cost) at the time of purchase. Return the signed receipt, marked "Paid in Full" to the department for processing, reimbursement purposes. Departments must intially complete a procurement request or small check request (with budget code and attached list of employees authorized to purchase steel toed safety shoes). Forward the completed procurement request and attached list to Purchasing Department. Forward the completed small check request and attached list to the Payroll Department. A copy of the authorized steel toed safety shoe purchase list should also be forwarded to the Occupational Safety and Health Office. To complete processing an employee must:
 
#Return a copy of the paid, dated purchase receipt received from the outside vendor/shoemobile salesperson to the department. Note: Purchase amounts in excess of the state approved limit must be paid by the employee at the time of purchase. Departments should then forward copies of the employee returned receipts, marked "APPROVED FOR PAYMENT" to the Purchasing Department or to the Payroll Department to formally process department billing procedures OR
#Have your department complete a procurement request and forward it to the Purchasing Department. Be sure to include budget code and attach copies of "PAID IN FULL" employee receipts to the procurement request, marked "REIMBURSEMENT TO (EMPLOYEE'S NAME) FOR PAYMENT OF SAFETY SHOES FROM (STORE NAME)."
NOTE: The cost of reimbursement should not exceed the state approved limit per employee per fiscal year.


== Additional References ==
== Additional References ==
Line 248: Line 198:


== Revision Dates ==
== Revision Dates ==
Last modified 12/04/2009 01:32:20 PM by Matt McNaney
 
[[Category:Contents]]
[[Category:Public_Safety]]
[[Category:Environmental Health and Safety]]

Revision as of 14:08, 30 July 2012

Policy 303.4

Introduction

Occupational Safety and Health Act

1.1.1 The Occupational Safety and Health Act of North Carolina (OSHANC) requires that public employers, including State agencies, "[a]cquire, maintain, and require the use of safety equipment, personal protective equipment, and devices reasonably necessary to protect employees." As mandated by OSHANC, the State has adopted "occupational safety and health standards promulgated under the federal act," including those applicable to personal protective equipment ("PPE"). The applicable federal regulation requires that the employer provide (and that employees use):

1.1.2 Protective equipment, including personal protective equipment for eyes, face, head, and extremities, protective clothing, respiratory devices, and protective shields and barriers, ... wherever it is necessary by reason of hazards of processes or environment, chemical hazards, radiological hazards, or mechanical irritants encountered in a manner capable of causing injury or impairment in the function of any part of the body through absorption, inhalation or physical contact.

Hazard Assessment and Equipment Selection

1.2.1 North Carolina OSHA (NCOSHA) requires that an assessment of the workplace to determine if hazards are present, or likely to be present, that will necessitate the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). It is the responsibility of each area or department supervisor to perform a hazard assessment of the work site. If such hazards are present, or likely to be present, supervisors will:

  1. Select and have each affected employee use the types of PPE that will protect the affected employee from the hazards identified in the hazard assessment.
  2. Communicate selection decisions to each employee; and
  3. Select PPE that properly fits each affected employee.

1.2.2 Supervisors will verify that the required workplace hazard assessment has been performed through a written certification that identifies the workplace evaluated, the person certifying that the evaluation has been performed, the dates of the hazard assessment and signatures certifying the completion of the hazard assessment. Contact the Occupational Safety and Health Office at Extension 4007 for additional information.

1.2.3 At no time shall defective or damaged PPE be used.

Scope

Definitions

Policy and Procedure Statements

Personal Protective Equipment

4.1.1 In compliance with the provisions of the following policy statement shall apply to personal protective equipment.

4.1.2 The State of North Carolina as an employer will furnish, at no cost to the employee, certain personal protective equipment required by the job. Included in this policy is the "General Personal Protective Equipment Guide" as established by the North Carolina Department of Labor. The State's policy in providing this equipment is noted in each equipment category.

Employees Whose Physical Conditions Necessitate Special Personal Protective Equipment

4.2.1 Personal Protective Equipment ("PPE") must be used at all times when employees are exposed to workplace hazards requiring the use of PPE, as evidenced by hazard assessments of their work areas. If an employee who is required to wear PPE has a chronic physical condition that requires custom designed and constructed PPE, as certified in writing by the employee's health care provider, that employee should present the health care provider's certification to his/her supervisor in return for authorization to obtain such custom-made PPE at the University's expense. Employee custom-made or specially designed PPE must meet current applicable American National Standards Institute ("ANSI") standards, as prescribed by NCOSHA.

