Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County

Human Resource Policy Manual

Policy Statement – The Association is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all employees. The prevention of workplace injuries and illnesses requires the help and cooperation of all employees. The objective of Association's safety program is to minimize the number of workplace injuries and illnesses. Accidents can be prevented through the use of reasonable precautions and the practice of safe working habits. The Association has developed a safety program to address the health and safety of employees.

Communication and Information - The Association provides workplace safety and health information to employees on a regular basis via supervisor-employee meetings, bulletin board postings, memos, electronic postings and other written communications.

OSHA/PESH - The Federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) is designed to provide a safe work environment and to eliminate unsafe conditions. Every employee must follow all OSHA and related Public Employees Safety and Health Act (PESH) directives. All OSHA and PESH standards that pertain to our industry are addressed in the Association's safety program.

Hazard Communication - Association considers hazard communication and the prevention of workplace injuries and illnesses to be of prime importance. The Association has implemented a written hazard communication program to address the safe use of chemicals in the workplace.

Employee Suggestions - Some of the best safety improvement ideas come from employees. Employees with ideas, concerns, or suggestions for improved safety in the workplace are encouraged to raise them with their supervisors. Reports and concerns about workplace safety issues may be made anonymously if an employee chooses. All reports can be made without fear of reprisal.

Investigations The Association conducts an investigation of all job-related injuries, illnesses, and near misses to determine the cause and attempt to prevent a recurrence in the future.

Disciplinary Action - An employee who violates safety standards, who causes hazardous or dangerous situations, or who fails to report or, where appropriate, remedy such situations, may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

First Aid Kit - First aid kits are located in designated locations throughout the building.

Accident Procedures - In the event of a workplace accident, take the following steps:

Fire and Exit Procedures – An employee should be familiar with all exits in the building. In the event of a fire or other emergency that requires the building to be evacuated, the following procedures must be followed:

Fire Extinguishers - Fire extinguishers are located throughout the building. Employees should be familiar with the location and operation of fire extinguishers.

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