PUB 445 (10-13)
This manual belongs to:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction………………………………………………………….. 1
Responsibilities…………………………………………………….. 3
Safety-Related Working Rules……………………………………. 4
Commercial Driver License (CDL) Drug and Alcohol………….. 6
Safe Driving Practices……………………………………………..10
Fleet/Equipment Accident Procedures………………………….. 12
Work Related Injury Procedures………………………………… 13
Cause Identification and Corrective Action…………………….. 20
First Aid Kits……………………………………………………….. 22
Pre-Operation Process (Daily Safety Talks)…………………… 23
Confined Space Entry Procedures……………………………….25
Medical Surveillance Program…………………………………… 27
Fall Protection………………………………………………………28
Excavation Safety…………………………………………………. 28
Ladder Safety……………………………………………………… 29
Job Safety Analyses………………………………………………. 29
Safety Committees………………………………………………... 30
Emergency Response……………………………………………..30
Training…………………………………………………………….. 31
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Work Attire………. 33
References……………………………………………………….... 44
Glossary……………………………………………………………. 45
Contact Information……………………………………………….. 47
INTRODUCTION
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is committed to
protecting the safety and health of our employees, and improving
productivity through accident and injury prevention and a healthier
workforce. The Department will strive to provide our employees
with the safest possible work environment and the knowledge
necessary to safely carry out their job duties. The Department’s
safety efforts shall be ongoing and focus on continuous
improvement.
Working safely is a responsibility shared by all employees.
Managers and supervisors are to maintain the safest possible
working conditions by encouraging safe work practices and
enforcing safety policies and procedures. All of the necessary and
available agency resources shall be utilized to accomplish this
important endeavor. Employees are to perform their duties in the
safest manner possible and adhere to all established safety rules,
procedures, and work practices.
Employees are encouraged to actively participate in the
Department’s safety efforts. Involvement by all levels of the
organization must contribute to an effective safety and health
program for the benefit of all employees, their families, and the
public.
Influence, control, and responsibility are the key ingredients to an
effective safety program. If one of the items is missing or lacking,
the program will fail.
First level supervisors have the most influence on safety. They
work directly with the employees constantly observing safety
behavior. First level supervisors provide positive or negative
influence. Positive influence will motivate employees to be aware
of safety and work within a safe environment while negative
influence will have a detrimental effect. First level supervisors
must take an active role in promoting safety to ensure a
successful outcome.
Management has the most control of safety. Management’s duty
is to enforce safety policies, change procedures, or redirect
resources.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. The importance of safety must
be communicated to all levels on an ongoing basis. Safety
programs must be established and supported (resources and
personnel) to achieve a safe working environment.
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INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this manual is to establish statewide safety
guidelines which are to be followed by all employees. Any
changes to this manual must be made by the Employee Safety
Division, Bureau of Human Resources.
Safety must be incorporated into all work operations from planning
to completion.
The Department is responsible for creating a safe work
environment. A safe environment exists when employees are
involved in decisions affecting workplace safety. Active safety
committees supported by management are the key to a successful
safety program.
Unsafe acts and unsafe conditions must be prevented. When an
accident occurs, we must learn from it. The focus of the
investigation must be fact finding, not fault finding, to accurately
identify causes and determine appropriate corrective actions.
Working safely is a condition of employment. Disregarding safety
rules will not be tolerated.
Education and training are essential in developing and maintaining
a safe work environment.
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RESPONSIBILITIES
Management Responsibility
As a manager, you are responsible for establishing, maintaining and
enforcing safe work conditions and environments by providing proper
tools, equipment, training, education, and personal protective
equipment (PPE). Managers are responsible for establishing and
maintaining effective lines of communication regarding safety.
Managers must address hazards and implement controls to minimize
risk of injury, whether or not the affected employees are in their chain
of command.
Supervisor Responsibility
The term ‘supervisor’ refers to any employee responsible for
overseeing the work of another employee. As a supervisor, you are
accountable for the safety of those you supervise.
You are
responsible for ensuring that all employees have the proper skills,
knowledge and training to perform all tasks assigned to them in a safe
and competent manner. It is your responsibility to see that all
employees have, use, and are trained on proper PPE.
You must act safely and direct safe operations by following all safety
practices identified in manufacturer publications and our policies,
manuals, procedures, work rules and Job Safety Analyses. You must
respond to, investigate and document all accidents and near misses in
accordance with current policy and take corrective action to minimize
the risk of reoccurrence. You must implement Injury Management
Procedures for all injury accidents.
Employee Responsibility
As an employee, you are responsible for your safety and the safety of
your fellow employees by understanding and obeying all safety rules
and working in a safe manner at all times. You must ensure that you
have, use and are trained to use the proper PPE. If you do not have
the proper PPE, it is your responsibility to get it before beginning an
operation.
It is your responsibility to act safely and assist safe work operations
by following all safety practices identified in manufacturer publications
and our policies, manuals, procedures, work rules and Job Safety
Analyses. It is your responsibility to report all injuries, collisions, near
misses, and unsafe conditions/acts to your supervisor immediately
and to follow the supervisor’s instructions.
REMEMBER: SAFETY BEGINS WITH YOU!
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SAFETY RELATED WORKING RULES
The Department has established work rules which include safety
rules. Listed below are definitions of major and minor work rule
violations and examples of safety-related violations, which fall
under these definitions. This list is not intended to be all-inclusive.
Definition of Minor Working Rule Violations
Rule violations that have little effect on the continuity, efficiency,
and safety of work, but which cannot be tolerated, may be termed
minor rule violations. Minor safety rule violations can result in
either verbal or written warnings being entered in your record, as
well as, a suspension or more stringent disciplinary action if they
continue after verbal and written warnings. Depending on the
circumstances, a suspension or more stringent action may be
taken even for the first offense.
Minor Safety-Related Working Rule Violations
• Failing to immediately report illness or injury occurring on
the job to your supervisor.
• Refusing medical attention when supervisor deems it
necessary.
• Refusing to seek medical attention for an injured employee
who requests medical attention.
• Using equipment for purposes other than its designed use.
• Committing or allowing minor violations of safety rules,
including unsafe acts and failure to use PPE.
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SAFETY RELATED WORKING RULES
Definition of Major Working Rule Violations
Major offenses are any violations of Department safety rules of
such degree that continued employment may not be desirable.
Major rule violations, including the following, are examples of
some offenses that may subject an employee to immediate
suspension or discharge without warning.
Major Safety-Related Working Rule Violations
Willfully, deliberately, or repeatedly committing or allowing
violations of Department working rules and policies. This includes
instances where there is evidence of disregard of proper safety
practices and precautions, such as:
• Failing to comply with proper work zone traffic controls.
• Failing to use seat belts.
• Operating any equipment in which the safety features have
been removed or disabled.
• Riding on vehicles and equipment unless designed for this
purpose.
• Having repeated injuries and/or fleet/equipment accidents
that resulted from a safety violation.
• Fighting (any employee directly involved).
• Possessing unauthorized firearms or other dangerous
weapons on Department premises or during working
hours.
• Bringing intoxicants or controlled substances to work;
consuming intoxicants or using controlled substances on
Department premises; reporting for duty under the
influence of intoxicants or controlled substance; or
supervisory personnel allowing any of the above.
• Operating Department vehicles or equipment without a
valid operator’s license, appropriate classification or
certification.
• Operating dead-lined equipment.
• Attempting to alter equipment, so that it is not in
compliance with the original manufacturer’s build or
Department specifications and attempts to operate such
equipment.
• Committing any other act that could endanger someone’s
life or well-being.
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COMMERCIAL DRIVERS LICENSE (CDL)
DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING
Requirements for Administering CDL Drug and Alcohol Tests
All employees who operate commercial vehicles for PennDOT
must be included in a random testing pool. Refer to PPIM 09-120
and 09-124 for additional information.
•
Employees selected for Random or Follow-Up testing must not
be given advanced notification of the test. Notification should
not occur until just prior to going for the test, allowing only
enough time for the employee to arrive at the collection facility
for his/her appointment. Advance notification can give
employees enough time to take actions that will interfere with
the testing process, possibly resulting in false test results.
•
Employees selected for Random or Follow-Up testing should
have their tests administered within three business days of the
organization being notified. If the employee cannot be tested
within 3 days or will not be tested at all, the Employee Safety
Division must be notified.
