 STATE
EMPLOYEE INJURY COMPENSATION TRUST FUND (SEICTF)
STATE INSURANCE FUND (SIF)
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
LOSS CONTROL SERVICES
The Alabama Legislature, upon creating the Division of Risk
Management, charged it with taking action and developing
programs to assist state agencies in reducing financial risk.
DORM established Loss Contol Services to meet this obligation.
Our mission is to prevent or minimize losses by state agencies.
With the implementation of the State Employee Injury
Compensation Trust Fund (SEICTF) in October of 1994. The mission
of Loss Control Services was expanded to include the prevention
and management of employee injuries. General safety,
early-return-to work and temporary alternative duty (TAD)
programs have been developed and are customized to meet the
special needs of each client agency.
Health, safety and physical property audits can be performed at
the request of client agencies.
The Loss Control Services Department has implemented several
seminars , conferences and programs with the goal of mitigating
losses:
1. Boiler and Machinery/HVAC Seminars-providing technical
updates and maintenance procedures for continuing education of
maintenance professionals. Seminars are held at least annually
at selected sites around the state, but usually, in Montgomery.
2. Loss Prevention Seminars-providing information to
participants on subjects, such as, emergency preparedness
contingency plans , bomb threat checklist procedures, fire
prevention, inside burglary, etc.. These seminars are also held
at selected sites around the state on a bi-annual basis.
3. Hurricane Preparedness Seminars-usually held in Mobile or
Baldwin Counties. Concentrates on getting ready for an upcoming
hurricane and various loss mitigation strategies. These seminars
are held on a bi-annual basis.
4. Highway Response/High Speed Pursuit Training-Customized
training specifically for law enforcement agencies. Risk
Management offsets tuition costs for these programs by giving
premium credits to the Policyholder.
5. Health/Safety Audits-Provides audits for client agencies
through the Safe State Onsite Consultation program. This is a
free, confidential safety and health consulting service provided
by the University of Alabama College of Continuing Studies.
These consultations help our Insureds voluntarily eliminate
problems which could occasion penalties assessed by federal
regulatory agencies. At the onset of the consultation, the
policyholder must agree to correct all identified hazards that
could result in serious injury to your employees.
6. Physical Property Audits/Inspections-Insured properties can
be inspected by a qualified Loss Control Specialist. The
property, or building, is appraised using the nationally
respected Boeckh Valuation System (a cost approach appraisal).
It is also inspected for fire, life safety and liability hazards
or exposures.
Many new programs and seminars are in the planning stages and
will be implemented in the near future. Watch Wise Words (your
quarterly newsletter) and this web site for further information.
STATE
EMPLOYEE INJURY COMPENSATION TRUST FUND
Injury Prevention
Many state employees are exposed to a great variety of hazards
while performing their job duties. Consultation services to
assist in recognizing, evaluating, and/or controlling worker
exposure to hazards in the workplace are available through the
DORM. This service is provided at no charge to agencies
participating in the SEICTF program.
Depending on the tasks they are assigned, workers may be exposed
to hazards such as:
- hazardous materials in the
form of solids, liquids, vapors, gases, and mists
- blood and other infectious
materials
- heavy manual lifting
- high noise levels
- aggressive, violent persons
or animals
- driving for extended
periods of time or in pursuit of other vehicles
A consultant with specialized
expertise and knowledge will assist in the recognition and
evaluation of conditions which might result in injuries.
Evaluations may include the following: observation of workers
performing job tasks and taking samples or measurements to
detect and quantify hazardous materials in the work environment.
Consultants may also review current safety and health program
and accident reports. When an evaluation is complete, a written
report is provided to management personnel. Technical assistance
is available to guide implementation of recommendations.
Most solutions to health and safety concerns require minimal
resources to effectively minimize or prevent the chance of an
injury. In fact, studies have shown that resources properly
spent on injury prevention have anywhere from a five to ten
dollar return for every dollar spent. Consultants can assist in
identifying the most cost-effective solution to a specific
health and safety concern.
Injury Management
The goal of the SEICTF program is to provide quality medical
treatment and return the employee to productive work. Services
are available to assist in efforts to effectively coordinate and
manage the injured workers medical treatment and return to work.
To find out more about these services call (334) 223-6162.
