Workplace Safety
Routine housekeeping and safety consciousness in the workplace can prevent accidents such as slips, trips and falls. Fire safety, electrical safety and an awareness of workplace violence are also important components in maintaining an illness and injury free work environment for The Graduate Center community.
General Safety
Housekeeping and general caution are key factors in avoiding accidents such as slips, trips and falls. To prevent injury, several general rules should be followed:
- Keep floors clear of debris and spilled liquids.
- Maintain floor coverings in good condition to avoid tripping hazards caused by loose tile and frayed carpet edging.
- Keep designated walkways and doorways clear, unobstructed, and free of electrical cords, boxes and office equipment at all times.
- When using file cabinets, file materials from the bottom to the top. Only open one file drawer at a time.
- Use proper step stools, not chairs, when climbing to reach high items.
- Properly store and handle any potentially hazardous chemicals.
Odors
- If possible, identify the source of the odor.
- Report the problem to the Office of Facilities Services & Campus Planning at x7730 and the Office of Security & Public Safety at x7777.
- Inform your supervisor of any adverse health symptoms. Those in need of immediate medical attention should call 911 and Security & Public Safety at x7777.
Fire Safety
- Know the location of fire alarm pull boxes, exits and fire extinguishers.
- Keep exit corridors and stairways free from waste paper, boxes, dirty rags and
other combustible storage.
- Keep fire doors closed, except doors equipped with automatic closing devices.
- Turn off or unplug electrical appliances such as coffee makers at the end of each working day.
- Participate in regular fire drills.
Electrical Safety
Almost all workplace areas have the potential to present serious electrical hazards. To protect yourself, follow these important guidelines:
- Avoid the use of extension cords as permanent wiring.
- When using extension cords for temporary purposes, ensure that they are appropriately rated for the equipment.
- Be sure the work surface is dry before operating electrical devices.
- Never unplug equipment by pulling on the cord; always remove the plug.
- Replace frayed or damaged cords.
- Ensure that electrical cords are not damaged by being wedged against furniture or doors. Do not run cords under carpeting.
- Only plug one piece of equipment into each outlet. Do not "daisy chain" extension cords and/or power strips.
Workplace Violence
Workplace violence is now considered to be covered under the Occupational Safety and Health Act's General Duty Clause - Section 5 (a) (1). The Graduate Center strives to provide employees and students a safe environment in which to live and work. Therefore, violence or threats of violence on campus will not be tolerated.
- Any person experiencing or observing imminent violence should call NYPD at 911 and Security & Public Safety at x7777.
- Take all threats of violence seriously.
- Report all acts or threats of violence to your immediate supervisor and the Office of Security & Public Safety. Such reports will be promptly and thoroughly investigated.
- Domestic violence can sometimes spill over to the workplace. If you are a victim of domestic violence and have an Order of Protection against your partner, inform the Office of Security & Public Safety so additional protective steps can be taken.
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Also in Health and Security Guide:
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