•
Employees must take the Drug and Alcohol Testing Program
Federal Cover Sheet and the Federal Drug Testing Custody
and Control Form (drug test only) to the collection site.
There are six types of tests:
1. Pre-employment (drug test only)
• A negative pre-employment test result is required for the
following conditions:
- New CDL employees (must receive a negative test
prior to employment);
- Employees transferring to CDL duties; or
- CDL employees unavailable for random testing for
more than 30 consecutive calendar days for any
reason (sick leave, extended vacation, loss or
suspension of CDL, removed from the testing pool,
etc.).
NOTE: Employees returning from a work-related injury are
permitted to return to work prior to receiving a pre-employment
test. However, they are not permitted to operate CDL
equipment until they receive a negative test result.
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CDL DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING
2. Random
• Employees operating CDL equipment must be in a testing
pool from which names will be periodically drawn for drug
and alcohol testing.
• The Employee Safety Division will notify the District HR
office with the names of employees selected for a random
test.
3. Reasonable Suspicion
• Necessary for any CDL employee displaying verifiable,
suspicious behaviors that suggests the use of drugs or
alcohol.
• Types of observations include: appearance, body odors,
speech, or behavior patterns.
• Manager making decision to send employee must have
completed CDL Training for Supervisors.
• Observation forms must be completed and signed.
• All Reasonable Suspicion tests must be escorted.
4. Return-to-Duty
• Required for any employee to return to operation of a CDL
vehicle or safety-sensitive functions following a positive
drug or alcohol test.
• Return-to-Duty test must be a verified negative result in
order for employee to return to safety-sensitive functions.
• All employees receiving Return-to-Duty tests must be
escorted by Department personnel and observed by
collection site staff.
5. Follow-Up
• Required after an employee produces a positive
drug/alcohol test.
• Frequency and duration of testing is at the discretion of the
Commonwealth Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).
• Minimum of 6 tests must occur within 1 year.
• Maximum duration of testing is 5 years.
• All employees receiving a Follow-Up test must be
observed by collection site staff.
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CDL DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING
6. Post-Accident
If an employee is involved in a collision while operating a
vehicle that requires a CDL, post-accident drug and alcohol
testing may be required by Federal Law. Testing is required
when:
• There is a fatality (any party involved), or
• The Department operator receives a moving citation, and:
a. Any vehicle needs towed from the scene, or
b. Any party needs immediate medical treatment away
from the scene.
If involved in an accident requiring testing, operators must not
consume alcohol until the testing is completed. Testing should
occur as soon as possible.
If the alcohol test is not
administered within 2 hours, the reason for the delay must be
documented. Testing must be cancelled if it does not occur
within 8 hours for alcohol or 32 hours for drugs and the
employer must document the reason.
NOTE: Section 3756 of the Pa. State Vehicle Code requires
the police officer investigating the accident to request that
drivers of commercial motor vehicles submit to alcohol and
controlled substance testing. Under these circumstances the
employee must be given time to be tested but must not be
taken/escorted by the employer. The employee must not be
given a Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Federal Cover
Sheet and Federal Drug Testing Custody and Control Form.
The employee shall submit the invoice to the employer; the
employer is responsible for payment directly to the service
provider. Test results must be sent to the requesting police
department, not to the employer.
Safety Sensitive Functions
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, the
following on-duty functions cannot be performed by a CDL
covered employee who tests positive for drugs or alcohol:
• Driving a commercial motor vehicle.
• Waiting to be dispatched at a carrier or shipper plant,
terminal, facility, or other property, unless the driver has
been relieved from duty by the employer.
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CDL DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING
Safety Sensitive Functions (continued)
• Inspecting equipment as required by the Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Regulations or other-wise inspecting,
servicing, or conditioning any commercial vehicle at any
time.
• Being in or on a commercial motor vehicle (except for time
spent in a sleeper berth).
• Loading or unloading a commercial motor vehicle,
supervising or assisting in the loading or unloading,
attending a vehicle being loaded or unloaded, remaining in
readiness to operate the vehicle, or in giving or receiving
receipts for shipments loaded or unloaded.
• Repairing, obtaining assistance, or remaining in
attendance upon a disabled vehicle.
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SAFE DRIVING PRACTICES
The Department requires operators of vehicles and equipment to
drive safely and obey all traffic laws. Failure to exercise any of the
following safe driving practices will be considered a safety
violation:
• Comply with all guidelines, procedures, and directives
pertaining to the operation of Department vehicles and
applicable sections of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code.
• Ensure the proper use of safety restraints (e.g. seat
belts) by all vehicle occupants where equipped.
• Never operate a motor vehicle while under the influence
of alcohol, illegal drugs or any other substance that impairs
ability to drive.
• Never engage in text messaging or any unlawful use of a
cellular telephone or other handheld device, e.g. Blackberry
and/or iPhone, when driving a Department vehicle or
personal vehicle on Department business.
• Properly position mirrors to minimize blind spots.
• When possible, avoid backing. Where two or more
employees are present, one must act as a ground guide
(spotter) prior to backing a vehicle. Discuss the hand
signals that will be used with a designated spotter prior to
backing to ensure effective communication. The use of a
spotter does not relieve the driver of the responsibility to
back up safely. If a spotter is not available, operators are
required to ensure the area is clear of personnel or
obstructions.
• Complete a circle of safety prior entering a vehicle. Walk
completely around the vehicle and observe conditions
underneath, on and around the vehicle for potential hazards.
• Maintain an appropriate following distance at all times to
provide necessary reaction time should a vehicle ahead slow
down or stop suddenly.
• Avoid rear-end collisions by ensuring the vehicle does not
drift backwards, by slowing down gradually to avoid abrupt
stops, and by signaling intentions in advance of turns.
• Be alert and yield to pedestrians at the workplace and on
the highway.
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SAFE DRIVING PRACTICES
•
Ensure the vehicle remains in the lane of travel at all
times. If lane encroachment is unavoidable due to the size
of the vehicle, be prepared to yield to opposing traffic to
allow for safe passage.
•
Yield to rail vehicles at all railroad crossings, being
attentive to pavement markings, warning signs and
approaching vehicles.
Negotiate turns by using proper signaling, checking mirrors,
yielding at crosswalks and to other vehicles as required by
law, and being aware of surroundings.
Adjust traveling speeds for conditions including but not
limited to weather, road surface conditions, traffic,
emergency situations, and variations in road width or
direction.
Utilize safety devices or other equipment appropriate for
extreme weather conditions (such as chains).
Check for and properly judge clearances with all fixed
objects such as buildings, utility poles, guy wires,
mailboxes, guiderail, parked vehicles, curbs, and signs.
Park properly by positioning the vehicle within a designated
parking space or other safe area. Secure/Lock unattended
vehicles to prevent theft or unauthorized use.
Ensure all tools, equipment, material and doors are
properly secured for transport.
Report all mechanical defects or other noticeable wear
promptly to the appropriate Equipment Manager, Mechanic
Supervisor, or other management personnel. This may be
done using the M-614 form.
Collisions caused by
mechanical failure due to a reasonably detectable defect that
was not reported, due to a reported defect that was not
repaired, or due to abusive driving are unacceptable.
Ensure safe operation of all vehicles and equipment in
accordance with the manufacturer’s designed purpose and
operator manual. No altering of equipment or vehicles of
any kind is permitted without the Equipment Manager’s
written approval.
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ALL EMPLOYEES ARE EXPECTED
TO DRIVE DEFENSIVELY AT ALL TIMES!
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FLEET/EQUIPMENT ACCIDENT PROCEDURES
After any collision, however minor, involving Department
equipment or a motor vehicle (either on or off the highway), the
employee(s) involved must report that collision to the supervisor
immediately. The employee(s) or an on-site supervisor should
secure the scene to prevent further injury or collision. Call 911 if
emergency response is necessary.
Work-related injury
procedures apply if an employee is injured as a result of a fleet or
equipment accident.
The employee or supervisor must notify state or local police
(Capitol Police if within the Capitol Complex) and request an
investigation of the collision unless all of the following
conditions are met:
a.
b.
c.
d.
A collision involves Department equipment only;
Involves no personal injury or fatality;
Department equipment damages are less than $2,000; and
The vehicle does not have to be towed.