4.2.2 The University reserves the right to identify and use designated vendors/suppliers in providing custom-made PPE for employees whose condition requires such PPE.

Employee Owned Equipment

4.3.1 Where University employees provide their own protective equipment, as authorized by their supervisors, the equipment must meet all applicable rules, procedures, standards, codes, and regulations specified in this section.

Training

4.4.1 Supervisors will provide training to each employee who is required to use PPE. Each employee will be trained in the following areas:

  1. When PPE use is necessary,
  2. What PPE is necessary,
  3. How to properly apply, remove, adjust and wear PPE,
  4. The limitations of PPE, and
  5. The proper care, maintenance, useful life and disposal pf PPE.

4.4.2 Note: Each employee shall demonstrate an understanding of the training and the ability to use PPE properly, before being allowed to perform work requiring the use of PPE.

4.4.3 If the supervisor has reason to believe that any employee who has received prior training does not have the understanding and skill required to use specific PPE, the supervisor shall provide additional training to the identified employee. Circumstances where additional training is required, includes but are not limited to the following situations:

  1. Changes in the workplace, rendering previous training obsolete;
  2. Changes in the type of PPE to be used, rendering previous training obsolete; and
  3. Inadequacies in an identified employee's knowledge or use of assigned PPe indicates the employee has not retained the required understanding or skill.

4.4.4 The supervisor shall verify that each identified employee has received and understood the required training using a written documentation ( training record) that contains the name of each trained employee, specific training dates and the training subject.

General Personal Protective Equitment Guide

Equipment Funding Guide
Eye Protection Safety Glasses 100% State funded except that employees who wear prescription glasses pay for the cost of the exam As required to protect employee from eye hazards, such as optical radiation or glare when only frontal protection is required. Shaded or special purpose lenses may be required.
Safety Glasses with side shields 100% State funded except that employees who wear prescription glasses pay for the cost of the exam As required to protect employee from flying fragments, objects, large chips, particles, sand, dirt,etc. For severe exposure,add face-shield over safety glasses.
Goggles Chemical/Dust Nuisance 100% State funded As reguired to protect employee from chemical splashes, mist, sprays or nuisance dust. For severe exposure, add face shield over gogles.
Welding Goggles-Indirect Ventilation 100% State funded As required to protect employee against hazards of welding, cutting, and brazing operations.
Cup Goggles - Direct Ventilation 100% State funded As required to protect employee against eye hazards.
Cup Goggles - Indirect Ventilation 100% State funded As required to protect employee against eye hazards
Welding Helmet 100% State funded As required to protect employee against eye hazards of welding, cutting, and brazing operations.
Face Shield 100% State funded As required to protect employee's eyes and face.
Hard Hat 100% State funded As required to protect employee's head against impact and falling or flying objects. Class A - used in construction and general industry where there is no exposure to high voltage, electrical shock or burns. Class B - use to protect the head against high voltage electricity. Reference: ANSI-Z89.1-1986
Hard Hat Liners 100% State funded As required to protect employee against the cold weather if hard hat is worn.
Respirators 100% State funded As required to protect employee from airborne contaminants.
Gloves 100% State funded As required to protect employee from physical, biological, chemical, radiation, or electrical hazards. Gloves used for electrical protection must be marked as to class of equipment and whether or not they are ozone-resistant, and shall meet the (ASYM) D 120-87 Specification for Rubber Insulating Gloves.
Coverall or Aprons Canvas 100% State funded As required to protect employee from contact with hazardous substances when canvas provides adequate protection.
Non-Porous (Plastic/Rubber) 100 % State funded As required to protect employee from contact with hazardous substance when plastic or rubber is needed to provide adequate protection.
Leather or Other Flame Resistant Material 100% State funded As required to protect employee from hazardous substances when leather is needed to provide adequate protection and when leather or other flame-resistant material is required to protect employee from fire hazards.
Body Protection - Personal protective footies, vest, aprons, coats, pants, coverallls and suits in a range of suitable materials and sizes 100% State funded As required to protect employee against biological, radiation, physical, or chemical hazards. Base selection on information in the workplace hazards control program. Reference: Appropriate OSHA-NC standard(s) purchase request.
Foot Protection Safety Shoes State funds for on pair per year, cost not to exceed dollar amount established by the Office of State Budget and Management, which includes inflationary cost increase. (See Safety Procedures for more information) As required to protect employee working in areas where there is a danger of foot injuries due to falling or rolling objects piercing the sole or where protection is needed against electrical hazards. In general, does not apply to office employees. NOTE: Protective footwear purchased shall comply with ANSI Z41-1991, "American National Standard for Personal Protection-Protective Footwear." (See Foot Protection Section For More Information).
Rubber and Specialized Safety Boots 100% State funded As required to keep employee's feet dry when employee routinely works in wet locations such as flooded ditches and to protect from electrical hazards or other hazards requiring specialized safety boots.
Safety Belts, Harnesses and Life Lines 100% State funded As required to protect employees from falling while working at elevated (10ft. or greater) locations not protected by standard guardrails or safety nets or as required when working in confined spaces.
Safety Nets 100% State funded As required to protect employees working over 25 feet above ground or water surface where other protective devices are impractical and conventional fall protection system cannot practically be made use of.
Ear Protection 100% State funded As required to protect employee against hearing loss due to noise.
Life Ring 100% State funded As required to protect employee from drowning
Life Jacket (flotation vest) 100% State funded As required for employees working over or near water where the danger of drowning exists.