To request or inquire about consultation services, call (334)
223-6159. Requests must be made by management level personnel.
Non-management personnel are encouraged to notify their
supervisors of health and safety concerns.
Temporary
Alternate Duty (TAD)
Temporary Alternate Duty is an early return to work
initiative that is currently being implemented in State
agencies. The purpose of the program is to return injured
employees back into the workforce in a limited capacity
until they are physically able to resume their full time job
duties. TAD program provides an opportunity for the injured
employee to remain actively employed and thus a valuable
member of the workforce. The program provides a proven
cost-effective means for controlling costs of on-the-job
injuries. TAD is beneficial in that it:
- Provides an opportunity
for productive work while recovering from an injury.
- Provides the
opportunity for workers to receive their regular pay,
accrue sick and annual leave, accrue credit for
retirement purposes.
- Continues deductions
from paychecks for medical benefits for dependents as
well as any other payroll deductions for the employee.
- Prevents the loss of
job skills that occurs from lengthy absence from work.
- Promotes recovery and
healing of the injury.
The program consists of:
-
Injury
packets which contain instructions and all the necessary
benefit forms.
-
A
supervisor procedure for handling on-the-job injuries.
-
Job
profiles for each job classification. The profile
describes the essential functions and physical demands
of a job.
-
Supervisor
training.
Medical Case Management
Medical Case Managers are utilized when injuries require
extensive treatment and rehabilitation and to assist in
efforts to return the injured employee to the workplace.
Medical case management is performed by registered nurses
who work with the physician, other health care providers,
the injured employee, and the agency to assure that all
needs are being addressed effectively and in a timely
manner. Located throughout the state, case managers can
quickly respond to situations requiring prompt attention. A
full-time medical case manager is also assigned to the
SEICTF offices in Montgomery. Cases are initially evaluated
to determine the need for case management and re-evaluated
as needed during the course of treatment. Case management
can be requested by the physician, employee or employer.
Vocational Consultation
Specialists in vocational rehabilitation are available to
assist in matching the injured workers physical abilities
with job assignments or tasks. The goal is to promote a
safe, progressive return to productive work. Job placement
services may also be provided if the employee can no longer
perform the work tasks assigned prior to an injury.
Exposure to Blood and Other Potentially Infectious Materials
SEICTF has made a special effort to promote timely and
appropriate medical management of occupational exposure to
blood and other potentially infectious materials. These
materials may contain microscopic organisms, such as viruses
and bacteria which are capable of causing serious and
sometimes fatal illnesses. While the potential for exposure
is relatively small for many State employees, there is are
large number of State employees who find themselves at
increased risk due to the nature of their occupation.
Employees who experience a possible exposure require a
prompt initial medical evaluation and treatment. To
facilitate this, a network of participating hospitals
throughout the state has been developed. The program's
network of preferred providers, specifically the gatekeepers
and infectious disease specialists, are an integral part of
the process, as they provide follow-up management of this
type of injury.
It is often said that an ounce of prevention is worth a
pound of cure, and with this in mind, an emphasis on
preventing workplace exposures and protecting workers
through immunization has begun. An Occupational Health
Coordinator from SEICTF is available to conduct on-site
consultations. Services include exposure risk assessments
and guidance and support to employers in their efforts to
prevent exposures.
If you would like additional information regarding this
service or request a consultation, call (334) 223-6162.
Fraud Investigation
The State is not immune to fraudulent property and employee
injury claims. We encourage employees, agencies, and the
public to report suspected fraud to DORM. The person
reporting suspected fraud is not required to identify
himself. DORM will investigate claims of fraud and take
appropriate action. Suspected fraud may be reported to DORM
by calling the Risk Manager at
(334) 223-6120.
STATE INSURANCE FUND
Property Surveys
DORM surveys property insured by the State Insurance Fund to (1)
appraise value, (2) identify previously uninsured property, (3)
determine the appropriate type of insurance coverage, (4)
identify conditions and exposures which place property at
increased risk of loss and (5) notify the insuring agency of
identified hazards.