A collision involving Department equipment or motor vehicles
which results in a fatality, serious personal injury, and/ or property
damage over $20,000 must be the subject of an immediate
investigation. The operator must be immediately suspended from
operating Department equipment/motor vehicles until such time as
the collision is investigated and the District Executive/Bureau
Director approves reinstatement of operator privileges.
Supervisors must promptly notify management of the accident.
The supervisor or manager must coordinate post-accident testing
as described in the CDL Drug and Alcohol Testing section, if
required.
Supervisors must document the accident and complete a thorough
on-site investigation using the Grab and Go for Fleet and
Equipment Accidents and the Investigation Guide for Accidents
and Near Misses (PPIM 13-156 Attachments 2 and 3). All forms
must be completed and submitted to the Human Resources Office
within 24 hours.
The local Equipment Manager or the Fleet Management Division
must also be notified to ensure all accident reporting procedures
are completed as directed in Chapter 5 of Publication 177 –
Equipment Managers Manual.
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WORK RELATED INJURY PROCEDURES
Employees must report injuries to their supervisors immediately.
The following must be done immediately:
• Call 911 (if emergency medical care is necessary).
• Secure the area to prevent further injury.
• Notify police (if involving damage to private property or
injury to non-employees).
• For nonemergency medical care, accompany or appoint an
employee to accompany the injured employee to the panel
physician.
Supervisors must:
• Notify management.
• Document the injury accident and complete a thorough onsite investigation using the Grab and Go for Work-Related
Injuries and the Investigation Guide for Accidents and Near
Misses (PPIM 13-156 Attachments 1 and 3).
The most important step in the injury management process is to
provide immediate medical care. The type of medical care
required is determined by the severity and type of injury.
Supervisors use the following guidelines to determine the type of
medical care required. If there is any doubt concerning the need
for professional medical care, then it should be provided as a
precautionary measure.
If an employee requests medical
treatment, it is the supervisor’s responsibility to see that the
employee receives it.
If the supervisor determines that
professional medical treatment is necessary, the injured employee
must comply.
Injuries that Require Immediate Professional Medical Treatment:
• Amputations
• Bone fractures
• Burns: First degree thermal burns (resembling sunburn)
on more than 9% of body area, second degree burns with
blister formations on damaged skin, third degree burns
with skin destruction (flesh charred brown or white),
chemical burns (potential damage of skin, eyes and/or
lungs from acid and alkali exposures), and electrical burns
(skin and tissue damage as in first, second and third
degree burns from electrical voltage)
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WORK RELATED INJURY PROCEDURES
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Head injuries
Foreign bodies (if embedded in eye or a wound)
Injuries from temperature extremes (heat illness/frostbite)
Injuries that prevent normal use of body functions
(breathing, hearing, sight, sense of smell, use of arms and
legs, circulation of blood, consciousness, etc.)
Injuries to employees with medical conditions that could
increase the severity of the injury or complicate the healing
process (diabetes, severe allergies, heart disease, lung
disease, hemophilia, prescription medication, etc.)
Insect bites and contact with poisonous plants if condition
interferes with the performance of duties or normal use of
body functions.
Lacerations (if they require sutures, butterfly or steri-strips,
or involve the removal of torn flesh)
Musculoskeletal (sprains, strains, inflammations, irritations,
and dislocations of muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves,
joints and burns)
Poisoning or disease (from chemicals and animal bites)
Puncture wounds (includes animal bites)
Radiation (sunburn over 9% of body and all welding flash
eye burns)
Respiratory disorders (from fumes, dust, chemicals, heat)
Severe abrasions and contusions (large area, deep
wounds, loss of blood external and internal)
Skin disorders (from chemicals and organisms)
Injuries that can be Treated by Individuals with Knowledge of First
Aid Procedures (These Injuries must be Monitored until Healed):
• First degree burns on less than 9% of body area
• Foreign bodies (not embedded in eye or wound)
• Insect bites and contact with poisonous plants if no
interference with the performance of duties or use of
normal body functions
• Minor abrasions and contusions (small area, shallow
wound, small blood loss external or internal)
• Surface/Shallow lacerations that do not require skin
support to heal (e.g. butterfly bandages, stitches).
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WORK RELATED INJURY PROCEDURES
If Employee Is Treated at the Work Site (First-Aid):
• If professional medical attention was not needed for the
employee, the procedures for documenting near misses
apply. The Accident Investigation Report (P-25) and
witness statement forms must be completed. A Workers’
Compensation Claim Form may be used to document the
injury and may be filed with the near miss report. If at any
time the employee seeks professional medical attention for
this injury, all procedures apply for documenting an
accident.
If Employee Requires Professional Medical Treatment:
• For a medical emergency, call appropriate emergency
response number.
• When emergency medical care is not necessary, the
supervisor must give the injured employee an opportunity
to choose from the designated panel physician list. The
supervisor or designee will then contact such panel
physician to obtain medical treatment. Reasonable efforts
must be taken to ensure panel treatment is utilized, such
as contacting at least three panel providers for availability.
If a panel physician is not available, take the employee to
the nearest medical facility. Follow-up treatment must be
with a panel physician.
• The supervisor or designee must accompany the injured
employee to the medical facility. The supervisor (or
appointee) must remain with the injured employee until the
following three conditions have been met:
- The employee has been placed in the care of a
medical professional.
- The medical provider has received a copy of the
Return to Work Status Report form or equivalent form.
Employee cannot return to work until a completed
form is submitted.
- Information on the Department’s transitional duty
program for work-related injuries has been provided.
• If it is deemed necessary to notify the injured employee’s
emergency contact, consult with management for proper
procedures.
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WORK RELATED INJURY PROCEDURES
•
•
The supervisor should provide transportation home for an
employee who has a work-related injury or illness if the
employee has no other transportation.
The supervisor must follow-up with the employee weekly
until the employee returns to work.
The supervisor must have all appropriate forms completed and
submitted to the Human Resource Office within 24 hours of the
injury.
Required Timelines for the Human Resource Office
Notification to the Third Party Administrator must occur:
• Immediately for a fatality.
• Within two (2) work days for a claim with an anticipated
absence of eight or more days.
• Within five (5) work days for a medical-only claim.
Serious Injuries/Incidents that Require Immediate Reporting:
Department procedures require the immediate reporting of serious
injuries and incidents that occur in PennDOT work zones, on
PennDOT worksites, or on PennDOT projects that impact the
welfare of PennDOT employees. This reporting is critical to
ensure that necessary Human Resource actions can be
taken. Districts and counties must communicate this information
to the District Human Resource Office immediately.
Upon receipt of notification of an injury or incident, the District
Human Resource Office must immediately report all known details
via telephone or email to the Bureau of Human Resources,
Employee Safety Division.
Districts must then submit
the Injury/Incident Notification Form to the Employee Safety
Division no later than two hours from the time of the incident.
The following are examples of injuries and incidents that must be
reported immediately:
• A catastrophic work-related injury or injuries.
• A non-work-related death or deaths on the work premises.
• An incident where PennDOT is involved in a catastrophic
injury or injuries to the public.
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WORK RELATED INJURY PROCEDURES
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When two (2) or more employees are injured in the same
accident.
When attention by the press is anticipated.
When the incident involves a work zone intrusion.
NOTE: This is not an all-inclusive list of what must be reported.
Return to Work
An employee must not be allowed to return to work after an injury
without a written release from the treating physician. If the
employee has physical restrictions that prevent them from
performing their full duty job, refer to the Transitional Duty section
below.
Notify the Human Resource Office immediately upon the
employee’s return to work so that the Third Party Administrator
can be notified.
A CDL operator returning from a work-related injury absence of
more than 30 consecutive calendar days may return to work
pending a pre-employment drug test result, but may not perform
safety sensitive functions until a negative test result is received.
The supervisor must immediately send the employee for a preemployment drug test upon return to work. Refer to the CDL Drug
& Alcohol Testing section.
Transitional Duty
PennDOT is committed to providing transitional duty when
operationally feasible for an employee who is unable to perform
his/her normal assignment due to a work-related injury, but
capable of fulfilling the requirements of a transitional work
assignment for a limited period of time not to exceed (90) calendar
days. Requests for extensions beyond 90 calendar days must
have prior written approval from the Bureau of Human Resources.
