broadband telecom services, inc
TRANSCRIPT
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK
REVISED January 2018
WWW.BTSCABLE.COM
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
Employee Handbook
2
THIS MANUAL PROVIDES POLICY AND PROCEDURAL GUIDELINES. IT IS NOT A
CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT AND DOES NOT LIMIT THE RIGHTS OF
BROADBAND TELECOM SERVICES AND ITS EMPLOYEES TO TERMINATE THE
EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE. ALL
EMPLOYEES ARE EMPLOYEES AT WILL. THE POLICIES CONTAINED IN THIS
HANDBOOK, AND THE HANDBOOK ITSELF, CAN BE MODIFIED BY BROADBAND
TELECOM SERVICES AT ANYTIME, WITHOUT NOTICE, AND WITHOUT
WRITTEN REVISION OF THE HANDBOOK. NO EMPLOYEE SHOULD RELY ON
ANY PROVISION CONTAINED WITHIN THE HANDBOOK.
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. was founded by Ben Boutwell in 2003. He founded the company in Texas and has expanded into markets across the nation. Ben and his wife Kerri maintain the corporate office in Fort Worth, Texas and oversee employees in offices in Dallas (TX), San Antonio (TX), Austin (TX), Rio Grande Valley (TX), Oklahoma City (OK), Flint (MI)and teams working nationwide. About Our Organization At Broadband Telecom Service, Inc., the foundation of the culture is based on a common value known as: Integrity. This is not just a word used within the company as a point of focus, but the keystone of our infrastructure for existence and the secret to our growth over time with one another, clients, customers, vendors, and the public in general. The telecommunication industry has seen dramatic changes over the years and progressed forward in “renaissance” tradition to set new goals and reach new heights. We take great pride in having successfully ridden the waves of change and look forward to the future as technology continues to meet Moore's Law (Moore's Law states technology doubles in speed and reduces in size every 24 months) and beyond. Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. continually meets new challenges with the same dedicated focus on providing quality, safety, and value to customers while maintaining total integrity in the process from start to finish on each and every project. Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. is committed to being the best in the communication service industry. We perform complete quality design, build, installation, operation, and maintenance of municipal, private, and publicly owned co-ax, copper, and fiber broadband networks, data systems,
3
microwave links, radio systems, uplink/downlink feeds, and direct satellite systems to residential and commercial customers. Mission Statement Professional groups of technicians, installers, project managers, estimators, logistic teams, accountants, clerical support, and leadership at Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. (BTS) provide superior customer service and support seven days a week to meet the needs of our clients and their customers.
Vision Statement
• Live, Work, and Play with Integrity • Achieve and Pursue Excellence • Seek New Horizons
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION A BTS EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK
SECTION 1 MANAGEMENT PHILOSOPHY 7
SECTION 1.1 LEADERSHIP TEAM 7
SECTION 1.2 EMPLOYEE RELATIONS 7
SECTION 1.3 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 7
SECTION 1.4 REASONABLE ACCOMODATIONS FOR EMPLOYEES W/DISABILITIES 8
SECTION 1.5 HARASSMENT 8
SECTION 1.6 EMPLOYEE NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT 8
SECTION 1.7 SOLICITATION AND DISTRIBUTION 10
SECTION 2 EMPLOYMENT POLICIES 10
SECTION 2.1 INTRODUCTORY PERIOD 10
SECTION 2.2 HOURS OF WORK 10
SECTION 2.3 ATTENDANCE 10
SECTION 2.4 DRESS CODE AND GROOMING 11
SECTION 2.5 WORKING GUIDELINES AND POLICIES 11
SECTION 2.6 CONFLICT OF INTEREST 12
SECTION 2.7 GRATUITIES 13
SECTION 2.8 EMPLOYMENT OF RELATIVES 13
SECTION 2.9 RE-HIRE 13
SECTION 2.10 RESIGNATION / TERMINATION 13
SECTION 2.11 DISCIPLINE PROCEDURE 14
SECTION 2.12 USE OF COMPANY EQUIPMENT 14
SECTION 2.13 USE OF COMPANY VEHICLE 14
SECTION 2.14 USE OF COMPANY CELL PHONE 14
SECTION 2.15 DEFINITIONSS OF EMPLOYEE STATUS 15
SECTION 2.16 BUILDING SECURITY 16
SECTION 2.17 INSURANCE ON PERSONAL EFFECTS 16
SECTION 2.18 SUPPLIES; EXPENDITURES; OBLIGATING THE COMPANY 16
SECTION 2.19 EXPENSE REINBURSEMENT 16
SECTION 2.20 VISITORS IN THE WORKPLACE 17
SECTION 2.21 PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING 17
SECTION 2.22 REFERRAL BONUS 17
SECTION 2.23 FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITIES 17
SECTION 3 COMPENSATION PROGRAM 18
SECTION 3.1 OVERTIME 18
SECTION 3.2 HOLIDAY PAY 18
SECTION 3.3 TIME SHEETS AND PAY DAYS 19
SECTION 3.4 VACATION /SICK LEAVE / PERSONAL TIME (PTO –PAID TIME OFF) 19
SECTION 3.5 ATTENDANCE PHILOSOPHY 19
5
SECTION 3.6 MILITARY LEAVE 20
SECTION 3.7 BEREAVEMENT LEAVE 20
SECTION 3.8 JURY DUTY 20
SECTION 3.9 PERFORMANCE APPRAISALS 20
SECTION 3.10 BENEFITS 21
SECTION 4 SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY 21
SECTION 5 DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING POLICY 23
SECTION B BTS’S SAFETY MANUAL’S TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL PRACTICES 34
SECTION B-1 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS 34
SECTION B-2 HOUSEKEEPING AND HAZARD PREVENTION 40
SECTION B-3 INDOOR AIR QUALITY 41
SECTION B-4 OFFICE SAFETY 42
SECTION B-5 ERGONOMICS 43
SECTION B-6 MANUAL MATERIAL HANDLING AND STORAGE 45
SECTION B-7 MECHANICAL LIFTING DEVICES 46
SECTION B-8 MOTOR VEHICLE USE AND DEFENSIVE DRIVING 48
SECTION B-9 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 51
SECTION B-10 HEARING CONSERVATION 55
SECTION B-11 HAZARD COMMUNICATION 56
SECTION B-12 SPILL RESPONSE 58
SECTION B-13 LOCKOUT/TAGOUT 59
SECTION B-14 HAND AND PORTABLE POWER TOOLS 61
SECTION B-15 COMPRESSED GASES: GENERAL PRECAUTIONS 64
SECTION B-16 WELDING CUTTING AND BRAZING 67
SECTION C BTS’S SAFETY MANUAL’S TABLE OF CONTENTS
FIELD PRACTICES 70
SECTION C-1 FIRST AID / CPR 71
SECTION C-2 BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS 71
SECTION C-3 ASBESTOS 72
SECTION C-4 LEAD 76
SECTION C-5 HANTAVIRUS 77
SECTION C-6 HEAT AND COLD STRESS 81
SECTION C-7 RADIOFREQUENCY RADIATION 84
SECTION C-8 DOT FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATION 85
6
SECTION C-9 TRUCKS AND TRAILERS 89
SECTION C-10 RUBBER INSULATING GOLVES 90
SECTION C-11 FOREIGN VOLTAGE DETECTORS 92
SECTION C-12 B-TEMPORARY BOND 93
SECTION C-13 WORK AREA PROTECTION 94
SECTION C-14 FALL PREVENTION SYSTEMS 99
SECTION C-15 APPROACH DISTANCES 100
SECTION C-16 POLE CLIMBING 101
SECTION C-17 AERIAL LIFTS 103
SECTION C-18 EXTENSION AND COMBINATION LADDERS 107
SECTION C-19 STEP LADDERS 114
SECTION C-20 ROLLING LADDERS 115
SECTION C-21 WORKING ON ROOFTOPS 117
SECTION C-22 ANTENNA TOWER WORK 118
SECTION C-23 UTILITY HOLES 120
SECTION C-24 PUMPING WATER 122
SECTION C-25 AIR TESTING EQUIPMENT 123
SECTION C-26 ACCESS TO OURSIDE PANT EQUIPMENT ENCLOSURES 125
SECTION C-27 PERMIT REQUIRED CONFINED SPACES 126
SECTION C-28 PROPANE AND OPEN FLAME USE 128
SECTION C-29 BATTERIES 130
SECTION C-30 TOOLS AND MOTOR VEHICLE INSPECTIONS 132
SECTION C-31 WORK OBSERVATIONS 133
SECTION C-32 FIBER AND WIRE ROPE 134
SECTION C-33 FIBER OPTICS 135
SECTION C-34 CUSTOMER PREMISES ISSUES 136
SECTION C-35 BURIED PLANT 138
SECTION C-36 ENCAPSULANTS 140
SECTION C-37 WATER AND ICE SAFETY 141
SECTION C-38 ILLUMINATION/WORK AFTER DARK 142
7
MANAGEMENT PHILOSOPHY
1.1 OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
Your Supervisor, Manager, and President are vital members of the Broadband Telecom Services,
Inc. leadership team. They are your immediate points of contact. Their first responsibility is to
represent Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. to you and to Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. They
will gladly answer your questions, and if they do not know the answers, they will make sure that
you get a prompt and correct response.
You should feel free to go to them with questions. The most important communications on the
job is the “one-to-one” interaction with your supervisor. When you have questions about your job
or employment policies, we encourage you to speak with your supervisor. Your supervisor will
provide you with the help you need to do a good job.
Give your leadership team every opportunity to use their experience and knowledge to help you
succeed in your job. You will find them friendly, cooperative, and eager to answer your questions,
to assist you as much as possible.
1.2 EMPLOYEE RELATIONS
We are committed to maintaining a high level of trust with our employees. We are dedicated to:
➢ Treating our employees fairly
➢ Maintaining open lines of communications between supervisors and employees
➢ Respecting the needs of each individual employee
➢ Providing a combination of pay benefits, safe working conditions and a work
environment that are competitive and affordable
➢ Training employees so that we can keep up changes with technology that affect the
business
The fundamental relationship at Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. is between the employee and
their supervisor or other members of the management team. You can talk to us; we can talk to
you; and we want to keep it that way. We believe that any problem that might develop within this
relationship, or in the workplace itself, can best be resolved by working together, without the
interference of outsiders.
All members of the leadership team understand the importance of communication and making
themselves available to resolve problems. We believe in resolving problems before they grow into
major problems.
1.3 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
We are an equal opportunity employer. It is our belief that all persons regardless of their creed,
color religion, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation or
pregnancy status, marital status, unfavorable military discharge, age, status with regard to public
8
assistance or activity in a local commission are entitled to equal employment opportunity. At
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. any form of discrimination or racial or sexual harassment will
not be tolerated.
Job applicants are judged solely on the basis of their ability to perform the job. Likewise,
opportunities for advancement are based solely on the individual’s job performance, training
and/or seniority. Broadband Telecom Services Inc. will not implement policies, programs,
practices or procedures prohibited by law with respect to recruitment, selection, placement,
promotion, wages, benefits or any other terms of conditions of employment.
If you feel that you have been subjected to discrimination or sexual harassment you should
immediately bring this to the attention of your immediate supervisor or any member of the
leadership team. They will take immediate action to investigate the matter. If, however, your
supervisor (or any member of the leadership team) fails to resolve this matter, or personally
engages in such discrimination or harassment, you should contact the HR Director or President.
All employees are responsible for understanding, adhering to and strictly enforcing the equal
employment opportunity policy.
1.4 REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR EMPLOYEES WITH DISABILITIES
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. will provide reasonable accommodations to employees with
disabilities to enable them to perform the essential job functions of their job and to enjoy equal
benefits privileges of employment. Any employee who feels that he/she requires and
accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of his/her job may request that an
accommodation be made. The request should be submitted to your immediate supervisor. It is the
employee’s responsibility to inform management as soon as possible of the need for an
accommodation due to disability.
1.5 HARASSMENT
It is the policy of Broadband Telecom Services Inc., to provide a workplace free of all improper
or unlawful harassment of employees by other employees or customers. Such harassment includes
unwelcome sexual advances, slurs, jokes and comments concerning creed or racial background,
sexual orientations, and religious beliefs. Any employee who believes he/she is the victim of
harassment should immediately report the matter to his/her supervisor, manager or President.
1.6 EMPLOYEE NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT
As a condition of employment with Broadband Telecom Services Inc., it is agreed that in no event
will an employee appropriate for personal use, disclose to third parties, or duplicate, for any reason,
information or materials which are the property of Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. and/or any
customer of Broadband Telecom Services Inc., Inc. except when directed to do so by Broadband
Telecom Services in the performance of assigned duties as an employee of Broadband Telecom
Services, Inc. The term “Confidential Information” means any data or information and
documentation that is valuable to Broadband Telecom Services Inc., and not generally known to
the public, including but not limited to:
9
➢ Financial information, including but not limited to earnings, assets, debts, prices, fee
structures, volumes of purchases or sales, or other financial data, whether relating to
Broadband Telecom Services generally, or to particular products, services, geographic
areas or time periods;
➢ Supply and service information, including but not limited to information concerning the
goods and services utilized or purchased by Broadband Telecom Services Inc., the names
and addresses of suppliers, terms of supplier service contracts, or of particular transactions,
or related information about potential suppliers, to the extent that such information about
potential suppliers, to the extent that such information is not generally known to the public,
and to the extent that the combination of suppliers or use of particular suppliers, though
generally known or available, yields advantages to Broadband Telecom Services, the
details of which are generally known;
➢ Marketing information, including but not limited to details about ongoing or proposed
marketing programs or agreement by or on behalf of Broadband Telecom Services Inc.,
marketing forecasts, results of marketing efforts or information about impending
transactions;
➢ Personnel information, including but not limited to employees’ personal or medical
histories, compensation or other terms of employment, actual or proposed promotions,
hiring, resignations, disciplinary actions, terminations or reasons therefore, training
methods, performance or other employee information; and
➢ Customer information, including but not limited to any compilations of past, existing or
prospective customers, customer proposals or agreements between customer and
Broadband Telecom Services Inc., status of customer accounts or credit, or related
information about actual or prospective customers.
As a further condition of employment by Broadband Telecom Services Inc., each employee agrees
to keep confidential all information and materials which have, for any reason, come into the
possession of the employee of Broadband Telecom Services Inc., which belong to Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc. This requirement remains in effect as long as the information remains
confidential. Upon termination, these materials must be returned with all equipment, keys and
other Broadband Telecom Services Inc. property.
It is recognized that all work product, including such items as reports, software, manual inventions,
programs, and designs developed by and for Broadband Telecom Services Inc. remain solely the
property of the Company and do not inherently carry a promise of any additional compensation by
contract wages or other payment method.
10
1.7 SOLICITATION AND DISTRIBUTION
Solicitation by an employee of another employee is prohibited while either the person doing the
soliciting or the one being solicited is on work time. Solicitation by non-employees on the
Company premises is prohibited at all times and should be immediately reported to a member of
the leadership team. Check with HR Director before distributing or posting information on
Company premises.
SECTION 2
EMPLOYMENT POLICIES
2.1 INTRODUCTORY PERIOD
The first ninety (90) days of your employment is considered an introductory period. If applicable,
a certified copy of your driving record along with a criminal background check will be obtained
to verify your driving status and your Social Trace Status. Also during this introductory period
your supervisor will have an opportunity to observe your ability to do the job in such areas as:
successful completion of training programs and your ability to consistently adhere to policies and
procedures.
Your supervisor will evaluate your performance periodically during the introductory period to
keep you apprised of your progress. When you successfully complete the introductory period, you
will become eligible for Paid Time off (PTO).
2.2 HOURS OF WORK
The normal work week will be Monday thru Sunday, with a one (1) hour unpaid lunch break each
day, and one (1) fifteen (15) minute break during each four (4) hour work period. The normal
workday and work schedules could change based on our need to serve our customers. Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc. is under contract to provide services to several telecom companies seven
(7) days per week. The work schedule may vary between departments. Your supervisor will
discuss your schedule with you. If changes in the schedule or work day or work week become
necessary, you will be notified by your supervisor and provided a reasonable time period to adjust
to the new schedule.
2.3 ATTENDANCE
Our relationship is one of interdependence, you depend on us for employment, and we depend on
you to get the work done. The work you do fits in with the work done by your fellow workers.
Anytime we cannot plan in advance for your replacement because you are late to work or do not
report to work, we have difficulty providing quality and timely service to our customers. It is
important that you report to work each day and be at your workplace ready for work at your
scheduled starting time. Unscheduled absences must be avoided. Tardiness must be avoided.
Unscheduled tardiness and absenteeism cannot be tolerated and may be subject to disciplinary
action including a delay in a pay increase, a pay decrease, no pay increase, and/or placement on
11
progressive discipline up to and including termination of employment. After three (3) consecutive
days of absence, a note from your physician will be required before you may return to work. This
policy is necessary because Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. must ensure continuous
uninterrupted service to our customers.
It is your responsibility to report your absence or tardiness to work to your supervisor at least one
hour before the start of your workday. You should call your supervisor every day of your absence
from work by one hour before the scheduled work time. If you do not report for work and the
Company is not notified of your status, it will be assumed after two consecutive days of absence
that you have resigned, and you will be removed from the payroll. Note: Voicemails and/or text
messages are not acceptable forms of communication about work absences.
It is your obligation to keep the Human Resource/Payroll department advised of changes in your
marital status, telephone number, home address, financial institutions, changes in driver (driver’s
license) status and other personal data required by the Company.
2.4 DRESS CODE AND GROOMING
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. success depends largely upon our image in the community. As
a representative of Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. we want you to make a good impression
upon our customer, visitors and fellow employees. You are expected to always be neat, clean and
to use good judgment in all manners of dress and grooming. Shirts and hats are provided for field
personnel so that our customers can easily identify our team.
Dress code for field personnel includes:
• Company shirt (clean pressed, tucked in)
• Clean work boots (or safety shoes with approved defined heel)
• Khaki, gray or denim pants (no holes or stains)
• Facial hair must be trimmed and maintained
• Approved headwear (Company or Channel sponsored hats only)
• No visible body piercings
Appropriate office attire includes denim, sweatshirts, sweaters, shirts, and blouses. Unacceptable
clothing includes: negative statements, skin-tight or revealing attire, shorts or torn/ripped clothing.
It is understood that accommodations due to medical reasons may be appropriate. These should
be discussed and cleared with your supervisor prior to wearing at work.
2.5 WORKING GUIDELINES AND POLICIES
There are certain standards of behavior you must observe. The following general policies are
necessary for the reasonable and proper conduct of our business:
➢ Employees must adhere to established policies and procedures in each department and
throughout the Company
➢ Employees must use proper equipment, tools and supplies
➢ Employees must not steal from the Company or its Customers
➢ Employees must respect the rights of other employees
12
➢ Employees must report any employee violations of the law while employed with
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. to their immediate supervisor.
The following are some specific examples of the types of violations, which may lead to disciplinary
action up to and including termination:
➢ Rudeness to customers
➢ Illegal connection of cable services
➢ Disregard for established safety regulations
➢ Excessive tardiness and absenteeism
➢ Mishandling of Company funds
➢ Destruction or misuse of Company property
➢ Disorderly conduction (i.e. fighting, verbal threats, assault of any kind)
➢ Falsification of Company records including your timesheet
➢ Incompetence and inefficiency
➢ Unauthorized possession or use of illegal substances or intoxicants or other violations of
the Company Substance Abuse Policy
➢ Unauthorized use of company vehicles, tools or resources
➢ Carrying weapons of any kind
➢ Theft
➢ Misrepresentation of Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.’s policies or image
➢ Sexual harassment
➢ Insubordination
These examples are in no way intended to include all types of conduct which may lead to
disciplinary action, up to and including termination. Employment is at will and may be terminated
by either employer or employee, with or without cause at any time.
2.6 CONFLICT OF INTEREST/ OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT
Employees may not engage in outside employment related to his or her regularly assigned job with
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. or with a competitor of Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. All
temporary and ongoing outside employment must be approved, in advance, by your supervisor or
manager.
Employees may hold outside jobs in non-related businesses or professions as long as the employee
meets the performance standards of their job description with Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
Unless an alternative work schedule has been approved by Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
employees will be subject to the company’s scheduling demands, regardless of any existing outside
work assignments.
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.’s office space, equipment and materials are not to be used for
outside employment.
13
2.7 GRATUITIES
No employee may accept a gift or gratuity greater than $25.00 from any vendor, supplier, customer
or any other person doing business with Broadband Telecom Services, Inc., as it may give the
appearance or influence regarding his or her business decisions.
2.8 EMPLOYMENT OF RELATIVES
The Company may employ relatives. However, supervision of one another is undesirable.
2.9 RE-HIRE
Employees who voluntarily resign their employment and later express interest in available
positions may be considered for employment in the same fashion as other candidates for the
position. If Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. hires former employees they must meet the same
benefit eligibility requirements as a new employee. A supervisor or manager will advise re-hired
employees of any benefits that would be impacted by their previous accrued time with Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc.
2.10 RESIGNATION/TERMINATION
You are asked to give your supervisor two (2) weeks notice of your intention to leave Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc. If you are absent for two (2) consecutive workdays without calling, you
will be considered to have voluntarily resigned, unless notifications is proven to have been
impossible.
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. holds each of its employees to certain work rules and standards
of conduct. When an employee deviates from these rules and standards, Broadband Telecom
Services, Inc. reserves the right to terminate said employee’s employment.
Though committed to a progressive approach to corrective action, Broadband Telecom Services,
Inc. considers certain rule infractions and violations of standards as grounds for immediate
termination of employment. These include but are not limited to: theft in any form, insubordinate
behavior, vandalism or destruction of company property, being on company property during non-
business hours, the use of company equipment and /or company vehicles without prior
authorization by Executive Staff, untruthfulness about personal work history, skills or training,
divulging Company business practices, and misrepresentations of Broadband Telecom Services,
Inc. to a customer, a prospective customer, the general public or an employee.
All Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. property, including tools, keys, uniforms, telephones,
vehicles, customer ID badges, credit cards, computer equipment, proprietary information and
supplies, etc. must be returned prior to termination of employment, if your equipment is not turned
in completely and in good working order you may incur a chargeback.
14
2.11 DISCIPLINE PROCESS
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. has a progressive correction action plan that consists of verbal,
written, suspension, and ultimately termination. This course of action is recommended, however
is not mandatory if an employee has an egregious violation of Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
policy or procedure employee’s action could result in termination.
2.12 USE OF COMPANY EQUIPMENT
All Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. equipment, including tools, keys, uniforms, telephones,
vehicles, customer ID badges, credit cards, computer equipment, proprietary information and
supplies, etc. is for use in the normal course of business only. Any unauthorized use of company
equipment or supplies will result in disciplinary action and depending on the degree of
unauthorized use could result in termination.
2.13 USE OF COMPANY VEHICLE
Many employees are required to drive Company vehicles in the course of their daily work. In
those cases, maintenance of a valid driver’s license is a condition of employment. Loss of or a
restriction of driving privileges must be reported to your supervisor immediately. You are also
required to maintain a driving record that will not increase the Company’s insurance premiums.
We will do a periodic check with the Department of Motor Vehicles on all employees who are
required to drive a Company vehicle as part of their job. Employees who are required to drive a
Company vehicle, and who do not have a valid driver’s license will be subject to disciplinary
action including termination of employment. An employee is required to keep their vehicle clean
and report and mechanical problems before they become serious. Employees are expected to
maintain and inspect their vehicles daily to include, oil changes, fluid checks, light and blinker
operation and air pressure in tires. A daily routine check can prevent expensive repairs and
maintain the life of the vehicle and the driver’s safety.
➢ Broadband Telecom Services insurance policies prohibit non-employee passengers In
Company-owned vehicles. Company vehicles are for business use only. You should
not use a Company vehicle for personal use. Please review the Company’s vehicle
usage policy prior to driving a Company vehicle.
2.14 USE OF COMPANY CELL PHONES
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. telephones are intended for use of serving our customers and
in conducting Company business.
Personal usage during business hours is discouraged except for extreme emergencies. All personal
telephone calls should be kept brief.
To respect the rights of all employees and avoid miscommunication in the office, employees must
inform family members and friends to limit personal telephone calls during working hours.
15
If an employee is found deviating from this policy, he/she will be subject to disciplinary action.
➢ When using a cellular phone in a vehicle, keep these safety tips in mind:
• Know the law, each driver must know and follow the laws in all cities (no
cell phones, hands-free devices, etc.).
• Speaker or hands-free devices should be used when driving.
• Keep both hands on the wheel, if you have a need to handle your phone pull
over safely and respond with your phone.
• Always keep attention on your driving. Conversation is secondary to your
focus on driving safely.
• No Texting while driving
2.15 DEFINITIONS OF EMPLOYEES STATUS
“EMPLOYEES” DEFINED
An “employee” of Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. is a person who regularly works for
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. on a wage or salary basis. “Employees” may include exempt,
non-exempt, regular full-time, regular part-time, and temporary persons, and others employed with
the Company who are subject to the control and direction of Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. in
the performance of their duties.
EXEMPT
• Employees whose positions meet specific criteria established by the Fair Labor
Standards Act (FLSA) and who are exempt from overtime pay requirements.
NON-EXEMPT
• Employees whose positions do not meet FLSA criteria and who are paid one and
one-half their regular rate of pay for hours worked in excess of 40 hours per week.
REGULAR FULL-TIME
• Employees who have completed the 90-day introductory period and who are
regularly scheduled to work more than 32 or more hours per week.
REGULAR PART-TIME
• Employees who have completed the 90-day introductory period and who are
regularly scheduled to work less than 32 hours per week.
TEMPORARY (FULL OR PART-TIME)
• Those whose performance is being evaluated to determine whether further
employment in a specific position or with the Company is appropriate or
individuals who are hired as interim replacements to assist in the completion of a
specific project or for vacation relief. Employment beyond any initially stated
period does not in any way imply a change in employment status. Temporary
employees retain that status until they are notified of a change. They are not eligible
for any of the Company’s benefit programs.
16
2.16 BUILDING SECURITY
All employees who are issued keys to the office are responsible for their safekeeping. These
employees will sign a Building Key Disbursement form upon receiving the key. The last
employee, or a designated employee, who leaves the office at the end of the business day assumes
responsibility to ensure that all doors are securely locked, the alarm system is armed, thermostats
are set on appropriate evening and /or weekend setting, and all appliances and lights are turned off
with exception of the lights normally left on for security purposes. Employees are not allowed on
Company property after hours without prior authorization from Executive Staff.
2.17 INSURANCE ON PERSONAL EFFECTS
All employees should be sure that their own personal insurance policies cover the loss of anything
occasionally left at the office or in fleet vehicles. Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. assumes no
risk for any loss or damage to personal property.
2.18 SUPPLIES; EXPENDITURES; OBLIGATING THE COMPANY
Only authorized persons may purchase supplies in the name of Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
No employee whose regular duties do not include purchasing shall incur any expense on behalf of
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc., or bind Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. by any promise or
representation without written approval.
2.19 EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT
Expenses incurred by an employee must have prior approval by a supervisor. Reimbursements
under $25.00 will be included in the employee’s next regular paycheck. An example of such an
expense would include mileage. If the amount is more than $25.00, the reimbursement request
will be processed like an invoice. All completed reimbursement request forms should be turned
in to Accounts Payable/Payroll Department and must include original receipts. A per diem of $25
will be paid for meals and incidentals expenses for employees traveling more than 50 miles from
home with an overnight stay.
Mileage will be reimbursed in compliance with the IRS mileage rate for the GSA contract.
2.20 VISITORS IN THE WORKPLACE
To provide for the safety and security of employees, visitors, and the facilities at Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc. only authorized visitors are allowed in the workplace. Restricting
unauthorized visitors helps security, decreases insurance liability, protects confidential
information, safeguards employee welfare, and avoids potential distractions and disturbances.
All visitors must be approved by the supervisor.
17
2.21 PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING
References and Background Checks
Multiple reference and background checks will be conducted. It is imperative to the success of
the Company that we investigate employee backgrounds due to contractual agreements with
customers.
We rely on accuracy of information contained in the employment application and the accuracy of
other data presented throughout the hiring process and employment. Any misrepresentations,
falsifications, material omissions in any of this information or data may result in exclusion of the
individual from further consideration for employment or if the person has been hired, termination
of employment.
Background and Drug Check Process
The Company has a five (5) tiered system to test and check applicants for employment:
1. National Criminal Background Check
2. Personal Information and Residency History Check
3. County Court Search – events, judgments, or court dates pending, dismissed cases
4. DMV Check (renewed annually)
5. Drug Test (random and re-tested annually)
2.22 REFERRAL BONUS
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. recognizes that some of our best employees were referred by
other employees. We encourage you to refer qualified friends, family and acquaintances to
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. As a reward, upon the referred employee completing 30 work
days of production (not training) with Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. the referring employee
will receive a $250 bonus. The employee referring a candidate must be report it through the
website (BTS Team Resources) within the first week of employment with BTS. After the first
week of working with BTS it is too late to claim the new employee as a referral.
2.23 FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Employees collect payments for services and are responsible for collected funds until they are
turned into the system office.
C.O.D. – If cash is lost, the amount will be deducted from employee’s paychecks
Checks - if checks are lost, the employee is responsible for the cancellation fee which will be
deducted from the employee’s paycheck.
18
SECTION 3
COMPENSATION PROGRAM
3.1 OVERTIME
On occasion, some overtime will be required to meet the service needs of our customers.