Appraisals are made using the nationally respected Boeckh
Valuation System. Insurance coverages will be assigned according
to age, condition and uses of the target properties. NFPA, OSHA
and other recognized codes are used to identify dangerous
conditions and exposures. Examples of hazardous conditions
include improper storage of flammable or combustible materials
and lack of adequate fire suppression systems. Complete surveys
are typically conducted for an entire agency. However, surveys
may be requested by an agency for a specific location or
building. To request a survey, call (334) 223-6120.
Boiler, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems
The operation of high pressure boiler systems present a
significant risk of loss to property and life if the systems are
not property maintained and operated. State agencies may
experience significant liability exposure associated with
operation of boilers. Large heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning (HVAC) systems also present a risk of significant
loss. Improperly operated and maintained systems can result in
destruction or damage to HVAC equipment, spoilage of perishable
materials such as vaccines, food and medications, failure of
electronic information systems, and disruption of business
operations for significant periods of time.
Inspections
Large heating boiler and HVAC systems are routinely inspected to
reduce and minimize risk exposures. These inspections are
provided through DORM. Recommendations to correct hazardous
conditions are made to the agency or facility as a result of
inspections. In addition to routine inspections, an inspection
may be requested by an agency when there is a condition or
situation believed to present a risk of loss. To request an
inspection, call (334) 223-6120.
Training and Education
Training and educational seminars are offered each year to
agency personnel who maintain and operate boilers and HVAC
equipment. Seminars focus on proper maintenance and operation as
a means of reducing the risk of loss.
Criminal Acts
Each year the State of Alabama loses millions of dollars as a
result of criminal acts such as arson, burglary, vandalism,
fraud, and theft of state property. You are encouraged to report
any known or suspected criminal act which resulted in the loss
of State resources. You are not required to identify yourself.
Just call the Risk Manager at (334)
223-6120.
It is the job
of the police to fight crime, but we can all help to reduce
crime. Most crime is against property, not people, and not
many crimes are carefully planned. Most are committed by
young people on the spur of the moment when they see the
chance-possessions left in a car or a door or window to a
house left open. By securing our cars, homes and our
personal property, we reduce the likelihood of "opportunity
crime".
Arson
Arson is the
leading cause of property loss due to fire. Over a half million
arson fires, including 100,000 building fires, cost our nation
more than 2 billion dollars annually and kill over 700 people.
Arson is the leading cause of property loss for the Boards of
Education insured through the Division of Risk Management (The
State Insurance Fund). Arson losses in schools are a growing
nationwide problem. Only 16% of arson offenses lead to arrest,
and only 2% of those arrested are convicted.
The following suggestions may help you to not become a victim of
arson:
1. Request an arson risk assessment from your local fire marshal
or police officials. They can make specific recommendations to
reduce the risk of arson.
2. Install perimeter lighting and consider motion activated
lighting near doors and windows.
3. Trim shrubs and vegetation low to the ground. This will
remove hiding places for criminals and reduces easy access to
buildings.
4. Consider installing a burglar alarm or video surveillance
equipment.
5. Consider installing automatic sprinkler systems and fire
detection systems. Many building codes require the installation
of such devices. Check with your authority having jurisdiction
in your area (Fire Marshal, Fire Department, etc.).
6. Combustible materials inside and outside of buildings should
be kept to a minimum.
7. Flammable liquids should be stored in suitable metal storage
cabinets under lock and key.
8. Participate in a neighborhood watch program in your
community.
Juvenile Firesetting
-
Juveniles
account for 55% of arson arests.
-
In a typical
year, in the U.S., 300 people are killed and $190,000,000 in
property is destroyed in fires set by children. Children
themselves are usually the victims of these fires accounting
for 85 of every 100 lives lost.
-
The number of
fires set by children is growing. It is a problem that needs
the attention of parents, teachers, counselors and community
leaders, in cooperation with fire and law enforcement
officers.
Curiosity Firesetters usually are 2-7 years old;
fascination with fire leads them to "play" with it. They do
not understand fire's destructive potential. Curiosity is a
normal part of a child's growth and development but parents
and other adults who discover that a child is playing with
fire should take it very seriously.
Problem Firesetters can also be very young, but
generally are 5-17 years old. These youngsters light fires
because of emotional or mental disturbances ranging from
mild to severe. Chronic behaviors such as a poor
relationship with other children, cruelty to animals, and
extreme mood changes are a few of the traits that data on
juvenile firesetters has revealed.