Transitional work is any job, task, function or combination of tasks
or functions that a worker with restrictions may perform safely and
without the risk of re-injury. In cases where an employee’s
restrictions preclude performing his/her pre-injury job (or a
particular aspect of the job), every reasonable effort must be
made to identify a productive job assignment that will
accommodate temporary restrictions as identified by the
panel/treating physician.
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WORK RELATED INJURY PROCEDURES
An employee on transitional duty may be utilized for overtime work
unless physically restricted by the panel/treating physician.
However, the employee will not qualify for overtime equalization if
the nature of the overtime work is not consistent with work
performed as part of the employee’s regular job duties.
Refer to PUB 549, Transitional Duty Job Examples.
To Offer Transitional Duty, Comply with the Following Steps:
1. Medical documentation identifying physical restrictions that
affect the employee’s essential job functions is required.
2. The County Manager/Bureau Director/Manager of the
injured employee, in collaboration with the Human
Resource Office, determines whether transitional duty is
operationally feasible. If feasible, develop a position
description for the injured employee to accommodate the
restrictions. If not, please provide justification to the
Human Resource Office for not being able to return the
employee to transitional duty work.
3. The Supervisor and County Manager or Bureau Director
must meet with the employee to explain transitional duties
and answer questions from the employee. The
responsibilities listed in PPIM 09-086, Transitional Duty
Program for Work-Related Injuries, must be reviewed with
the employee.
4. Obtain a signed Transitional Duty Acknowledgement Form
and forward to the Human Resource Office.
5. The supervisor must ensure that the employee stays within
the restrictions as specified on the medical form by the
panel/treating physician.
6. Employee must obtain periodic medical updates (at least
every 30 days) and provide them to his/her supervisor.
Management will determine if transitional duties may
continue or are appropriate based on the type of work
normally performed, the nature of injury, and medical
restrictions. Copies of all medical documentation must be
provided to the Human Resource Office.
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WORK RELATED INJURY PROCEDURES
7. Ensure compliance with the CDL Drug & Alcohol Testing
Program. A CDL employee is required to immediately
submit to a pre-employment drug test if absent for more
than 30 calendar days. Review the following scenarios to
determine if applicable.
a. CDL operator is restricted from safety sensitive
functions. The employee may not be sent for a preemployment drug test until released to CDL equipment
operation or full duty work. In addition, the employee
may not be subjected to random testing until a preemployment test has been performed.
b. CDL operator is capable of performing CDL duties, but
is placed on transitional duty because of the inability to
perform full duties. Immediately send the employee for
a pre-employment drug test. The employee may return
to work prior to receiving a negative test result;
however, must not be permitted to operate CDL
equipment until a negative test result has been verified.
19
CAUSE IDENTIFICATION AND CORRECTIVE ACTION
At the conclusion of accident and near miss investigations,
management reviews all of the information to identify causes and
implement corrective actions to minimize the risk of repeat
accidents or near misses. Refer to Attachment 3 of PPIM 13-156
for additional information.
These two (2) questions must be answered:
• What caused the injury/collision?
• What can be done to prevent it from happening again?
Causes and corrective actions can be divided into four categories
as follows:
CAUSES
Equipment/Tools/Vehicles/
Materials or Chemicals
• Damage/Defect
• Design/Quality flaws
• Improper use
• Improper equipment
• New/Unfamiliar
• Improper maintenance
• Lack of information
Management Systems
• Hazard unaddressed,
undetected or unreported
• Training inadequate,
nonexistent or not provided
• Job procedures inadequate
or not followed
• Miscommunication
Work Environment
• Hazardous atmosphere
• Improper positioning
• Improper configuration
• Inclement weather
• Insufficient work space
• Lighting/Noise levels
• Temperature extremes
• Traffic conditions
• Third party actions
People
• PPE not used, inadequate or
unavailable
• Job procedures unknown,
too complex, not written or
not followed
• Task exceeds capability
• Impairment
• Job structure encourages
deviation from procedures
• Emergency equipment not
used, inadequate, unavailable
• Safety Violation
20
CAUSE IDENTIFICATION AND CORRECTIVE ACTION
CORRECTIVE ACTIONS
Equipment/Tools/Vehicles/
Materials or Chemicals
• Establish/Modify inspection
protocol
• Monitor communications
• Correct behavior
• Establish/Modify training
• Provide proper equipment
• Monitor use of equipment
• Establish/Improve
communications
• Establish/Modify
maintenance protocol
Management Systems
• Establish/Modify job
procedures
• Monitor performance
• Conduct/Modify job safety
analysis
• Provide training
• Establish training plan
• Establish/Modify hazard
communication monitoring
• Establish/Modify inspection
process
• Establish/Modify hazard
recognition/reporting
process
• Identify/Address
communication barriers
Work Environment
• Atmospheric monitoring
• Address/Correct behavior
• Traffic control plan within
work zone
• Establish/Modify planning or
scheduling practices
• Establish/Modify job
procedures
• Reconfigure/Improve work
area
• Rotate employees to
decrease exposures
• Implement environmental
controls
People
• Provide/Modify PPE with
characteristics specific to
job
• Provide required equipment
• Promote job procedures
• Provide required personnel
• Establish/Modify job
procedures
• Modify equipment or
personnel requirements
• Correct behavior
Disciplinary action may be taken for safety violations, but should
not be the only corrective action. (Reference the Safety Related
Working Rules section.)
21
FIRST AID KITS
The availability of first aid supplies to employees is required for
treatment of minor injuries that occur in the workplace. Every
facility must have a minimum of one first aid kit per 100 employee
occupants. Every work crew must have a minimum of one first aid
kit per crew at the job site.
PennDOT approved first aid kits must contain the following items:
1 oz. Eye Wash w/Pads
4 oz. Buffered Eye Wash
Adhesive Cloth Bandages, 1" x 3"
Alcohol Prep Pads
Bandage Compress, 2" Offset
Bandage Compress, 4" Offset
Burn Treatment Dressings, 2" x 2"
Burn Treatment Dressings, 2" x 6"
CPR Mask with 1-way Valve
Fingertip Bandages
Forceps & Scissors
Gauze Bandages, 2" x 6"
Gauze Compress, 1 Sq. Yard
Hydrocortisone, 1/32 oz.
Instant Cold Pack
Knuckle Bandages
Latex or Nitrile Gloves
Poison Ivy Cleanser Towelettes
PVP Iodine Wipes
Sting Relief Wipes
Triangular Bandages
The location of first aid kits must be clearly marked and easily
accessible to employees. The supervisor of the unit or crew
where a first aid kit is located is responsible for maintaining the
contents in the kit. Quantities must be maintained to ensure that
there are sufficient supplies for the employees accessing each kit.
Items with expiration dates must be replaced before they expire.
No pain or personal medications are permitted to be stored in
these kits.
22
PRE-OPERATION PROCESS (DAILY SAFETY TALKS)
The Foreman/Supervisor will conduct pre-operation safety
meetings at the beginning of each work period and as conditions
change. Discussion should be related to the work to be performed
and safe operating procedures that apply. The daily safety talk
can be done utilizing the Job Safety Analysis Guide, PUB 517.
The following ideas are to assist the foreman/supervisor in
preparing his/her daily talk and to ensure that proper safety
procedures are established. Additional topics may be obtained
from the PUB 247 “Daily Safety Talks.”