Sometimes when overtime is required, your supervisor will solicit volunteers from qualified
employees. Priority will be given to those employees with the least amount of overtime in the
prior quarter. Whenever overtime work exists and there are an insufficient number of volunteers,
the supervisor will assign employees to work overtime. In these instances, we will try to give you
as much advance notice as possible. Every attempt will be made to assign overtime as equitable
as possible. If a supervisor asks an employee to work overtime, the employee is expected to
comply. All overtime hours must be approved in advance by your supervisor or disciplinary action
may occur up to and including termination.
Overtime pay compensates non-exempt employees who must work longer than forty (40) hours
per week. Exempt employees do not qualify for overtime.
Overtime will be paid at one and one-half (1-1/2) times the regular rate for all time worked over
forty (40) hours per week.
Paid Time off (PTO), company recognized paid holidays and personal days are included when
calculating hours worked. However, overtime will not be paid on non-work hours including PTO
and jury duty.
3.2 HOLIDAY PAY
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. recognizes the following holidays for all full-time employees:
➢ Thanksgiving Day
➢ Christmas Day
An employee who works any one of the two (2) designated company holidays will be paid time
and a half for all hours worked on that holiday. All employees will be paid holidays after ninety
(90) days service.
Payment for holidays will be based on your set hourly wage only for eight (8) hours.
Due to the nature of our business, we sometimes operate seven (7) days a week, twenty-four (24)
hours per day in order to provide service to our customers. You may anticipate to be scheduled to
work on a Company designated holiday.
You must work the full scheduled workday before and after the holiday to be eligible for holiday
pay, except pre-approved vacation, illness (with appropriate evidence from a physician), jury duty,
military or bereavement leave.
19
3.3 TIME SHEETS AND PAY DAYS
Your time sheet is your bill to the Company for the hours you work. All non-exempt employees
are required to complete a daily time sheet or electronically clock in/out. Your time sheet must
accurately reflect your hours so that your pay will be calculated correctly. Your paycheck could
be delayed if you do not correctly complete your time sheet. You will receive your paycheck
through direct deposit every other Friday.
3.4 VACATIONS/SICK LEAVE/PERSONAL TIME (PTO – PAID TIME OFF)
To be eligible for sick/vacation time, which will be known as PTO (Paid Time Off), you must be
a regular, full-time employee (regularly scheduled for 32 hours or more per week). After a full
time new employee’s 90 day introductory period has passed they are eligible for 16 hours of sick
time per year.
Vacation PTO Awarded after one full year of service:
1st Year Service – 5 days (40 hours) PTO
3rd Year Service – 10 days (80 hours) PTO
6th Year Service – 15 days (120 hours) PTO
PTO is paid as hours actually worked. If you are on a production compensation rate you will
receive your PTO at the designated base rate, and if you are a non-production hourly employee
your PTO will be your normal hourly rate of pay.
In order to receive your PTO, you must request your time off through the website
www.btscable.com at least two (2) weeks in advance and must be approved by your immediate
supervisor.
PTO not utilized in one calendar year will not carry forward to the next calendar year. Earned
PTO cannot be taken before it is earned and approved. Upon termination, unused earned PTO will
not be paid.
3.5 ATTENDANCE PHILOSOPHY
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. recognizes there are occasions when you may be too ill to work.
No PTO will be paid during your ninety (90) day introductory period. However, you must notify
your supervisor of your illness in advance of the start of your workday. You must notify your
supervisor of your illness on every day of your illness. If requested, you must be ready to present
proof of your illness. For your protection you will be required to present a doctor’s statement to
return to work for any absence of three (3) or more consecutive days. Your supervisor will not
approve the payment of PTO leave under the following situations (does not apply to approve
Family and Medical Leave Act plans):
➢ The absence is due to the illness of a family member other than you or your child
➢ The employee has used all of their PTO
➢ The employee has given notice of their intent to terminate employment
20
3.6 MILITARY LEAVE
If you enter the military service, you are eligible for an unpaid military leave of absence. Present
your supervisor with a copy of your service papers as soon as you receive them. Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc. complies with all the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment
Rights Act (USERRA), guidelines.
3.7 BEREAVEMENT LEAVE
When a death occurs in your immediate family, regular full-time employees will be allowed up to
three (3) unpaid days off to arrange and attend the funeral. The immediate family includes: spouse,
child, parent, parent-in-law, step parents, step child, grandparents, great grandparents, brothers and
sisters.
Employees on vacation or a paid leave of absence are entitled to bereavement leave. Proof of the
necessity of bereavement leave may be required from any employee.
3.8 JURY DUTY
Should you be called to perform civic duty by serving on a jury panel, you will be granted a leave
of absence for up to thirty (30) days. Present your supervisor with a copy of your jury duty papers
as soon as you receive the notification.
3.9 PERFORMANCE APPRAISALS
Our performance review program gives you an opportunity to sit down with your supervisor and
review how your work has progressed. The performance review is an evaluation of metrics based
on your duties and responsibilities. It is also a planning session where you and your supervisor
establish a plan for how to improve and/or maintain your level of performance, and to establish
mutual goals for the future.
You will receive a performance review at the end of your ninety (90) day introductory period, and
at a minimum of one (1) review per calendar year. Non-supervisory employees will have a
minimum of one (1) performance review every twelve (12) months on their anniversary.
3.10 BENEFITS
Benefits are available for purchase after ninety (90) day introductory period.
21
SECTION 4
BROADBAND TELECOM SERVICES, INC.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. is committed to provide a work environment which is free from
sexual harassment for both employees and customers. Each and every employee is responsible for
assuring that they do not engage in sexual harassment or any conduct which could be viewed as
sexual harassment.
Sexual Harassment includes:
➢ Unwelcome sexual advances
➢ Unwelcome requests for sexual acts or favors
➢ Other verbal or physical conduct that has the purpose or effect or unreasonable interfering
with the individual’s work performance by creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive
working environment
Examples of sexual harassment include but are not limited to the following; unwanted sexual
comments or suggestions, unwanted touching, brushing against, any indication, expressed or
implied, that the employee’s job security may depend on the granting of sexual favors to any other
employee, supervisor, manager or officer of the Company.
Any employee, who believes he or she has suffered sexual harassment by any other employee,
including managers and coworkers, or by any guest or visitor, must bring the problem to the
attention of any of the following:
➢ The President
➢ The HR Director
➢ The Office Manager, or your immediate supervisor
➢ The Location Manager
The complaint does not have to be in writing. However, it is helpful if details such as dates, times,
places or witnesses can be provided in writing.
All complaints will be investigated promptly under the supervision of one of the above named
individuals. The identity of the individual making the complaint as well as the identity of the
individual accused of sexual harassment will be kept strictly confidential. Information regarding
the charge of sexual harassment and the investigation of that charge will not be made known to
anyone who is not directly involved either as a party, a witness or an investigatory person.
Witnesses interviewed will be provided only such information as is necessary to illicit from them
their observations and other relevant information.
Sexual harassment is a serious offense and any employee found to have engaged in such conduct
is subject to severe discipline, including termination.
22
EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITY
Employees are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the Sexual Harassment policy
and to assist managers and investigatory personnel in maintaining a working environment free
from sexual harassment. Employees who observe others involved in such actions should advise
the offending party of the seriousness of their actions and of Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.’s
commitment to enforce this policy. If the offensive behavior continues, it should be reported to
the above named persons.
23
SECTION 5
BROADBAND TELECOM SERVICES, INC.
DRUG AND/OR ALCOHOL TESTING POLICY
1. Purpose. The purpose of this policy is to provide written guidelines in compliance with
applicable Texas Statutes for requesting or requiring employees to undergo drug and/or
alcohol testing. Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. prohibits the possession, consumption,
sale, transfer or being “under the influence” of alcohol or illegal drugs during work hours.
The Policy provides guidelines for consistent handling through the Company of alcohol
and drug abuse occurrences.
2. Scope. This Policy applies to all applicants for employment and to all employees including
contract and temporary employees. The Policy is applicable at Broadband Telecom
Services, Inc. facilities or whenever Broadband Telecom Services employees are
performing Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. business.
3. Definitions. For purposes of this drug and/or alcohol testing policy, the following terms
shall have the meanings ascribed to them:
A. Commissioner. “Commissioner” means Commissioner of Texas’s Department of
Health.
B. Confirmatory Test and confirmatory Retest. “Confirmatory Test” and
“Confirmatory Retest” means a drug or alcohol test that uses a method of analysis
approved by the Commissioner as being reliable for providing specific data as to
the drugs, alcohol or their metabolites detected in an initial screening test;
C. Drug. “Drug” means a controlled substance as defined in Texas, Stat § 152.01,
Sub. 4;
D. Drug and Alcohol Testing. “Drug and Alcohol Testing” and “Drug and Alcohol
Test” means analysis of a body component sample approved by the
Commissioner, including blood, breath and urine, for the purpose of measuring
the presence or absence of drugs, alcohol or their metabolites in the sample tested;
E. Employee. “Employee” means a person, independent contractor who performs
services for compensation, in whatever form for Broadband Telecom Services,
Inc. or a subsidiary thereof;
F. Safety Sensitive Position. “Safety Sensitive Position” means a job, including any
supervisory or management position, in which an impairment caused by drug or
alcohol usage would threaten the health or safety of any person;
G. Employer. “Employer” means Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. and/or
subsidiary thereof acting through its CEO Ben Boutwell or a designee of the CEO;
H. Initial Screening Test. “Initial Screening Test” means a drug and/or alcohol test
which uses a method of analysis approved by the Commissioner as being capable
of providing data as to the general classes of drugs, alcohol or their metabolites;
I. Positive Test Results. “Positive Test Results” means finding by a laboratory of
the presence of alcohol, drugs or their metabolites in a sample tested in levels at
or above the threshold detection levels set by the Commissioner.
J. Reasonable suspicion. “reasonable Suspicion” means a basis for forming a belief
based on specific facts and rational inferences drawn from those facts;
24
K. Under the Influence. “Under the Influence” means having the presence of a drug
or alcohol at or above the level of a Positive Test Result;
L. Drug Paraphernalia. “Drug Paraphernalia” has the meaning set forth on Texas
Statutes;
M. Valid Medical Reason. “Valid Medical Reason” means:
i. Written prescription, or an oral prescription reduced to writing, which
satisfies the requisites of Texas Stat. §152.11, and names the Employee as
the person for whose use it is intended;
ii. The drug was prescribed, administered and dispensed in the course of
professional practice by and or under the direction and supervision of a
licensed doctor, as described in Texas Stat. §152.12;
iii. The drug was used in accordance with the terms of the prescription; and
iv. Over-the-counter medication was used in accordance with the terms of the
product’s directions.
N. Working Days. “Working Days” for purposes of this Policy shall be defined as
Sunday through Saturday;
O. Job Applicant. “Job Applicant” means a person, independent contractor or
person working for an independent contractor who applies to become and
Employee of Broadband Telecom Services and/or subsidiary thereof, and includes
a person who has received a job offer made contingent on the person passing drug
or alcohol testing.
4. Non-Discrimination. Consistent with its general policy against discrimination,
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. recognizes that disabled individuals should be protected
from discriminatory treatment. Under Texas law, a disabled person is someone who has a
medical or physiological condition which materially impairs major life activities.
However, under Texas law, disability does not include any condition resulting from alcohol
or other drug abuse which prevents a person from performing essential functions of this/her
job or which creates a direct threat to property or to the safety of individuals.
5. Work rules/Prohibitions.
A. No employee or contractor shall be under the influence of any drug or alcohol
while the employee or contractor is working or while the employee or contractor
is on the Employer’s premises or operating the Employer’s vehicles, machinery
or equipment, except upon prior approval by the Employer, pursuant to a valid
medical reason.
B. No employee or contractor shall use, possess, manufacture, distribute, dispense,
sell or transfer drugs, alcohol or drug paraphernalia while the employee or
contractor is working on or while the employee or contractor is on the Employer’s
premises or operating the Employer’s vehicles, machinery, or equipment, except
pursuant to a valid medical reason.
C. No employee or contractor, while on duty, shall engage or attempt to engage or
conspire to engage in conduct which would violate any law or ordinance
concerning drugs or alcohol, regardless of whether a criminal conviction results
from the conduct.
D. An employee or contractor shall notify the Employer in writing of any criminal
drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than
25
five (5) working days after such conviction. The Employer shall notify the
appropriate federal agency of such conviction within ten (10) working days of
receiving notice from the employee.
E. When an Employee or contractor is taking drugs pursuant to a valid medical
reason which may alter job performance, the employee is under an affirmative
duty to notify the appropriate supervisor of his/her temporary inability to perform
the job duties of his/her position.
6. Alcohol and Drug Testing.
A. Notices. In order to carry out Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. commitment to
an alcohol and drug free workplace, Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. reserves
the right to require that Applicants and Employees submit to testing in accordance
with the provisions of Texas Stat. §181.957. This Policy represents the notice
required under Texas Statutes and will be provided to all applicants and
employees or contractors who are requested to undergo drug and alcohol testing.
B. Circumstances for Drug and Alcohol Testing.
i. Job Applicant Testing. The Employer may request or require a job applicant
to undergo drug and alcohol testing provided a job offer has been made to
the applicant and the same test is requested or required of all job applicants
conditionally offered employment for that position. If the job offer is
withdrawn based on a positive test result from an initial screening test that
has been verified by a confirmatory test, the Employer shall inform the job
applicant of the reason for its action.
ii. Reasonable Suspicion Testing. The Employer may request or require an
employee to undergo drug and alcohol testing if the employer has a
reasonable suspicion that the employee;
(a) Is under the influence of drugs or alcohol while the employee is working,
or is on the Employers’ premises, or operating the Employer’s vehicles,
machinery or equipment.
(b) Has violated the Employer’s work rules under section 3 of this Policy
regarding use, possession, sale or transfer of drugs, alcohol or drug
paraphernalia while the employee or contractor is working, or is on the
Employer’s premises, or operating the Employer’s vehicles, machinery
or equipment.
(c) Has sustained a personal injury as defined in Texas Stat. §176.011, Subd.
6 or has caused another person to die or sustain a personal injury; and
(d) Has caused a work-related accident or was operating or helping to operate
machinery, equipment or vehicles involved in a work-related accident
resulting in a total property damage exceeding $1,000 as estimated by a
supervisor at the scene of the accident or at the time the accident is
reported.
26
iii. Random Testing. The Employer may only require employees or contractors
in safety sensitive positions to undergo drug and/or alcohol testing on a
random selection has been made, the Employer will not waive the selection
of any employees or contractors identified through the random process.
iv. Treatment Program Testing. The Employer may request or require an
employee or contractor to undergo drug and/or alcohol testing if the
employee has been referred by the Employer for chemical dependency
treatment or evaluation or is participating in chemical dependency treatment
program under an employee or contractor benefit plan, in which case the
employee may be requested or required to undergo drug and/or alcohol
testing without prior notice during the evaluation or treatment period and
for a period of up to two (2) years following completion for any prescribed
chemical dependence treatment program.
v. Routine Physical Examination Testing. The Employer may require
employees or contractors to undergo a test once a year as part of a routing
physical examination.
C. Procedure for Testing
i. Notification Form. At the time the Employer requests and
employee/contractor or job applicant to undergo drug and/or alcohol testing,
the Employer shall provide the individual with a form on which to:
(a) Acknowledge the individual has seen a copy of the Employer’s drug and
alcohol testing policy;
(b) Indicate any over-the-counter medications the individual is currently
taking or has recently taken any other information relevant to the
reliability of, or explanation for, a positive test result; and
(c) Indicate consent to undergo the drug and alcohol testing.
ii. Refusal to Undergo Testing.
(a) Right to Refuse. An employee/ contractor or job applicant has the right
to refuse to undergo drug and alcohol testing. If an employee/contractor
or job applicant refuses to undergo drug or alcohol testing requested or
required by the Employer, no such test shall be given.
(b) Consequences of Refusal. If an employee/contractor refuses to undergo
drug or alcohol testing requested or required by the Employer, such
refusal shall be treated as a failure to comply with Broadband Telecom
Services, Inc.’s policy and may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or
disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
(c) Refusal on Religious Grounds. An employee/contractor or job applicant
who refuses to undergo drug or alcohol testing of a blood sample based
on religious grounds, shall not be deemed to have refused if the
employee/contractor or job applicant submits to a urine sample test.
However, if the employee also refuses to undergo drug and/or alcohol
testing of a urine sample, the employee or job applicant shall be deemed
to have refused to submit to drug or alcohol testing and such refusal may
27
result in withdrawal of a job offer or a disciplinary action up to and
including termination of employment.
iii. The laboratory. All drug and alcohol testing shall use the services of a
testing laboratory licensed by the Commissioner or qualifying under the
transitional laboratory requirements set forth in the Texas Statute.
iv. Test Results. The testing laboratory is required to prepare a written report
indicating the drug, alcohol or metabolites tested for, the types of tests
conducted and whether the test produced negative or positive test results.
The testing laboratory shall disclose that report to the Employer within three
(3) working days after obtaining negative results on the initial screening
test, or if the initial test was positive, within three (3) working days after a
confirmatory test.
v. Notice of Test Results. Within three (3) working days after receiving the
test results report from the testing laboratory, the Employer shall inform, in
writing, an employee/ contractor or job applicant who has undergone drug
or alcohol testing of:
(a) A negative test result on an initial screening test or a negative or positive
test result on a confirmatory test;
(b) The right to receive and request from the employer a copy of the test
results report on any drug or alcohol test;
(c) The right to submit information to the Employer within three (3) working
days after notice of a positive test result on a confirmatory test to explain
that result; and
(d) The right to submit a written notice to the employer within five (5)
working days after notice of a positive test result on a confirmatory test,
that the employee or job applicant intends to obtain a confirmatory retest
of the original sample at the employees/contractors or job applicant’s own
expense at the original laboratory or another licensed testing laboratory.
D. Costs. All costs related to drug and alcohol testing will be paid by Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc. with the exception of confirmatory retests which must be
paid for by the employee/ contractor or job applicant requesting the retest.
E. Disciplinary Action in Response to a Positive Test Result.
i. Failed Drug Test. Is violation of company policy and will result in
termination.
F. Privacy of Test Results.
i. Confidential Information. Test results and other information acquired as a
result of the testing program are private and confidential information and
will not be disclosed to Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. or the testing
laboratory, to another employee/contractor or to third party individuals,
government agencies, or private organizations without written consent of
the employee/contractor or applicant being tested.
28
ii. Use of Test Results. Evidence of a positive test result on a confirmatory
test, however, may be used in arbitration proceedings pursuant to a
collective bargaining agreement, an administrative hearing, or a judicial
proceeding, provided the information is relevant to the hearing or
proceeding. Such evidence may also be disclosed to any federal agency or
other unit of the United States government as required under federal law,
regulations or order. Evidence of a positive test result on a confirmatory
test may also be disclosed to a substance abuse treatment facility for the
purpose of evaluation or treatment. Test results will not, however, be used
as evidence in a criminal proceeding against the employee/contractor or job
applicant.
iii. Employee Access to Information. Broadband Telecom Services will
provide an employee/contractor with access to information in the
employee’s file relating to positive test reports and other information in the
employee’s file relating to positive test result reports and other information
acquired in the testing process as well as conclusions drawn from or actions
taken based upon such information.
29
BROADBAND TELECOM SERVICES
SAFETY AND LOSS PREVENTION PROGRAM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL PRACTICES
B-01 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS:
- Fire and Life Safety
- Tornado Warnings
- Earthquakes
- Flash Floods
- Explosions
- Bomb Threats
- Elevator Malfunctions
B-02 HOUSEKEEPING AND HAZARD PREVENTION
B-03 INDOOR AIR QUALITY
B-04 OFFICE SAFETY
B-05 ERGONOMICS
B-06 MANUAL MATERIAL HANDLING AND STORAGE
B-07 MECHANICAL LIFTING DEVICES
- Forklifts/Pallet jacks
- Hoisting Equipment
B-08 MOTOR VEHICLE USE AND DEFENSIVE DRIVING
B-09 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
B-10 HEARING CONSERVATION
B-11 HAZARD COMMUNICATION
B-12 SPILL RESPONSE
B-13 LOCKOUT/TAGOUT
B-14 HAND AND PORTABLE POWER TOOLS
B-15 COMPRESSED GASES: GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
B-16 WELDING, CUTTING AND BRAZING
SECTION 7 – C FIELD PRACTICES
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
C-01 FIRST AID/CPR
C-02 BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS
30
C-03 ASBESTOS
C-04 LEAD
C-05 HANTAVIRUS
C-06 HEAT AND COLD STRESS
C-07 RADIOFREQUENCY RADIATION
TRANSPORTATION
C-08 DOT FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATION
C-09 TRUCKS AND TRAILERS
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
C-10 RUBBER INSULATING GLOVES
C-11 FOREIGN VOLTAGE DETECTORS
C-12 B-TEMPORARY BOND
WORK AREA PROTECTION
C-13 WORK AREA PROTECTION
WORKING AT HEIGHTS
C-14 FALL PREVENTION SYSTEMS
C-15 APPROACH DISTANCES
C-16 POLE CLIMBING
C-17 AERIAL LIFTS
C-18 EXTENTION AND COMBINATION LADDERS
C-19 STEP LADDERS
C-20 ROLLING LADDERS
C-21 WORKING ON ROOFTOPS
C-22 ANTENNA TOWER WORK
WORKING IN ENCLOSED SPACES
C-23 UTILITY HOLES
C-24 PUMPING WATER
C-25 AIR TESTING EQUIPMENT
C-26 ACCESS TO OUTSIDE PLANT EQUIPMENT ENCLOSURES
C-27 PERMIT REQUIRED CONFINED SPACES
COMPRESSED GASES AND BATTERIES
C-28 PROPANE AND OPEN FLAME USE
C-29 BATTERIES
31
C-30 TOOLS AND MOTOR VEHICLE INSPECTIONS
C-31 WORK OBERVATIONS
C-32 FIBER AND WIRE ROPE
C-33 FIBER OPTICS
C-34 CUSTOMER PREMISES ISSUES
C-35 BURIED PLANT
C-36 ENCAPSULANTS
C-37 WATER AND ICE SAFETY
C-38 ILLUMINATION/WORK AFTER DARK
32
SAFETY AND LOSS PREVENTION PROGRAM
ALPHABETICAL INDEX
GENERAL FIELD PRACTICES SLPP SECTION
ACCESS TO OUTSIDE EQUIPMENT ENCLOSURES C-26
AERIAL LIFTS C-17
AIR TESTING EQUIPMENT C-25
ANTENNA TOWER WORK C-22
APPROACH DISTANCES C-15
ASBESTOS C-03
B-TEMPORARY BOND C-12
BATTERIES C-29
BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS C-02
BURIED PLANT C-35
COMPRESSED GASES: GENERAL PRECAUTIONS B-15
CUSTOMER PREMISES ISSUES C-34
DOT MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATIONS C-08
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS B-01
ENCAPSULANTS C-36
ERGONOMICS B-05
EXTENSION/COMBINATION LADDERS C-18
FALL PREVENTION SYSTEMS C-14
FIBER & WIRE ROPE C-32
FIBER OPTICS C-33
FIRST AID/CPR C-01
FOREIGN VOLTAGE DETECTOR C-11
HAND & PORTABLE POWER TOOLS B-14
HANTAVIRUS C-05
HAZARD COMMUNICATION B-11
HEARING CONSERVATION B-10
HEAT & COLD STRESS C-06
HOUSEKEEPING & HAZARD PREVENTION B-02
ILLUMINATION/WORK AFTER DARK C-38
33
INDOOR AIR QUALITY B-03
LEAD C-04
LOCKOUT/TAGOUT B-13
MANUAL MATERIAL HANDLING/STORAGE B-06
MECHANICAL LIFTING DEVICES B-07
MOTOR VEHICLE USE & DEFENSIVE DRIVING B-08
OFFICE SAFETY B-04
PERMIT REQUIRED CONFINED SPACES C-27
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT B-09
POLE CLIMBING C-16
PROPANE & OPEN FLAME USE C-28
PUMPING WATER C-24
RADIOFREQUENCY RADIATION C-07
ROLLING LADDERS C-20
RUBBER INSULATING GLOVES C-10
SPILL RESPONSE B-12
STEP LADDERS C-19
TOOL/MOTOR VEHICLE INSPECTIONS C-30
TRUCKS & TRAILERS C-09
UTILITY HOLES C-23
WATER & ICE SAFETY C-37
WELDING, CUTTING & BRAZING B-16
WORK AREA PROTECTION C-13
WORKING ON ROOFTOPS C-21
WORKPLACE OBSERVATIONS C-31
34
SECTION 6-B
B – BTS SAFETY MANUAL – GENERAL PRACTICES
INTRODUCTION TO PRACTICES
The Safety and Loss Prevention Program consolidates revised and updated practices from a variety
of sources simplified into a format that makes it easier to understand and apply.
As part of the simplification process, information is presented in a clear sequence. Many practices
now contain process flow diagrams that are used to direct managers and other employees to a
resource, reference or the need for training. For example, the practice on Manual Material
Handling and Storage has a diagram referencing lifting capabilities:
1. Practice Application: Can Materials be manually lifted?
NO → Apply Section B-07, “Mechanical Lifting Devices.”
2. Lifting Practices
Managers or employees will need to reference the following in addition to the Safety and Loss
Prevention Program (SLPP): established environmental policies/practices, manufacturer’s
manuals. Contact the manufacturer if a copy of the manufacturer’s manual is not present for your
work operations.
It is important that all employees take the time to read and understand the requirements of the
Safety and Loss Prevention Program applicable to their job.
SECTION B-01
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Emergency preparedness and evacuation procedures.
➢ Fire prevention in offices, warehouses, and joint use occupancies.
2. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE:
➢ Managers must ensure all employees have received documented training on
emergency preparedness and evacuation procedures for their specific building
initially and upon assignment to a new work location including:
• The building’s emergency response plan and associated training.
35
• Familiarity with primary and secondary exit routes (see posted building
emergency floor plans).
• Knowing the location of fire alarm pull boxes in work areas.
• Knowing the sound/sight and meaning of alarms and warnings.
• Checking exit signs/routes, etc. when at unfamiliar building.
• Knowing housekeeping requirements and the proper storage of hazardous
materials.
• Keeping evacuation routes and stairwells clear. Do not use for storage.
• Not blocking fire doors.
• Keeping sprinkler heads, emergency lights and access to firefighting
equipment clear.
• Keeping flammable liquids away from heating elements and open flames.
• Ensuring evacuation routes personnel assignments, and procedures are
clearly posted and up-to-date.
• Fire alarm boxes must be properly identified and accessible.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
3. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
➢ For any emergency requiring medics, fire, police, etc., call 911 and give the
following information:
• Nature of the emergency (medical, fire, etc.).
• Company name, building name, and street address.
• Area of the building or floor or suite number.
• Your name, telephone number, and the action you are taking (such as
evacuating the building).
• As soon as safely possible, notify Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. at
(817) 441-9386 and your immediate supervisor.
➢ If you discover a FIRE:
• Call 911
• Fire extinguishers are only to be used to suppress a fire to ensure safe
evacuation.
• Activate the alarm system (use the red pull boxes by the exits, if available).
• Notify others and assist those that need help.
• Immediately evacuate the affected area.
• Go to your pre-designated safe area (usually outside the building) for a
headcount.
➢ If the fire alarm sounds:
36
• Assist those that may need help.
• If there is a fire in the immediate area, immediately evacuate the affected
area.
• Follow the instructions from the public address system and/or your floor
warden.
• Do not use elevators as a means of escape.
• Go to your pre-designated safe area (usually outside the building) for a
headcount.
➢ TORNADO WARNINGS may come from a public radio station or local warning
sirens. If you hear a tornado has been sighted in the immediate area, take the
following actions:
• Immediately seek shelter by moving to an inside hallway away from
windows and filing cabinets or other items that might fall.
• If you cannot get to the inside hallway, take cover under heavy furniture
(such as a desk or table) until the “all clear” has been sounded.
• Remain where you are until the “all clear” has sounded, and then check if
others require medical attention or assistance and that the local emergency
personnel are called if possible.
• Do not leave the facility or safe area to go home until you have been
accounted for by your supervisor.
➢ EARTHQUAKES commonly occur without warning. If one does occur, take the
following actions:
• If possible, move to an area of the building away from glass, filing
cabinets, etc.
• Take cover under heavy furniture, such as a desk or table, and cover your
head to protect from flying debris.
• After the earthquake ends, be aware of problems the earthquake and its
aftershocks may have created; such as gas leaks, water breaks, fires, power
failure, and blocked exits.
• Do not use elevators as a means of escape.
• Check if others require medical attention or assistance and that local
emergency personnel are called, if needed and if possible.
• Do not leave the facility or safe area to go home until you have been
accounted for by your supervisor.
• If outside, stay away from buildings, trees, power lines, poles and all other
overhead obstructions.
• If in a vehicle, pull over to the side of the road and stop in a safe place in an
open area. Avoid overpasses and power lines and stay inside the vehicle.
When you continue driving, watch for hazards such as damaged roadways,
fallen objects and downed power lines.
37
➢ Advanced preparations if FLOODING of the building is likely to occur:
• Ensure that all computer data have been backed up to disk or tape.
• Move all employees to safe designated areas.
• Remind employees to avoid contact with any electrical equipment when
wet.
• If possible, move all portable computer equipment or other electrical
equipment to a higher floor (for one story facilities, stack as high as possible
on desks or tables).
• Relocate equipment to a safe designated location or facility.
• Move important papers to safe locations.
• Ensure that all personnel are notified of their expected duties.
➢ FLASH FLOOD situations:
• Move quickly to a safe designated area on a higher floor or outside the
building if necessary.
• Avoid contact with any electrical equipment when wet.
• Do not use elevators as a means of escape.
