Title
Human Resources Department, Risk Management Division, recommending the Board approve an addition to Board of Supervisors Policy K-1 - Injury Illness and Prevention Program, specifically Regulatory Compliance Program No. 16, Office Safety, Section 4, Part D.
FUNDING: N/A
Body
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
As part of Objective 2.2 of the Good Governance Goal in the Board approved Strategic Plan, Board policies are undergoing a review/update process. On February 13, 2018, the Board of Supervisors adopted updates to Board of Supervisors Policy K-1 - Injury Illness and Prevention Program. The proposed addition would be an effort to maintain an acceptable lighting range for County office work environments. Departments will continue to have the flexibility to accommodate the different needs/preferences of the employees working in office work environments as long as they provide sufficient lighting for safety and energy conservation.
The specific language addition includes the following on page 176 of attachments A and B:
The Board of Supervisors Policy A-18, Energy Conservation Policy, states the maximum illumination levels for County of El Dorado offices to be 50 foot candles. Cal/OSHA requires a minimum illumination of .5 foot candles for office environments; however this does not provide adequate lighting for work. The minimum recommended illumination levels in an office setting are 20 foot candles, which is consistent with common best practice. Offices may regulate their lighting to the preferences and comfort of those working in the area, as long as the illumination levels remain between 20-50 foot candles.
Additional “house-keeping” formatting changes are included in the Board of Supervisors Policy K-1 - Injury Illness and Prevention Program.
ALTERNATIVES
The Board may choose not to approve the recommended addition or direct Risk Management staff to make additional modifications.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION
On February 13, 2018, the Board of Supervisors adopted updates to Policy K-1 - Injury Illness and Prevention Program (Legistar Item: 18-0176).
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
All Departments Heads
County Counsel
CAO RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board approve this item.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no direct financial impact to updating this policy. Indirectly, the County could realize fines should the proposed policy not be adopted. Additionally, the proposed policy should reduce the probability of employee injuries, loss of life, and/or being out on Workers’ Compensation.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
The Clerk of the Board will update the online Board Policy Manual with the approved changes, notify all department heads, as well as the Chair or staff for applicable boards, committees, and commissions.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
Good Governance
CONTACT
Tameka Usher, Director of Human Resources