Per Office of State Personnel

Respiratory Protection

Numerous NCOSHA regulations exist for use of respiratory protective equipment by campus employees. The ASU Respiratory Protection program is contained in Policy 11.

Foot Protection

4.6.1 Steel toed protective footwear must comply with the most current ANSI standard for protective footwear, that provides impact and compression protection, and can include puncture protection, metatarsal protection or electrical conductive/insulating protection. Impact protection would be required for carrying or handling packages, objects, parts or heavy tools which could be dropped or where objects might fall on the feet. Compression protection would be required when working with the aid of skid trucks, hand trucks or other equipment moving devices around bulk rolls or around heavy pipes that could roll over on employee's feet. Puncture protection would be required when sharp objects such as nails, tacks, screws, large staples, scrap metal, etc., could be stepped on by employees.

4.6.2 One pair of steel toed shoes will be provided by the University for each covered employee (See Acquiring Safety Shoes for more information). Certain Categories are known to need steel toed safety shoes and are listed below (NOTE: This is NOT a complete listing):

4.6.3 For additional information, contact your supervisor or the Occupational Safety and Health Office.

Job Classification When Needed
Automobile mechanics, helpers At all times
Carpenters and helpers At all times
Dishwashers At all times
Electricians At all times
Faculty, Instructors When teaching involves heavy machinery or material lifting
Grounds Workers At all times
Housekeepers When lifting, maintenance, using heavy machinery
Laborers, Movers At all times
Locksmiths At all times
Machine operators At all times
Maintenance mechanics At all times
Maintenance workers At all times
Meat cutters At all times
Painters At all times
Plumbers At all times
Print Shop personnel At all times
Procurement personnel At all times
Roofers At all times
Safety & WC Office When lifting, in construction, maintenance, warehouse areas
Steam Plant personnel At all times
Truck drivers At all times
Warehouse personnel At all times
Welders At all times
Other Workers When lifting, performing maintenance, using heavy machinery, on construction sites

Acquiring Safety Shoes

4.7.1 Employees who are required to wear steel toed safety shoes as determined by the results of a hazard assessment in their workplace may either acquire them through a vendor/shoemobile program set up annually by the Purchasing Department or purchase them from an outside vendor and be reimbursed. In the latter case, the employee must pay the full amount (cost) at the time of purchase. Return the signed receipt, marked "Paid in Full" to the department for processing, reimbursement purposes. Departments must intially complete a procurement request or small check request (with budget code and attached list of employees authorized to purchase steel toed safety shoes). Forward the completed procurement request and attached list to Purchasing Department. Forward the completed small check request and attached list to the Payroll Department. A copy of the authorized steel toed safety shoe purchase list should also be forwarded to the Occupational Safety and Health Office. To complete processing an employee must:

  1. Return a copy of the paid, dated purchase receipt received from the outside vendor/shoemobile salesperson to the department. Note: Purchase amounts in excess of the state approved limit must be paid by the employee at the time of purchase. Departments should then forward copies of the employee returned receipts, marked "APPROVED FOR PAYMENT" to the Purchasing Department or to the Payroll Department to formally process department billing procedures OR
  2. Have your department complete a procurement request and forward it to the Purchasing Department. Be sure to include budget code and attach copies of "PAID IN FULL" employee receipts to the procurement request, marked "REIMBURSEMENT TO (EMPLOYEE'S NAME) FOR PAYMENT OF SAFETY SHOES FROM (STORE NAME)."

NOTE: The cost of reimbursement should not exceed the state approved limit per employee per fiscal year.

Additional References

Authority

Contact Information

Effective Date

Revision Dates

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