• From a safe location, notify emergency authorities and advise them of your
location and what may be required for emergency assistance (call
emergency services only if you or fellow employees need assistance).
➢ EXPLOSIONS require the evacuation of the building. In the event that an
explosion does occur, the following procedures should be used when practical:
• Managers, in cooperation with local authorities, will guide an orderly
evacuation to the closest available exits. Occupants should then proceed to
the designated meeting place for a headcount.
• Due to the possibility of structural damage during an explosion, no
employee should re-enter the building until given the “all clear” by
authorized emergency personnel. Trained fire and police rescue units will
be utilized to re-enter the building (if needed) to search for missing or
injured personnel.
➢ Should an employee smell NATURAL GAS or other strong odors, the following
procedures must be followed:
• Do not pull the fire alarm—it could spark when the alarm goes off.
• Immediately stop using equipment that might cause a spark. If equipment
is on, do not turn it off.
• Call the fire department at 911 to report the problem; then advise your
manager. The manager will then call Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
(817) 441-9386.
• If the decision is made to evacuate, follow normal evacuation procedures as
described for your building.
38
➢ BOMB THREATS can occur at Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. sites at any
time; therefore, plans must be made to deal with the situation. Pre-planning of
response to such a threat will allow for quick decision making and action and should
include the following:
• Review Facility/Office Access Control System and Access Control
Procedures. Screening of tenants and visitors is one of the best preventative
methods that can be taken.
• Pre-determine who will make the decision to evacuate or stay in the facility.
Individuals responsible for these decisions must be trained to evaluate the
credibility of the threat.
• If the decision is made to evacuate, unless otherwise indicated, “Normal”
evacuation procedures should be followed as described in the facility’s
emergency plan.
➢ POWER FAILURES
• Power failures can occur without warning.
• Emergency lighting will come on in areas of the facility equipped with
emergency lighting.
• If evacuation of the facility is necessary, follow established procedures for
your building or work area.
➢ ELEVATOR MALFUNCTION:
• Do not attempt to leave the elevator until professional help arrives.
• Use the emergency telephone located in the elevator to notify building
management.
• If the emergency telephone malfunctions, use the emergency call button.
• Follow all instructions and remain in the elevator until help arrives.
4. FIRE SAFETY GUIDELINES
➢ Accumulations of rubbish, debris, trash, and other flammable materials should be
removed from the premises daily. Particular attention should be directed to the
immediate disposal of combustible materials used in packing, and flammable and
combustible liquid containers.
➢ Rubbish containers must be located outside the building for the accumulation of
trash for pick up. These containers should be located at least 20 feet from any
window, door or other opening into the building, and should not be overfilled.
➢ Combustible packaging materials or discarded office materials in hallways must be
disposed of daily.
➢ Fire rated doors prevent the spread of fire and smoke through openings in rated
walls. No attempt should be made to disconnect the door closers or to block, tie or
otherwise cause fire rated doors to be held in an open position (except where the
doors are held open with smoke activated devices).
➢ Fire doors are equipped with a latching device to prevent them from being forced
open by pressure during a fire. In addition, these latching devices will reduce the
tendency of the door to become warped out of shape by heat. Making the latching
39
device inoperable will negate the value of the fire door and place the building,
contents and occupants in danger should a fire occur.
➢ Doors, stairs, and other exits should be maintained so that the direction of egress to
the outside is clear and unobstructed.
• Doors that are kept locked for security reasons must not conflict with
designated and required exits.
• Burned out exit lights or other emergency lighting must be promptly
reported to the appropriate person for replacement. Visibility of exit lights
or signs must not be impaired.
➢ For most employees, the use of a FIRE EXTINGUISHER is not considered a
specific job related function. Fire extinguishers should only be used to make
a safe exit from an area. Common sense and employee discretion should
always be used. At no time should an employee risk his/her own safety to
protect company property.
• Fire extinguishers must be clearly visible and accessible.
➢ Smoking is prohibited in all owned or leased buildings, including immediately
outside all entrance ways and garage spaces and in company owned vehicles.
➢ The use of artificial, non-flammable Christmas decorations is encouraged.
• Live seasonal decorations (Christmas trees, garland, etc.) cannot effectively
be made flame retardant and are not to be used in Broadband Telecom
Services, Inc. facilities.
• Candles may be displayed and used as decorations but may not be lit.
• Lights must not be strung on metal trees. Metal trees may be illuminated
by a spot light or similar light.
• Electrical holiday lights are not allowed on combustible materials in
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. offices.
➢ Appliances such as coffee pots, popcorn makers, toaster ovens microwaves and hot
plates must be confined to break rooms. Appliances should be equipped with an
automatic shut-off.
➢ Space heaters are prohibited without the written approval of your supervisor. Use
of space heaters must meet the following requirements:
• UL approval.
• Tip over shutoff.
• Placement and area of use of heater must be approved by your supervisor
and stated in written approval.
40
SECTION B-02
HOUSEKEEPING AND HAZARD PREVENTION
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Good housekeeping and hazard prevention for all work locations, including offices:
• Promotes productivity and prevents injuries to employees, customers, and
the public (such as slips, trips, and falls).
• Is required of all employees, work areas, and operations.
• Must be constantly practiced and promoted.
2. BASIC GUIDELINES
➢ Basic guidelines for work areas, storage areas and break rooms include the
following:
• Evacuation routes, personnel assignments and procedures must be clearly
posted. All must be current and up-to-date.
• Fire alarm pull boxes must be properly identified, clearly visible and
accessible (if present).
• Fire extinguishers must be clearly visible and accessible.
• All exit doors must be accessible and in working order for quick and safe
exit of employees in emergencies.
• Combustible materials (such as cardboard and packing materials) must be
promptly discarded and not allowed to accumulate.
• Illumination must be operational, adequate and properly placed.
• Traffic control signs must be appropriately placed.
• All areas must be kept neat and free from litter or spilled materials.
• Working surfaces must be clean, not slick, uneven or damaged.
• Hallways, aisle ways, walkways and stairwells must be kept unobstructed.
• File drawers, desk drawers, sliding shelves and cabinet doors must be kept
closed when not in use.
• Only one file drawer can be open at a time. Close drawers when not in use.
• A First Aid kit must be accessible, complete and maintained in good
condition.
• Cords or hoses must be kept out of aisles or areas where they could present
a trip hazard.
• Do not overload electrical circuits. Immediately replace worn cords.
• Materials, boxes, supplies, etc., must be neatly stored in cabinets or on
shelves.
• Heavy materials must be stored no closer than 18 inches to fire sprinkler
heads.
• Heavy materials must be stored on lower shelves or the floor.
• Shelving units should be secured to eliminate tilting or falling.
41
• Storage units must not be overloaded.
• Appropriate ladders or step stools must be available to retrieve material
from upper shelved.
• Break rooms, coffee areas and restrooms must be kept clean and
uncluttered.
• Adequate waste containers must be provided.
SECTION B-03
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employee concerns regarding Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).
2. POTENTIAL EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Employees may express concerns regarding many types of situations that could
affect indoor air quality. Some examples may be indoor air quality concerns at
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. facilities or customer premises due to:
• Accidental chemical spills.
• Unusual odors from known sources.
• Minimal air circulation or improperly conditioned air.
• Conditions outside of the building that may affect IAQ.
• Construction/remodeling activities that potentially impact IAQ.
• Uncomfortable temperature conditions.
• Inadequate housekeeping practices.
3. REPORTING PROCEDURES
➢ Employees must report IAQ concerns to their managers or designate. If the
manager is not available and the call is urgent (has impacted or could impact human
health, could damage Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. or other property, could
result in coverage by the media, or if you are unsure of the impact on health or
property), contact Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. at (817) 441-9386.
➢ Report non-emergency concerns, such as worker comfort issues, to the building
management. Examples of non-emergency concerns are hot/cold temperature
issues, housekeeping issues, light-bulb replacement, slowly leaking water faucets,
etc.
42
SECTION B-04
OFFICE SAFETY
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees working in the office environment on a full or part-time basis.
➢ Basic safety precautions and resources available to managers and employees.
➢ The prevention of common office injuries such as slips trips, and falls and
cumulative trauma disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
2. BROADBAND TELECOM SERVICES, INC. TRAINING PROGRAM
➢ Training presentations are short in duration (10-15 minutes) and are designed for
safety meetings.
➢ Managers are responsible for ensuring all employees receive this training and
documenting the training using the training documentation form provided in the
“Office Safety Package”.
3. BASIC WORK PRACTICES AND PRECAUTIONS
➢ Know and follow the general safe practices for the office environment. Employees
shall:
• Periodically review their office’s evacuation plan.
• Know the location of the nearest first aid kit.
• Clean up small spills of office products immediately according to label
instructions or the material safety data sheet (MSDS).
• Report slippery or uneven floor surfaces, torn carpet or linoleum and follow
up to ensure that the problems identified have been corrected.
• Keep file and desk drawers closed.
• Stack cartons and supplies carefully so they won’t fall.
• Make sure file cabinets are not top heavy.
• Report burned out lights and missing or loose handrails on stairs, and follow
up to ensure that the problems identified have been corrected.
• Put materials and papers away when not in use.
• Check container labels and MSDS sheets before using office chemicals.
• Be careful with paper cutters, razor blades, scissors and other sharp or
pointed objects that could cause injuries.
• Use hand trucks and similar equipment to move large, awkward or heavy
items, or ask for help.
• Use proper lifting techniques that let the legs do the work, not the back.
• Use ladder or step stools, rather than standing on furniture or boxes, to reach
high places.
• Minimize the use of extension cords (do not use in place of hard wired
outlets).
• Do not overload outlets.
43
• Make sure plugs match the outlets (do not break off the ground plug on a
three-prong cord to match a two-prong outlet).
• Replace worn or damaged cords before the insulation gets frayed. Electrical
cords are not to be repaired with electrical tape.
➢ Sections B-01, B-02, B-03, B-05, B-06, B-07, and B-11 include additional
information that applies to the office environment.
SECTION B-05
ERGONOMICS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO;
➢ The recognition and prevention of ergonomic conditions that may lead to
cumulative trauma disorders (such as carpal tunnel syndrome or back problems).
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Ergonomics is the study of the interaction between people, the objects they use, the
things they do, and the environments they work in. It is concerned with
understanding people’s capabilities and limitations, and applying this knowledge
to the design of objects, processes, and environments. The goal of ergonomics is
to ensure people’s safety and well being, and to increase their effectiveness, as they
use the objects in the given environments to accomplish what they want to do.
➢ Ergonomic related injuries, also known as cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs), are
injuries to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems generally caused by excessive
exposure to known risk factors such as:
• Repetitive motions (e.g., constant high rates of typing, prolonged use of a
hand tool, constant lifting).
• Forceful exertions (e.g., pulling a utility whole cover or hitting an object
with the hand such as a stapler).
• Sustained or awkward postures—bending or twisting the back while lifting,
improper posture in a chair, turning or bending the hand (up, down, in or
out), reaching overhead or behind.
• Temperature extremes (e.g., working in a cold environment without
“warming up” or use of proper protection).
• Vibration (e.g., prolonged use of pneumatic or impact tools).
3. HEALTH EFFECTS
➢ Early detection of CTDs can help to identify and correct contributing risk factors and
minimize the seriousness of CTDs.
➢ Immediately report the following symptoms to your manager so that steps can be taken
to evaluate your work environment and provide you with any needed treatment:
44
• Muscle or joint pain in the same area lasting more than a few days.
• Sustained numbness, burning, tingling, or feeling cold in a body part (e.g.,
finger(s), hands).
• Loss of dexterity, range of motions or strength in a body part.
4. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Implement work practices explained in Section B-06, “Manual Material Handling and
Storage” and Section B-07, “Mechanical Lifting Devices” to avoid injury to the back
and other parts of the body.
➢ Implement the Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. “Office Safety Package” (See
Section B-04, “Office Safety”) to identify and control CTDs as they relate to the use of
video display terminals.
➢ Maintain all equipment in proper operating condition.
➢ Avoid putting joints in extreme postures for long periods of time.
➢ Try to keep the body in a “neutral posture”.
• The neck should be straight or slightly forward while keeping both the neck and
shoulders relaxed.
• Keep the spine in its natural “S” shaped position.
• The arms should be below shoulder level.
• Keep the elbows in close to the body and avoid rotating forearms inward or
outward.
• The hands and wrists should extend naturally, or straight, from the forearms.
• When sitting, the angle between the trunk and thigh, and thigh and calf, should
be roughly 90 degrees
➢ Keep both feet flat on the floor or on an appropriate foot rest.
➢ Avoid postures that place arms, wrists, or hands against the sharp edge of a surface.
➢ Avoid postures that cause leaning on elbows.
➢ Avoid striking an object with your hands, wrists, arms, etc.
➢ Avoid gripping an object (e.g., pliers or screwdriver) for long periods of time.
➢ Wear personal protective equipment such as gloves to protect against vibration and cold
temperatures. Wearing gloves reduces grip strength and prolonged use may cause excess
stress on the hands.
➢ When lifting, use mechanical aids (e.g., hand carts, pallet jacks, hoists, pulleys) or the
help of a partner where feasible.
➢ Consider job rotation or work sharing to moderate potential exposures.
➢ Take work breaks as appropriate and lightly exercise affected joints where appropriate.
➢ Follow job restrictions, if under medical supervision.
45
SECTION B-06
MANUAL MATERIAL HANDLING AND STORAGE
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Safe lifting techniques designed to prevent injuries to the back and other body
extremities.
2. LIFTING PRACTICES
➢ In order to safely lift materials:
• Squat down close to the object while keeping your feet apart, back straight, and
chin tucked.
• Test the weight of the object by lifting or tilting a corner.
• If the object is too heavy:
a) Divide into smaller loads,
b) Get someone to help, or
c) Use a mechanical devise.
• Grasp object firmly (wear gloves where appropriate).
• Lift while keeping the object close to the body while straightening the legs and
tightening the stomach and buttock muscles.
• When lifting
a) Never twist or jerk the body.
b) Avoid lifting to the side.
c) Avoid overextending and reaching too far.
➢ To safely carry an object:
• Select a clear route of travel and maintain an awareness of surface conditions.
• Keep a firm grip on the object and carry it close to the body.
• Do not allow the load to obstruct your view.
• Do not twist the body; change direction by moving the feet.
➢ To safely set an object down:
• Face the spot where the object is to be placed.
• Squat down, keeping the back straight.
• Lower the object, first onto one corner or onto a support to avoid finger injuries.
• Lower the object into final position keeping the fingers out of the way.
3. MATERIAL STORAGE PRACTICES
➢ Always ensure safe clearance for equipment through aisles and doorways.
➢ Aisle ways must be clearly designated or permanently marked and kept clear to
allow unhindered passage.
➢ Containers of combustibles or flammables, when stacked or being moved, must be
separated by weight sufficient to provide stability.
46
➢ Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) will be available to employees handling
potentially hazardous substances.
➢ Materials should be stacked so as to prevent toppling, sliding or rolling. In general,
heavy materials should be stored in such a manner as to be accessible when needed.
➢ Bags of materials must be cross-tied.
➢ Whenever possible, boxes should be placed on the side with the greatest surface
area.
➢ Nails, ends of wire, or bands of metal must not be left projecting from boards,
boxes, packing crates, etc. Nails should be removed from loose lumber or have
points bent down, or the lumber should be disposed of so it does not pose a hazard.
➢ Particular caution should be exercised when packing or unpacking glass, porcelain,
and other fragile or sharp objects.
➢ If there is a potential for injuries in material handling, employees must wear leather
work gloves.
4. HAND TRUCKS
➢ Hand trucks must be maintained in safe operating condition.
➢ Load trucks with heaviest weight at the bottom, directly over the wheels.
➢ Push; do not pull, when transporting loads to prevent a tripping or obstruction
hazard.
SECTION B-07
MECHANICAL LIFTING DEVICES
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The use of mechanical lifting devices or aids (forklifts, pallet jacks and hoists)
where lifting “heavy” or awkwardly packaged materials has the potential to injure
employees.
2 FORKLIFTS/PALLET JACKS
➢ Inspection and Testing:
• Operators shall perform a daily inspection of all operating controls conducted
in accordance with the manufacturer’s operating instructions and documented
using the Operator’s Inspection Checklists located at the end of this practice.
• Each operator shall perform a safety inspection of the equipment prior to use,
and must ensure that all nameplates and caution and instruction markings are in
place and legible.
• Operators shall ensure that defective equipment is tagged and removed from
service until all defects are repaired.
47
• Maintenance records must be available to allow the operator to check on the
servicing of the equipment in case of questions.
➢ Work Practices:
• Only trained personnel will be allowed to operate forklifts and pallet jacks.
• Operators shall wear proper personal protective equipment such as safety
glasses, hard hats and proper footwear.
• Operators must ensure that the rated load capacity of the equipment is not
exceeded.
• The operator must consider load dimensions that could affect capacities or
operation.
• If the forklift is equipped with seatbelts, operators must wear them.
• When moving palletized loads, the operator must inspect the pallet for
excessive wear or defects before loading or unloading the pallet.
• The operator must ensure that dock boards or bridge plates is not exceeded.
• Operators must ensure that trucks and trailers are secured from movement
during loading/unloading operations with chocks or other appropriate
equipment.
• Pedestrians must not be allowed to pass under any raised load.
• Operators must ensure that forklifts have a clearly audible warning device (e.g.,
horn, buzzer, etc.).
• Operators must ensure that the parking brake is set and the key is removed from
the ignition when the equipment is unattended and that forks are lowered to the
ground.
• When operating a pallet jack, operators must stand or walk to the side when the
pallet jack is moving forward.
2. HOISTING EQUPMENT
➢ Inspections and Testing:
• Managers will ensure that all hoisting equipment used by Broadband Telecom
Services, Inc. employees is proof tested by an outside vendor to twice its
maximum rated load before being placed in service. The capacity must be
marked on the fixture and visible to the operator.
• The operator must conduct a safety inspection of the hoisting equipment prior
to use in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Managers must ensure that an annual inspection by an outside vendor of all
component parts is performed for hoisting equipment.
➢ Work Practices:
• Operators shall ensure that the hoisting equipment is not loaded beyond its rated
load capacity.
48
• Operators shall ensure that the hoisting chain or rope is not wrapped around the
load and is free from kinks or twists.
• Operators shall ensure that hooks with safety latches or equivalent
arrangements are used when hoisting materials to prevent slippage from hooks.
• Operators shall ensure that the hook is attached to the load in such a manner
that prevents swinging.
• Operators shall ensure that during hoisting operations, care is taken to ensure
that the load does not contact and obstruction and that there is no sudden
acceleration or deceleration of the moving load.
SECTION B-08
MOTOR VEHICLE USE AND DEFENSIVE DRIVING
.
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The safe operation of motor vehicles owned, leased or rented by Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc. and personal vehicles operated on company business.
➢ This section is intended as a supplement to any regional Broadband Telecom
Services, Inc. safe driving requirements currently in effect.
2. LICENSING
➢ As a condition of employment, all driving employees/ contractors must have a valid
driver’s license:
• For the state in which they reside.
• For the class of vehicle driver.
➢ Management must annually verify employee’s license.
➢ Drivers of vehicles over 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight or transporting
hazardous materials are required by Federal or State Department of Transportation
regulations to possess a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
➢ Managers shall ensure that all Federal, State and Local permits are maintained and
accessible.
3. TRAINING
➢ Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. provides an online Safety Driver Training
course that is required to operate company vehicles.
➢ Training should be scheduled by your supervisor.
➢ Annual driving review requirements:
• An annual driving review is to be conducted with employees classified as
full-time drivers.
49
4. VEHICLE OPERATION
➢ The use of seat and shoulder belts is mandatory.
➢ If the vehicle has daytime running lights they must be on when driving any
company vehicle or a personal vehicle on company business.
➢ Drivers and passengers will abide by all federal, state and local motor vehicle laws
and defensive driving techniques.
➢ Vehicles will be visually inspected (e.g., brakes, steering, lights, wipers and other
necessary equipment) prior to driving.
➢ All drivers must perform a “Circle of Safety” check before driving a vehicle on
company business that has been left unattended or prior to backing. The check
must include looking under the vehicle and around the tires for children, animals or
other potential hazards, along with a check of the backing path.
➢ Avoid backing situations whenever possible.
• 1st choice – Drive In/Drive Out.
• 2nd choice – Back In/Drive Out.
• 3rd choice – Drive In/Back Out.
➢ All drivers must observe and adhere to posted speed limits and never drive faster
than road, weather or equipment conditions dictate.
➢ All tools and equipment must be properly stored and secured while the vehicle is
in motion.
➢ The passenger and storage compartments must be kept neat and clean with tools
and equipment properly stored to prevent injury or damage.
➢ Vehicles must be secured when parked, emergency brakes must be set, and vehicle
must be in park gear with engine off.
➢ When there is no posted speed limit, drivers are held accountable for not exceeding
speeds appropriate for conditions.
➢ Non-authorized use of company vehicles and non-authorized passengers are strictly
prohibited.
➢ All company vehicle accidents, moving violations, policy infractions, and driver
complaints will be handled as described in Section A-07, “Accident/Incident
Investigations,” and any regional Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. safe driving
requirements currently in place.
➢ Drivers must be trained and authorized to drive each type of vehicle they are
assigned to operate.
➢ Please also refer to any regional Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. safe driving
requirements currently in effect.
5. VEHICLE PARKING
➢ Because moving a vehicle from a parked location has recognizable risks, we must
take reasonable precautions. Therefore, all who drive on behalf of the company
shall perform a “Circle of Safety” inspection just prior to moving the vehicle from
a parked location.
50
➢ During this brief 360-degree walk-around inspection, look beneath and around the
vehicle for children, toys, tools, equipment, animals or other objects. Also look for
signs of mechanical defects like dripping or puddle water, oil, transmission or other
fluids, and broken, loose, or missing vehicle components. Be alert for cargo items
which are in danger of falling from or blowing out of the vehicle.
➢ All drivers of company vehicles are to place traffic cone(s) by the vehicle
immediately upon getting out. These cones are to be placed as follows:
• When the vehicle is backed into a parking space so it can drive forward
when leaving, place one cone by the front bumper.
• If the vehicle is parked headed into the parking space so that it will have to
back out to leave, place the cone by the rear bumper.
• If the vehicle is parked parallel to passing traffic, place one cone close to
the vehicle by the street side front bumper and a second cone close to the
vehicle by the street-side rear bumper. Do not allow these two cones to
interfere with the normal flow of traffic.
• Cones shall be placed and picked up while walking, facing oncoming traffic.
Pick up these devices just prior to moving the vehicle. Make the “Circle of
Safety” inspection at that time.
➢ Employees who drive personal vehicles on company business are not expected to
place cones. However, they are expected to perform a “Circle of Safety” inspection
before they drive away.
6. CELLULAR PHONE USE IN VEHICLE
➢ When using a cellular phone in a vehicle, keep these safety tips in mind:
• Know the law, in some cities cell phone use may be prohibited while driving
and it is discouraged without proper accommodations by Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc.
• Speaker or hands-free devices should be used when driving.
• Become completely familiar with your phone before you use it while
driving.
• Keep both hands on the wheel by using your phone’s “hands free” feature
• Use speed dialing whenever possible.
• Make calls when your car is stopped whenever possible.
• Break conversation to respond to a traffic hazard and don’t hesitate to
abruptly drop the phone when an urgent situation arises.
7. TRANSPORTING SMALL QUANTITIES (<5 GALLONS) OF FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS
➢ From time to time, Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. drivers may need to carry
small capacity fuel containers for fueling of small equipment (e.g., standby
generators). The containers must meet the following criteria:
51
• They must be metal, self closing, flash arrestor, DOT Type 1 or Type 2,
auto pressure relief, and have a leak-proof cap.
• They must be properly secured.
• Fuel containers should only be carried when required for work purposes (for
example, when the emergency situation has ended, the gas cans should be
emptied into a vehicle fuel tank, etc.).
• If a fuel container is damaged or defective, remove it from the vehicle and
notify your supervisor immediately.
8. MOTORCYCLE RESTRICTIONS
➢ Motorcycles or equivalent are not to be used on company business.
➢ Employees accepting a call-out may not use a motorcycle to travel to a facility or
call-out point.
SECTION B-09
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO;
➢ Employees working in jobs requiring the use of personal protective equipment
(PPE). Refer to the personal protective equipment reference chart at the end of this
practice.
➢ The use of PPE where other control techniques are not practical (e.g., enclosing or
isolating a work operation).
➢ The use of approved PPE when performing, observing or supervising work
operations which may require the use of PPE.
2. INSPECTION AND TEST
➢ PPE shall be clean and in good condition.
➢ PPE shall be inspected prior to each use for worn, scratched or pitted surfaces and loose
screws, straps, fittings, or other defects that may render the equipment ineffective.
➢ Defective PPE shall be immediately taken out of service and replaced prior to
continuing work.
3. EYE PROTECTION
➢ Safety glasses will be worn by all personnel performing, observing or supervising work
operations where there is a reasonable possibility of injury to the eyes (e.g., splicing,
lashing, rearranging or removing wire or other plant, using hand or power tools, using
test equipment).
➢ Impact resistant/splash-proof safety glasses or goggles are required for employees
performing, observing, or supervising the following work operations:
52
SAFETY GLASSES SAFETY GLASSES
AND FACE SHIELDS WITH SIDE SHIELDS
- Using compressed air or pressure washers - Soldering
- Chipping or grinding operations - Power drill operations
- Cutting underbrush - Power tools
SPLASH-PROOF GOGGLES
Taking battery readings or handling battery acid washers
Chemical handling
Refer to the PPE chart at the end of this practice for additional work operations
requiring goggles.
4. RESPIRATORS
➢ Few Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. environments require the use of respirators.
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. policy is to avoid hazards requiring respiratory
protection.
➢ When exposure to potentially hazardous levels of air contaminants (e.g., lead or
asbestos levels above the OSHA standards) cannot be adequately controlled by
engineering methods, the work will be performed by qualified contractors.
➢ If Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. employees must perform work in an area
requiring use of a respirator (if contractors cannot be used) the employees must
participate in a comprehensive respiratory protection program, prior to beginning the
work, which involves:
• Identifying the need and type of respirator(s) required.
• Obtaining approved respirators equipped with the proper filters for the hazard.
5. WORK GLOVES
➢ Work gloves will be worn by all personnel where there is a reasonable possibility of
injury to the hands. Examples include:
• Climbing poles.
• Handling winch lines.
• Splicing prep work (contact EHS managers for information on special
application gloves).
• Special application gloves (e.g., battery maintenance, chemical handling, hand
tools, etc).
• Using hand tools.
➢ Disposable gloves to protect from encapsulates, chemical compounds, blood borne
pathogens or Hantavirus must be worn when contact is possible.
53
➢ Refer to the PPE chart at the end of this practice for work operations requiring the use
of gloves.
➢ Refer to section C-10 for information on rubber insulating gloves for use when
electrical hazards may be present.
6. HARD HATS
➢ Hard hats will be worn by all personnel performing, observing or supervising work
operations where there is a reasonable possibility of injury to the head
➢ Hard hats must be inspected prior to use for the following:
• Cracks or dents.
• Cuts, scratches, or gouges.
• Unauthorized decals (decals must be dielectric).
• Dull, chalky color.
• Signs of wear on parts of the suspension
• Twisted or frayed straps.
• Cracks or tears on plastic clips.
➢ Hard hats should be replaced every 5 years (refer to the date stamped inside) or sooner
if struck by an objects or dropped with such force that damage is likely.
➢ Precautions for hard hats include:
• Never carry anything inside the hard hat.
• Never alter or modify the suspension system in any way or exchange
suspensions from one manufacture to another.
• Never paint, apply decals, drill or otherwise modify the shell or suspension or
make any unauthorized attachments to the hard hat.
• Never store in direct sunlight.
• Chin straps or other materials must not be placed over the outside of the hat
when not in use. If the straps or material come in contact with electricity, they
may conduct electrical current.
7. FOOTWEAR
➢ Management is responsible for determining what constitutes proper footwear in the
local work environment and ensuring the use of appropriate footwear.
➢ Employees must use footwear that protects all parts of the feet from workplace hazards
(e.g., penetration or falling or moving objects).
➢ Soles and heels must be constructed of material that will resist penetration and not
create a slipping hazard.
➢ Tennis shoes, running shoes, casual street shoes, sandals or shoes made of other thin
material will not be worn by field employees.
➢ Over the ankle footwear of leather or other equally firm material with a strong arch
support and perpendicular heel minimum 1/2/inch) is required when climbing poles or
round rung ladders.
➢ All footwear must be properly maintained and in good condition.
54
➢ Refer to the PPE chart at the end of this practice for work operations requiring
protective footwear.
➢ Appropriate protective footwear must be worn throughout the workday.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
OPERATION HAND FOOT HEAD EYE FACE
1. Handling batteries/battery acid x x x
2. Utility Hole Work x x x x
3. Excavation work x x x x
4. Working aloft x x x x
5. Handling chemicals (encapsulant,
Solvents, etc.) x x
6. Cable Splicing x x x x
7. Manual material handling
(falling objects) x x x x
8. Use of hand tools/cutting devices x x
9. Forklift Operation x x x
10. Chainsaw usage x x x x x
11. Fiber optic splicing x
12. First Aid x x
13. Welding operations x x x x
14. Use of air hammers x x
15. Use of jack hammers x x x
16. Opening cable sheath (knife usage) x x x
17. Work with lead cable x x
18. Potential electrical contact x x x
19. Potential Hantavirus contact
(mouse nest clean ups) x x x x
20. Cable sheath removal x x x
21. Drilling floor tiles, other materials x x
22. Spill clean up (chemicals, acid, etc) x x x x
23. Working in cold/extreme weather x x x
SECTION B-10
HEARING CONSERVATION
55
1. HEARING CONSERVATION
➢ Employees who perform construction activities and are required to operate heavy
machinery or pneumatic tools on a frequent basis (e.g., weekly).