Work Zone Traffic Control Instructions
• Appropriate set up (Reference PUB 213/MUTCD)
• Condition and visibility of traffic control devices
• Control of construction vehicles and employees/pedestrian
in and around the work zone
• Flag person(s) location and responsibilities (Reference
PUB 234)
Work Environment Hazards
• Biological hazards (waste water, blood borne pathogens)
• Chemical hazards referencing the Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Confined spaces
• Environmental hazards (sun exposure, poisonous plants,
biting/stinging insects, standing/moving water, snakes)
• Fall hazards
• Impact of weather conditions
• Lifting hazards (manhole covers, grates, rocks, tree parts,
signs, posts, litter, guiderail panels)
• Overhead hazards (overpasses, utility lines, tree limbs,
signs)
• Road rage/work zone intrusions
• Trench and excavation hazards
• Underground utilities (notification of PA One Call)
• Walking hazards (litter, debris, holes, uneven surfaces,
unstable soil, slippery surfaces)
23
PRE-OPERATION PROCESS (DAILY SAFETY TALKS)
Use of Tools/Equipment/Vehicles
• Inspection of tools for serviceability
• Be cautious of jewelry, long hair or nails, loose clothing
around power tools, machines or moving parts
• If no seat, no rider allowed on equipment
• No long distance tramming of equipment
• Proper backing procedures and use of spotters
• Proper training and certification for equipment operation
• Proper use of power tools
• Proper use of seat belts
• Proper use of three-point contact when mounting and
dismounting construction vehicles and equipment
Emergency Procedures
• Emergency communication and transportation process
• Emergency Response Guidebook (hazardous material
spills, fires)
• Medical, police, fire and environmental emergency
procedures
• Review MSDS or SDS
Personal Protective Equipment Requirements
(Review MSDS or SDS)
• Air monitoring device
• Chainsaw chaps
• Eye protection
• Hand protection
• Head protection
• Hearing protection
• High visibility apparel
• Proper footwear
• Respirators
• Skin protection
• Etc.
24
CONFINED SPACE ENTRY PROCEDURES
Every step must be taken to protect employees from the hazards
associated with confined space work. For additional information,
refer to PPIM 09-132 or contact your District Safety Coordinator or
the Employee Safety Division.
Spaces that meet all of the following criteria are confined
spaces:
• Large enough to bodily enter
• Limited means of entry and exit
• Not designed for continuous human occupancy
Examples of confined spaces include, but are not limited to:
• Tanks, Sewers
• Pits, culverts, inlets, pipelines, pipes
• Trenches deeper than 4’
• Utility vaults, manholes, bridge box beams, sewage
digesters
If an employee must enter a confined space, that space must be
classified prior to entry. The classification process identifies the
precautions that must be taken to enter these spaces safely. If
the space has not been classified, the employee must notify
his/her supervisor; the supervisor will arrange for a Cataloger to
inspect and classify the space.
Classifying and Cataloging Spaces
PennDOT has designated employees, Catalogers, who are
specially trained to evaluate and classify confined spaces. These
individuals determine the specific procedures that must be
followed in order to ensure safe entry into confined spaces. Once
the space has been classified, it can be entered as long as the
proper procedures are followed.
PennDOT has four basic
classifications of confined spaces:
•
Non-Permit Required Confined Spaces are spaces that
meet the basic definition of a confined space, but do not
have any additional recognized hazards. These spaces do
not require any additional actions prior to entry.
•
Permit-Required Confined Spaces that can be
Reclassified are spaces that contain physical or
mechanical hazards that must be addressed prior to entry.
These spaces do not contain, or have the potential to
contain, a hazardous atmosphere.
25
CONFINED SPACE ENTRY PROCEDURES
•
Permit-required Confined Spaces that can be Entered
using Alternate Entry Procedures are spaces that
contain, or have the potential to contain, only atmospheric
hazards. This would include low levels of oxygen or high
levels of dangerous gases. These spaces cannot contain
any physical or mechanical hazards. The atmospheric
hazards must be controlled by either natural or forced air
ventilation. These spaces require continuous monitoring.
•
Full Permit-Required Confined Spaces (PRCS) are
spaces that cannot be reclassified or entered using
alternate procedures. These spaces have hazards that
cannot be effectively controlled. Entering these spaces
requires a confined space permit, readily available rescue
personnel, and specialized training and equipment. Entry
into PRCS by Department personnel without the support of
the Employee Safety Division and approval of the Deputy
Secretary for Highway Administration is prohibited.
Designing New Structures
When designing new structures, the structures must be designed
to avoid creating permit-required confined spaces. This includes
looking at entries to and exits from spaces and sources of fresh
air.
Confined Spaces on Contracted Jobs
Most spaces associated with new construction are temporary.
Transportation Construction Inspectors (TCIs) could be required to
enter some of these temporary spaces to conduct inspections.
Contractors are responsible for providing a confined space
program to protect PennDOT employees from the hazards
associated with these spaces.
Before PennDOT construction employees enter a confined space,
they must be familiar with the characteristics of the confined
space, the procedures that must be followed to safely enter the
space, and the steps the contractor took to identify and address all
hazards associated with that space. If there are questions about
the effectiveness of a contractor’s program to protect PennDOT
employees, the employees are to report the issues to their
supervisor.
26
MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM
Medical surveillance testing may be required based on exposure
to occupational hazards. Employees engaged in the following
duties may require testing. This list is not all inclusive. Contact
your Human Resource Office for further details.
•
Painting - Employees working with lead-based paint
should be monitored annually for high levels of lead in their
blood, as well as toluene, chromium and zinc. A urinalysis
and liver function study must be done as well as a
complete blood count.
•
Welding - Employees engaged in welding should be
monitored annually for high levels of lead, toluene,
chromium and zinc, along with a liver function study. A
lateral and PA Chest X-Ray and pulmonary function test
are required every three years.
•
Herbicide Application - Employees working with
herbicides must have an annual complete blood count and
liver function study. A lateral and PA Chest X-Ray and
pulmonary function test are required every three years.
•
Asbestos Based Material Exposure - Employees
exposed to asbestos should be given an annual pulmonary
function test and review of their physical and health history.
A lateral and PA Chest X-Ray (with a “B Read”) should be
done every three years.
•
Bridge Inspectors - Employees exposed to lead based
paint and/or an airborne action level of 30µg/M³ at least
one day per year or entering a containment area must get
a biannual blood test. This test should be done once
during work season when the risk of exposure of airborne
lead is greatest, and as soon as possible after the work
season operations end. Blood tests should check for
levels of lead and zinc present.
Refer to PPIM 09-107 for additional information.
27
FALL PROTECTION
Appropriate fall protection methods and procedures must be
established, implemented and monitored by a competent person
for operations that will expose employees to unprotected edges 6
feet or more above a lower level before beginning the operation
and until the operation is completed. This must be accomplished
in accordance with OSHA Standard 1926 Subpart M and
Department guidelines. Refer to PPIM 13-162 for additional
information.
TRENCH AND EXCAVATION SAFETY
Appropriate safety measures must be implemented and monitored
by a competent person for operations requiring employees to
enter trenches greater than 5 feet in depth before beginning the
operation and until the operation is completed. This must be
accomplished in accordance with OSHA Standard 1926 Subpart P
and Department guidelines.
Safety measures may include, but may not be limited to:
• Means of access and egress
• Protection from falling loads
• Warning systems for mobile equipment
• Protection from hazards associated with water accumulation
• Protection from cave-ins (such as sloping or a shield system)
• Protection from loose rock or soil
• Daily inspections of excavations, adjacent areas and
protective systems by a competent person
• Stability of adjacent structures
• Protection from hazardous atmospheres
• Emergency rescue equipment
Appropriate safety measures must be implemented and
monitored by a competent person for operations requiring
employees to enter excavations greater than 4 feet in depth,
which may include:
• Means of access and egress
• Testing for hazardous atmospheres
• Monitoring for potential cave-in
28
LADDER SAFETY
Employees must comply with all Department safety rules and
regulations concerning ladder safety by:
• Attending all necessary training or instruction
• Performing basic ladder inspections before use
• Ensuring the appropriate ladder is selected and used properly
Damaged or defective ladders must be reported to a supervisor,
properly tagged, and removed from service immediately until it is
repaired or replaced.
Refer to PPIM 12-146 for additional
information.
JOB SAFETY ANALYSES
Job Safety Analysis (JSA) is an integral and proactive part of a
continuous improvement process focused on improving employee
safety and health. The completed analyses resulting from this
process identify the hazards and the current controls necessary to
perform those jobs safely.
Employees must:
• Review all job related JSAs at least annually
• Notify their supervisor of changes to work processes,
identified hazards or controls
• Attend all necessary training or instruction
• Perform work in accordance with the JSA
Supervisors are strongly encouraged to seek additional ways to
incorporate JSAs into their routine activities.
Some of the ways JSAs may be used include:
• Initial training or job instruction for new employees
• Refresher or awareness training for existing employees
• Pre-operation instruction for infrequent or non-routine jobs
• Pre-operation safety talks or meetings
• Assist with accident investigation or After Action Reviews
(AAR)
• Benchmarking and evaluating employee safety performance
• Resource in other required equipment or job training
All completed JSAs are contained in Publication 517 (JSA Manual).