Here are some
prevention tips:
1. Teach children that fire is a tool we use to heat our homes
and cook our food and that it is not a toy. They must understand
that fire is dangerous and can kill. All fires, even small ones,
can spread quickly.
2. Even adults must follow special safety rules for fire.
3. Keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of
children-even a 2 year old can operate a lighter. Never allow
anyone to use lighters or matches in an unsafe manner in your
home. Teach children to report to you any unattended matches or
lighters they find.
4. Point out to your children the safety rules we follow
throughout the day.
5. Know the resources in your community that deter arson and
firesetting. Ask for help from your local fire department, your
state Fire Marshal or the National Arson Prevention Clearing
House (888-603-3100).
-Check our "links" and "hotlines" pages for more information...
Auto Theft/Carjacking
One vehicle is
stolen every 20 seconds in the United States. Stolen cars, vans,
trucks and motorcycles cost victims time and money-and increase
everyone's insurance premiums. They are also often used to
commit other crimes. Don't become a victim of this serious
crime.
Here are some ways
to keep from becoming a victim:
1. Never leave your keys in the car or ignition.
2. Always lock your car.
3. Avoid parking in isolated areas with little foot or auto
traffic. Be especially alert in unstaffed lots and enclosed
parking garages.
4. If you think your are being followed, drive to the nearest
police or fire station, open service station or other open
business to get help.
5. Don't pick up hitchhikers and don't be a hitchhiker yourself.
6. Consider carrying a CB radio or cell phone to make it easier
to summon help in an emergency.
7. Drive with your doors locked and windows rolled up.
8. When coming to a stop, leave enough room to maneuver around
other cars, especially if you sense trouble and need to get
away.
9. Even if you are in a rush, take time to look around and stay
alert to your surroundings.
Car thieves and
carjackers look for opportunities to ply their trade at
intersections controlled by lights or stop signs; garages and
parking lots; self-serve gas stations and car washes; ATMs
(Automated Teller Machines); and, any place where the driving
public slows or stops their vehicles.
Crimes
against Persons (robbery, assault)
As we have stated
repeatedly, most crimes are opportunistic in nature. In most
cases, the violent criminal is not out to get you. Like a
predator, he is searching for prey. There is no technique or tip
or weapon to guarantee that you won't be attacked.
The following are
some tips that may help you to not become a victim:
1. Always look around and be aware of your surroundings.
No one should be able to sneak up on you because you will see
them coming.
2. Keep the doors and windows of your car locked when you leave
your car and as you are driving. Always glance in your back
seat (and floorboard) before getting in your car.
3. Always park in well lighted public areas.
4. Do not pick up hitchhikers and don't be a hitchhiker.
5. When using an ATM, make sure the area is well-lit and never
count money outside.
6. Always know your destination and have a planned route of
travel.
7. If you see another motorist in trouble, it is best to use
your cell phone, or go to the nearest pay phone, to call police.
8. If your vehicle is bumped from behind. Don't pull over on the
roadway or shoulder. Drive to the nearest public area and call
for police assistance.
9. When walking, the ideal situation is to use a treadmill in
the gym. If you must walk outside, choose well-lit public
places. Walk with a friend, your dog or a stick. Any of these
things makes you less attractive as a potential victim.
10. If you are attacked, the best reaction is to scream and run
as fast as possible. Never surrender your freedom. A woman who
is abducted will very likely be raped and/or killed. A man who
is abducted will almost certainly be killed.
-Your best protection against becoming a victim of violent crime
is other people. No matter what his intent, the violent offender
would prefer to not be seen by others. By any means, make
yourself less attractive as prey.
Crimes against
Property (burglary)
Burglary is not a
sophisticated crime; it is a crime of opportunity. Burglaries
most often occur where adequate precautions were not taken. Each
year, in the U.S., there are more than five million burglaries.
Nine out of ten of these crimes are preventable. The risk of
being burglarized can be greatly reduced by taking simple steps
to make your home or workplace more difficult to enter and less
enticing to would-be burglars.
Here are a few of
them:
1. Trim shrubs back to avoid providing cover for a burglar.
2. Use outdoor lighting to illuminate potential entry areas.
Consider installing motion-sensor or dusk-to-dawn lights.
