Are Palomar College properties/facilities frequently inspected for safety? If so how often?
Yes, all facilities are scheduled to receive inspections on an annual basis by the Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) Office staff. However, in order to assure a safe working and learning environment, it is necessary for faculty, staff, students and visitors to be aware of their surroundings and report any concerns or unsafe concerns to their supervisor and/or EH&S by calling (760) 744-1150 ext.3677.
How do I maintain and inspect my ladder?
Even though there are various ladder types and materials, there are common guidelines to consider when maintaining and inspecting ladders:
(1) Inspect a ladder thoroughly before each use. Rungs, steps and rails should be intact and sturdy. Fasteners and braces should be in place and secure. Any moving parts should be in good working order.
(2) Keep the rungs clean, dry and free of any oil or grease. If an inspection reveals damage, the ladder should be repaired to its original condition. If repair is not practical or feasible, the ladder should be taken out-of-service.
(3) Ladders should not be painted because paint may disguise or cover cracks and damage. Ladders should be stored in a safe, dry location.
How do I obtain a license to drive a college-owned maintenance cart?
Take the Cart Safety Training (turn on your computer’s speakers). At the end of the training, you will be asked to select a website link to access the Cart Safety Quiz. The completed Cart Safety Quiz will be sent to Environmental Health & Safety. Once an employee has successfully passed the Cart Safety Quiz, a laminated cart license will be sent to your attention through campus mail
How do I obtain information about Safety Data Sheets (SDS)?
Safety Data Sheets are located under the Hazardous Materials section of this website.
How do I perform a self-guided safety inspection of my classroom, office and/or department?
- Fill out the Safety Inspection Checklist
- Once you have completed the form, please send to ehs@palomar.edu.
How do I report hazardous situations?
- Fill out the Hazard Identification Form
- If you do not have access to a computer, please report hazardous situations to the Environmental Health & Safety Office at extension 3677.
What is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics involves the arrangement of the workplace environment to fit the person’s work. When ergonomics is applied correctly, stress and many potential injuries/disorders associated with the overuse of muscles, bad posture and repeated tasks can be reduced. Palomar Community College District maintains a comprehensive Ergonomic Program that complies with all local, state and federal regulations.
More Information:
Ergonomic Training Preparedness
Easy Ergonomics for Desktop Users
How do I request a workstation/ergonomic evaluation?
- Faculty: Email your Department Chair and provide the following information:
Classified Staff:Email you Supervisor and provide the following information:- Full Name
- Worksite Location
- Phone Number
- Simple Description of your ergonomic request
- Department Chairs/ Supervisors: Please include the same information from above. Email Facilities Remedy at FacilitiesRemedy@palomar.edu
- After the Remedy Request has been received, the EH&S Department will contact the requesting employee to schedule an Ergonomic Assessment and gather more information.
- After the Ergonomic Assessment has been completed, the EH&S Department will make a recommendation and provide a cost estimate. If the requesting department approves, an account string must be provided before EH&S can purchase any of the recommended items.
In what situations should I use the Emergency Blue Phones?
The Emergency Blue Phones have been placed through campus for use in any situation in which the services of Campus Police are required. They can be used to report emergencies, request an escort across campus, report possible crimes, or any other situation which you deem appropriate. The Emergency Blue Phones provide a direct line of contact with Campus Police Dispatch which are available 7 days a week/24 hours per day.
What is the difference between lockout and tagout of equipment?
Lockout is the placement of an energy isolation device on a piece of equipment to render it inoperable. A lockout uses a lock to hold an energy isolating device in a safe position and prevents the energization of the machine or equipment.
Tagout is when a tag is placed on a piece of equipment to indicate that the equipment being controlled may not be operated until the tagout device is removed.
What is EH&S responsible for? Why would I need to contact EH&S?
The Environmental Health & Safety Office is responsible for monitoring all issues on campus regarding the health and safety of individuals and the environment. Areas of interest include indoor air quality, asbestos removal and hazardous waste.
Please check out the Programs page for more information on the programs that EH&S manages.
If you have questions regarding EH&S services, please contact the Supervisor, Environmental Health & Safety at 760/744-1150, extension 3677.
What is the Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP)?
The IIPP in compliance with Cal-OSHA General Industry Safety Order 3203, effective July 1, 1991, is a written “safety” program designed to help Palomar College staff and students maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment.
Who should I contact if I feel that I am being exposed to hazardous materials?
Health and safety issues can be directed to Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) at extension 3677 or at ehs@palomar.edu.
EH&S has developed policies and plans for many of the hazards present at the College. These hazards should not pose a hazard to you. However, EH&S should still be contacted to check your work location as a precaution if you suspect that you are being exposed to hazardous materials.
Who should I contact if I’m concerned about the noise levels in my work space?
Please contact the Environmental Health & Safety Office at extension 3677 or at ehs@palomar.edu.