Under the guidance of the Employee Safety Division, employees will
participate in an ongoing effort to develop and revise JSAs. Refer to
PPIM 12-154 for additional information.
29
SAFETY COMMITTEES
Safety committees must be established in each district/county. They
may also be established in other organizations, as appropriate.
When possible, committee membership must consist of an equal
representation of management and union employees.
The purpose of safety committees is to regularly bring workers and
management together in a non-adversarial, cooperative effort to
promote safety and health in the workplace. Committees are
empowered to routinely identify and recommend solutions to senior
management for the Department’s safety and health related issues.
Safety committees must meet the following criteria:
• Equal representation of management and union employees
when possible
• Meet at least once each quarter
• Represent and review concerns from all work locations
• Set annual goals and objectives, and communicate their
status and accomplishments to senior management
• Communicate meeting agendas and safety related
information with management, committee members and
employees
• Record and post meeting minutes in prominent places
• Assist in the identification and correction of workplace
hazards
• Review and/or investigate accidents and make
recommendations to prevent recurrences
• Review safety suggestions
Training for committee members includes Principles of Hazard
Identification, Accident Investigation and Safety Committee
Operations. Recognition through the Department of Labor and
Industry is optional. Refer to PPIM 11-133 for additional information.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
To ensure immediate and competent handling of emergency
situations, emergency response and building evacuation procedures,
including assembly area and roll call requirements, must be
established in all occupied facilities. Employees are encouraged to
participate as members of evacuation safety teams at permanently
occupied facilities to help ensure safe, efficient evacuations. Refer to
PPIM 01-026 and Management Directive 205.38 for additional
information.
30
TRAINING
The following training and educational programs are available by
contacting your District Safety Coordinator, District Training
Coordinator, Library and Research Center, or the Employee
Safety Division:
•
Safe Driver Training:
Safe driving instruction is
mandatory for all employees. The classroom course is
required for employees who drive crew cabs and
commercial vehicles. All other employees must take the
online course. Refer to PPIM 13-160 for additional
information.
•
CDL Drug and Alcohol Testing Program: All employees
required to operate commercial motor vehicles must
receive training on the Commonwealth’s CDL Drug and
Alcohol Testing Program. Supervisors of CDL employees
must receive supervisory training on the Commonwealth’s
CDL Drug and Alcohol Testing Program.
•
Respiratory Protection: Instruction on the types of
respiratory hazards existing in the workplace must be
provided for all employees required to wear respirators.
•
Worker and Community Right-to-Know Act (PA Code
Title 34): Training must be provided to all employees on
provisions of the Act and employee rights under the law
within 120 days of hire. Annual training must be provided
to those employees who are required to work with
hazardous substances.
•
Bloodborne Pathogens and Infectious Diseases:
Employees who are identified as at risk for potential
occupational exposure to blood or other potentially
infectious material must receive Bloodborne Pathogens
training annually.
Course instruction includes
familiarization with the Department’s Exposure Control
Plan as well as instruction on the use of universal
precautions, availability and use of PPE, potential
exposure risks, and methods of blood/bodily fluid clean up.
31
TRAINING
•
Workplace Violence Prevention: All employees must
receive training/information on workplace violence
prevention policy and procedures.
•
CPR and First Aid Training: Employees may volunteer,
with the approval of their supervisors and local human
resource office, to be trained in CPR, First Aid, and
Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Employees must
successfully complete this training and maintain a valid
certification. They must not offer services or medical
assistance falling outside their level of training to assure
adequate protection under the Good Samaritan law.
Funding for this training is not currently available from any
centralized contract and therefore funds for any classes
scheduled must be approved locally. Vendors must be
chosen from the current Department of General Services
master list of qualified providers. Employees who receive
such training are expected (within reason) to be willing to
offer their assistance to any injured employee in the event
of a medical emergency. Refer to PPIM 10-132 for
additional information.
Additional Training Resources
Training sessions and educational materials for specific needs are
available for the following areas through your District Safety
Coordinator and the Employee Safety Division:
• Back Injury Prevention and Lifting Techniques
• Ergonomics
• Excavation/Trench Safety
• Fall Protection
• Flammable Gases and Liquids
• Hearing Conservation
• Job Safety Analysis
• Manual and Mechanized Material Handling and Storage
• Office Safety
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Scaffolding
• Sight Conservation
• Walking/Working Surfaces
32
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
AND WORK ATTIRE
The use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and work
attire is required and considered a condition of employment. PPE
is provided by the Department and is available to all employees as
needed. All PPE must be Department approved.
Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that all employees under
their supervision have and use the proper protective equipment,
work attire and training on usage.
The following seasonal work attire requirements apply to all
employees engaged in or entering into any field operation
involving
maintenance,
construction,
design,
surveying,
inspections, etc. (on or off state right-of-way).
Summer Attire
Employees must dress appropriately for exposure to poisonous
plants, intense sun, extreme heat, wind and rain.
• Light-weight, light-colored, cotton or cotton-blend tops with
unaltered sleeves 6 inches or longer from the seam. Seethrough clothing is prohibited.
• Full length trousers. No sweatpants or capris are allowed.
• Appropriate footwear as defined under the Foot Protection
section.
Winter Attire
Employees must dress appropriately for exposure to severe cold,
wind, rain, sleet and snow. The following are recommended:
• Wearing wool or wool blend clothing and dressing in layers
• Winter liners for hard hats, gloves and glove liners.
High-Visibility Apparel
All employees engaged in or entering into any field operation
involving
maintenance,
construction,
design,
surveying,
inspections, etc. (on or off state right-of-way) or exposed to
moving vehicles and equipment are required to wear high-visibility
vests, t-shirts, sweatshirts, raincoats or jackets which meet the
ANSI Class 2 or 3 safety garment requirements based on the
following criteria. This personal protective safety clothing is
intended to provide conspicuity for both daytime and nighttime
use.
33
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
High-Visibility Vests
All employees, including management and temporary, engaged in
or entering into any field operation involving maintenance,
construction, design, surveying, inspections, etc. (on or off state
right-of-way) or exposed to moving vehicles and equipment must
be issued vests.
The vest must be worn over at least a shirt with long or short
sleeves. PennDOT has two different vests currently in use. The
multicolor high visibility yellow vest with orange stripes and gray
reflective trim and the single color high-visibility yellow vest both
meet the ANSI Class 2 requirements.
All maintenance field employees must wear the multicolor vests.
At a minimum, the employees from the Bureau of Public
Transportation and the Bureau of Rail Freight, Ports and
Waterways who conduct construction or safety-related site visits
at transit systems and freight-related carriers must wear the multicolored vest, but may be required to wear different apparel/PPE
by each transit system.
Organizations must purchase the multicolor vest from the
Pennsylvania Industries for the Blind and Handicapped (PIBH)
through your local purchasing agent. The existing single color,
high visibility yellow vest can no longer be purchased.
Employees Performing Flagging Duties
All employees assigned flagging duties must wear:
• Multicolor high-visibility yellow vest with orange stripes and
gray reflective trim or
• Single color high visibility yellow reflective raincoat during
inclement weather.
Nighttime Operations
During nighttime operations, ANSI Class 3 garments are required
for all employees exposed to moving vehicles and/or equipment.
ANSI Class E reflective leggings or chaps worn in combination
with the ANSI Class 2 garment meet ANSI Class 3 requirements.
34
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
High Visibility T-shirts/Sweatshirts
All union-covered rank and file, permanent maintenance,
construction, survey and bridge inspection personnel who are
assigned continuous field duty, including union-covered first level
supervisors, will be provided PennDOT-issued ANSI Class 2 tshirts and ANSI Class 3 sweatshirts.
Management and
employees performing clerical and/or administrative duties are not
eligible to receive these t-shirts and sweatshirts. Employees such
as mechanics who are issued uniforms must not be issued t-shirts
and sweatshirts. Management and temporary field employees will
be provided with Department-issued vests only.
Eligible employees must be given the opportunity to order up to
five t-shirts for the spring of even numbered years and one
sweatshirt for the fall of even numbered years for purchase by the
Department. This process will repeat every two years (i.e. 2014,
2016, 2018, etc.). T-shirts and a sweat shirt may also be ordered
for eligible new employees upon hire. Organizations must
purchase the t-shirts and sweatshirts from PIBH.