3. Consider installing an electronic security system.
4. Install deadbolt locks on all exterior doors.
5. Get a dog. Even a small dog creates a disturbance that the
burglar would rather avoid.
6. Work together with your neighbors and local law enforcement.
Organize a neighborhood watch or operation identification
program. Let your neighbors know when you plan to be away for
any period of time. Have someone pick up your mail and cancel
newspaper delivery when you go on vacation so they do not
accumulate and alert criminals to your absence.
7. Be sure to lock up ladders and tools that could be used to
break in to your home.
8. Just in case, make sure to keep a photographic or a video
record of your belongings. Also, make sure to engrave an
identification number on valuable items. Both steps will help
you in the identification of your recovered property should it
be stolen. Your record will also assist you in making any
insurance claims.
Cyber Crime/Computer
Crime
-
Computer crime
can involve criminal activities that are traditional in
nature, such as theft, fraud forgery and mischief, all of
which are generally subject everywhere to criminal
sanctions. The computer has also created a host of
potentially new misuses or abuses that may be criminal as
well. The number of verifiable computer crimes is not
considered to be accurate for a number of reasons. Such
crimes are often not reported. Estimated losses are
estimated to be between $145,000,000 and $730,000,000 per
year. History has shown that computer crime is committed by
a broad range of persons: students, amateurs, terrorists and
members of organized crime groups. What distinguishes them
is the nature of the crime committed. The individual who
improperly accesses a computer system without further
criminal intent is much different from the employee of a
financial institution who skims funds from customer
accounts.
-
Historically,
economic value has been placed on visible and tangible
assets. With the increasing appreciation that intangible
data can possess economic value, they have become an
economic asset that can be targeted for crime. The
replacement cost of a piece of computer equipment may
represent only a small portion of the economic loss caused
by the theft of, or damage to, that equipment. Of much
greater significance is the value of the information lost or
made inaccessible by the misappropriation or damage.
-
The Division of
Risk Management offers Electronic Data Processing Coverage
intended to cover all such losses.
The considerations
involved in establishing and maintaining an adequate security
program are, briefly, as follows:
1. Identification of the electronic data processing (EDP)
equipment (data, software, hardware, media, services and
supplies) requiring protection;
2. Establishment of the value of each of the assets;
3. Identification of the threat associated with each of the
assets;
4. Identification of the vulnerability of the EDP system to
these threats;
5. Assessment of the risk exposure associated with each asset
(probability of frequency of occurrence multiplied by impact of
occurrence);
6. Selection and implementation of security measures;
7. Audit and refinement of the EDP security program on a
continuing basis.
—See our "links"
section for more suggestions and
recommendations.........................
Fraud/Identity Theft
Identity theft is
one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States. Credit
card numbers, driver's license numbers, social security numbers
and other personal identification can earn a criminal thousands
of dollars in a very short period of time. Identity theft occurs
when someone steals your personal information and pretends to be
you to obtain credit cards, loans and even jobs. Using easily
accessible public records, they can learn your place of
employment, date of birth, and mother's maiden name. They can
open a credit card account and immediately charge up to the
limit–with no intention of paying.
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from
identity theft:
1. Tear up or shred all "pre-approved" credit card offers
before throwing them away. Trash bags, trash cans and dumps are
not secure. Thieves can retrieve these documents and open credit
accounts with new addresses.
2. When you purchase items with credit, always take your
credit card receipts with you...don't just toss them in a
wastebasket.
3. Carefully examine each monthly credit card statement to
ensure that every charge matches your credit card receipts.
4. Never give out your passwords or PIN (Personal Identification
Numbers).
5. Never send you credit card numbers online without using a
secure server (signified by a small padlock icon on your
secondary toolbar.
6. Never give out these important numbers over the
phone....if you must, do not use a cordless phone or a cell
phone.
7. Obtain copies of your credit report periodically to see if
there are any unknown credit lines in your name. All three major
credit reporting agencies in the United States have toll free
telephone numbers
(Equifax-800-556-4711/Experian-800-353-0809/Trans
Union-800-680-7293).