➢ Employees who maintain diesel generators on a regular basis (e.g., at least three times
per week).
➢ Employees who are required to regularly work in areas where noise exceeding an 8-
hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels is expected.
2. THE EFFECTS OF NOISE ON HEARING
➢ If the ear is subjected to high levels of continuous noise for an extended period of time
or high impact noises (e.g., intermittent noise from pneumatic hammer drills), some
hearing loss can occur. However, there are many factors that can affect the degree and
severity of hearing loss:
• The intensity and loudness of the noise.
• The frequency of the noise (high or low).
• Duration of exposure each day.
• Individual susceptibility (is the person on medicine or taking drugs which can
affect susceptibility to noise).
• Age of the individual.
• Pre-existing or coexisting hearing loss and ear diseases.
• Character of the surroundings in which noise is produced.
• Distance from the source of the noise.
3. TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM NOISE
➢ Wear hearing protection devices where required and recommended.
➢ Follow specific manufacturer’s instructions on how to insert and care for hearing
protection devices to ensure adequate protection and to prevent injuries to ears.
56
SECTION B-11
HAZARD COMMUNICATION
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Safe handling practices designed to prevent harmful exposures to potentially hazardous
chemicals.
➢ Employees handling, using, storing or shipping potentially hazardous chemicals in the
course of their work (excludes use of consumer/office types of chemicals used in small
quantities such as desk cleaner, correction fluid, etc.).
2. PROGRAM REFERENCES
➢ The written Hazard Communication Program (HazCom Program) must be available to
all employees.
3. TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
➢ Initial training is required for employees handling chemical-containing products before
they begin work (e.g., technicians using encapsulants, solvents, acids; copy center
workers handling toner on a routine basis). Employees who use small quantities of
consumer/office products are excluded from this training requirement.
➢ Each manager is responsible for ensuring that training is completed for their employees.
4. CHEMICAL INVENTORY
➢ Each Broadband Telecom Services facility covered by this practice must have a current
inventory of all chemical-containing products used or stored at that location.
➢ Inventory lists must include the product name.
➢ Inventory lists must be updated when new products are received.
5. CONTAINER LABELING
➢ All chemical-containing products must be appropriately labeled.
➢ Products transferred to a secondary container (such as a gasoline or unlabeled paint
can) must be labeled.
➢ Do not accept shipments with missing labels.
➢ Illegible or missing labels must be immediately replaced
6. MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS
➢ Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) provide detailed information on the safe
handling of chemical-containing products.
➢ Facility MSDSs from the manufacturer or distributor should be maintained on-site.
57
➢ A copy of the MSDS for locally purchased products must be obtained and maintained
on-site.
➢ There is no standard or uniform format for MSDSs. Even so, each MSDS must
minimally contain the following information.
• Product or chemical identity that is presented on the container label.
• Name, address and phone number for hazard and emergency information.
• Date of MSDS preparation.
• Chemical and common names of hazardous ingredients.
• Physical and chemical characteristics, such as vapor pressure and flash point.
• Physical hazards, including the potential for fire, explosion and reactivity.
• Primary routes of entry into the body, such as inhalation, ingestion or skin
absorption.
• Acute and chronic health hazards, including signs and symptoms of exposure
and medical conditions aggravated by exposure.
• Carcinogenic (cancer-causing) hazards.
• Emergency and first aid procedures.
• Precautions for safe handling and use including hygienic practices, protective
measures and spill/leak cleanup.
• Exposure control measures such as engineering controls, work practices and
personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Exposure Limits
- OSHA permissible exposure limits (PELS) for the hazardous
ingredients.
- American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists Threshold Limit Values (TLVS).
- Other applicable exposure limits.
➢ If an MSDS is missing any of the above required information, notify the
manufacturer to receive the appropriate information prior to use.
7. CONTRACTORS AND VENDORS
➢ Manager in charge of contractors/vendors must inform them of potentially
hazardous chemicals they might be exposed to on the premises.
➢ Contractors must be allowed access to any relevant hazardous chemical information
(e.g., MSDSs).
➢ Contractors bringing hazardous materials into a company work area must provide
MSDSs to the Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. manager in charge of the project.
➢ Management must ensure that company employees have been informed of any
potential hazards a contractor may introduce into the work area prior to the start of
work.
8. WORK PRACTICES
58
➢ Minimize potential hazards by working with hazardous chemicals in a careful and
conscientious manner.
➢ Follow all applicable instructions and practices.
➢ Read and follow all warning labels and signs.
➢ Mix only as directed.
➢ Keep containers closed when not in use.
➢ Ensure adequate ventilation is present to help control potential exposures.
➢ Do not eat, drink or smoke when handling hazardous materials.
➢ Wash your hands after handling hazardous materials, even if personal protective
equipment was worn.
SECTION B-12
SPILL RESPONSE
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees working with hazardous substances such as battery acids, mercury,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and other chemicals.
➢ The protection of employees and prevention of injuries from exposure to potentially
hazardous materials.
2. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Except employees specially trained in hazardous materials spill response/clean-up,
employees may only attempt clean-up of small, controllable spills in their
immediate work area, and should handle a hazardous material spill as follows:
• Isolate the spill area so others are not exposed.
• If you can do so without coming into contact with the material, attempt to
contain the spill (e.g., use absorbent materials, create a barrier to the flow,
etc.).
• If the situation is life-threatening or warrants immediate attention, call 911
(provide emergency response personnel with appropriate information on the
type of spill, type of facility, etc.).
• Notify your manager
➢ Employees who have had HazCom training and are familiar with the “Spill
Response/Clean up Guidelines” listed below, can clean up most small spills.
3. SPILL RESPONSE/CLEAN UP GUIDELINES
➢ Small battery electrolyte (sulfuric acid) spills and leaks:
59
• Employees should only attempt to clean up spills and leaks of
approximately 5 gallons or less (in certain situations, such as spills
associated with fires, even small spills may require clean up by qualified
outside contractors).
• Notify your manager
SECTION B-13
LOCKOUT/TAGOUT
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The control of hazardous energy by isolating machines or equipment from energy
sources.
➢ Service, maintenance, or new equipment operations where the unexpected start-up
of said devices, or release of stored energy, may cause injury to employees or the
public.
➢ Equipment which requires, or generates voltages over 50 volts or involves other
stored energy (such as pneumatic).
➢ The following equipment is exempt from lockout/tagout requirements:
• Cord and plug equipment where the plug is under exclusive control of the
servicing employee when removed from the receptacle.
• Interlocked copy machines.
• Operations where a shut-down is not possible, providing alternate
protection is provided and service is conducted by trained and authorized
employees or contractors.
➢ Management must identify and document all equipment that may cause injury due
to release of energy (including stored energy).
➢ Management must conduct a review of equipment and program with employees.
➢ Reference and use the Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. “Lockout/Tagout
Compliance Plan”.
2. AUTHORIZED AND AFFECTED EMPLOYEES
➢ AUTHORIZED employees perform service and maintenance on machines and
equipment and are specifically trained to use lockout/tagout controls
• Authorized employees must be retrained whenever there is a change of job
assignment, a change of machines, equipment, or processes that present a
new hazard, or a change in procedures.
60
➢ AFFECTED employees are workers performing normal job duties in an area where
lockout/tagout controls may be used when servicing their equipment.
• Awareness training is required to prevent the accidental start-up of
equipment by the affected employee.
3. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Management and authorized employees must implement the following work
practices as necessary:
• Notify all affected employees that a lockout/tagout system is going to be
utilized, and the reason for the procedure. The authorized employee must
know the type and magnitude of energy that the machine or equipment
utilizes and must understand the potential hazards involved during use and
maintenance.
• Awareness training is required to prevent the accidental start up of
equipment by affected employees.
• The machine or equipment must be shut down by the normal stopping
procedures (stop button, toggle switch, etc.) if it is energized or operating.
• Operate the switch, valve or other energy-isolating device(s) so that the
equipment is isolated from its energy source(s). Stored energy (such as that
in springs, elevated machine members rotating flywheels, hydraulic
systems, and air gas, steam, or water pressure, etc.) must be dissipated or
restrained by methods such as repositioning, blocking, bleeding down, etc.
• Lockout and/or tagout the energy-isolating devices with accepted individual
lock(s) or tag(s) (e.g., locks, tags, additional safety measures).
• A lockout is always the first choice for isolating equipment. A tagout must
only be used when a lockout is not feasible.
• After ensuring that no personnel are exposed and as a check on having
disconnected the energy sources, operate the normal controls to make
certain the equipment will not operate.
• Return operating control(s) to the “neutral” or “off” position after the test.
• The equipment is now locked out or tagged out.
➢ The following steps must be followed when lockout or tagout work is completed:
• Check the area around the machines or equipment to ensure that no one is
exposed.
• After all tools have been removed from the machine or equipment, guards
have been reinstalled and employees are in the clear, remove all lockout or
tagout devices.
• Locks or tags are to be removed only by those employees who attach them.
In the very few instances when this is not possible, the device may be
removed under the direction of department management provided that they
strictly adhere to the following procedures:
61
o Verify that the authorized employee is not on-site.
o Conduct a reasonable effort to contract the authorized employee.
o Inform the authorized employee of the lock or tag removal
immediately upon their return to work.
o Notify all affected employees immediately after removing locks or
tags and before starting equipment or machines.
• Lockout/tagout procedures must be coordinated with outside contractors
who access machinery or equipment.
• Check local/state regulations for specific provisions.
SECTION B-14
HAND AND PORTABLE POWER TOOLS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO;
➢ Determining the proper inspection, testing and use of tools such as electric drills,
saws and power or compressed air activated tools.
• Prior to use, operators must be thoroughly aware of the proper use and
potential hazards of tools.
• Users must review, understand and practice guidelines as listed in the
owner’s manual and instructions, and have completed training (where
necessary).
2. INSPECTION
➢ The purpose of conducting tool/equipment inspections is to ensure that tool deficiencies
are promptly recognized and corrected.
➢ The manager should ensure a complete inspection for each of the following:
• Each employee’s personal tools that are used on the job.
• All company-furnished tools.
• All tools and equipment used on vehicles (if applicable).
➢ Schedule and conduct an initial inspection in the first six months of the year.
➢ During or immediately following the inspection:
• Repair, replace or remove defective tools/equipment.
• Provide feedback and commend the employee for safe work habits.
• Provide constructive feedback for areas requiring improvement.
• Schedule and conduct a follow-up inspection within 30 days for unsatisfactory
items.
62
• Conduct random work observations to ensure safety compliance.
➢ All tools must be inspected for defects and damage prior to each use.
➢ Tools must be maintained in proper operating condition.
➢ Makeshift repairs are not allowed.
➢ All defective tools must be immediately repaired or replaced.
➢ Bits, blades and cutting/striking surfaces must be sharp and dressed.
➢ All guards must be in place and operational.
➢ Bench grinders must have the tool rest adjusted to within 1/8 inch of the grinding wheel.
Tongue guards must be adjusted to within ¼ inch of the wheel. Wheels must be rated
for maximum speed of the grinder.
3. TESTING ELECTRIC POWER TOOLS
➢ Power tools and cords must be tested upon receipt and after maintenance work:
• Test ground continuity between case and ground prong by using a buzzer or
ohm meter with “on” or “off” switch in both positions.
• Test the conductor, between case and ground prong and the metal case, to
ensure no continuity exists. Test with on/off switch in both positions.
• Do not use power tool if continuity test fails
• Monthly continuity tests must be conducted and documented.
4. GROUNDING POWER TOOLS
➢ Third wire ground prongs protect users from shock and must not be removed. If
missing, the cord must be repaired before use.
➢ To ground a three conductor tool in a two conductor outlet:
• Test the outlet box cover plate screw for ground.
• Insert company provided adapter in the two conductor receptacle and ground to the
box using cover plate screw.
• If the outlet box is not grounded, connect a grounding cord to a ground source
(water pipe, metal conduit, etc.).
• If tool cannot be grounded, use a double insulated tool or a hand tool.
5. EXTENSION CORDS
➢ Must be Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approved.
➢ Must be three wire cords with ground receptacle, unless the tool casing is double
insulated.
➢ Must be rated for current flow required to safely operate the tool.
➢ Inspected for cuts, burns, wear, tear and frays before each use.
➢ The ground prong must not be removed.
➢ Tape repairs on extension cords are not allowed.
63
6. HAND AND PORTABLE TOOL USE
➢ Select the proper type and size of tool for the job.
➢ Inspect each tool prior to use.
➢ Ensure the work area is clear for tools in use.
➢ Check for obstacles and hazards prior to starting task.
➢ Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (safety goggles or glasses, face
shields, gloves, hearing protection, etc.).
➢ Make cutting and striking motions away from the body.
➢ Be aware of body parts and nearby co-workers that may be struck by a loose tool or
debris.
7. POWDER ACTUATED TOOLS
➢ Only certified users may operate powder (explosive) actuated tools.
➢ Certification is a regulatory and tool manufacturer requirement and may be obtained
through the tool manufacturer.
➢ Tools may be further regulated by local fire or law enforcement agencies and must be
used in accordance with any additional requirements.
➢ Tool protective shields and guards must be in place during use.
➢ Contact EHS for storage and transporting requirements of actuating shells.
8. PNEUMATIC POWERED TOOLS/COMPRESSED AIR HOSES
➢ Tool retainers must be used where tool may be ejected.
➢ Hoses and connections must be designed for pressures used.
➢ Compressed air shall not be used for cleaning.
➢ Whip check safety chains must be used across air hose connectors.
➢ Use retaining pin to lock together air hose and tool connections.
9. CHAIN SAWS
➢ The following personal protective equipment is required for chain saw use:
• Safety goggles, gloves, hard hat, and hearing protection.
• State/local regulations may require using of leg chaps.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothing or jewelry that may become entangled in the
chain saw.
➢ Work Area:
• Clear brush, rocks or other hazards which might hinder the action of the
operator or the chain saw.
• Watch for individuals in the vicinity that could be endangered by falling or
rolling trees, branches and logs.
• Always work from the uphill side when cutting items that might roll.
64
➢ Operating the Saw:
• Never operate the saw above chest height.
• Do not use a chain saw for aerial work of any type unless the work is performed
from the basket of an aerial lift, and then only a non-gas powered saw may be
used.
9. TOOL STORAGE
➢ Clean tools prior to storage, and store per manufacturer’s instructions.
➢ Protect all blades and sharp edges.
SECTION B-15
COMPRESSED GASES: GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The identification of hazards associated with compressed gases and safe handling
practices.
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Improperly handled, used or opened cylinders may result in a pressurized release of
toxic, flammable, or asphyxiating materials (e.g., nitrogen).
➢ Cylinders may become “projectiles” if the valve or regulator assembly is damaged or
“knocked-off”.
3. LABELING
➢ A basic marking label is required on all compressed gas cylinders with:
• The proper shipping name of the contents (e.g. Nitrogen).
• The UN number (e.g., UNI006).
• The hazard class (e.g., Non-flammable gas).
➢ The label should be located on the shoulder of the cylinder, but not covering any
permanent marking; otherwise, place on the top one-third of the cylinder.
➢ Maintain the label in legible condition on the cylinder as long as it remains in service
(full or empty).
4. WORK PRACTICES
65
➢ No Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. vehicles shall transport compressed gas in excess
of 220 pounds.
➢ Ensure all storage and usage areas are adequately ventilated and 20 feet from highly
combustible materials.
➢ Valve protection caps must always be in place and hand tightened except when
cylinders are in use.
➢ Store cylinders in an upright position. Always secure with chains or cables.
➢ Cylinders under high pressure may become projectiles if improperly handled.
➢ Employees who handle compressed gases must be trained on their use, handling,
storage and transportation.
➢ Inert gases such as nitrogen may be transported in a horizontal rack or special
compartment if securely blocked to prevent movement.
➢ A suitable fire extinguisher must be available at all times when flammable gases are
used.
➢ Test for leaks using soap suds and not an open flame. Move cylinders that continue to
leak to an open space outdoors away from any source of ignition.
➢ Tag and return all effective equipment to the manufacturer. Do not attempt to repair.
➢ Compressed gas cylinders must be transported:
• Secured and in upright position (except for nitrogen in specially designed
racks).
• With regulators removed and plugs hand tightened (if required).
• With safety caps securely in place.
➢ If a liquid form of a gas contacts the skin, flood the affected area with water. Consult
a physician if necessary.
➢ Store flammables (e.g., acetylene, propane) at least 20 feet from oxidizers (e.g.,
oxygen), or separated by a 5 foot high fire wall rated at 30 minutes.
➢ Only approved cylinders can be used for compressed gas storage.
➢ Cylinders must be stored away from sources of heat and direct sunlight.
➢ Reference Section B-16, “Welding, cutting and Brazing” for work practices on
acetylene and oxygen cylinders.
➢ Empty cylinders must be marked EMPTY and have their valves closed.
➢ Never drop, strike or damage cylinders; remove damaged cylinders from service.
➢ Never raise, lower or transport with the tank valve open.
➢ Valve protection caps must not be used for lifting cylinders from one vertical position
to another. The cap may accidentally and suddenly come loose. Should the cylinder
fall or be knocked over, the valve may be damaged or sheared off, causing a sudden
release of pressure.
➢ Should the valve outlet of a cylinder become clogged with ice, thaw with warm (not
boiling) water.
➢ Unless cylinders are secured on a special cylinder cart, regulators should be removed
and valve-protection caps put in place before cylinders are moved.
➢ Cylinders without fixed hand wheels must have keys, handles, or non-adjustable
wrenches on valve stems while these cylinders are in service.
66
➢ Unless connected to a manifold, always attach a regulator to the compressed gas
cylinder before use. Make certain that the regulator is proper for the particular gas and
service pressure. Make sure the regulator is clean and has a clean filter installed in its
inlet nipple.
➢ Before attaching the regulator, remove the protective cap from the cylinder. Stand to
one side of the cylinder. Open the cylinder valve slightly for and instant, and then close
it. This “cracking” of the cylinder valve will clean the valve of dust or dirt which may
have accumulated during storage. Dirt can damage critical parts of a regulator, and
may cause a fire or explosion.
➢ Before a regulator is removed from a cylinder valve, the valve must be closed and the
gas released from the regulator.
➢ Pressure-reducing regulators must be used only for the gas and pressures for which they
are intended. Union nuts and connections on regulators must be inspected before use
to detect faulty seats and damaged nuts or destroyed connections.
➢ All portable cylinders must be filled by authorized personnel in compliance with
appropriate state or local codes. Employees filling their own cylinders, tanks or bottles
must be trained on safe filling techniques by an approved vendor.
➢ Cylinders housed in van type vehicles must be stored within a properly sealed and
vented compartment. The integrity of this compartment must be maintained at all
times.
5. SPECIALTY GASES
➢ Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide (CO²) are inert gases (non-reactive) and can cause
asphyxiation due to the displacement of oxygen. They are heavier than air and tend to
be found at ground level or in enclosed spaces.
➢ Helium is inert and can cause asphyxiation by displacing oxygen. It is lighter than air
and tends to be found at ceiling level in enclosed areas.
➢ Acetylene can be flammable and explosive when mixed with air or oxygen. It is lighter
than air and tends to be found at ceiling level in enclosed areas.
➢ Oxygen is an oxidizer and in concentrations greater than 25% readily supports
combustion or burning. Oxygen itself does not burn.
➢ Propane can be flammable and explosive when mixed with air. It is heavier than air
and tends to be found at or below ground level, or in enclosed spaces.
➢ Reference Section C-28, “Propane and Open Flame Use” for additional precautions.
67
SECTION B-16
WELDING, CUTTING AND BRAZING
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees conducting welding, cutting or brazing operations.
➢ Basic work practices necessary to ensure safe welding operations and the use and
handling of welding gases.
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Reference Section B-15, “Compressed Gases: General Precautions” for exposure
conditions and safe work practices.
➢ Various chemical hazards can be created during welding operations. They include but
are not limited to potential hazardous exposure to:
• Zinc. Fluorides in fluxes.
• Cadmium. Nitrogen Oxides.
• Lead. Ozone.
• Gases produced by heating insulation, plastics or other combustible materials.
➢ Physical agent hazards may cause a sunburn to the skin or eyes:
• Ultraviolet radiation.
• Intense visible light.
3 HEALTH EFFECTS
➢ Illness due to inhalation of high concentrations of gases or metal fumes. Symptoms
can include flu-like feelings, breathing difficulties, unconsciousness and possibly
death.
➢ Burns to the eyes (welder’s flash, gritty eyes) and skin.
4. BASIC WELDING WORK PRACTICES
➢ Basic precautions for fire prevention:
• If the object to be welded, cut or brazed cannot readily be moved, all movable
fire hazards in the vicinity must be removed to a safe distance.
• If objects or hazards are not moveable, guards must be used to confine heat,
sparks and slag.
• Suitable fire extinguishing equipment must be maintained nearby.
68
• Fire watches are required in locations where combustible material is within 35
feet.
• A fire watch must continue for 30 minutes after the welding operation is
completed.
• Any time welding, cutting or brazing is conducted outside a designated cutting
or welding area by a contractor, the hot work permit system must be used (refer
to the Broadband Telecom Services Fire and Life Safety Manual).
➢ No welding, cutting or hot work is to be performed on any container or pipe until the
object has been cleaned and it is certain no flammable or toxic materials are present.
➢ Welding, cutting and hot work must be conducted with ventilation adequate for the
working conditions.
➢ Personal protective equipment must be worn, including:
• Eye protection—the eyes must be protected by safety glasses, goggles, face shield, or helmet
with a lens shade appropriate for the job. Never look at welding operations without proper eye
protection.
• Protective clothing—fire resistant gloves and sleeves, aprons, high topped leather shoes or
boots, no exposed pant cuffs or pockets.
5. ACETYLENE FUEL GAS PRECAUTIONS
➢ Acetylene is a highly flammable, colorless gas with a distinct odor. Acetylene is
dissolved in acetone in the cylinder and therefore the cylinder must be stored upright
to prevent the materials from separating and creating a dangerous condition.
• Only use with torches and hoses specifically designed for acetylene.
• Acetylene must not be used at a pressure in excess of 15 psi gauge pressure.
➢ Acetylene torches:
• Use the Auto-Off handle with adapter and existing acetylene torch tips.
• Never heat shrink with acetylene fuel.
• Bright sunlight may cause the torch flame to become less visible or invisible.
Use extreme care.
6. OXYGEN PRECAUTIONS
➢ Oxygen cylinders in storage must be separated from fuel-gas cylinders or combustible
materials by a minimum of 20 feet or by a non-combustible barrier at least 5 feet high
with a 30 minute fire resistance rating.
➢ Cylinders, valves, couplings, regulators, hoses and apparatus must be kept free from
oily or greasy substances.
➢ Unless connected to a manifold, oxygen from a cylinder must not be used without first
attaching an oxygen regulator to the cylinder valve. Before this connection is made,
the valve must be “cracked.” Cylinder valves must be opened and closed by hand.
69
7. BASIC FUEL-GAS/OXYGEN WORK PRACTICES
➢ Workers in charge of oxygen for fuel-gas supply equipment, including generators and
oxygen or fuel-gas piping systems, must be instructed and judged competent for this
work by their manager before being left in charge. Rules and instructions covering the
operation and maintenance of systems must be readily available.
➢ When parallel lengths of oxygen and acetylene hose are taped together, not more than
4 inches out of 12 inches can be covered with tape. Hose connections must be securely
clamped or fastened so as to withstand twice the pressure to which they are normally
subjected in service, but in no case less than a pressure of 300 psi.
➢ An acetylene cylinder valve must not be opened more than 1-1/2 turns of the spindle.
This permits adequate flow of acetylene and allows for immediate closing of the valve
in an emergency situation.
➢ Inside of buildings, cylinders must be stored in a well-protected, well-ventilated, dry
location at least 20 feet from combustible material such as oil or packing materials.
Assigned storage spaces must be located where cylinders will not be knocked over or
damaged by passing or falling objects, or subject to tampering by unauthorized persons.
Cylinders must not be kept in unventilated enclosures such as lockers or cupboards.
➢ Only approved apparatus such as torches, regulators or pressure-reducing valves,
acetylene generators and manifolds are to be used.
➢ Prevent mixing fuel gases and air or oxygen. Backflow protection must be provided to
prevent oxygen from flowing into the fuel-gas system, and fuel-gas from flowing into
the oxygen system.
➢ Flashback prevention must be provided by an approved device that will prevent flames
from passing into the fuel-gas system.
70
SECTION 7-C
C – FIELD PRACTICES
SECTION C-01
FIRST AID/CPR
1 THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ First Aid/CPR training is required for:
• Employees performing outside plant operations and their direct managers.
• Construction crew members, central office technicians, headend/switch
technicians, warehouse technicians and other employees who do battery
maintenance, generator maintenance, or electrical work and their direct
managers.
• Employees working in power groups and their direct managers.
• Technicians working in remote locations where outside (or 911) response is
not readily available.
➢ Please note that some states have more stringent first aid requirements than are listed
here. Contact your local EHS manager with questions.
2 FIRST AID SUPPLIES:
➢ Supplies maintained in a first aid kit must be recommended (in writing) by a
physician and:
• Stored in easily accessible weather-proof containers or indoors.
• Inspected monthly and restocked as necessary.
➢ First aid kits must be available in all company office facilities and vehicles.
3. SCHEDULING FIRST AID/CPR TRAINING
➢ To schedule training contact your HR Director.
71
SECTION C-02
BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS
1 THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees performing outside plant operations and their direct managers.
➢ Construction crew members, central office technicians, headend/switch technicians and
other employees who do battery maintenance, generator maintenance, or electrical
work, and their direct managers.
➢ Technicians working in remote locations where outside (or 911) response is not readily
available.
2 GENERAL INFORMATION
➢ Blood borne pathogens are infectious bacteria or viruses present in human blood or
body fluids that can cause disease in people that are exposed.
➢ Two of the most significant blood borne diseases are:
• Hepatitis B.
• HIV (the virus that causes AIDS).
3 MODES OF TRANSMISSION
➢ Modes of transmission:
• Unprotected openings in the skin such as cuts, sores or abrasions.
• Unprotected mucous membrane openings such as the eyes, nose and mouth.
• Penetration into the skin by a sharp object (e.g., broken glass, needle or knife
blade).
➢ The risks of exposures to blood borne pathogens are low as long as appropriate work
practices are followed when potentially infectious materials are present.
4 PROTECTIVE WORK PRACTICES
➢ Employees trained in CPR and First Aid must have latex gloves and a micro shield
(mouth guard for CPR) readily available in their First Aid kit in their truck. Inspect
monthly and re-supply First Aid kits with the necessary items.
➢ Visually inspect area for potential infectious materials before beginning the work.
➢ If the area looks clean, proceed with usual work activities.
➢ If any potentially infectious materials, body fluids or wastes are discovered, notify the
appropriate personnel and do not proceed with the job until the work area has been
cleaned and disinfected.
72
➢ If potentially infectious materials must be removed to perform your work, use
appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, safety glasses). Use a shovel
or other tools to remove material from the area that you have to work in and clean the
area with a germicidal cleaning solution (e.g., bleach, Lysol®).
5 DISPOSAL PRACTICES
➢ Place all potentially contaminated materials in a sturdy container for proper disposal.
➢ All potentially infected waste materials must be disposed of in such a way that others
in the waste handling process are not placed at risk.
➢ Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water. If this I not possible, use an antiseptic
towlette or hand cleaner, then wash hands as soon as possible.
➢ If you are rendering first aid or medical assistance, use personal protective equipment
(e.g., gloves, safety glasses). First aid supplies, once used, must be disposed of
properly.
➢ For proper disposal of potentially infectious materials, contact the local municipal
health department for assistance for assistance.
6 POTENTIAL EXPOSURES
➢ For potential exposure:
• Immediately report potential exposures to blood or other potentially infectious
materials to your supervisor. The supervisor will then notify Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc.
• Immediately wash area that contacted the potentially contaminated material.
SECTION C-03
ASBESTOS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Avoiding or minimizing exposures to asbestos for employees working on company or
customer premises where disturbing asbestos containing material (ACM) or presumed
asbestos containing material (PACM) is a possibility. PACM is material that is
presumed to contain asbestos, since asbestos content is unknown.
2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
➢ Asbestos is a general term for a family of fibrous materials that have reputable
strengthening and fireproofing properties. Asbestos was used in many non-
73
combustible, non-conducting and chemically resistant products and may still be found
in various facilities built prior to 1986 in the following building materials:
• Sprayed-on fireproofing.
• Floor tiles and transite siding, walls, ceilings, etc.
• Insulating materials on boilers, chillers, pipes, in air plenums, ducts and piping in
steam tunnels and mechanical rooms.
• Roofing materials.
• Telephone conduit, underground (transite).
3-ASBESTOS OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
➢ The manager in charge of the facility is responsible for the Asbestos Operations and
Maintenance Program (O & M Program). The O & M Program identifies areas in
which ACM or PACM exist. No work that might disturb ACM or PACM should be
performed in Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. owned facilities without prior approval
from the CEO.
4. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Exposures to asbestos fibers are considered to be a potential respiratory health hazard
when friable materials (materials containing asbestos that are easily crushed by hand
pressure) release high levels of airborne asbestos fibers into the air and are inhaled.
When asbestos is firmly bound (non-friable) asbestos containing materials are damaged
by drilling cutting, sanding, sawing, vibration, erosion, etc., asbestos fibers can be
released and present a potential health hazard. The risks of health effects from exposure
to asbestos fibers are affected by dose (duration of exposure plus the concentration of
habits of the employee. Asbestos fiber exposures are minimal as long as appropriate
work procedures are followed.