The ANSI class of the garment is based on its design when
purchased. These garments must not be modified in any way.
Modified garments will be considered non-compliant. T-shirts and
sweatshirts will not be replaced by the employer due to fading,
wear and/or tear. Employees will be required to wear vests if
outer garments are deemed non-compliant by a supervisor or
management.
Beyond the PennDOT allotment, permanent and temporary
employees will be allowed to purchase their own t-shirts and
sweatshirts directly from PIBH only. For t-shirts, there is a
minimum of 12 shirts per order and orders less than four dozen
(48) shirts will have freight added. For sweatshirts, there is no
minimum number to order or additional freight. Organizations
cannot assign this additional ordering to an employee as a work
duty. Employees who want to go together to order must make
arrangements during non-work hours. Employees can order from
PIBH by calling 1-800-447-8860 or visiting www.pibh.org.
35
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
High-Visibility Leggings/Chaps
Department provided ANSI Class E high-visibility leggings/chaps
are optional for daylight operations.
Supervisors may require
leggings or chaps anytime they determine additional visibility would
enhance safety. Organizations must purchase the high-visibility
leggings or chaps from PIBH through your purchasing agent.
Rainwear
All employees engaged in or entering into any field operation
involving
maintenance,
construction,
design,
surveying,
inspections, etc. (on or off state right-of-way) or exposed to
moving vehicles and equipment are eligible to wear rainwear.
In lieu of wearing a vest, t-shirt, sweatshirt or jacket, rainwear can
be worn during inclement weather.
If rain pants are not worn with the raincoat during inclement
weather, all employees exposed to moving vehicles and
equipment during nighttime operations will be required to wear
high-visibility/reflective leggings or chaps in combination with the
raincoat.
The rain coat meets or exceeds ANSI Class 3 specifications and
the rain pants meet or exceed ANSI Class E specifications.
Organizations must purchase the high visibility reflective rainwear
from Pennsylvania Correctional Industries (PCI) through your local
purchasing agent.
High-Visibility Jackets
High‐visibility yellow jackets meeting ANSI Class 2 or 3 standards
will be considered acceptable safety attire and can be purchased
and worn by the employee. The Department will not purchase
jackets for employees. The jackets must contain a label/tag to
show that the jackets are either ANSI Class 2 or 3 compliant.
Employees will be allowed to purchase the high‐visibility jackets
from any store.
36
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
Hard Hats/Bump Caps
All employees must wear hard hats:
• When engaged in or entering any field operation involving
maintenance, construction, design, surveying, inspections,
etc. (on or off state right-of-way).
• When there is a clear and present danger of falling objects.
• When exposed to falling or flying material.
• When exposed to overhead electrical conductors.
• At the direction of a supervisor/foreman.
NOTE: Although hard hats are required for the above described
circumstances, there may be a need to perform a certain task
(e.g., using telescopic lenses, climbing under vehicle for repairs,
etc.) which may require the employee to temporarily remove the
hard hat to accomplish the task. The hard hat must be replaced
when the task is completed.
Exemptions for wearing hard hats:
• At Department facilities to include stockpiles, garages and
yards unless engaged in or entering an operation where
danger exists as described above.
• While operating equipment with an enclosed cab or
overhead impact protection.
Only Department-issued decals may be added to the hard hats.
No writing or markings are permitted on the outside of the hard
hat. Accessories designed for hard hats, such as neck shades,
sweatbands, doo-hats, hard hat coolant pads, chin straps, etc.
may be worn with the hard hats. Employees must not be allowed
to wear any other object under the hard hat due to limited
clearance between the hard hat suspension and the wearer’s
head, e.g., a baseball hat. Hard hats may not be worn backwards
or sideways.
Yellow hard hats must be worn by all rank and file employees.
White hard hats must be worn by management and first level
supervisors.
Operator instructors are permitted and encouraged to wear blue
hard hats.
37
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
Bump caps are optional in any area where hard hats are not
required. Under no circumstances may a bump cap be substituted
for a hard hat.
The standard/safari hard hats and the bump caps must be
purchased from PIBH through your local purchasing agent.
Replacement Cycles
The replacement of vests, leggings/chaps, rainwear, hard hats
and hard hat suspensions depends on the particular type of work,
environmental factors, the person actually wearing the garment,
and the care of garment.
Replacement of these garments must be based on a visual
inspection.
The District Safety Coordinator must establish
procedures to ensure these garments are visually inspected
annually.
The garments must be replaced anytime one or more of the
following conditions are observed:
• When there is fading, wear and tear of vests,
leggings/chaps and rainwear
• If the hard hat is cracked, faded or has been subjected to a
significant impact
• If hard hat suspensions are visibly worn or damaged
In addition, manufacturer’s specifications recommend that the
suspension be replaced annually and hard hats every 5 years for
hard hats worn on a daily basis.
Prior to re-issuing, the vests, leggings/chaps, rainwear and hard
hats in good condition that are returned due to separation of
employees
must
be
washed/disinfected
by
the
Bureau/District/County. Hard hat suspensions must always be
replaced prior to re-issuing. In general, garments must only be
worn by the employee to whom it was issued unless the garment
has been washed/disinfected by the Bureau/District/County.
38
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
Hearing Protection
Hearing protection must be worn when:
• The noise level in the work environment exceeds 85
decibels or as deemed necessary by the supervisor.
(Contact your District Safety Coordinator for measuring
noise levels in your work area.)
• Temporarily exposed to loud noise from operations such
as pavement breaking, compacting, power impact or
cutting tools, blasting, drilling, post pounding, etc.
Two types of hearing protection:
• Ear plugs – inserted into ear canal to diminish noise
• Ear muffs – covers and seals the entire ear
Eye Protection
Safety glasses (prescription/non-prescription) with side
shields provide impact protection and must be worn:
• When operating or working near tools or machines that
may throw particles such as woodworking tools, power
tools, chippers, jack-hammers, etc.
• At the direction of the supervisor.
Safety goggles provide impact protection from flying
particles, dust and mist/splash and must be worn:
• Whenever there is a need to protect the eye from particles,
dust or mist/splash which cannot be stopped by wearing
safety glasses.
• At the direction of the Supervisor.
Eye protection devices must comply with ANSI Z87.1.
Face Protection
Face shields provide impact protection for the face from
flying particles, dust and mist/splash and must be worn:
• Whenever there is potential for injury to the face from flying
particles, dust or mist/splash from chemicals or other
substances.
• At the direction of the Supervisor.
If eye protection is necessary, safety glasses or goggles
must be worn along with the face shield.
Face protection devices must comply with ANSI Z87.1.
39
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
Hand Protection
Gloves must be worn whenever there is risk of abrasions,
lacerations, burns, blisters, or punctures.
In cases where
hazardous products are involved, refer to the Material Safety Data
Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Waterless skin cleanser must be made available to all employees
who do not have access to other clean-up facilities.
Medicated skin cream must be available to all employees
subjected to skin irritation or cuts.
Protective cream must be used for barrier protection against
acids, alkali, salts, alcohols, solvents, and fumes.
Foot Protection
Safety footwear must be of above the ankle design and is required
for all employees engaged in or entering into any field or garage
operation. Safety footwear needs to have good tread to help
prevent slips, trips and falls. Athletic footwear (e.g. sneakers or
tennis shoes) is not permitted.
Toe protection must be worn by all employees engaged in:
• Pneumatic spade, drill or tamper operations.
• All areas where there is a hazard from falling or rolling
objects, or from accidental tool impact.
• The Department provides toe protection that attaches to
safety footwear which is stored inside crew cabs.
Appropriate safety footwear must be worn by all employees
exposed to foot puncture hazards such as nails, glass, wire and
other sharp objects.
Respiratory Protection
When/where required, NIOSH/MSHA approved respirators must
be worn. When assigned a negative pressure respirator, a
medical evaluation questionnaire and pulmonary function test are
required prior to use. Respirator training and fit testing are
required before wearing any respirator.
40
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
Respirators must be worn when the following respiratory hazards
exist:
• Gases
• Fumes
• Dust/mist
• Oxygen deficiency (must use supplied air respirator)
• Unknown atmosphere/hazard (must use supplied air
respirator)
Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet or Safety Data Sheet for
the products in use.