Statistics concerning crimes of fraud are thought to be
inaccurate due to the tendency of victims to not report the
offense. Often times, victims are embarrassed to admit that they
were "fooled" or "taken". Report all crimes to your local law
enforcement authorities....it may keep someone else from falling
victim to the same crime or scam.
IF SOMETHING SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE
TRUE..IT PROBABLY IS!!!!!
School Violence
-
Our nation's
schools, once a protected haven for learning and growth, are
no longer safe for teachers or students in many of our
nation's communities. From overt violent acts, such as
homicide and assaults, to concealed crimes, such as child
sexual abuse, violence in schools affects everyone–teachers,
parents, children and the whole community.
-
Victims of
violent crime in the school, like victims elsewhere, may
suffer physical ailments, withdrawal from peer relations,
and display indifference to learning. They also may be more
likely to abuse alcohol or drugs, which contributes to lack
of learning, growth and development, and hinders the
effective education of children.
-
6 out of 10
teenagers are involved in volunteer activities. Almost 9 out
of 10 teenagers would volunteer to take part in programs to
help prevent crime and drug abuse if they knew how to get
involved.
-
Programs like
scouting, youth clubs, and similar efforts have documented
that their members are less likely to be delinquent or
drug-involved as youth and more likely to be successful as
adults.
-
Many programs
that prevent crime or help first-time young offenders are
far cheaper ($1,000 to $4,000 per youth) than a year's cost
for keeping a youth in detention ($20,000 to $30,000).
The following are 10 things that you and
your community can do to make youth, schools and communities
safer:
1. Teach children how to reduce their risk of being victims of
violent crime. Insist on knowing at all times where your
kids are, what they are doing, and who they are with.
2. Get involved. Volunteer to help in community and
neighborhood anti-crime and other community improvement efforts.
Encourage groups you belong to-religious, civic, social-to help
stop crime.
3. Get to know your neighbors and agree to look out for each
other. Get organized; work with the police.
4. Don't support illegal activities, like buying stolen
property or using illegal drugs. It's the wrong message to send
a child, and it involves you in criminal activity.
5. Find positive ways for youth in the neighborhood to spend
their spare time, through organized recreation, tutoring
programs, part-time work, and volunteer activities.
6. Set up a neighborhood watch or a community patrol,
working with police. Make sure your streets and homes are well
lighted.
7. Build a partnership with police, focused on solving
problems instead of reacting to crises. Make it possible for
neighbors to report suspicious activity or crimes without fear
of retaliation.
8. Take advantage of safety in numbers to hold rallies,
marches, and other group activities to show you're determined
drive out crime.
9. Clean up the neighborhood! Involve everyone–teens,
children, senior citizens. Graffitti, litter, abandoned cars,
and run-down buildings tell criminals that you don't care about
where you live or each other. Call the city public works
department and ask for help in cleaning up.
10. Work with schools to establish violence-free,
drug-free, gun-free zones; work with recreation officials to do
the same for parks.
Workplace Crime
-
Many Americans
may think that crime in the workplace is not their problem.
They expect law enforcement officials to prevent workplace
crimes. This attitude of "it's not my problem" is not
realistic or practical-there are simply too many places to
patrol and too few officers for the job.
-
Office thefts
cost employers and employees millions of dollars each year.
The real cost in time lost to replace stolen items,
disruption of work, and personal stress associated with the
violation of one's security, is immeasurable. Everyone must
work harder to become the eyes and ears that will help keep
our work environment crime free.
The following tips
might help you not become a victim:
1. Keep your purse or wallet with you or locked in a secure
drawer or cabinet.
2. If you see a burglary, a theft or vandalism being committed,
you should stay calm, do not try to confront the person,
especially if you are alone. Immediately call the appropriate
authority–emergency numbers should be posted near every
phone. Jot down a description of the person you saw. Important
things to remember are height, weight, race, age, hear color and
haircut, complexion, facial hair, eyeglasses, color of eyes,
scars or unusual marks. Describe clothing, jewelry, any weapon,
and if a vehicle was used, its color, make, and license number.
3. If you will be away from your desk for a few minutes, or out
of the office for lunch, arrange for someone to answer your
phone. Unanswered phones alert a potential thief that your
office is unoccupied. If the phone system allows, call forward
to a neighboring office or activate the voice mail or answering
machine.