➢ There are several job categories with Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. which may
involve intentional disturbance of ACM or PACM. They include drilling through vinyl
or asbestos floor tiles (VATs) and drilling through transite siding to install, repair or
replace broadband equipment. Employees who perform these activities will receive
Asbestos Awareness training and additional training on proper work procedures to
minimize or eliminate the potential for asbestos exposure. The specific procedures and
important information for drilling through ACM or PACM are presented in the
following paragraphs.
➢ Asbestos Awareness training is provided to all Broadband Telecom Services
employees with job functions identified as having a high probability for unintentionally
contacting ACM or PACM (the training is provided by EHS managers or their
designates). Employees are provided with the sills to recognize ACM or PACM and
are educated to avoid situations in which high levels of airborne asbestos fibers may
exist or be generated.
5. MISCELLANEOUS SAFETY INFORMATION
74
➢ Disposable respirators are not intended to protect employees from exposure to ACM.
Following the procedures listed below and provided in the Asbestos Awareness
Program will prevent the need for respiratory protection. Contractors, with specific
asbestos training, must be used wherever the potential for release of high levels of
airborne asbestos fibers are expected, unless additional asbestos training has been
received and the employee is involved in a comprehensive respiratory protection
program.
6. DRILLING/PUNCHING METHODS AND PROCEDURES
➢ These procedures must be followed whenever you are drilling through floor tiles,
transite siding or other ACM or PACM.
➢ DO NOT perform this type of work unless:
• You have received the initial Asbestos Awareness training.
• You have been instructed on proper drilling procedures for asbestos containing
materials.
• You have maintained current annual asbestos refresher training.
METHODS:
➢ The following methods have been approved for drilling/punching through floor tiles
and/or siding:
METHOD 1: Use a drill with a lubricating substance (such as petroleum jelly or other
substance that has a similar consistency, like cable pulling lubricant). Mark the floor or
siding where you intend to drill. Spread petroleum jelly (or substitute) about ¼ inches
thick around the point of drilling. Stick an object into the lubricating substance to
determine where the mark is, if accuracy is important. Begin drilling at the slowest speed
possible. Upon completion, use a spray detergent and paper towels to clean the area.
Double bag the wastes, including paper towels, etc., in properly labeled reseal able storage
bags and dispose of as asbestos waste. (Note: Use this method for drilling through floor
tiles or siding).
METHOD 2: Use a drill with a HEPA vacuum attachment that is approved for use for
drilling through asbestos containing floor tiles. The vacuum must have an approved
container or bag that is manufactured to prevent exposures to asbestos materials. These
vacuum containers must not be emptied for re-use and must be properly labeled and
disposed of as asbestos containing waste. If additional cleanup is necessary due to large
pieces of floor tiles being damaged, double bag the asbestos in properly labeled reseal able
storage bags and dispose of as asbestos waste. (Note: Use this method for drilling through
floor tiles only, not siding.)
METHOD 3: Use a floor tile punch to punch through the asbestos floor tile. To control
tile breakage and splinter release, the hole must be punched with 1 to 3 strikes. Cleanup
75
splinters with a HEPA vacuum approved for use with asbestos or use a spray detergent and
paper towels as described above. (Note: Use this method for punching through floor tiles.)
DO NOT DISPOSE OF ANY ASBESTOS CONTAINING WASTES, OR PRESUMED
APSBESTOS CONTAINING WASTES IN THE NORMAL TRASH. FOLLOW LOCAL
PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSAL OF ASBESTOS WASTES. IF YOU ARE UNSURE
OF PROPER PROCEDURES TO FOLLOW, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL EHS
MANAGER.
7. HANDS-ON TRAINING—DRILLING/PUNCHING PROCEDURES
➢ This training is required in addition to the Asbestos Awareness training if the
employees are likely to drill/punch through asbestos containing floor tiles or siding.
The materials needed for this hands-on training are as follows:
• Drill, floor tile punch and hammer, or drill with HEPA vacuum attachment.
• Lubricating substance (i.e., petroleum jelly) if drill does not have a HEPA
vacuum attachment.
• Spray detergent.
• Paper towels/wipes.
• Reseal able plastic bags (explain to employees that these must have appropriate
labeling when used for ACM or PACM).
• Eye protection (to be used by all employees while drilling through materials in
the field and during hands-on training).
➢ A non-asbestos tile board or siding should be assembled for use in the hands-on
drilling/punching. This can be constructed of a 2’ x 3’ piece of plywood with 12” x
12” non-asbestos containing floor tiles or other appropriate non-asbestos containing
material (to simulate the flooring or siding) glued to its surface.
➢ These materials can be mounted on 2” x 4” supports for floor clearance (while drilling,
the 2” x 4” s should provide adequate clearance to avoid damaging the training area
floor/wall—use and appropriate drill bit).
➢ Follow procedures listed in C-03, (Section6) for drilling/punching.
➢ Since the simulated hands-on training is not exactly the same as what the employees
may encounter in the field, there may be an abnormal amount of petroleum jelly (or
substitute material) accumulation in the holes that are drilled. This problem has not
been apparent in the field as much as during simulated training since there is generally
a backing material (cement, wood, etc.) under floor tiles or behind transite siding that
ordinarily helps to push the excess lubricating substance out of the hole.
➢ Each student should be allowed to perform the drilling/punching procedure or should
work in a group where a portion of the procedure is performed by each individual.
Hands-on training must be documented.
➢ If assistance is needed for the hands-on training, please contact your local EHS
manager.
76
SECTION C-04
LEAD
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Minimizing exposures to lead for technicians who repair, maintain, or work near lead-
sheathed cable, whether aerial, buried, or underground; and those who may be
exposed to lead from soldering or other processes using lead.
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Lead was commonly used as an underground and aerial telephone cable protective
sheath until the late 1970’s.
➢ Lead may be also found in lashing wire, lead tags, certain solders, and paint.
➢ Lead is bluish white to silvery gray; lead oxide appears as a white dust.
➢ The size and quantity of airborne lead particles released depends on:
• The age of the cable—older, worn, or dry cable has a greater chance of particle
release.
• The environment in which the cable was installed.
➢ The amount of lead exposure from soldering will mainly depend on the lead content of
the solder, the ventilation present and the time spent soldering.
➢ Air monitoring and other testing has shown that typical telecommunication operations
can be safely conducted in environments where lead is present without producing
harmful exposures, if appropriate work procedures are followed.
➢ Although lead exposure in the cable industry is rare, most personal lead exposure would
be due to residue deposited on employees’ hands, and employees smoking or eating
without properly washing hands.
3. HEALTH EFFECTS
➢ Small amounts of lead can enter the body through inhalation or ingestion. Normally,
the body rids itself of lead over time. However, health problems may occur if the body
accumulates more lead than it can excrete. Lead dust is not absorbed through intact
skin.
➢ Acute (short-term) overexposures may cause anemia, fatigue, headaches, irritability,
and loss of appetite, stomach pains and constipation.
➢ Chronic (long-term) overexposures may impair blood cell production and the nervous,
gastrointestinal, kidney and reproductive systems. Fetal development may also be
affected.
4. WORK PRACTICES
77
➢ Work in well-ventilated areas. Do not enter enclosed spaces during initial purging and
ventilation operations.
➢ The release of lead from contaminated surfaces can be minimized by wetting the
surfaces.
➢ Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, coveralls and safety glasses)
and restrict equipment to the worksite.
➢ Refrain from eating, drinking, smoking or using smokeless tobacco while working with
lead and keep these products away from work operations.
➢ Remove gloves and wash hands before eating, drinking, smoking or using smokeless
tobacco.
➢ For soldering operations, use the minimum amount of solder required and regularly
clean work surfaces.
➢ Properly dispose of lead contaminated materials.
SECTION C-05
HANTAVIRUS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees encountering rodent materials (such as waste, droppings, nests, etc.) at
outside plant facilities and in rodent-infested customer premises.
➢ The use of clean up practices required to control exposure to Hantavirus.
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Rodents have been identified as a natural host for the Hantavirus. All rodents should
be considered as potentially infected.
➢ Hantavirus is potentially “shed” in rodents’ urine, saliva and possible feces.
➢ Transmission can occur when an individual is in close contact with rodent excretions
by inhaling contaminated dust or through direct contact with contaminated rodents.
➢ High risk environments include working near nesting materials, burrows, droppings
and surrounding soil.
3. HEALTH EFFECTS
➢ Hantavirus related disease in humans is very rare; however, care must be exercised in
areas where there is a potential for exposure.
➢ Illness usually begins with non-specific symptoms such as fever, muscle ache, cough,
headache, or abdominal pain.
➢ Specific symptoms include the acute onset of breathing difficulty with rapid worsening.
Most patients require hospitalization and critical care.
78
➢ THERE IS APPROXIMATELY A 50% FATALITY RATE ASSOCIATED
WITH THE ILLNESS.
4. MATERIALS REQUIRED FOR CLEAN UP
➢ Disposable cloths or paper towels—for wiping hands or areas of closures as necessary after
cleaning.
➢ Disposable coveralls—Available for use if technician chooses.
➢ Disposable latex gloves—listed as “First aid kit, disposable gloves.” Caution: Do not use
leather gloves.
➢ Disposable mask, high efficiency filter—Use the 3M® disposable respirator, Model 9970
(or equivalent).
➢ Plastic goggles—clean with disinfectant after use. Rinse with water as soon as possible.
➢ Antiseptic hand sanitizer—if hands are dirty, clean with waterless hand cleaner first.
➢ Small scoop or shovel—to remove nesting or other materials. Rinse with disinfectant after
use.
➢ Spray bottle, 16 oz—Fill with disinfectant.
➢ Trash bags—Carton of bags with ties, 16” x 14” x 36”
➢ Lysol® disinfectant or equivalent--Lysol® (or equivalent). Check with manufacturer for
identifying expiration date.
5. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Avoid creating airborne dust in potentially infectious areas.
➢ Use appropriate rodent control techniques such as:
• Minimizing food and water sources.
• Rodent-proofing by sealing possible entrances.
➢ Use appropriate clean up methods.
➢ If around high risk environments, use appropriate personal protective equipment
identified in clean up and disposal procedures.
➢ If employees encounter areas heavily infested with mice droppings, urine, saliva, nests
or burrows during operations which might disturb the rodent materials and which might
create airborne dust, such as entering ground level crawl spaces or hand digging, the
work must be stopped and appropriate clean up procedures implemented.
79
➢ If the conditions are at customer premises, stop work and inform the customer of the
conditions and that work must be stopped until the work area is free of potential
Hantavirus hazards. The customer must arrange for an adequate clean up or agree to
an alternate route of entry clear of potential hazards, if available.
➢ If these conditions are at outside plant facilities, follow wet disinfectant clean up
methods. If conditions are encountered at Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. buildings,
contact building management personnel.
6. CLEAN UP AND DISPOSAL PROCEDURES
➢ The following procedures must be followed when mouse droppings and/or nesting
materials are encountered in any equipment closure:
• Put on the 3M®9970 disposable respirator (or equivalent) in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions. Only wear the respirator if a proper fit is achieved,
otherwise contact your manager before proceeding. Put on the disposable
gloves and goggles.
• Gently spray the droppings or nest materials with approved Lysol® disinfectant
(or equivalent) until they are completely wet with solution. Take care to avoid
creating airborne dust. If the material is in a place where it can be flooded, pour
the solution directly from the bottle. Allow materials to soak in solution for 15
minutes.
• If rodent materials are in the bottom of a closure that does not contain sufficient
gravel, the materials can be thoroughly flooded with the Lysol® disinfectant
solution and after 15 minutes covered with the proper amount of pea gravel.
• Soaked materials can be pushed or scooped aside if they do not interfere with
the work to be done. If they must be removed, put into a trash bag. Do not
touch materials with bare hands.
• If a dead rodent is found, thoroughly flood the animal in disinfectant solution
and allow to stand for 15 minutes. If the dead animal is in a plague-prone area,
spray the body with wasp killer to kill fleas before spraying disinfectant. Bury,
if possible, or place in bag for disposal. Do not touch with bare hands.
• After all waste materials have been placed in a plastic trash bag, tie up the bag
either by knotting or twist tying. Place first bag into a second bag. Then remove
mask and gloves and disposable clothing, if worn, and place in second bag,
taking care not to contact the contents of the bag. Tie up the second bag for
disposal in the normal trash.
• Clean goggles with disinfectant and rinse with water. Clean hands with
waterless hand cleaner, then sanitize with antiseptic hand sanitizer. It is
recommended that the face and hands be washed with soap and water before
eating or smoking.
➢ Clean up procedures for outside plant above ground housings, sidewalk vaults, or
similar enclosures:
80
• Nesting materials in the bottom of closures can be handled as with any other
closure.
• Nesting materials or droppings on the top of the shelf holding circuit packs can
be sprayed provided the liquid will not drip into the circuit packs (wait 15
minutes before removing).
• If materials are near circuit packs, a disposable cloth sprayed with Lysol® (or
equivalent) can be placed over the materials near circuit packs and left in place
for 15 minutes. An additional wet cloth should be used to surround the
materials and the first cloth to scoop them up for disposal. Cloths should not
be dripping wet.
• Use caution to prevent electrical shock where exposed circuits or contacts
are present. Do not spray electrical contacts or touch them with wet clothes
or gloves.
• Always wear the appropriate ground strap.
• Upon completion of the clean up, verify that the cabinet is sealed, including the
electrical conduit, and that pea gravel has been added to prevent reinfestation.
7. CLEAN UP PROCEDURES FOR UTILITY HOLES
➢ The following procedures are recommended when evidence of rodent infestation is
discovered upon entering a utility hole. These procedures may also be applied when
entering a utility hole which is known to have had rodent infestation.
Step 1. Put on the personal protective equipment as outlined in “CLEAN UP AND
DISPOSAL PROCEDURES”.
Step 2. Test and purge utility hole following all established safety procedures. When
purging a dry utility hole, avoid the air space around the entrance for a distance of 20
feet.
Step 3. Conduct the disinfecting and clean up per previous training.
Step 4. Dispose of the contaminated materials per previous training.
Step 5. Remove protective equipment and continue work in the standard manner.
➢ Note: If you encounter a dead rodent in the water in a utility hole, wear protective
equipment while pumping the hole and completing test and purge operations. Disinfect
rodent and any contaminated materials; continue from Step 3 above.
81
SECTION C-06
HEAT AND COLD STRESS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees working in hot or cold environments.
➢ The consequences of heat or cold stress, including impaired worker health, decreased
productivity and increased accidents.
2. DISORDERS OF HEAT STRESS
Physical Disorder Symptoms Causes Treatments/Prevention
Transient heat Decreased Not Gradual adjustment to
Fatigue productivity, acclimated to hot environment.
alertness, hot environment.
Coordination
And vigilance.
Heat Rash Rash in area Hot and Periodic resting in a cool
(“prickly heat”) of heavy humid area; regular bathing; allow
perspiration; environments skin to dry.
discomfort, or where
temporary perspiration
disability. is not easily
removed from
skin surface;
sweat glands
plugged; sweat
glands inflamed.
Fainting Blackout, Standing still Lying down, elevate
possible collapse. in the heat, feet slightly above
shortage of head; moving around.
blood to the
brain reducing
oxygen.
Heat cramps Painful spasms Loss of salt by Adequate salt
of heavily used sweating; large with meals; salted
skeletal muscles quantities of liquids for relief
82
Heat exhaustion Extreme weak- Blood volume Rest in cool area;
ness or fatigue; reduced by loss drink plenty of
giddiness; nau- of water or salt liquids.
sea; headache; during sweating.
pale or flushed Inadequate fluid
complexion; and/or salt intake.
body tempera-
ture slightly
elevated; clam-
my, moist skin;
vomiting and/or
loss of con-
sciousness in
extreme cases.
Heat Stroke Skin is hot, dry Body’s cooling Remove to cool area;
and often red or system breaks soak clothing with
spotted; body down under cold water; vigorously
temperature is stress and fan body. Call
usually 105° F sweating stops. ambulance
or higher and The body’s immediately.
rising; mental ability to re-
confusion; con- move excess
vulsions; possible heat is almost
unconsciousness; eliminated.
death or perm-
anent brain
damage may
result unless
treated immediately.
Sunburn Red, painful Exposure to Use of sunblock with
skin indicative direct sunlight and SPF of 15 or
of 1st and 2nd for even short more covering degree burn. periods of exposed skin.
time.
3. HEAT-RELATED WORK PRACTICES
➢ Heat related health problems can be prevented or minimized through:
• Acclimation to heat through short (e.g., half day) exposures followed by longer
periods of work.
• Engineering controls using fans, reflective sheeting or shades, reduced exertion
using power tools, and eliminating hot exposures (such as steam leaks).
83
• Drinking plenty of water (up to a quart an hour) throughout the day and not just
when thirsty.
• Alternating work-rest cycles.
• Working during cooler parts of the day if possible.
4 DISORDERS OF COLD STRESS
Physical Disorder Symptoms Causes Treatment/Prevention
Hypothermia Numb skin and Prolonged ex- Heat, dry protective
blood vessel posure to cold, clothing including
dilation, uncon- wet clothing hat and gloves.
schiousness. reducing body
temperature.
Frostbite Painful red Freezing of Heat, dry protective
skin, sticking of exposed tissue, clothing including hat
skin to cold. contact with and gloves. Remove
cold surface. skin frozen to a sur-
face with warm
water; never pull
away.
5. COLD-RELATED WORK PRACTICES
➢ Use heat sources where possible to maintain comfortable work environments:
• Propane heaters cause a potential risk from a build-up of carbon monoxide if adequate
ventilation is not provided.
• Refer to section C-28, “Propane and Open Flame Use” on the use of approved heaters.
➢ Wear and maintain protective clothing in a dry state. Cover head and hands to reduce the
risk of heat loss or frostbite.
➢ Reduce wind chill exposure by working in protective structure or use protective clothing.
➢ Work during warmer parts of the day, if possible.
84
SECTION C-07
RADIOFREQUENCY RADIATION
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees working on, or near, microwave transmitters such as delay lenses, horn
reflectors, parabolic dishes, passive deflectors, or other microwave wave-guides.
➢ Employees working on towers or rooftops where cellular/wireless or other antennas exist
(e.g., radio/TV transmitters, antenna farms, military bases.
2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
➢ Radiofrequency radiation is a type of non-ionizing radiation that is encountered in many
commercial applications including the telecommunications industry. Common sources of
radiofrequency radiation include radio and television broadcast towers, microwave
transmitters, and cellular antennas.
➢ Radiofrequency radiation is different from ionizing radiation (x-rays) in that it does not
ionize (change the biological structure of) human tissue, nor does it leave residual radiation
(e.g., radioactive materials). Radiofrequency radiation also ceases to exist once the
transmitting source is turned off.
➢ While working on or near antenna sites where microwave, cellular or other radiofrequency
transmitters exist, Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. employees may be exposed to very
low levels of energy. These low levels of radiofrequency energy have not been shown to
produce adverse health effects; however, they do have the potential to heat tissues (cause
burns) when appropriate work practices are not followed. The heating effects of
(radiofrequency) energy are a function of time and distance. Therefore, effects can be
minimized or eliminated by maximizing your distance, limiting your time of exposure to
active radiofrequency sources and by following appropriate work practices at all times.
3. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Where applicable, standards such as the FCC rules on evaluating the environmental effects
of radiofrequency radiation must be adhered to for new or existing sites.
➢ When technicians are required to perform work on or near an antenna, they must be
informed of the potential health hazards associated with exposures to radiofrequency
energy and how to minimize potential exposures.
➢ To minimize or eliminate the risk of potential exposures, technicians must:
• Always “power down” transmitting antennas on towers and antenna supporting
structures before climbing and performing work. Adhere to lockout/tagout
procedures to ensure that power is not returned to an antenna that has been
“powered down” before work is completed.
• Adhere to warnings on signs posted by Broadband Telecom Services, Inc., other
communications entities, or other public or private utilities. Do not enter posted
85
areas unless advised by the responsible owners that the equipment has been
“powered down” and lockout/tagout procedures are being followed.
• If work must be performed near an active antenna, maximize the distance between
you and an active antenna and minimize time spent working near it.
➢ Contact your local manager for questions concerning appropriate work procedures.
4. GENERAL INFORMATION
➢ The general public generally maintains appropriate distances from antennas and therefore
radiofrequency radiation is considered to be negligible. To ensure that distance does not
become a potential problem, fences or signs must be posted to inform the public that they
are not to climb our antenna towers or to stand too close to antennas on rooftops.
SECTION C-08
DOT FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATIONS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. employees operating a commercial motor vehicle on
public highways on company business.
➢ The practice should be used only as a basic guide. For specific state and federal
requirements contact your local manager.
2 WHEN DO FEDERAL AND STATE LAWS APPLY
➢ The primary criteria used to determine if Department of Transportation (DOT)
regulations apply are:
• Vehicle weights, and/or combined vehicle weight.
• Whether or not the vehicle is driven between states (interstate) or within only one
state (intrastate).
➢ Federal DOT laws known as Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) apply to
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc., its employees and its commercial motor vehicles
interstate commerce.
➢ Each state with the Broadband Telecom Services Region has adopted some or all of the
FMCSR as state laws that apply to intrastate commerce.
➢ If a Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. employee drives a company vehicle with a Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 pounds; or a truck and trailer
combination with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of more than 10,000
pounds, across state lines, the employee must comply with federal DOT regulations and be
DOT qualified.
86
➢ If a Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. employee drives a company commercial motor
vehicle solely within a state’s boundaries, they are required to comply with that state’s
DOT regulations.
➢ Managers must ensure that technicians transferred (or on loan) form another state
meet the receiving state’s DOT requirements.
3. LICENSING
➢ In addition to complying with all applicable DOT laws, Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
employees who drive commercial motor vehicles that weigh more than 26,000 pounds must
also obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This requirement also applies to
combination vehicles; however, the definition is slightly different. If a Broadband Telecom
Services, Inc. employee drives:
• A commercial motor vehicle (CMV) greater than 26,000 pounds, a CDL is required
regardless of the weight of the trailer.
• A CMV less than 26,000 pounds, towing a trailer that weighs more than 10,000
pounds, and together, the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is greater
than 26,000 pounds, a CDL is required.
• A CMV less than 26,000 pounds, towing a trailer that weighs less than 10,000
pounds, a CDL is not required even if the GCWR is greater than 26,000 pounds.
➢ A CDL is also required when transporting hazardous materials in quantities that require
placards on any size vehicle or when transporting more than 16 passengers. (See
“Hazardous Material Requirement—Materials of Trade Exception” at the end of this
Section).
➢ CDL drivers are subject to additional training requirements as well as random drug and
alcohol testing.
HAZARDOUS MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS
MATERIALS OF TRADE EXCEPTION
Exception – “Materials of Trade” are not subject to the requirements of Hazardous Materials
Regulations except those set forth on the Materials of Trade section (49 CFR 173.6) when
transported by motor vehicle. The exception only applies to hazardous material that meets the
following Materials of Trade definition, in quantities that do not exceed those listed, and those
materials meet the following packaging and hazard communications requirements when carried
on US West vehicles. If these provisions are met, Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. technicians
are not required to meet the following requirements:
• Attend HM 126F Hazardous Material Training every 2 years
• Prepare shipping papers for hazardous materials and have both the shipping papers and
Emergency Response Guide in a door pouch.
• Store ORM-D materials in an “ORM-D box”.
87
Definition – Material of Trade means a hazardous material, other than a hazardous waste, that it
is carried on a motor vehicle:
• For the purpose of protecting the health and safety of the driver or passengers (i.e., wasp
spray);
• For the purpose of supporting the operation or maintenance of the motor vehicle (including
its auxiliary equipment) (i.e. engine starting fluid, spare battery, etc);
• By Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. in direct support of its principle business
(Telecommunications).
Packaging.
1. Packaging must be leak tight for liquids or gases, sift proof for solids, and be securely
closed, secured against movement, and protected against damage.
2. Each material must be packaged in the manufacturer’s original packaging, or a packaging
of equal or greater strength and integrity.
3. Outer packaging including ORM-D boxes are NOT required for cans and bottles that are
secured against movement in cages, carts, bins, boxes or compartments.
4. For gasoline, packaging must be an approved safety can with a capacity not exceeding 5
gallons.
5. Division 2.1 and 2.2 cylinders must meet DOT hazardous materials requirements, i.e., be
secured against movement, be the proper specification cylinder, be maintained and have
valves tightly closed during transport.
Hazard Communication.
1. A non-bulk packaging other than a cylinder including a container transported without an
outer packaging must be marked with a common name or proper shipping name to identify
the material is contains, including the letter “RQ” if it contains a reportable quantity of a
hazardous substance (EHS does not know of a hazardous substance a field technician
would transport in amounts that would be a “reportable quantity”). Example: If you fill a
plastic jug with windshield washer fluid from a 55 gallon drum to a store on your vehicle
for later use, this requirement (it must be labeled) applies.
2. A DOT specification cylinder (i.e., used for flammable and non-flammable gases) must be
marked and labeled.
3. The operator of a motor vehicle that contains a material of trade must be informed of the
presence of the hazardous material (including whether the package contains a reportable
quantity) and must be informed of the requirements of this section. Note: This training
meets this requirement.
Total gross weight – The combined gross weight of all Materials of the Trade on a motor
vehicle may not exceed 440 pounds. A material of trade may be transported on a motor vehicle
under the provisions of this section with other hazardous materials without affecting its eligibility
for exceptions provided by this section.
Materials and Amounts.
88
A material of trade is limited to the following:
Table 1
Types Class 3 – Flammable and Division 4.1 – Flammable Solid*
combustible liquids Division 5.1 – Oxidizer*
Class 8 – Corrosive Division 6.1 – Poisonous Material*
Class 9 – Miscellaneous
hazardous material*
ORM-D Material
Contained in a packaging having a gross mass or capacity not over -
For Packaging group 1 Packing Group II A diluted mixture of a Class
Packing Group III 9 material (not to exceed 2%
ORM-D material concentration)*
Amount 1 pound (0.5 kg) or 66 pounds (30 kg) 400 gallons (1500 L)
1 pint (0.5L) or 8 gallons (30 L)
*Environmental Health and Safety can not identify any of these materials that are in use in
Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. Packing groups are assigned to receptacles and materials
designed to contain hazardous materials according to the danger of the material (i.e., Packing
Group I indicates great danger, II medium & III minor danger). EHS can not identify hazardous
material required to be in Packing Group I packaging that is carried on Broadband Telecom
Services, Inc. vehicles.
Table 1A
Examples of “Materials of Trade” carried on Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. vehicles. (All of
these materials are in Packing Group II or III packaging and should not exceed 66 pounds (30
kg) or 8 gallons (30 L) per package.
ORM-D Material Class 3 – Flammable and Class 8 – Corrosive
Combustible Liquids
Sealing Compound Gasoline (See Packaging Battery Acid.
Penetrating oil requirements for amount) Lead Acid Batteries.
Halt Dog Spray Isopropyl Alcohol
Hydra Sol Cable Gel
Remover
Motor Oil
Starting Fluid Thrust Diesel Fuel in non-bulk
Quick packaging (less than 119
gallons) is not regulated.
Trichlorofluoroethane
Cleaner
89
Wasp/Hornet Spray
WD-40
Table 2
A Division 2.1 or 2.2 materials in a cylinder with a gross weight not over 220 pounds.
Division 2.1 – Flammable gas. Division 2.2 – Non-flammable gas
Example of Materials of Trade flammable Examples of Materials of Trade non-
gases carried on Broadband Telecom Services flammable gases carried on Stream-
vehicles. line Communications vehicles 5’
tanks at full capacity weigh 125-150
pounds
Propane Air, compressed
20 pound tanks (gas grill size) Helium
40 pound tanks Nitrogen, compressed
Acetylene Compressed gases N.O.S. (C-Gas
Test Kit)
Notes: 1. materials of Trade also include a Division 4.3 – Dangerous When Wet material when it
is in Packing Group II or III and contained in a packaging having a gross capacity not exceeding
1 ounce (30 ml).
This section does not apply to a hazardous material that is self-reactive, poisonous by inhalation,
or a hazardous waste.
SECTION C-09
TRUCKS AND TRAILERS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The safe operation of trucks and trailers, and the prevention of accidents during operation
or loading/unloading.
2. VEHICLE INSPECTION
➢ Document the inspection of all trucks and trailers prior to the first daily trip using the
“Daily Vehicle Inspection Report” form located at the end of this practice.
➢ Trailer inspections must include:
• Ensuring that the load does not exceed trailer capacity and that the truck and
trailer are rated to handle the load on specification plate.
• Checking decking to ensure it is free from debris.
90
• Checking the safety chain’s couplings and hooks.
• Checking the breakaway attachment (including battery, if so equipped).
• Testing trailer brakes and slack adjusters, if equipped with air brakes.
• Checking tongue.
• Inspecting pintle hook and eye.
• Checking suspension, tires, wheels and lugs.
• Testing operation of all lights and functional reflectors.
• Inspecting load binders, chains and decking.
• Ensuring that appropriate wheel chocks are available.
➢ Truck and/or trailer must not be operated if any defect creates a potential safety
hazard.
3. TRALER LOADING AND UNLOADING
➢ Park truck and trailer on level grade away from traveled portion of road.
➢ Park with engine off and the truck in gear.
➢ Apply truck and trailer brakes.
➢ Use rear trailer stabilizer, if available.
➢ Chocking truck and trailer wheels is mandatory when vehicles are parked, loaded
or unloaded.