If respirators are available to employees, but not mandatory,
employees must be provided with a copy of OSHA Standard 29
CFR 1910.134 Appendix D “Mandatory Information for Employees
Using Respirators When Not Required.”
Welding
There are two types of eye injuries related to welding, flash burn
and foreign objects. Flash burns can result from exposures of 30
seconds or less. Foreign objects can enter the eye when goggles
or face shields are lifted to inspect or chip slag from the weld.
Therefore safety glasses should be worn.
Welding goggles must be worn while engaging in or observing
metal burning or brazing operations.
Welding helmets must be worn when engaged in or observing gas
welding or arc welding/cutting.
Flash screens must be used when welding around employees
who do not have flash protection eye wear.
The following items approved for welding operations must be worn
when welding:
• Aprons and sleeves, or coveralls
• Gloves
Where high visibility safety apparel is required, an optional flame
resistant vest is available for purchase only from PIBH, for use
only by welders.
41
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
Crack Sealing Apparel
Employees involved in crack/joint sealing operations are at risk for
burns from hot tar or hot surfaces while operating the wand,
operating the squeegee, or working on or near the tar kettle. The
compressed air-gun operator is also at risk from blow-back of
debris from the high-pressure hose.
In an effort to reduce injuries from burns and flying debris
employees must wear PPE when performing certain tasks.
The PPE must meet or exceed the following specifications:
• Face shields must be in the ‘down’ position and must be
solid, not mesh.
• Hoods must be Nomex and cover the head and neck.
• Gloves must be leather with gauntlets.
• Coveralls must be rated to protect against thermal burns
and should be loose-fitting to allow for easy removal.
The following PPE must be worn when performing the following
tasks.
• Wand operators must wear a hard-hat with full face shield
attached, Nomex hood, loose-fitting coveralls or welder’s
apron, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and leather gloves
with gauntlets.
• Squeegee operators must wear a hard-hat with full face
shield attached, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and leather
gloves with gauntlets.
• Loading Operator (for machines requiring manual loading)
must wear a hard-hat with full face shield attached, Nomex
hood, loose-fitting coveralls or welder’s apron, longsleeved shirt, long pants, and leather gloves with
gauntlets.
• Any employee operating the tar kettle where danger of
spraying or splashing of hot liquid could cause injury from
burns must wear a hard-hat with full face shield attached,
Nomex hood, loose-fitting coveralls or welder’s apron,
long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and leather gloves with
gauntlets.
• Compressed air-gun operators must wear goggles.
42
PPE AND WORK ATTIRE
Crack Sealing Apparel (continued)
A safety vest is not required if an employee is wearing coveralls
that meet the ANSI Standards for Class 2 visibility and reflectivity.
Employees wearing coveralls or welder’s apron that does not
meet the ANSI Standard must be required to wear a safety vest
over the coveralls or welder’s apron.
Employees who have been splashed or sprayed with hot liquid
should cover the affected area with water to cool down the hot
liquid before attempting to remove garment.
Mineral oil is recommended for removal of asphalt rubber from
skin once burns have been cooled but should never be used as
first-aid treatment for burns from hot liquid.
If seeking professional medical treatment, do not attempt to
remove material.
Chainsaw Chaps
Leg chaps must be worn while operating or servicing a chainsaw.
Chaps must be carried on any vehicle that is carrying a chainsaw.
Seat Belts/Shoulder Harness
Seat belts, and shoulder straps for vehicles so equipped, must be
worn properly with the seat belt secured over the lap and the
shoulder harness secured over the arm and shoulder.
Seatbelts and shoulder harnesses must always be used when:
• Operating Department vehicles and equipment.
• Operating personal vehicles on Department business.
• Riding in any vehicle while on Department business.
• Occupying a stationary or shadow vehicle in a work zone.
EXCEPTION: Seat belts and shoulder harnesses must not be
used when operating Department vehicles and
equipment that do not have an enclosed cab or
rollover protection.
Seat belts need to be inspected daily by the operator for signs of
damage (e.g cut/frayed material) and kept in proper working
condition.
43
REFERENCES
AFSCME Master Agreement/Memorandum
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
Daily Safety Talks, Pub 247
Department of Transportation Working Rules
Equipment Managers Manual, Pub 177
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
Flagger Handbook, Pub 234
Highway Foreman Manual, Pub 113
International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA)
Job Safety Analysis, Pub 517
Labor and Industry Act 44
Office of Administration (OA), Administrative Manual M505.5
OA, Commonwealth Fleet Procedures Manual M615.3
OA, Injury Leave Manual M530.2
OA, Management Directives
OSHA Regulations for Construction (Part 1926)
OSHA Regulations for General Industry (Part 1910)
PennDOT Personnel Information Memorandums (PPIM)
Pennsylvania Worker and Community Right-to-Know Act
Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act
Temporary Traffic Control Guidelines, PUB 213
Transitional Duty Job Examples, PUB 549
44
GLOSSARY
Accident – An unplanned event that occurs while conducting
Department business, while on Department premises, or while
operating a Department vehicle or piece of equipment that
involves Department property and/or a Department employee and
that results in one or more of the following:
• Damage, no matter how minor, to private and/or
Department property
• An employee requiring professional medical attention for
an injury or illness
• An injury to a private citizen
• A fatality
Competent Person – One who is capable of identifying existing
and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions
which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and
who has the authority to take prompt corrective action.
Damage – The breaking, damaging, creasing, cracking, tearing,
denting, separation, weakening or disabling of any part of a piece
of property.
Excavation – Any man-made cut, cavity, trench, or depression in
an earth surface, formed by earth removal.
MSDS or SDS – Material Safety Data Sheets or Safety Data
Sheets are provided by the manufacturers of hazardous
substances and made available to employees as notification of all
known risks, methods of protection and proper response to
exposures.
MSHA – Mining Safety and Health Association
MUTCD – Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
Near Miss – An unplanned event that was observed to have had
the potential to be categorized as an accident but did not result in
property damage, injury/illness requiring professional medical
attention, or death. This includes, but is not limited to, work zone
intrusions that do not result in an accident.
NIOSH – National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health
OSHA – Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Property – Anything that is owned by a person or entity including
motor vehicles, equipment, facilities, land, structures, etc.
45
GLOSSARY
SEAP – State Employees Assistance Program
Shield System – A permanent or portable structure designed for
use in excavations to protect employees that are working within it
from the forces imposed by a cave-in.
These may be
prefabricated or job-built.
Shoring – A structure that supports the sides of an excavation
and is designed to prevent cave-ins.
Tramming – The act of moving construction equipment over the
highway under its own power. Refer to the Equipment Managers
Manual for limitations.
Trench – A narrow excavation made below the surface of the
ground; generally its depth is greater than its width and its width
does not exceed 15 feet. Width is measured at the bottom of the
excavation. If forms or other structures are installed in an
excavation, width is measured from the side of the form or
structure to the side of the excavation.
46
CONTACT INFORMATION
Employee Safety Division
717-787-6036
District 1-0 Safety Coordinator
814-678-7085
District 2-0 Safety Coordinator
814-765-0400
District 3-0 Safety Coordinator
570-368-8686
District 4-0 Safety Coordinator
570-963-4061
District 5-0 Safety Coordinator
610-871-4100
District 6-0 Safety Coordinator
610-205-6700
District 8-0 Safety Coordinator
717-787-6653
District 9-0 Safety Coordinator
814-696-7250
District 10-0 Safety Coordinator
724-357-2800
District 11-0 Safety Coordinator
412-429-5000
District 12-0 Safety Coordinator
724-439-7315
47
WORKERS’ MEMORIALS
The PennDOT Workers’ Memorial
is located in Harrisburg’s Riverfront
Park, just at the foot of the Harvey
Taylor Bridge.
The memorial
combines a tribute to the fallen
workers and an educational piece
designed to foster interaction
between adults and children. It is
designed to allow children viewing
the piece to stand under the
hardhat for pictures. It serves as a
fitting reminder of the sacrifices
made by PennDOT workers and of
the critical importance of safety.
November 22, 2002, the day the
memorial was dedicated, was
declared
PennDOT
Workers’
Memorial Day.
District 4-0’s Monument
permanently honors the
employees who died in
the line of duty.
Bureau of Human Resources, Employee Safety Division