4. Never leave money, credit cards, travel documents or anything
else of value in an unlocked desk or cabinet. Secure all
valuables. If you have coffee fund or office kitty that starts
to add up to real money, open a credit union account and start
earning interest. Never post a sign with the name of the
person responsible for collecting the money-that leads thieves
to the right desk.
5. Always make sure you report anything stolen-government,
corporate or personal property-to the local police or the
building manager.
6. When a repair person shows up to work on equipment in the
office, or to remove equipment for repair or replacement, you
should always check the identification of a stranger. Always
check with the person authorizing the repair before allowing
equipment to be removed.
7. Never allow unauthorized repairs to alarm systems or
communications equipment.
8. The best way to remember safe and vault combinations or
computer passwords for your office is to memorize them. You
should also have a backup system. The best way is to write the
combinations or passwords on a piece of paper and put it inside
a folder. This folder should be kept in a locked cabinet or
drawer.
9. Always maintain strict key control procedures. If keys are
taken, lost or stolen, all affected locks should be re-keyed.
Consider installing a card key system. This will help with each
facet of office crime prevention.
10. Set up a notification system with your protective service
and building maintenance staff to provide prompt responses to
any potentially dangerous conditions.
Workplace Violence
-
Convenience
stores, gas stations, etc., have always had a greater
exposure to violence because of the nature of those
cash-based, extended-hours businesses. One can logically
understand the violence associated with high-risk
occupations. The nature of the premises an location creates
a criminal opportunity for those desperate for cash.
-
There is not
one single answer to explain why gun violence occurs in
office settings. In high-risk occupations and locations, the
business is usually the target and an employee becomes
victimized during the commission of a criminal act. In the
office setting, the targets are co-employees and supervisors
regardless of the nature of the business.
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Even though
workplace homicides in business offices only represent a
small percentage of the total, it is disconcerting that we
can no longer feel safe in an otherwise safe setting. Most
experts agree that the rage associated with the desire to
kill fellow workers was probably detectable before the
incident and was not adequately addressed either at home or
on the job.
Here are some tips:
1. Unlike youthful robbers, workplace killers are usually older,
over 35, and have significant tenure on the job. Almost all are
male. Many have been described as "loners" who have been
chronically disgruntled and have had problems with authority.
2. The killer profile suggests that they never accept blame for
their mistakes and had a tendency to transfer responsibility to
others. The profile indicates that they don't accept change well
and are overly suspicious and sometimes even paranoid of
co-workers. Many workplace killers believed that they were being
intentionally held back from promotion by their incompetent
supervisors.
3. In almost every case following a shooting spree,
investigators were able to identify multiple "red flags" that
indicated that the worker was angry, frustrated, and blamed
their victims for their troubles. Killing sprees are usually the
culmination of many years of unresolved personal problems and
mismanaged stresses. Problems with alcohol and drugs, financial
worries, and marriage and family pressures often aggravated
their problems while coping with this fast-paced society.
4. Most experts agree that there are triggers in the
workplace that sometimes will seemingly push the unstable person
over the edge. How a company, or agency, handles the
triggering event can make a difference in the escalation of a
potentially violent situation. Common workplace triggers that
might instigate violence are terminations, layoffs, bad
performance evaluations, and the belief that one was passed over
for promotion.
5. In addition to having knowledge about fair employment
practices, discrimination, and drug abuse, now business managers
and supervisors need training on how to deal with these
potential violence triggers. Problematic employees will still
have to be terminated and disciplined, but now more than ever
they need to be treated fairly and with dignity.
Emergency/Disaster
Preparedness
Severe Weather
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There are a
variety of severe weather hazards that affect the United
States, including thunderstorms, floods, lightning,
tornadoes and hurricanes. Every year lives are threatened or
lost, and property is destroyed by severe weather events.
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Severe
thunderstorms can produce very damaging winds. They can
cause significant structural damage to buildings, especially
weaker structures such as barns, canopies and outbuildings.
Thunderstorms may be accompanied by large hail and dangerous
lightning. Hail rarely causes injuries, but it can cause
millions of dollars in damages to crops, vehicles and
buildings. Lightning poses a significant risk to citizens.