➢ Reference Section B-07, “Mechanical Lifting Devices” for requirements on loading a
truck or trailer with an industrial truck (such as a forklift), crane, or similar equipment.
➢ Always load and unload with material handling equipment in low gear.
SECTION C-10
RUBBER INSULATING GLOVES
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees performing work where contact with electrical power or conductors is possible.
➢ Placing or removing permanent and temporary electrical bonds or driving ground rods.
2. INSPECTION AND TEST
➢ Gloves must be tested by the employee upon receipt, before and after each use, and
monthly:
• Conduct a stretch test by pulling vigorously between the fingers, looking for cracks
and inner liner (normally a contrasting color) showing through.
• Look for signs of abrasions or deterioration on the palms, and back of the thumb
side, and the little finger side.
• Turn the glove inside out and repeat the stretch test.
91
• Turn the glove right side out.
• Squeeze the fingers of the glove together and let go quickly. Live rubber will return
to normal.
• Fill the glove with air by revolving the glove around the edge of the gauntlet axis,
rolling it towards the palm and fingers.
• Place the air filled glove next to your face while squeezing to listen and feel for
leaks on both sides of the glove.
➢ Immediately destroy gloves with defects.
.
3. GLOVE USE
➢ Use only insulating gloves supplied and approved by Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
for the area in which you are working.
➢ Rubber insulating gloves will be issued to the employees that need them. Employees who
use these tools shall follow the strict use and care rules of the company. Broadband
Telecom Services is NOT providing rubber gloves to employees so that they can work with
energized conductors. Working with energized conductors requires special training and
tools that are generally not available in this company. Because of potential risks to
employees, the public and to company equipment, Broadband Telecom Services
employees are not permitted to handle any conductor KNOWN to be energized. Likewise,
company employees are not to handle any conductors that are SUSPECTED to be
energized.
➢ The rubber insulating gloves are designed for the expected voltage levels that we might
reasonably be exposed to. The insulating gloves we issue meet special government
standards for the type of exposure found on Broadband Telecom Services jobs. Employees
are to use the electrical protective gloves as outlined in this Section. The company will
strictly enforce the correct use and care of this equipment.
➢ Rubber insulating gloves are one part of a set of tools that must be used together for your
protection and comfort. This set of tools consists of special rubber gloves, leather
protectors, cotton liners, and a protective storage bag. Whenever you need to use “rubber
gloves”, you must also use the leather protectors and the liners provided. The protective
glove set shall not be used except as protection against accidental electrical contact.
➢ These gloves are designed to protect you against limited high voltage during aerial
placement, maintenance, or wreck-out. You must wear them whenever you handle cable,
guy wires, or strand that may possible contact power. There are other times when you will
need to use rubber gloves to ensure your safety. If there is a risk of electrical contact, use
this protective equipment. when in doubt, ask your supervisor. At a minimum, you shall
wear electrical protective gloves when:
• Pulling the lasher or using ropes, wires, reels, raising tools, chain hoists, etc., during
cable or strand stringing, tensioning or wrecking-out operations on jointly used
poles, or on leads crossing over or under power wires.
• Working around metal power conduit on joint-use poles, exposed vertical power
ground wires, and street light fixtures that are below communications attachments
92
or less than 20 inches above these attachments. EXCEPTION—If you can visually
determine that these are bonded to the communications suspension strand or cable
sheath, then you do not have to wear electrical protective gloves.
• Placing, moving or removing poles that may come in contact with electrical power
conductors or other electrically energized plant.
• Placing and removing the temporary bond after making a test for foreign voltage
and getting a NEGATIVE (no voltage) indication form the voltage testers.
➢ Do not use insulating gloves in wet or rainy conditions.
4. STORAGE
➢ Clean gloves prior to storage.
➢ Gloves must be stored in glove bags or original container when not in use. Store in the
following order:
• Protector glove palm down.
• Insulating glove palm up.
• Both fabric liners.
• Other insulating glove palm down.
• Last protector glove palm up.
• Grasp all gloves together by the gauntlet, insert in bag, fingers up.
• Hang bag in protected place.
• Do not fold or bend during storage.
SECTION C-11
FOREIGN VOLTAGE DETECTORS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The use of foreign voltage detectors or FVDs (i.e., 188A) to test for the presence of
foreign voltage.
2. FVD USE
➢ Please refer to manufacturer’s instructions for specific voltage ranges and testing
procedures.
3. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
➢ High voltages present a potential for electrocution.
➢ Always comply with all manufacturers’ safety precautions.
93
➢ When working aloft and using the grounding cord ensures the cord is securely attached to
the ground rod (or other grounding device). If not securely attached, the cord could
“spring” upward and contact nearby power lines.
4. WHEN TO TEST
➢ Electrical testing is required on the following:
• Whenever there is reason to suspect damage to any utility (test all closures before
accessing).
• Uninsulated vertical grounds, electrical power guys, and conduits.
• Street light fixtures (ungrounded) within 20 inches of communication
attachments.
• Metal sided buildings, mobile homes and trailers, aluminum siding.
• Joint-use pedestals in joint trenches.
• Foreign plant in our work space, including telephone, down guys, etc.
• Buried metallic closures must always be tested before accessing.
SECTION C-12
B TEMPORARY BOND
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLICE TO:
➢ Work intended to temporarily ground conductor which has tested free of foreign voltage,
but with the potential to be energized during work operations.
2. INSPECTION AND TEST
➢ Test prior to each use per manufacturer’s instructions.
➢ Inspect for loose connections, broken wires, and defective clamps.
➢ Continuity test with a Foreign Voltage Detector (FVD) as indicated in Section C-11.
➢ Do not use bond if continuity test fails.
3. USING THE BOND
➢ Test conductors using the FVD to ensure line is inactive.
➢ Wear insulating gloves.
➢ Connect small (25 amp) clamp to known ground first.
➢ Connect large (100 amp) clamp to fixture last.
➢ The bond acts as a visual alarm by smoking when energized.
➢ If bond smokes:
• Leave bond in place and do not touch.
94
• Identify hazard and stand by to protect employees and public.
• Notify your manager.
➢ To remove the bond:
• Wear insulated gloves.
• Remove large (100 amp) clamp from fixture first.
• Remove small (25 amp) clamp from ground last.
SECTION C-13
WORK AREA PROTECTION
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Safety requirements necessary to protect employees and the public when work is
performed in areas where pedestrians or vehicles have access (e.g., utility holes in
sidewalks or roadways, working overhead on poles or roof(s).
➢ Establishing work area protection zones with minimum interference to pedestrians or
traffic patterns.
2. PEDESTRIAN WORK AREA PROTECTION
➢ Measures must be taken to ensure that the passageway for pedestrians, especially visually
impaired and other physically disabled persons is safe and well defined.
➢ Materials and devices to be utilized for pedestrian traffic control include:
• Barricades.
• Fencing
• Handrails.
• Bridges, and
• Warning and guidance devices and signs.
➢ Walkways in construction areas shall be at least four feet in width and free from abrupt
changes in grade.
➢ Obstructions within walkways shall be illuminated during hours of darkness.
➢ Minimum vertical clearance to any obstruction within the walkway shall be seven feet.
➢ Where it is necessary to direct pedestrians into the parking lane of a street, barricading or
delineation shall be provided.
➢ At no time, shall pedestrians be diverted into a portion of the street used for vehicular
traffic.
3. WORK AREA PROTECTION
95
➢ The following devices must be used at indicated intervals to establish a safe working zone:
Initial Supplemental Supplemental Transition Buffer Work Termination
Warning Warning Warning (taper) Zone Zone Zone
zone
EXPRESSWAYS & FREEWAYS URBAN
INITIAL SIGN (WORKER AHEAD – 48”) Residential or Business Districts With
5280 Feet from work area Speed Limits 35 MPH or Less
Supplemental Signs INITIAL Sign (worker Ahead – 36”)
2600 Feet from Work Area 600 Feet from work area
1000 Feet from Work Area Supplemental Signs
Taper 400 Feet from work area
55 MPH 660 Feet/65 MPH 780 feet 200 Feet from work area
Cone spacing same as posted speed Taper
Buffer Zone Lane Width x Posted speed =2
170 Feet -225 Feet Cone Spacing Same as Posted speed = 2
Standard Roadway: Buffer Zone
Initial Sign (Worker Ahead – 48”) 100 Feet – 125 Feet
1500 Feet From Work Area *Note: On city streets, where more restrictive
conditions may prevail on the approach to the
work area, signs in the immediate vicinity of
the work may be placed at closer spacing.
Supplemental Signs Flagging Requirements
1000 Feet from Work Area 1. “FLAGGER AHEAD” signs must proceed
500 Feet from work area flaggers at all times.
Taper 2. Flaggers must use a minimum 18 by 18 inch
Lane Width x Posted Speed octagon shaped “STOP/SLOW” paddle.
Cone spacing same as posted speed 3. Flaggers must wear an orange, reflectorized
Buffer Zone vest or jacket, at all times.
120 Feet – 175 Feet
4. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Line managers are responsible for ensuring the adherence to all federal, state, and local
traffic control requirements applicable to their area of operations.
➢ For work zones with duration of one hour or less, minimal area protection consisting of
strobes and cones is permitted.
➢ Work Area Protection should be established in consideration of the location of the
worksite, pedestrian and traffic conditions, and time of day (daylight or dark).
➢ When placing or removing Work Area Protection always:
• Be consistently alert to traffic conditions.
• Face oncoming traffic.
• Wear proper personal protection (e.g., traffic warning vest, hard hat, eye
protection). A traffic warning vest must be worn whenever the possibility of
exposure to vehicle traffic exists.
• Place the initial warning sign (e.g., worker ahead) first and remove last. Where
traffic conditions warrant, a series of warning signs should be used.
96
➢ All equipment used for twilight or night time work must have reflective properties (e.g.,
signs, cones, vests). All night time work requires adequate illumination to light the work
area for purposes of employee safety and to warn the public of hazards. Reference Section
C-38, “Illumination/Work After Dark” for night time lighting practices.
➢ All warning devices and equipment must be kept in good, clean condition.
➢ Some additional state and local regulations may apply (i.e., certified flaggers).
➢ Contact District Managers for additional information regarding specific state or local work
area protection requirements.
5. FLAGGER PRACTICES
➢ All flaggers will be trained.
➢ A flagger will be used:
• When adequate protection cannot be obtained by using conventional devices.
• When one lane of a two-lane street is closed.
• When dictated by traffic conditions during road crossings with drop or other wire
or cable.
➢ Some additional state and local regulations may apply (i.e., certified flaggers).
➢ Flaggers must be equipped with the following warning devices:
• Reflective traffic warning vest.
• Hard hat and eye protection.
• An octagon shaped slow/strop paddle at least 18” x 18”. If the optional handle is
used, it must be at least 6 ft. long, from the ground to the bottom of the paddle.
• The STOP side must be red with white letters and border.
• The SLOW side must be orange with black letters and border.
• Paddles must be reflective or illuminated if used at night.
• Illumination and a red wand flashlight are required at night.
• Contact your manager or EHS to determine local requirements.
6. TRAFFIC CONTROL AND WORK AREA PROTECTION PROCEDURES
➢ The purpose of protecting your work area and channeling vehicle or pedestrian traffic is to
protect you at your job site and to protect the public as they move around you. With this
in mind, you must always set up your work area for the safety of both groups. After placing
the warning devices you think you need, stand back and watch how cars or pedestrians are
reacting to the warnings. If they are moving smoothly and safely around your work site,
you probably did a good job setting things up. If they are forced to make sudden changes
or stops, you created a problem that needs to be fixed quickly.
➢ Place work area protection to safeguard employees, the public, and property. Place cones,
delineators or barricades to channel pedestrians and vehicles around work areas. After
placing work area protection (WAP), stand back for 5 minutes and watch traffic and
pedestrians move through or around the work area. Fix problems you see and re-check the
97
setup. Remember that more warning is better than less warning. When in doubt, place the
extra signs or cones.
➢ Drive through you own work area protection setup if you are channeling vehicles. Your
set-up must clearly show drivers the changes they are supposed to make. As you drive
through the protected area, check to see that you and other drivers have plenty of time to
signal, change lanes, etc. If you see a problem when you drive through you WAP, make
needed modifications and check it again by watching others go through it and by driving it
yourself.
➢ If you have a moving work site and are frequently relocating your operation down the
street, as in aerial placement or wreck-out operations, you must move your signs and cones
often. It is important to have signs and cones spaced per the guidelines in the local traffic
control manual or the WATCH manual, as appropriate for the community you are working
in. Do not let your work operation get too far ahead of your warning signs and cones or
the warnings become useless.
➢ When warning devices are not needed any more, remove them in the reverse order that you
placed them and restore traffic to normal flow.
➢ Here is a simple guideline for placing of traffic cones and signs in average lower speed
situations. As appropriate for your area, refer to the WATCH manual or the local traffic
control manual for the exact spacing of cones and other WAP.
Posted Speed Spacing of Cone Taper Spacing of Ap-
Limit Warning signs Length Cones in proximate
(MPH) From Initial Taper No. of Cones
Cone of Taper* in Taper
15 140 feet 45 feet 15 feet 4
20 140 feet 80 feet 20 feet 5
25 175 feet 125 feet 25 feet 6
30 210 feet 180 feet 30 feet 7
35 245 feet 245 feet 35 feet 8
40 280 feet 320 feet 40 feet 9
45 450 feet 540 feet 45 feet 13
50 500 feet 600 feet 50 feet 13
50 or more (10 times (See manual) 50 feet 21
the speed)
• When placing additional warning signs in front of the sign closest to the
beginning of the taper, use these distances as a guide.
Flagging Traffic at Work Locations
➢ Flaggers shall be utilized at locations on a work site where barricades and warning signs
cannot control the moving traffic. This section gives broad guidelines for using flaggers
safely and effectively. Review the local traffic control manual or the WATCH manual
before you begin to flag traffic. Follow the flagging procedures listed there.
98
• The manager shall insure that during the hours of darkness, flaggers’ stations shall
be illuminated such that the flagger will be clearly visible to approaching traffic
and flaggers shall be outfitted with reflectorized garments. The reflective material
shall be either orange, white (including silver-coated reflecting coatings or
elements that reflect white light), yellow, fluorescent red-orange or fluorescent
yellow-orange.
• The job manager shall insure that flaggers are trained in the proper fundamentals
of flagging moving traffic before being assigned as flaggers. Signaling directions
used by flaggers shall conform to the local traffic control manual or the WATCH
manual.
• When flaggers are required, they shall be placed in relation to the equipment or
operation so as to give effective warning.
• Place warning signs according to the local traffic control manual or the WATCH
manual, as appropriate for the community you are working in.
• Flaggers shall wear orange warning garments such as vests, jackets, or shirts.
Rainwear, when worn, shall be orange, or other color provided an orange outer
warning garment is worn.
➢ Here are the flagging procedures to follow:
• Never stand in the lane used by traffic, stand to the side of the lane on the shoulder
or in the closed lane.
• Do not turn your back to traffic.
• You must be clearly visible to approaching traffic at all times. Do not bunch up
with other employees at the flagger station.
• You must be far enough in front of the work area to warn other associates of
approaching danger if a car fails to stop or goes out of control.
FLAGGING PROCEDURES
• To Stop Traffic –The flagger shall face traffic and hold the STOP
paddle in a vertical position at arm’s length. For greater emphasis,
the free arm may be raised with the palm toward approaching traffic.
• When It Is Safe for Traffic to Proceed –The flagger shall face
traffic, and with the SLOW paddle held in a vertical position, motion
traffic ahead with the free arm.
• Where it is Desired to Alert or Slow Traffic – The flagger shall face
traffic and hold the SLOW paddle in a vertical position at arm’s
length. For added emphasis, the flagger may slowly raise and lower
the free hand with the palm down.
SECTION C-14
99
FALL PREVENTION SYSTEMS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees working at heights where a potential for a harmful fall exists (such as when
working in bucket trucks or on rooftops, ladders or poles.
2. INSPECTION AND TEST
➢ Fall Prevention systems (FPSs) include any approved device capable of preventing a fall
that may injure employees. FPSs may include:
• Full body harnesses/belts, lanyards, and safety straps.
• Guardrail systems.
• Safety nets.
➢ Only Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. approved and furnished FPSs are to be worn.
➢ All components must be visually inspected when received and prior to each use.
➢ Visual inspections should include, but not be limited to, the identification of any defects,
sign of wear, discoloration, stressed or worn materials, and proper operation of snap hooks
and D-rings.
➢ All deficient FPS components must be immediately removed from service.
➢ Tests, inspections, cleaning, and maintenance must be conducted as specified in
manufacturer’s instructions.
3. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Many fall protection systems have maximum weight restrictions; refer to Section A-11
“Non-Medical and Safety Limitations” prior to beginning work.
➢ FPSs must only be used by trained employees in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions and applicable safety practices.
➢ Full body harnesses and lanyards must be from the same manufacturer when used as a
complete system. For example, a lanyard from one manufacturer may not be used together
with a harness from another manufacturer.
➢ Lanyards and harnesses should not be stored in tool boxes, or on the floor, where they can
be easily damaged or exposed to weather.
➢ Never tie or secure a hand line to a harness or belt.
➢ Lifelines are to be secured above the point of operation when possible, and to an anchor or
structural member which is capable of supporting a minimum of 5,400 pounds.
➢ Harnesses are to be used in conjunction with decelerator lanyards in such a way as to permit
an accidental fall of no more than 6 feet.
SECTION C-15
100
APPROACH DISTANCES
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Work practices necessary to prevent contact with power conductors and to prevent
electrocution.
2. APPROACH PREPARATION
➢ Work near or around electrically energized overhead power lines must only be performed
by employees trained in hazards and precautions associated with such work.
➢ No employee is to approach or take any conductive object closer to any electrically
energized overhead power lines and parts than prescribed in the Approach Distance Table
below.
3. APPROACH DISTANCES
Approach distances: When working near power, the minimum approach distance, (see table
below) is the distance that must be maintained between any part of the body, non-insulated tool,
pole or basket, platform, etc., and energized exposed power conductors.
Caution: Do not confuse these distances with clearance distances or power and telephone line
separations.
MINIMIM APPROACH DISTANCES
VOLTAGE MINIMUM DISTANCE
PHASE TO GROUND IN INCHES
173 Volts and less Avoid contact
173 volts to 434 volts 12
434 volts to 1,160 volts 18
1,160 volts to 8,650 volts 24
21,400 volts to 50,500 volts 42
50,500 volts to 70,000 volts 48
70,000 volts to 81,000 volts 54
NOTE: Because technicians cannot visually distinguish differences in power, ALL VOLTAGES
MUST BE ASSUMED TO BE PHASE TO GROUND.
SECTION C-16
POLE CLIMBING
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
101
➢ Evaluating and testing poles to ensure safe working conditions during climbing and work
operations on poles.
2. INSPECTION
➢ Prior to climbing, all poles must be checked for:
• The general condition of the pole and adjacent spans for physical and electrical
hazards.
• The base of the pole for debris and proper depth of setting (check branding to
determine depth of pole).
• Exposed conduits, fixtures, or ground wires.
• Climbing obstructions, hooks antennas, and missing or bent steps.
• Unbalanced loading or distribution.
➢ All vacant poles or poles with only a drop wire attached must be tested. All other poles
must be tested unless all of the following conditions are met:
• The pole is in a straight line section and is not a “dead end pole,” and;
• The pole is carrying “6M” or larger strand, or a full arm of open wire, which will
remain securely clamped throughout the work operations, and;
• There is no grade change at the pole, and;
• Neither adjacent span is over 165 feet away from a pole.
➢ Unbalanced Loads:
• Unbalanced loads must always be considered a hazard.
• Work must not be started until employee is satisfied pole line structure has adequate
strength to support the load for intended work operations.
• Work operations that create unbalanced loads include:
▪ Removal of guys.
▪ Untying wires.
▪ Releasing wires or strands under tension.
▪ Placing/tensioning wires or strands.
▪ Changing locations of wire or strand attachments.
▪ Loosening suspension or guy clamps.
➢ Poles or structures determined to be unsafe by test or observation must not be climbed.
3. POLE TESTING
➢ One of the following tests must be used to test poles:
• Prod Test: Insert a pole prod or screwdriver (with a 5-inch or longer blade), with
the flat blade held horizontally, into the pole at a 45° angle below the ground line.
(Note: Most decay occurs at ground level or 12 inches below ground). Wood decay
102
will be evident by the ease with which the pole prod or screwdriver penetrates the
pole.
• Sound Test: “Sound” the pole by striking with a hammer on all sides from ground
line to as reasonably high as can be reached. The presence of advanced decay can
be recognized by a hollow or dull sound, and a lack of hammer rebound.
4. POLE CLIMBING
➢ Personal protective equipment (PPE) required: Hard hat, eye protection, long sleeves with
cuffs buttoned at wrists, long pants, gloves, and proper boots with ½” minimum
perpendicular heels must be worn for pole climbing.
➢ Before ascending pole, all PPE must be inspected for integrity and condition.
➢ After climbing a pole, and before performing work, a safety belt must be attached to the
pole.
➢ Repair or replace all loose or missing pole steps. All opened holes must be plugged. Pole
steps must be placed below 8 ft. from any access point to the pole. (This is to prevent non-
authorized personnel from gaining access to the pole).
➢ When handling cable suspension strands on poles with exposed energized power
conductors, employees must:
• Use all appropriate PPE.
• Ensure that strands are grounded.
• Properly tie down wire or strands where “flip-ups” might occur. Pull in with a hand
line if applicable.
• Avoid body contact with the strand until after it has been tensioned, dead-ended,
and permanently bonded to multi-neutral ground. The bond can be no less than a
#6 copper ground.
• Follow minimum approach distances as listed in Section C-15, “Approach
Distances”.
• Climbing and working on poles is prohibited above the minimum approach distance
of 42 inches fro secondary electrical power conductors on the pole (exclusive of
vertical runs) and streetlight wiring unless a rigid fixed barrier is installed between
the electrical power and the communications line.
➢ Perform a visual inspection of the lead or line and survey surroundings for potential
hazards. Wear all PPE required in the presence of power lines.
➢ Use a foreign voltage detector (FVD) to check for all potential electrical hazards, such as
exposed wires, strands, and conducting surfaces (such as fences, signs, metal mobile
homes, and storage buildings).
➢ Report all concerns and unsafe conditions to your manager to ensure
notification/coordination with the power company.
➢ Do not perform work during electrical storms.
5. PLACING AND REMOVING DROP WIRE
103
➢ The following work practices are necessary when one person is placing drop wire across
a road:
• Make building attachment.
• Leave drop wire reel at the building side of the road. Cross the road, and then
place a hand line over the strand or pole attachment to obtain road clearance.
• When no traffic is approaching, pull hand line so that the drop reaches the strand
or other attachment and tension the drop enough to provide adequate clearance
across the road.
• Snub the hand line to the drop wire spool.
• Complete the attachment in the standard manner.
• If traffic conditions do not allow a drop to be placed this way, Section C-13,
“Work Area Protection” must be followed.
➢ Removing drop wire from a span attachment requires the following work practices:
• Always place the ladder with the strand hooks engaged to the suspension strand
so your weight will not be supported by the drop wire. If this is not possible,
release the drop at the building if it will not create a hazard or cut the drop at mid-
span and remove as required.
SECTION C-17
AERIAL LIFTS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees working from aerial lifts.
2. VEHICLE INSPECTION
➢ Operators must have full knowledge of potential hazards prior to inspection and use.
➢ A daily inspection of the truck and aerial lift is required prior to operation using “The
Driver’s Daily Inspection Report Form” located in Section C-09 “Trucks and Trailers” and
in accordance with the manufacturer’s operating manual.
➢ check the rear plate on vehicle to ensure that the annual inspection is current. Do not use
the aerial lift if not current.
➢ Check basket for unauthorized attachments. Modifications to the basket require written
permission from the manufacturer.
3. VEHICLE PREPARATION
➢ Legally park vehicle and position to ensure stability (maximum 50° angle):
104
• Place vehicle in proper gear.
• Set parking brakes.
• Operate micro-lock (if equipped).
• Place wheel chocks on side where work is performed.
• Ensure that chocks are adequately sized for the vehicle.
➢ Prior to extending aerial lift device:
• Place all testing equipment, tools and PPE in basket.
• Check for power and other aerial obstructions.
4. AERIAL WORK REQUIREMENTS
➢ Stationary lifts may have a maximum capacity of 300—350 lbs., including worker, tools
and equipment.
➢ Lifts used in moving/placing operations normally have a maximum weight capacity of 500
lbs., including worker, tools and equipment. The worker (including body weight, tools and
equipment) cannot exceed 300 lbs. due to lanyard limits.
➢ Precautions that must be followed during either a stationary or moving work operation
from an aerial lift device include:
• Test all loads with the elevation control.
• Use all appropriate PPE (fall protection, hard hat, gloves, safety glasses, etc.).
• Properly place workbasket for entry or exit per manufacturer’s recommendation.
• Basket users must wear a Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. approved full-body
harness and shock-absorbing lanyard and be secured to the retaining ring on the lift
device at all times while in the basket. Do not attach to strand. Reference Section
C-14, “Fall Prevention Systems” for the proper use of devices. Lanyard length
must conform to manufacturer’s and Broadband Telecom Services requirements.
• Employees using aerial lifts in remote areas must be equipped with a cellular
phone/two-way radio or a self rescue device that will allow for prompt call for
rescue or self rescue in the event that they fall from the bucket and are suspended
by the lanyard.
• Inspect tools and place in the workbasket.
• Foreign voltage detector (FVD) and rubber insulating gloves must be in the basket
when working joint-use plant, or when electrical contact is possible.
• Test all controls for proper action, (e.g., emergency stop and restart) before use.
• Face direction of movement and keep body parts inside basket.
• Keep both feet on floor; move basket rather than overreaching.
• Never use workbasket for lifting cables unless properly equipped.
• Never use the lift device for removing poles or any other work operation that
equipment is not designed for.
• Ground level controls may only be used in an emergency when the operator is in
the basket.
105
5. MOVING BASKET AERIAL WORK OPERATIONS
➢ Moving work operations require additional precautions:
• The basket operator must be in command of the work operation, including vehicle
movement.
• Vehicle must be equipped with a voice activated intercom. Test the intercom
prior to any truck movement.
• Rubber insulating gloves must be available and readily accessible to the basket
operator in case of accidental power contact.
• Vehicle must be equipped with upper controls in the basket and overriding lower
controls for emergency use.
• Vehicle must move at a slow walking pace (1.5—2 mph), with driver watching
for bumps, soft shoulders or other hazards.
➢ Two person mobile operation (towering):
• Before the truck is moved with an employee aloft in the basket the following
conditions and procedures shall be in effect:
o The vehicle shall have a permanently wired, functional intercom from the
basket to the cab. The device in the work basket shall be designed for
hands-free operation.
o The operator in the basket shall have a rubber protective glove set aloft in
the basket during working operations.
o Before moving the vehicle, the driver shall verify that the vehicle signal
lights, brake lights and auxiliary warning lights work properly.
o The driver must ensure that all equipment bins and doors are closed prior
to moving the vehicle.
o The driver shall survey the path of travel to ensure that it is free of people,
and clear of other objects which might be hazardous to company
employees.
• During the mobile work operation, the driver will remain alert for commands
from the bucket operator.
o The driver will move only on command from the person in the basket.
o The driver will select the driving gear that will move the truck smoothly
and no faster than a slow walk (approximately 1.5—2 mph).
o The driver shall avoid holes, bumps, curbs, shoulders, or other pavement
irregularities which would cause the person in the basket to lurch or be
tossed around in the bucket.
o The driver shall avoid sharp turns and sudden stops.
106
7. ENERGIZED VEHICLE/BUCKET
➢ Accidental electrical contact:
• If accidental electrical contact happens while working alone in a bucket truck:
o Do not touch the electrical conductors.
o Stop the work operation.
o Assume the vehicle and boom is dangerously energized.
o Warn anyone nearby not to touch the truck or its components.
o Warn those nearby to clear the area as there may be a danger of falling
power lines.
o Take a good look at the situation.
o Try to break free of the contact by reversing the movements that caused it.
o If you cannot break contact, get someone’s attention, and ask the person to
call 911. Tell the operator your name, company, where your are, your
emergency situation and that you must have help now.
• Abandon the unit if here is an emergency such as injury or fire, or if the electrical
contact cannot be broken. Do this by:
o Putting on rubber protective gloves and descending from the basket, being
careful not to touch anything that will complete the circuit through the body.
Do not touch the pole, trees or shrubs, wires, signs, etc. (Refer to Section
C-10 “Rubber Insulating Gloves” for instructions on their proper use.)
o Once on the bed of the vehicle, survey the scenes for the best place to safely
dismount from the truck. You will need to leap away from the truck with
both feet and not touch the vehicle with any body part. DO NOT TOUCH
VEHICLE WITH ANY BODY PART AFTER LEAVING IT.
• If accidental electrical contact happens while you are driving the bucket truck with
someone in the basket, follow the steps above, if you have to abandon the truck due
to an emergency, BE SURE NOT TO TOUCH VEHICLE WITH ANY BODY
PART AFTER LEAVING IT.
SECTION C-18
EXTENSION AND COMBINATION LADDERS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees using ladders to access above ground plant.
2. INSPECTION AND TEST
107
➢ Inspect ladders:
• When received.
• When first used each week.
• When dropped, or if damage is suspected.
➢ Inspect the entire ladder for:
• Cracks, splits, splinters and decay.
• Protruding nails and loose rivets.
• Loose, bent or broken braces, tie rods, guide irons, locks, pulleys and strand hooks.
• Broken, worn or defective spurs and pads.
➢ Inspect wooden ladders when dry because moisture absorption may cause swelling and
conceal defects.
➢ Defective ladders must not be used and improvised repairs must not be made.
➢ Wooden ladders must receive a dead weight test at 6-month intervals.
➢ All ladders require a detailed inspection every year.
• Inspections are currently conducted by an outside vendor.
• Contact the inspection vendor if you notice an untested ladder.
• Contact EHS for information on required inspections.
3. FIELD MAINTENANCE
➢ Ladders must receive the following field maintenance as required:
• Tighten nuts.
• Oil locks, springs and pulley.
• Rotate spurs or replace rubber feet.
• More extensive repairs must be conducted by an outside vendor that is available for
call-outs (e.g., having fiberglass refinished, applying clear finish, etc.).
4. TRANSPORTATION
➢ To remove an extension/combination ladder from a vehicle:
• Lower the base of the ladder onto the ground.
• Position yourself at the side of the vehicle facing the base, bend knees slightly and fit
the side rail snugly against the shoulder.
• Lift the ladder by straightening the knees and re-adjust body position until the exact
point of balance is obtained; or, after facing the base, lower the other end of the ladder
using the proper lifting procedure.
➢ To carry a ladder, use either of the following methods:
108
• Carry the ladder on your shoulder in a balanced position with the ladder hooks turned
in, the base downward and to the front. Do not place arms between the side rails.
• Carry the ladder at your side, with the spurs forward.
• Do not carry any ladder longer than 28 feet by yourself. Due to weight, a 28 foot ladder
is the longest ladder that one person can safely handle.
5. STRAND TEST
➢ Before placing a ladder against the strand, perform the following tests on the strand to
ensure that it will support the added weight:
• Inspect and/or test poles at each end of the span.
• If power is not present, pass a hand line over the strand at the point where the ladder
will be placed.
• If power is present, place the hand line over the strand with a wire raising tool.
• Grasp both ends of the hand line and gradually apply full weight to the hand line by
slowly lifting yourself off the ground.
6. LADDER PLACEMENT AND FOOTINGS
➢ Be sure the ladder is long enough for the job. Do not place or extend a ladder in the bed
of a truck, basket of a bucket truck or on any other platform. Be certain that the ladder is
not used unless both ladder feet are firmly on the ground.
➢ Do not increase the length of ladder by attaching objects to side rails. At company
discretion, approved “ladder levelers” may be attached to the side rails.
➢ On uneven surfaces, dig out the high side or use a ladder wedge on the low side.
➢ On wet or oily pavement, a smooth floor, or an icy or metal surface, lash or block the
ladder, or have the ladder held by another employee.
➢ Ensure safe climbing angle on ladders before climbing. Set the ladder up at an angle of 75
degrees. The base of ladder shall be one quarter of the distance of extended height from
an imaginary vertical.
➢ When possible, place ladders on the field side of the strand, away from vehicular traffic.
➢ Never place a ladder inside or opposite an angle made by wires when loosening the
attachment may cause movement of the wires, and cause ladder to move or fall. This is
called being “in the bite” and it can be like being in a large sling-shot if tension is suddenly
released.
➢ Do not place ladder against self-support drop wire.
➢ Employees working with drops shall avoid pulling a midspan drop to the building too tight.
If you pull it until the ladder is almost vertical, the ladder will probably fall backwards
when you descend.
7. EXTENDING AND LOWERING THE FLY SECTION
➢ Extend or lower an extension ladder as follows:
109
• Place the ladder upright with the fixed section close to and facing the wall or
strand.
• Face the fly section.
Note: Raising the ladder from the rear is another method; the rope does not have
to be brought around the side.
• Place one foot at the outside of the base of the fixed section to steady the ladder,
but not in a position where it could be struck by the fly section.
• Bring the rope around the side rail and use one hand to pull the rope and the other
hand on a rung to lift the fly (top) section.
• Extend the fly section one or two rungs at a time and engage the locks after each
pull.
Note: Never place the free hand through the rungs where it can touch the rungs on
a fixed section.
• After the fly is raised one or two rungs, steady the ladder by holding a side rail and
continue to extend by repeating steps previously described.
• Turn strand hooks out before ladder is raised to the strand. Don’t turn the hooks in
before climbing down.
• After the ladder is extended, place at the proper angle and secure the ladder rope.
If placing against strand, strand hooks should engage the strand. If mid-span drops
are being removed, lash the ladder to the strand using your positioning strap.
• Anytime an extension ladder is raised, tie the pull rope to a bottom rung of the base
section before you climb it. A clove hitch and two half hitches or three half-hitches
are the recommended knots to use.
• To lower, move the base close to the strand or wall and reverse the raising procedure
by lowering one or two rungs at a time
• Do not allow feet to be under the side rail of fly section when it is lowered.
• Do not allow fly section to strike the ground hard when lowered. Be in full control
of fly section and slowly lower into position.
8. RAISING A LADDER USING A HAND LINE
➢ To raise a ladder using a hand line:
• Place hand line over strand. Complete the strand test and leave hand line
in place.
• Lay the ladder on the ground perpendicular to the strand.
• Secure one end of a hand line to the bottom rung of the lower section of
the ladder and extend the ladder to the approximate height of the strand.
• Pass the other end of the hand line behind the second rung from the top,
extending free end to the base of the ladder.
• While standing against the ladder spurs, pull the free end of the hand line
until the ladder is against the strand, when strand hooks are not engaged.
• Adjust the ladder until it is two full rungs above the strand.
• Pull the hand line taut and tie off to a lower rung.
110
➢ Do not attempt to raise a ladder longer than 28 feet by yourself unless you are using an
approved hand line technique.
9. COMBINATION LADDERS
➢ To use a combination ladder as a stepladder, begin from a folded position. Disengage rung
hooks on narrow section from the rungs on wider section. Lower narrow section until the
hinge pins engage the slots in the stepladder bracket supports, located at the top of the
wider section. Spread sections apart and lock spreaders down. If the ladder is equipped
with locking pins, instead of spreaders, be sure to use them correctly. Place the pins
through the brace and the side rails.
➢ To use a combination ladder as an extension ladder, start from the folded position. Slide
the narrow section up to the required height and place the two-rung hooks on the narrow
section, over the rungs on the wider section. This ladder shall always have a minimum 3
foot overlap.
➢ NEVER place a spread combination ladder too far underneath your work location. Your
normal work position on this ladder is leaning slightly forward. If the ladder is too close
and you must lean backward, your balance will be affected. Always remember to erect a
ladder so that it is steady. Then, stand on it so you are braced and will not lose your balance
and fall if something goes wrong.
➢ Extension ladders shall be climbed or descended facing the fly section.
➢ Do not stand higher than the third rung from the top when a combination ladder is in the
self-supporting position. Do not stand higher than the fourth rung from the top when used
as an extension ladder.
➢ When a combination ladder is used as an extension ladder, place the ladder at the proper
climbing angle of 75°. This means that the base shall be one quarter of the distance from
the imaginary vertical.
➢ When combination ladders are used as self-supporting ladders, you must place them on
firm, even footing with all four feet in contact with ground. Fully extend the spreaders and
lock them down. If you do not do this, the ladder will collapse.
➢ ON a stepped pole, with obstructions at the base, you may use a ladder to climb past the
obstructions and gain access to the steps. The ladder must either be secured to the top of
the pole with an approved tie off or be equipped with a company approved pole-forming
device (e.g., chain, v-bar, strap). Observe all other safety precautions except that the
employee may climb past the fourth step, from the top of the ladder, to reach the pole steps.
• Carry the ladder in the collapsed, retracted position, not spread or extended.
• In crowded areas, such as sidewalks or corridors, carry the ladder in a vertical
position. (Watch for overhead fixtures, walls and people).
9. LASHING A LADDER
➢ Lash a ladder when used:
• With an aerial platform.
• While lifting heavy loads.
111
• On slippery surfaces.
• On poles.
• On sloping terrain.
• Against trees.
• In windy conditions.
• When removing a drop mid-span.
• When strand hooks are not available or not engaged on the strand.
➢ Combination/extension ladders extend above the strand or roofs as follows:
• When hooks are not engaged, place the ladder so that at least two rungs extend
above the strand.
• To gain access to a roof, extend the ladder at least three rungs above the point of
support.
10. METHODS OF LASHING
➢ To lash a ladder to a strand using a lashing strap.
• Attach one end of the strap around the side rail, beneath the second rung, below the
strands.
• Extend the strap up from behind the side rail to the front of the strand, and wrap it
over and around the strand twice.
• Pass the strap across the face of the ladder, and repeat two wraps under and around
the strand on the opposite side.
• Route the loose end of the strap down to the same rung position as the initial
attachment, and attach it around the side rail.
• Tighten the strap ends, following the manufacturer’s recommendations, being
careful not to unbalance the load on the ladder during the tightening process.
➢ To lash a ladder to a strand on steep slopes or during windy conditions:
• Place hand line over the strand before raising the ladder.
• Before raising the ladder, tie one end of the hand line to the second rung from the
top of the fly section.
• Position and extend the ladder two full rungs above the strand.
• Using a wire raising tool, make two wraps around the strand on the uphill side.
• Pull the line taut and secure to lower ladder section.
• Before using a ladder on a strand having a steep slope, throw a hand line over the
strand. Tie one end to the second rung from the top of the fly section. Place ladder
on strand. Then, pull the hand line taut and tie off the loose end to an uphill object.
If no object is available to tie off to, have another person keep hand line taut.
➢ To lash a ladder to a pole with a ladder lashing strap:
112
• Note: The ladder lashing strap is intended for securing extension ladders only.
• Position ladder against the pole at the proper angle and on solid footing and inspect
the ladder strap.
• Although specific installation procedures for these devices vary by manufacturer,
the following general guidelines should be followed to maximize restraint and not
over stress the ladder:
▪ Extend strap to necessary length.
▪ Attach hook farthest from the buckle to the inside of the ladder rail over the
highest possible rung that can be comfortably reached from the ground.
▪ The tip of the hook should be on the outside of the ladder rail.
▪ Note: Angle between strap and ladder should be 90 degrees.
• While holding the ladder lashing strap in place, pull it toward the pole until the
strap becomes snug (do not jerk). This action will twist the ladder positioning one
rail closer to the pole than the other.
• Grip the ladder rail furthest from the pole and pull it toward the pole. This will
slide the strap around the pole to correct the twist and equalize the pressure on both
ladder rails.
• Pass the loose end of the strap around the pole and loop over and under the straps
two to three times.
• Pull strap to cinch up and tie off with a half hitch knot. Wiggle ladder to make sure
it is secure. Make sure loose end is tucked away and not hanging free.
• Ladder should be held tightly against the pole with both ladder rails at an equal
distance from it. The ladder lashing strap must be exerting equal pressure on both
rails. The strap should be tightened only snug enough to restrict movement.
Excessive force can over stress the ladder and possible reduce its weight carrying
capacity.
• To remove the ladder lashing strap, depress the spring loaded buckle and pull
enough strap back through to allow it to be unhooked from the ladder and removed
from the pole.
• Note 1: If an extension ladder is not equipped with the V-ladder bracket, it must
be lashed at the top of the pole.
• Note 2: If the work operation involves heavy loads, lash ladders even if equipped
with the V-ladder bracket.
➢ V-Ladder Bracket
• The V-ladder bracket is mounted at the top end of the fly section between the side
rails of extension ladders to provide a more stable positioning against pole surfaces.
• The V-ladder bracket must make a two point contact on the pole to provide stability.
The extension ladder must be extended at least one rung to allow the V-ladder
bracket to engage the pole.
• Note: The V-ladder bracket is not to be used at building corners.
➢ The highest ladder rung to stand on is:
113
LADDER TYPE HIGHEST RUNG
Extension Fourth from the top
Combination Third from the top
12. SECURING YOURSELF TO A LADDER
➢ To secure yourself to a ladder:
• On strand:
1. Pass the free end of the positioning strap around the
outside of the ladder rail.
2. Pull the strap over the strand and V-grip or rung, on the
inside of the side rails. You may wrap the strand once
before and after wrapping the V-grip or rung.
3. Pass the strap under the V-grip or rung and the strand,
and then pull it up and over the strand on the outside of
the side rail. You must make one complete loop around
the strand and V-grip or rung.
4. With the positioning strap on the outside of the side rail,
snap into the D-ring with the snap hook facing outside.
Always verify visually that the snap hook has engaged
the D-ring.
• At the pole:
1. If possible, belt in above a strand and below the top rung of
the ladder.
2. Pass the free end of the positioning strap inside the ladder
side rail.
3. Pass around the back of the pole.
4. Bring the free end of the positioning strap through the inside
of the opposite side rail and snap into the D-ring.
• Do not belt on to a ladder that is not tied off to a secure support. For example, if
you are using a ladder on a building the ladder will not usually be secured to the
building. Do not use your safety strap to tie yourself to the ladder in this case.
➢ When the ladder is not secured, do not attempt to lean to the side so far that the outside
shoulder is more than 12” beyond the side rail.
➢ A good rule to remember is never move your breastbone beyond the side rail.
13. PLACING A LADDER ON A VEHICLE
➢ To place a ladder on a vehicle:
• Properly store strand hooks by turning them in.
114
• Ensure the ladder rack locking clamps are in the fully open position.
• Lay the ladder against the fixed upright of the ladder rack assembly on the vehicle.
• Raise the base of the ladder and slide onto the ladder rack and secure with locking
clamps.
SECTION C-19
STEP LADDERS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The safe use and inspection of step ladders.
2. INSPECTION
➢ Inspect step ladders:
• When received.
• When first used each day.
• When damage is suspected.
➢ Inspect the entire ladder for:
• Cracks, splits, splinters and decay.
• Protruding nails and loose rivets.
• Loose, bent or broken braces or tie rods.
• Rungs free from grease and oil.
• Non-slip foot grips on all ladders and insulating foot grips on conducting ladders.
➢ Inspect wooden step ladders when dry because moisture absorption may cause swelling
and conceal defects.
➢ Defective ladders must not be used, and improvised repairs must not be made.
➢ All ladders require a detailed inspection at least every year.
➢ Inspections are currently conducted by an outside vendor.
➢ Contact the inspection vendor if you notice an untested ladder.
➢ Contact EHS for information on required inspections.
3. STEP LADDER PLACEMENT
➢ Do not place in front of doors opening towards ladder unless door is locked, blocked, or
guarded.
➢ Do not place on unstable surfaces.
➢ Ladders must be fully opened and locked in place with a metal spreader or a locking device
provided with the ladder.
➢ Do not lean a ladder against a wall in the unopened position.
115
4. STEP LADDER USE
➢ Step ladders must not be used by more than one person at a time or for purposes other
than which the ladder has been designed.
➢ Always ascend and descend facing the ladder.
➢ The highest ladder step to stand on is:
• Ladder under four feet – first step from top.
• Ladder over four feet – second step from top.
➢ To maintain balance, never move your breastbone beyond the side rail.
➢ Do not exceed designated weight capacity.
➢ Do not use metal/conducting ladders when working with or near energized systems.
SECTION C-20
ROLLING LADDERS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The safe use of rolling ladders in central offices, headends/switches, studios, warehouses,
and other locations.
2. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Metal rolling ladders are permitted in warehouse operations where there is no risk of
contacting energized systems.
➢ When using a rolling ladder:
• Do not exceed the designated weight capacity as stated by the manufacturer. This
capacity, 300 lbs., includes body weight and tools.
• Only non-conductive ladders are permitted for use in telecommunications, when
working with or near energized systems.
• Make certain that a person, loose tools, material or equipment are not on the ladder
before climbing.
• Inspect:
▪ Side rails, handrails and steps for cracks, splinters or defects.
▪ Hardware for tightness.
▪ For proper operation of brake lock, if equipped.
• Never paint or apply tape to repair a ladder.
• Defective ladders must be removed from service.
➢ When ascending a rolling ladder:
116
• Face the ladder and grasp handrail before stepping onto the first step.
• Take one step at a time ensuring the foot is in maximum contact with the step.
• Guard against striking the head on the ladder track or other overhead framework.
➢ When working from a rolling ladder:
• Do not stand with one foot on the ladder and the other foot resting on equipment,
frames or other structures.
• When working in one location for an extended period of time, place a wheel chock
under the wheel on the side the worker will be facing while working unless the
ladder is equipped with brakes.
• Ladder must also be chocked when performing heavy work.
• Never leave hand tools or other items on ladder steps unless they are securely
fastened and the ladder chocked.
➢ To adjust work position while on a rolling ladder:
• A rolling ladder may be moved a maximum of one foot in either direction.
• Feet must not be above the third step while moving the ladder.
• Grasp handrail with one hand and use the other hand on the superstructure to move
the ladder (for ladders equipped with rope controlled brakes, grasp the brake rope
and the superstructure).
• Grasp the handrail and take one step at a time.
➢ To descend a rolling ladder:
• Grasp the handrail and take one step at a time.
• Make certain the bottom step has been reached before stepping to the floor.
• Continue to grasp the handrail until both feet are on the floor.
➢ To use a ladder seat on a rolling ladder:
• Ladder wheels must be chocked when using a ladder seat unless ladder is equipped
with brakes.
• Carry ladder seat up or down the ladder with one hand while grasping the handrail
with the other.
• Tilt the seat in the required manner to engage or disengage the desired step.
• Before mounting the seat, test by hand pressure to ensure the seat is firmly in place.
• When getting on or off the seat, keep the weight well balanced to prevent tipping
the ladder.
• Never stand on a ladder seat.
SECTION C-21
117
WORKING ON ROOFTOPS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Work performed on rooftops where there is potential for falls and injury.
➢ Refer to Section C-14, “Fall Prevention Systems”.
2. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Work will not be conducted within 6 feet of a roof edge without fall prevention systems
(FPSs) in place.
➢ Ladders used to work on or access roofs will be placed and secured in accordance with
Section C-18, “Extension and Combination Ladders”.
➢ Aerial lifts or ladders will be used, when possible, to eliminate the need to work on roofs.
➢ Contact EHS for additional work practices required for a pitched roof.
➢ Roof guardrails may be used as a FPS provided they meet regulatory requirements for top
and midrails, toe boards and strength. Contact EHS for guardrail requirement.
118
SECTION C-22
ANTENNA TOWER WORK
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Work performed on antenna towers where there is a potential for falls and injury.
2. INSPECTION
➢ Ensure the following prior to working aloft on towers:
• Tower and reflector assemblies are stable and free of sway.
• Fittings and cross members are visually free of defects.
• Guy wires and anchors are evenly loaded and have not shifted.
• Ground leads and connections are tight and are not corroded.
• Ladders and step bolts are secure and in good condition.
• Structure is free of ice (do not climb structure if icy).
3. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Tools and equipment should be raised and lowered using a hand line, canvas bucket or tool
bag. Never throw or drop tools to employees or to the ground. Never carry small tools in
pockets.
➢ The following precautions are required when working on towers:
• Secure loose items.
• Avoid striking guy wires. Keep tools and equipment to a minimum.
• Stay behind any on-line antenna.
• Protect antennas underneath the tower with shields.
• Ensure that at least two people are working at nay location.
➢ Ground crew members must take the following precautions while others are working on
towers:
• Wear hard hats.
• Park vehicles away from the tower.
• Stand away from the tower (not below) unless required and wearing a hard hat.
• Wireless communication is required for the climber and ground crew, preferably a
hands-free system.
4. CLIMBING SKILLS
➢ Tower climbing requires:
119
• Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), including a full-body harness.
Refer to Section C-14, “Fall Prevention Systems”.
• Using both hands, take one step at a time.
• Looking for obstructions, overhanging platforms, or grating.
• Belt-in precautions:
o Verify ironwork is secure
o Belt-in to bolted ironwork rather than welded ironwork when possible.
o On a diagonal piece of iron, make two loops before belting-in.
o Visually check to ensure the snap hook is engaged.
• Unbelting (moving) precautions:
o Visually inspect the tower.
o Face the direction of movement; never back up.
o Keep one hand on the ironwork; never free-walk.
o Use a full-body harness and safety strap at all times.
➢ Do not climb towers unless trained and authorized to do so.
5. EVALUATION REQUIREMENTS
➢ All employees who climb towers as a part of their job are required to be evaluated to ensure
they are competent in safe climbing skills and the use of climbing equipment.
➢ The climbing evaluation must be performed for employees to be qualified:
• The evaluation will include a hands-on demonstration, actual climbing exam.
• Designated representatives within Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. will oversee
and perform the evaluation, and determine whether the employee passes or fails the
evaluation.
➢ Each person being evaluated must show competency in each of the following areas in order
to pass the evaluation:
• Inspection of climbing equipment and PPE.
• Ascending/descending the tower (may be with or without a ladder).
• Use of climbing equipment.
• Knot tying.
• Load equalization techniques.
• Maneuvering around the tower (vertically, horizontally).
• Individual/partner rescue.
➢ Contact your manager for more information on training and evaluations.
120
SECTION C-23
UTILITY HOLES
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Work conducted in utility holes where the potential for injury exists due to a lack of
oxygen, or the presence of toxic or combustible gases.
2. REMOVE COVER
➢ Wear appropriate PPE.
➢ Use appropriate lifting hooks/bars. For frozen covers, direct ventilation hose at cover.
➢ Place feet clear of cover.
➢ To avoid back injuries, lift using bent knees/straight back.
➢ Place utility hole guard over opening.
3. TESTING
➢ Only trained and qualified employees can test, purge and enter a utility hole.
➢ Test internal atmosphere for combustible gas with a properly calibrated air testing
instrument. Refer to Section C-25, “Air Testing Equipment” for the proper choice and
use of equipment.
➢ Air testing must be conducted as follows:
• Immediately after removing cover, lower the free end of the indicator hose to the
point where a person’s head will be when working in the utility hole.
• If water is present in the utility hole and it requires pumping, hold the air testing
hose a foot above the water (see Section C-24, “Pumping Water”).
• After purging, test again prior to entering.
➢ A continuous combustible gas monitor must be used and the following procedures must be
followed:
• After entering the hole, test duct entrances, corners and generally throughout the
utility hole.
• When duct plugs are removed, test duct entrances again.
• Keep monitor continuously operating while in utility hole.
• Keep monitor on person or place immediately adjacent to work area in utility hole.
4. PURGING PRIOR TO ENTRY
➢ Purging must be conducted to dissipate stagnant or contaminated air, ensure against
oxygen deficiency, and provide a complete air change.
➢ Only one 90 degree bend in blower hose is permitted while purging.
121
➢ Refer to purge chart at the end of this Section to determine the duration of the purge. If the
volume of space is unknown purge for a minimum of 15 minutes.
➢ Position blower intake away from exhaust or other emission sources.
➢ Portable propane cylinders must be:
• Secured upright.
• Away from blower intake.
• Downwind.
• Lower than utility hole opening, if possible.
➢ Do not take propane or other compressed gases into a utility hole.
5. VENTILATION
➢ Continuously ventilate occupied holes.
➢ Only two 90 degree bends in blower hose are permitted during continuous ventilation.
6. ENTRY
➢ Park vehicle in such a manner to provide a barrier to traffic, if possible.
➢ Use ladder to exit/enter utility holes more than 4 feet deep.
➢ First step must be no lower than 1 foot below ground surface.
➢ Secure and test ladder for slippage.
➢ Conduct a visual inspection of the hole for deterioration (reporting any findings or
deterioration to your manager).
➢ Face traffic and maintain 3 points of contact on the ladder (e.g., 2 feet and 1 hand).
➢ Secure hose in horizontal position directed at end wall.
➢ Do not move power conductors. Any power conductors, cables or apparatus blocking
access to telephone or cable lines can only be moved by an authorized representative of
the power company or owner.
➢ Employees are not permitted to remain in a utility hole during cable placing or removal
operations. If prior to starting the pulling operation, it is necessary to check for proper
alignment of equipment, the employee can enter the utility hole if:
• The employee remains clear of the equipment.
• The winch line has only enough tension to provide normal alignment of the
equipment.
➢ Secure all equipment and cover utility hole upon completion of work.
➢ Immediately exit hole if blower stops or has abnormal flow.
➢ Do not permit open flames or compressed gases in a utility hole.
7. SEALING DUCTS
➢ All conduit openings must be sealed.
➢ All fiber optic inner ducts must be sealed.
122
➢ The sealing of these ducts must be done the same day the new duct is placed.
SECTION C-24
PUMPING WATER
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Ensuring awareness of potential contaminants in water in utility holes and of remediation
procedures.
➢ Ensuring compliance with federal, state and local regulations prior to pumping
operations.
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Contaminants can enter a utility hole from numerous sources:
• Leaking underground storage tanks and pipelines.
• Storm water run-off.
• Spills, dumping, or migration from the water table.
3. HEALTH HAZARDS
➢ Contaminants may be toxic, corrosive and/or highly flammable.
➢ Exercise care to avoid inhaling or ingesting contaminants. Avoid conditions that may
generate a spark that could ignite contaminants.
4. PRE-ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
➢ All utility holes suspected (through odor, appearance, or other observations) to contain
contaminated water must be tested for the presence of gases prior to pumping. Refer to
Section C-25, “Air Testing Equipment” for the proper choice and use of equipment.
➢ After testing for explosive gases and prior to pumping, the water in the hole should be
observed for suspected contamination such as:
• Any oil sheen on the surface.
• A strong odor of diesel or gasoline.
• A sewage odor.
➢ If any evidence of contamination such as described above is present, or a Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc. employee has knowledge or a reason to suspect the water is
contaminated, the employee must immediately notify his/her manager and take steps to
guard the work area from exposure to employees and the public. If water and/or
contamination are suspected in a utility hole, do not enter utility hole and notify your
123
manager immediately. The water cannot be pumped until tested and proper disposal is
determined. The manager will contact EHS who will consult with the vendor for testing
and proper disposal of the potentially contaminated water.
➢ If tests confirm contamination, the EHS manager must coordinate pumping and disposal
with a licensed vendor.
➢ If utility hole water tests show no contaminants present, record test results, date, time and
location. Resume normal work procedures at this site.
➢ If contamination is found, the source should be determined and the flow into the hole
should be safely stopped using whatever feasible resources are necessary. In addition:
• Protect employees and the public from exposures.
• Ensure management is notified of concerns.
➢ Prior to entry, contaminated water will be removed by an authorized environmental
consultant and properly disposed of.
➢ Once approved for occupancy by the manager, technicians may proceed with pre-entry
tests and requirements as indicated in Section C-23, “Utility Holes”.
5. SEWAGE CONTAMINATION
➢ Under no circumstances are employees to work in sewage-contaminated utility holes.
➢ Sources of sewage must be located and stopped prior to Broadband Telecom Services, Inc.
employees entering the hole. The local Health Department may be contacted to assist with
locating the source of sewage. The local sewer utility agency may be contacted for
assistance in locating the source, identifying the cause, and supervising the repairs.
Management must utilize all means to locate and ensure repair of the sewage leak.
➢ Utility holes or other enclosed spaces contaminated with sewage must be thoroughly
pressure washed and rinsed with disinfectant (such as a bleach solution). This will usually
be completed by the licensed vendor who tests and disposes of the contaminated water.
➢ Contact your Manager with questions regarding the detection of sewage and proper
remediation of affected enclosed spaces.
SECTION C-25
AIR TESTING EQUIPMENT
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Testing utility holes, cable vaults, trenches, pits, confined spaces and similar spaces for
flammable, toxic, or oxygen-deficient atmospheres.
➢ The proper use and application of air testing equipment.
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
124
➢ Employees entering utility holes, pits, vaults or confined areas may be exposed to
flammable/combustible or toxic gases, or oxygen deficient atmospheres.
3. POTENTIAL SAFETY AND HEALT HAZARDS
➢ A fire or explosion may result from an accumulation of flammable or combustible
gases/vapors.
➢ Oxygen displacement can cause disorientation, unconsciousness or death from
asphyxiation.
4. EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
➢ Only Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. furnished and approved air testing equipment
may be used.
➢ Equipment must be calibrated before each use; and tested, used, and repaired in accordance
with manufacturer’s manual and instructions.
➢ Equipment must be stored to protect against exposure to adverse weather or conditions that
may impact sensor or battery performance.
➢ Prior to use, employees must be trained on the use, limitations and alarm modes of each air
testing device that they use.
➢ Contact EHS for questions regarding air testing equipment training or use.
5. WORK REQUIREMENTS
➢ Utility holes, trenches, pits, and confined spaces, etc, must be tested for combustible gases
and (when deemed necessary by management) oxygen and specific toxic gases prior to
entry. A properly ventilated utility hole does not require an oxygen or toxic gas test.
➢ Gas monitoring equipment must be of the continuous monitoring type.
➢ Equipment must be fully functional and checked prior to use.
➢ Employees must immediately leave a work area whenever an equipment alarm sounds due
to:
• Combustible gas detected above 10% of lower explosive limit.
• Low or high oxygen level (acceptable range is 19.2% to 23% oxygen).
• Set point of a toxic gas level is reached (e.g., 34 ppm carbon monoxide).
• Sensor failure or low battery alarm.
➢ Equipment must be carried with the employee or must be placed immediately adjacent to
the work area in the utility hole and set to operate in a continuous monitor mode.
➢ Never enter an enclosed work space without:
• Completing required gas testing.
• Purging the space.
• Continuous ventilation.
• OSHA’s Confined Space Standard may require additional procedures. (See Section
C-27, “Permit Required Confined Spaces”)
125
SECTION C-26
ACCESS TO OUTSIDE PLANT EQUIPMENT ENCLOSURES
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees accessing equipment enclosures including, but not limited to:
• Controlled Environmental Vaults (CEV).
• Controlled Environmental Chambers (CEC).
• Any other partially or full-buried equipment enclosure that may present an
asphyxiation hazard or combustible atmosphere.
2. PRE-ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
➢ Follow the pre-entry procedures specified by the manufacturer of the CEC or CEV.
➢ No smoking or open flames are allowed within 10 feet of any outside plant equipment
enclosure.
➢ Upon arrival, verify the air conditioner and exhaust fan are running by listening for fan
motors. Depending on climate conditions, the ventilation system may not be operating at
that moment.
➢ If there is nay indication that the air conditioning and/or ventilation system is not
operational—DO NOT ENTER, TEST, PURGE AND VENTILATE AS ANY OTHER
UTILITY HOLE.
➢ Operational CEVs contain a ventilation and air monitoring system.
➢ Open hatch or door and observe condition of warning lights. In many CECs or CEVs a
green light may indicate a safe condition to enter and proceed with scheduled work.
➢ In many CECs or CEVs a red light may indicate a potentially hazardous condition.
➢ CEVs or equivalent under construction must be treated as a utility hole and entry conducted
per Section C-23, “Utility Holes”.
➢ Replace burned out bulbs before proceeding.
➢ If bulbs do not light, contact your manager or EHS manager before proceeding.
➢ Verify by listening to ensure the exhaust fan is operating.
➢ Red light should clear in 10 to 15 minutes.
➢ If light does not clear, test, purge and ventilate as described in Section C-23, “Utility
Holes”.
3. ENTRY
➢ Activate manual switch for full time operation of ventilation system when space is
occupied.
➢ Proceed with scheduled work.
➢ Exit immediately if any problems are evident or alarm sounds and contact your manager.
126
➢ Turn off manual switch and secure space upon completion of work.
4. BATTERY INSPECTION
➢ Inspect batteries for any evidence of swelling, leakage, hot battery case, warpage, rotten
egg smell, or discoloration.
➢ Report any and all problems for a full evaluation of power plant and possible battery
replacement. Wear the appropriate PPE when working on batteries or other power
equipment.
➢ Remove all jewelry when working near batteries or power cables.
➢ Discharge body static by touching frame ground before working on batteries.
➢ Use only insulated tools when working on power equipment.
➢ Power circuits and batteries must be covered with insulating blanket, board, or canvas when
work is performed above.
5. FIRE SITUATIONS
➢ In the event of a fire or emergency situation in an outside plant equipment enclosure:
• Exit quickly.
• Turn off ventilation system only if it does not expose you to a safety risk.
• Contact the fire department or call 911.
• Contact your manager and Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. (817) 441-9386.
➢ Do not operate a portable fire extinguisher inside the enclosed site unless it is necessary to
safely exit. An attempt to fight the fire may expose personnel to hazardous atmospheres
or flames.
SECTION C-27
PERMIT REQUIRED CONFINED SPACES
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees that may have the need to enter a confined space.
➢ Entry requirements necessary to prevent injury from asphyxiation or exposure to
combustible or toxic gases/vapors.
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ A confined space is a space or area:
• Large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform
assigned work; and
127
• Has a limited or restricted means for entry or exit (e.g., tanks, vessels, storage bins,
vaults, boilers and pits are spaces that may have a limited means of entry); and
• Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.
➢ Certain work areas are not considered confined spaces and are covered under the OSHA
Telecommunications Standard. These work areas (e.g., utility holes, CEVs, cable entrance
facilities) may normally be entered without a permit, provided all safe work practices (e.g.,
Test, Purge and Ventilate) are followed:
• Section C-23, “Utility Holes”.
• Section C-26, “Access to Outside Plant Equipment Enclosures”.
➢ Should a condition arise where air testing, purging, ventilation, or pumping cannot resolve
a hazardous condition, the work area may be considered a “permit required confined space”
if work must continue with hazardous conditions present such as:
• The accumulation of water that cannot be pumped.
• The leakage of natural gas, gasoline or oil into the work area.
• The leakage of sewage into the work area.
• The use of hazardous chemicals in large quantities.
3. HEALTH HAZARDS
➢ Atmospheric conditions in a confined space may be hazardous due to the presence of an
asphyxiating or toxic gas, vapor or liquid, or the presence of a flammable or combustible
atmosphere.
4. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Contact EHS to have the potential confined space evaluated, tested and the proper permit
issued before attempting to enter the work area.
➢ The potentially hazardous nature of a confined space requires that a permit be issued that
gives trained employee’s permission to enter the space with strict controls and rescue
capabilities in place.
➢ Entry permits must be conspicuously posted at the entry to the confined space while the
entry is in progress.
➢ Work practices and precautions listed on the permit must be strictly followed.
➢ Designated standby personnel must remain in verbal communication or within sight at all
times. The standby must not leave his/her designated standby point for any reason.
➢ Emergency rescues must be performed in accordance with confined space practices. No
one may enter a confined space to conduct a rescue unless he/she is equipped, authorized
and trained to do so. Most confined space fatalities involve an untrained/unprepared Good
Samaritan. “Holding your breath” to make a rescue or quick entry is never an acceptable
option.
➢ Employees making a confined space entry must be trained on the hazards and safe entry
practices of a confined space before making any entry. Training will include:
128
• Authorized Entrants—Authorized to enter a “permit required confined space”.
• Attendants—authorized to conduct “standby” activities including monitoring
entrants and coordinating rescues.
• Entry supervisors—Responsible for determining if acceptable entry conditions are
present, authorizing and overseeing entry operations, and terminating an entry as
required.
➢ Co-entries with other agencies or contractors can be performed only if prior approval of
EHS is obtained.
➢ Contact your manager or EHS with questions, or the schedule training.
SECTION C-28
PROPANE AND OPEN FLAME USE
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The hazards of propane as a fuel source for torches and heaters and safe work practices.
➢ The safe use of tent heaters and furnaces.
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Employees may be exposed to hazardous conditions when using propane in open or
enclosed environments. Propane is:
• A liquefied petroleum gas.
• Colorless, non-corrosive, non-toxic, and odorless. (however, odor is normally
added to aid in leak detection).
• Flammable and explosive.
• Heavier than air and can accumulate in low areas such as holes, pits, and trenches.
3. HEALTH HAZARDS
➢ Propane may cause injury due to ignition and burning of clothing and skin or explosion.
➢ Propane may displace oxygen and cause asphyxiation (oxygen deficiency).
4. WORK PRACTICES
➢ The use of open flames and ignition sources are not permitted when:
• In a utility hole, CEV, or other enclosed space.
• Other conduit is present (either passing through or terminating) in a pit or trench.
• Fresh air cannon flow freely throughout the pit or trench.
129
• There is evidence (by sight, smell, or gas test) of a combustible vapor.
➢ Observe the following precautions when using equipment that produces and open flame:
• Tent heaters and furnace equipment requirements include:
o Use only Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. approved heaters and
components.
o Use only in tents made of fire resistant materials.
o Avoid contact with heating elements or other hot parts.
o Keep flammable materials and clothing away from hot equipment.
o Never use equipment in a utility hole or in a tent that covers a utility hole.
o Propane cylinders must remain outside of pits, tents and trenches.
o turn the equipment off by closing the tank valve.
o Do not store equipment until it is completely cool.
o Do not use locally purchased propane bottles that do not meet Broadband
Telecom Services, Inc. specifications.
• Propane Torches:
o Use the auto-off torch handle and approved propane torch tips only.
o The propane regulator must be labeled to show it provides a delivery
pressure adjustable from 3 to 45 pounds.
o Propane torches should only be operated from 20 pound vapor withdrawal
propane cylinders. Do not connect a torch to a propane cylinder that is
equipped for liquid withdrawal.
o All torches must be equipped with a hose of sufficient length to permit the
supply tank to remain outside the pit, trench, or tent.
o Use only with the specific gas for which they are designed.
o Perform heat shrinking operations with the approved propane torch tip only.
o The operator must be familiar with the specific manufacturer instructions
for the torch in use.
o Keep the torch away from flammable materials and clothing. Do not direct
heat toward the strand when working aloft.
• Propane cylinders, tanks or bottles:
o All employees using propane must be properly trained and familiar with
appropriate safety precautions.
o Cylinders must be tested every twelve years if tested hydrostatically. If the
modified hydrostatic test method is used, retesting is required every seven
(7) years. If the complete external visual inspection method is used, the
retest is required every five (5) years. The manufactured date and retest
dates are etched into the shoulder or guard ring of the cylinder. Ensure the
cylinders are retested by the manufacturer or approved vendor.
o Storage areas must conform to current practices and codes, including the
availability of the proper type and capacity fire extinguisher (minimum
rating of 10-B, C).
130
o Strict enforcement of the “no-smoking policy” is mandatory around
propane and other flammable gases.
o All liquid propane gas cylinders must be turned off before leaving the job
site.
o Spare cylinders must be secured during transportation. No more than 2
cylinders, containing not more than 100 lbs. of propane total combined
weight, may be on the vehicle while it is parked in a garage. Local
regulations may be more restrictive and allow only one propane cylinder on
the vehicle.
o All propane cylinders transported on company vehicles must be secured and
contained in a vented compartment.
SECTION C-29
BATTERIES
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Potential hazards and safe work practices for employees who work around wet or gel cell
batteries (such as employees working in battery and power rooms and around power
supplies).
2. EXPOSURE CONDITONS
➢ Employees may be splashed with acid if batteries are mishandled, dropped or damaged or
if a spill occurs.
➢ When safe work practices are observed, hazardous substances found in batteries (such as
sulfuric acid and nickel cadmium) do not present a health hazard.
➢ Flammable gas (hydrogen) may be vented during charging operations or during normal
use.
3. HEALTH EFFECTS AND HAZARDS
➢ Battery fluids are corrosive to the eyes, skin and lungs. Failure to take protective
measures may result in permanent and severe damage to the body.
➢ In case of contact with battery acid:
• Flush the eyes and skin for at least 15 minutes with water. Use soap on the skin if
readily available. Seek medical assistance, where needed.
➢ Hydrogen gas is explosive. Ensure combustible gas detection systems are operable and
calibrated prior to use to allow for adequate warning in case of hydrogen gas venting.
4. WORK PRACTICES
131
➢ The following must be available in all battery and power rooms:
• Splash proof goggles and/or face shields.
• First aid kit.
• Insulated gloves.
• Hearing protection.
• Flashlight (if engines are also present).
• Carbon dioxide (C0²) fire extinguishers (except as noted below).
• Chemical fire extinguishers should be maintained in generator rooms. C0² extinguishers may conduct electricity upon release of the C0².
• If the power room contains wet-cell batteries, these items must also be available:
▪ Eyewash facilities must be within 12 feet of all batteries.
▪ Acid resistant aprons, gloves and goggles.
▪ Baking soda (to neutralize sulfuric acid).
▪ Boric acid (to neutralize alkaline).
▪ Note: Do not use these neutralizers (baking soda or boric acid) in the eyes.
Use only water.
➢ In the event of a spill, notify the manager and follow the practices in Section B-12, “Spill
Response”.
➢ Observe these precautions when working in battery or power rooms:
• All rotating equipment must be clearly marked. Reference Section B-13,
“Lockout/Tagout” for more information.
• Ensure the room is adequately ventilated.
• Open flames are not allowed in battery and power rooms.
• Remove all jewelry and secure long hair and loose clothing.
• Wear PPE (appropriate safety eyewear, hearing protection, etc.).
• When possible, shut off power to equipment before working. All power switches
opened for maintenance work must be properly locked or tagged per Section B-13,
“Lockout/Tagout”.
• Discharge body static by touching the frame ground or intercell connector before
working on batteries.
• Use only insulated tools when working on power equipment.
• Fuse pullers must be used when removing cartridge fuses.
• Power circuits and batteries must be covered with a board, canvas or an insulating
blanket when working with tools from above.
SECTION C-30
TOOL AND MOTOR VEHICLE INSPECTIONS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
132
➢ Inspections of tools and motor vehicles to ensure that deficiencies are promptly identified
and corrected.
2. INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONDUCTING INSPECTIONS
➢ Trucks and equipment must be inspected at least monthly.
➢ Tools must be inspected at least twice a year.
➢ Managers must conduct and document (using the forms provided in this section) complete
inspections for each of the following:
• Each employee’s personal tools used on the job.
• Any tools used by more than one employee.
• Each employee’s assigned vehicle.
• Any unassigned vehicles used by more than one employee.
• Any personally assigned tools and vehicles.
➢ During or immediately following the inspection the manager must:
• Repair, replace or remove defective tools/equipment.
• Provide feedback and commend the employee for safe work habits.
• Provide constructive feedback for areas requiring improvement.
• Schedule and conduct a follow-up inspection within 30 days for any unsatisfactory
items.
• Document inspections using the forms located at the end of this practice.
• Conduct random work observations to ensure safety compliance (refer to Section
C-31, “Work Observations”).
133
SECTION C-31
WORK OBSERVATIONS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Technicians and other employees who routinely work in non-office work environments.
➢ Work observations assist a manager in evaluating an employee’s overall on-the-job safety
performance. A work observation visit may include observing and documenting several
items, such as work area protection, PPE and actions of the employee.
➢ Work observations may be performed with or without the employee’s knowledge.
➢ The purpose of conducting work observations is to:
• Observe employees in their natural work environment.
• Verify that employees are properly trained and equipped to perform work safely.
2. REQUIREMENTS
➢ Due to differing experience and skill levels, some employees may require more attention
than others. Therefore, the quantity of work observations should be determined by local
circumstances.
➢ Managers are required to conduct and document at least one complete work observation
visit on every employee quarterly, or more often depending upon local needs or
requirements. Work observation visits may be incorporated into other managerial
activities.
3. CONDUCTING WORK OBSERVATIONS
➢ Upon arrival, survey the entire work area as well as the work operation being performed.
➢ Commend the employee for good safety performance.
➢ If an unsafe act is observed, take immediate corrective action.
• Discuss the deviation with the employee to determine their knowledge and
reasoning.
• Immediately give remedial training, if applicable.
• Ensure that the employee is fully aware of the correct procedures and the
importance of following all safety practices.
4. DOCUMENTATION
➢ When deficiencies are observed, they should be noted and briefly described on the form.
In addition, corrective action and date completed (such as remedial training) must be noted
on the form.
134
SECTION C-32
FIBER AND WIRE ROPE
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ The proper use of ropes to pull, lift and/or secure working surfaces or equipment.
➢ The hazards and safe work practices associated with the use of ropes under tension.
2. INSPECTION AND TEST
➢ Inspect fiber rope surfaces before each use for signs of wear, abrasion, softness, or decay.
➢ Inspect fiber rope surfaces at least monthly at three foot intervals for broken fibers, fine
powder, mold or mildew, or discoloration.
➢ Inspect wire ropes and slings (including the eye) before each use for abrasion, damage,
wear, corrosion, pitting, and damage from heat, kinks, loose servings, or sway fitting.
➢ Wire ropes and slings are considered defective if there are more than six broken strands (in
any one rope lay) or if there are three broken wires in one strand in one lay.
➢ All ropes must be proof tested and repaired in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
prior to use.
3. WORK PRACTICES
➢ For all ropes:
• Wear protective gloves and eye protection.
• Do not overload.
• Determine the proper type and size for the job.
• Avoid dragging along the ground.
• Keep away from solder, paraffin and chemicals.
• Avoid twists and kinks.
• Do not straddle stand next to, or place hands on rope when rope or line is under
tension or moving.
• Use the appropriate grip or hitch for the job.
• Tape must not be used on rope other than as a temporary wrap to secure ends.
➢ Fiber ropes:
• Do not use wet fiber rope in the vicinity of power lines.
• Do not use frozen or icy rope.
• Dry ropes properly and keep away from any direct heat source.
• Do not carry rope in a vehicle compartment containing sharp tools, batteries or
chemicals.
135
➢ Wire rope:
• Check rigging.
• Do not bend wire rope around sharp corners.
• Never pull winch lines over stationary supports.
• Do not place hands on winch lines being moved by winch, or within arm’s
reach of any sheave, guide, etc.
• Use a sheave guard on a mandrel bar.
• Never occupy a utility hole when wire is under tension.
• Wind rope evenly on winch drum.
• Never splice broken or damaged wire rope or winch lines.
4. WINCH LINE OPERATION
➢ When operating winch lines:
• Do not stand inside the angle (bite of the line).
• Never stand in line with the pull of a winch line.
➢ When using winches or pulling lines:
• Wear safety glasses, hard hat, long sleeves and leather gloves. Do not
• Wear loose clothing.
• Use proper size line and do not exceed the line’s rated capacity.
• Use the appropriate hitch and adequate winch line hardware.
• Use radio, hand or voice signals to control pulling operations.
• Keep hands at least three feet from guides, blocks and take-up reels.
• Do not straddle or handle lines under tension.
• Never place hands on moving winch lines.
• Avoid sudden jerks.
• Never remain in a utility hole during pulling operations.
SECTION C-33
FIBER OPTICS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees working with or near fiber optic systems who may be exposed to optical or
skin hazards.
2. EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
➢ Never examine or stare into the ends of broken, severed or disconnected fiber optic cables.
136
➢ The improper use of optical aids (eye loupes, microscopes, etc.) may focus laser beams and
cause eye damage.
3. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Safety glasses or goggles must be worn to keep fiber slivers out of eyes.
➢ Avoid rubbing your eyes when handling fiber cuttings.
➢ All fiber must be disposed of properly. For example, when cleaning fibers, the cuttings
should be placed on the adhesive side of a piece of tape.
➢ Fiber cuttings are small and very sharp and can easily pierce the skin.
➢ Light guide terminals must be tagged “DO NOT ENERGIZE” when splicing technicians
are restoring a damaged system.
➢ Fusion splicing is not allowed in utility holes.
➢ Immediately obtain medical attention if fiber cuttings or slivers are suspected to have
entered the eyes or skin.
SECTION C-34
CUSTOMER PREMISES ISSUES
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Evaluation of overall worksite hazards when at customer premises.
➢ Identification and communication of safety concerns when working at customer premises.
2. INSPECTION
➢ Survey a customer’s premises upon arrival to determine the presence of potentially
hazardous materials, conditions or operations such as:
• Electrical conduit.
• Worksite contaminants (asbestos, vapors, dusts).
• Hazardous chemicals (if necessary, MSDSs for products should be requested from
customer rep before proceeding with work).
• Power tools or equipment.
• Excessive noise.
• Welding operations.
• Absence of or inadequate air handling or fire suppression systems.
• Slippery or uneven walking or working surfaces.
• Water saturated hills; undercut shoreline areas and other surfaces that may be
subject to sloughing of a landslide.
• Inadequately guarded operations or elevated working surfaces.
• Vehicles.
137
• Vegetation that may be hazardous or conceal a hazard.
• Inadequate headroom or working space.
• Animals (dogs, reptiles, insects, etc.) that may present a biting or stinging hazard.
• Rodents (heavy infestation and presence of feces, carcasses, etc.)
• Snow drifts, rooftop snow or hanging icicles.
3. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Confirm your presence to the appropriate customer representative.
➢ Employees may only carry and use Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. approved and
provided products.
➢ Discuss customer site safety procedures:
• Evacuation signals and emergency evacuation procedures.
• Access to restricted areas.
➢ Report concerns of worksite safety to manager before beginning work.
➢ Provide work area protection any time work is done overhead or a hazard is created in a
walkway or around equipment.
➢ Check for electrical hazards as necessary per Section C-11. “Foreign Voltage Detectors”.
➢ Ensure that adequate lighting and ventilation is provided. If not, use the appropriate
portable lighting and ventilations systems.
➢ Before pulling wire or cable, cover all sharp edges you may contact and protect existing
wires from possible damage by the pulling operation.
• Never pull across electrical wires, conduits or asbestos covered pipes, or use pipes
or other utilities as a pulling support.
• Use care to avoid drilling into hidden obstacles (e.g., electrical wires, water pipes).
➢ Suspended ceiling precautions include:
• Inquire of customer if ceiling tiles are asbestos containing. (See Section C-03,
“Asbestos”)
• Test for possible energized ceiling grids before removing ceiling tile.
• Only use a non-conductive ladder.
• Never climb into a suspended ceiling or try to support your weight on the ceiling
grids.
➢ Alert customer and Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. system dispatcher prior to entering
a tunnel, crawl space or attic.
SECTION C-35
BURIED PLANT
1. THIS SECTION APPLIES TO:
138
➢ Work conducted near underground utilities such as power, gas, television, water, sewer
and communication lines and facilities that may pose hazards to employees.
2. WORK PRACTICES
➢ All open utility holes, trenches, excavations, etc. must be protected with guards, barricades,
covers, flags, or other suitable warning devices at all times.
➢ When foreign objects are encountered while digging, plowing, trenching or pipe pushing,
stop operations immediately. Expose the obstructions by hand digging using insulated
tools. Under no circumstances should underground electrical plant, gas, or other pipes be
disturbed.
• Insulating gloves must be worn when digging around potential power sources.
• Wear PPE (e.g., safety glasses and proper footwear).
➢ Always use extreme care when digging to prevent penetrating or damaging any cable
sheath or plastic pipe.
➢ Do not disturb underground obstructions before determining what they are and if they are
safe.
➢ If there is evidence of a power failure, do not perform any work until the power company
has de-energized their cables or repaired the problem.
➢ In areas where combustible gases or liquids are piped, stored or thought to be present, the
atmosphere in trenches and/or utility holes must be tested and ventilated per Section C-23,
“Utility Holes”.
➢ If combustible mixtures are present, no work can be done until the atmosphere is clear of
the combustible mixture.
➢ Under normal conditions with stable soil, shoring is not required unless excavations are
five (5) feet or more in depth.
➢ When placing and bonding ground rods in joint trenches:
• Wear electrical protective gloves when driving the ground rod (keep clothing and
other body parts clear).
• Use a foreign voltage protector (FVD) to check ground rod.
• If ground rod tests clear, deglove and bond to pedestal.
• If ground rod tests “energized”, DO NOT PROCEED, SECURE THE AREA, AND
IMMEDIATELY CONTACT YOUR MANAGER.
3. JOINT TRENCH PRECAUTIONS
➢ Any exposed cables not positively identified must be treated as power cables.
• Use only approved test sets to electrically identify cables.
• Never use a ground return.
139
➢ If any doubt of cable identification exists, do not touch or open any sheath. Contact your
manager.
➢ Connections to power cable sheath or transformers must only be made by the power
company.
4. CABLE LOCATING PRECAUTIONS
➢ When placing cable closure support posts on joint trench installations with power, the posts
must be placed a minimum of six inches off the trench line before backfilling the trench.
➢ Follow these precautions when performing telephone cable locates that require opening a
bond in a joint-use closure.
• Test the closure for power hazards per Section C-11, “Foreign Voltage Detector”.
• Wear insulating gloves and protectors while opening the bond.
• Test again with the FVD before restoring the bond.
5. DAMAGE TO BURIED PLANT
➢ If an electrical line is broken or damaged:
• Barricade the location until the condition has been cleared.
• Notify the local electric company.
• Keep the public clear of the hazardous area.
• Notify your manager.
• Notify Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. at (817) 441-9386.
➢ If a gas line is broken or damaged:
• Turn off all spark-producing and engine-powered equipment.
• Leave the hole open to allow gas to dissipate.
• Keep the public clear of the area until the hazardous condition is corrected.
• Notify local fire department.
• Notify local gas company.
• Notify your manager.
• Notify Broadband Telecom Services at 262-786-2480
140
SECTION C-36
ENCAPSULANTS
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees working with encapsulants and associated solvents.
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
➢ Encapsulants and associated solvents may cause health effects if improperly controlled:
• Vapor or liquid may be irritating to the eyes.
• Prolonged and/or repeated inhalation may cause breathing problems or allergic
reaction.
• Prolonged and/or repeated skin exposure may cause irritation of the skin.
3. SAFE USE OF ENCAPSULANTS
➢ Only employees successfully completing Hazard Communications training may handle
encapsulants.
➢ Read Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and container label prior to handling.
➢ Wear indicated PPE such as splash proof goggles and impermeable disposable gloves.
➢ Use only in areas with adequate ventilation. Use mechanical ventilation for enclosed areas.
➢ Do not eat, drink, smoke or apply cosmetics when working with or around encapsulants.
➢ Wash eyes and/or skin with water immediately for at least 15 minutes should contact occur.
Obtain medical attention as necessary.
4. CLEAN-UP AND DISPOSAL
➢ Clean tools and skin (as necessary) with agents indicated on container label.
➢ Discard contaminated materials and wastes as indicated in the MSDS or contact your local
EHS manager for proper handling guidelines.
➢ Mix unsalvageable encapsulants as indicated on container label and allow to harden prior
to disposal.
➢ Unmixed encapsulants may be saved for reuse if material and container are in good
condition.
141
SECTION C-37
WATER AND ICE SAFETY
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees performing job duties around, or over, bodies of water and winter ice such as:
• Riding to a work location in a boat or working from a boat.
• Working on unguarded stationary or floating docks, decks of boats, bridges, etc.
• Working near the shoreline of a creek, river, or large body of water that would be
considered hazardous due to depth, current or cold temperatures.
• Working around or on frozen bodies of water.
• Working around flood or storm damage.
2. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Boats, rafts, barges, hip boots and lifelines are not to be used unless authorized and under
the direct supervision of the employee in charge.
➢ A serviceable US Coast Guard approved personal flotation vest must be worn when
working over water.
➢ Hip boots, if authorized, which do not extend above the groin, may be used to protect
employees.
• Hip boots, if authorized, require the use of a flotation vest and a lifeline (when
necessary).
• Chest waders are not be used.
➢ Fall prevention systems (FPSs) are required when working over water.
➢ Special work conditions such as working on bridge decking or catwalks may require special
requirements. Contact EHS to evaluate working conditions prior to commencing work.
➢ Work near cold water or ice may expose employees to the hazards of hypothermia. All
precautions must be taken as discussed in Section C-06, “Heat and Cold Stress”.
142
SECTION C-38
ILLUMINATION/WORK AFTER DARK
1. THIS PRACTICE APPLIES TO:
➢ Employees who work in situations where supplemental lighting may be required to ensure
the safety of work operations and the public (e.g., aerial or roadway work conducted at
night, work in enclosed spaces).
2. WORK PRACTICES
➢ Aerial work, work along roadways, or other work operations that may be potentially
hazardous when conducted at night should be scheduled during daylight whenever
possible.
➢ For work at night or in other situations where illumination is diminished, the technician
should:
• Identify potential work site hazards such as vehicle traffic, aerial electrical lines,
slip/trip obstacles or threats to personal security.
• Determine if work can be done in a safe manner, and if supplemental illumination
is necessary.
• Note: For situations where the technician believes that work cannot be done in a
safe manner, even with supplemental illumination, a manager should be contacted
to discuss possible options (e.g., dispatching additional technician(s) to assist,
postponing work.
➢ If supplemental illumination is required, determine and set up the type of illumination that
is needed (e.g., floodlights, vehicle mounted spotlights, flashlights, hands-free headlamps,
lanterns, utility hole lights) using the following general guidelines:
• When working aloft (ladders, poles or aerial lifts), flashlights and hands-free
headlamps do not provide adequate illumination and would require the use of
floodlights, vehicle mounted spotlights, etc.
• Work after dark in splice pits requires the use of drop lighting (as used in utility
holes), spotlights, floodlights, etc. Flashlights and hands-free head-lamps do not
provide adequate illumination in this environment.
• Digging operations after dark (e.g.., to replace broken poles) require floodlights,
vehicle mounted spotlights, etc. Proper illumination would not be provided by
flashlights or hands-free headlamps for this type operation.
• Ensure that lighting systems are properly tied down and secured.
• For large supplemental illumination needs, portable generator systems are available
through requests to management.
• Ensure that the work operation and technician are visible to others by using
reflective signs, safety vests, and vehicle lights as necessary. Utilize work area
143
protection procedures as specified in Section C-13, “Work Area Protection” and as
required by local/state ordinances.
• Technicians are responsible for the care, maintenance and proper working
condition of illumination equipment. Defective equipment must immediately be
removed from service.
• Do not leave pits, trenches, etc unprotected and without adequate signal warning
devices.
144
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT
OF EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK AND SAFETY MANUAL
I, _______________________________________, acknowledge that I have received a copy of
the Broadband Telecom Services, Inc. (The “Company”) Employee Handbook (the “handbook”)
and that I have read the policies and procedures contained in the Handbook, understand them, and
agree to abide by them. I understand that during the course of my employment with the Company,
questions may arise that are not explicitly addressed in the Handbook, and I agree to consult with
my supervisor or other member of the company management regarding these matters.
I understand that the Handbook is intended to serve general information about policies and
procedures of the Company, but in no way constitutes, creates, or forms a part of an express or
implied employment contract with the Company, nor does it guarantee employment of any definite
or indefinite period of time. I recognize that my employment is employment “at will,” and that
either the Company or I can terminate my employment at any time, with or without cause or notice.
The Handbook supersedes any and all prior written or unwritten policies, procedures, or practices
of the Company pertaining to or inconsistent with the subjects detailed herein. The Company
reserves the right to clarify, change, or supplement any information contained in the Handbook,
and the Company will notify me if and when such changes occur. No changes to this Handbook
may be made without the approval of the CEO of the Company, and any such changes will not be
deemed to affect my “at will” employment.
Please initial each line acknowledging you have read, understand and will comply with the
following policies:
_______ Sexual Harassment Policy _______ Attendance Policy
_______ Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy _______ Dress Code
_______ Safety Manual _______ Emergency Preparedness &
Response
Signature of Employee: _________________________________________
Print Name: ___________________________________________________
Date: ________________________________________________________
Note: An electronic version of this Employee Manual and Safety Handbook will be available on
our website 24/7/365 for your reference and convenience.