Victims are usually struck outdoors, but they can also be
injured indoors when on the telephone, using appliances, or
taking a bath/shower.
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Flooding is a
significant severe weather hazard. Nationwide, more than 75%
of the Federal Disaster Declarations have historically
resulted from flooding. Most casualties occur when motorists
try to drive through flooded roadways and are swept away by
strong currents.
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Tornadoes pose
the greatest severe weather risk to residents of Alabama.
Most tornadoes produce rotating winds of 50 to 120 mph. They
move at speeds of about 30 to 40 mph. There have been
tornadoes recorded with winds of 200 mph moving at up to 70
mph.
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The most costly
natural disaster in U.S. history was named Hurricane Andrew.
Andrew laid waste to commercial, institutional and
residential buildings across southern Florida and southern
Louisiana in 1992.
Thunderstorms
It is very important to be familiar with the terms used to
describe severe thunderstorm threats:
Severe Thunderstorm Watch –
Severe thunderstorms are possible. Watch the sky and
listen to radio or television for more information. Be prepared
to take shelter.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning –
Severe thunderstorms are occurring. Take shelter, turn on
battery-operated radio or television, and wait for the "all
clear announcement by authorities.
How to prepare for severe thunderstorms/weather:
1. Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio with battery backup and
tone-alert feature which automatically alerts you when a Watch
or Warning is issued.
2. Choose an out of area contact that separated family members
can call to report their whereabouts and condition.
3. Keep important documents and records in a safe deposit box or
other secure location.
4. Maintain a disaster supplies kit.
5. During the storm, keep all windows and doors closed with the
shades or blinds drawn.
6. Avoid using the telephone or other electrical appliances
until the storm passes.
7. Delay taking baths/showers until the storm passes.
8. If outside, seek shelter immediately. If you hear thunder,
you are probably close enough to the storm to be struck by
lightning.
9. If you are in a boat when a thunderstorm approaches, you
should attempt to reach shore as quickly as possible.
10. If driving, be alert for hazards in the roadway.
Lightning Safety for buildings and individuals
On average, lightning causes more casualties annually in the
U.S. than any other storm related phenomena, except floods. Many
people incur injuries or are killed due to misinformation or
inappropriate behavior during thunderstorms. A few simple
precautions can reduce major dangers posed by lightning.
How to avoid lightning exposure:
1. No place is absolutely safe from the lightning threat,
however, some places are safer than others.
2. Large enclosed structures tend to be much safer than smaller
or open structures. The risk for lightning injury depends on
whether the building incorporates lightning protection,
construction materials used, and the size of the building.
3. In general, fully enclosed vehicles such as cars, trucks,
buses, vans, etc. with the windows rolled up provide the best
shelter from lightning.
4. Places to avoid include high places and open fields, isolated
trees, unprotected gazebos, rain or picnic shelters, baseball
dugouts, communications towers, flagpoles, light poles,
bleachers, convertibles, golf carts and bodies of water.
5. Avoid using the telephone, or other electrical appliances
until the storm passes.
6. Lightning threats continue well after a thunderstorm passes.
Strikes can occur even in sunny skies.
7. To protect buildings, apply the benefits of Faraday Cage
(lightning rod) concepts where possible...employ multiple
downconductors/structural steel/rebar/metal stud walls/wire
mesh/etc. into the shielding design.
8. Bond all buried and overhead building entry penetrations such
as utility pipes, service ducts, etc to the Faraday Cage or to
an equivalent ground electrode system at the building entry.
9. Employ a buried ground ring and/or Ufer ground where
practical. Use thermal welds on all below-ground connections.
Assure that buried grounds are directed away from exterior
assets.
Floods/Flash Floods
Drowning has been the number one cause of deaths related to
flooding. Flash floods are a common and widespread disaster that
can occur anywhere in the United States. The sheer force of just
6 inches of swiftly moving water can knock a person off his
feet. Cars are easily swept away in just two feet of water.
Flash floods can occur with little or no warning and can reach
full peak within minutes. No area is immune to flash floods.
The following alerts are issued by the National Weather Service:
Flash Flood Watch -
This alert is issued when flash flooding is possible
within the designated watch area.
Flash Flood Warning -
This alert will be issued when a flash flood has been
reported or is imminent. Take necessary precautions.
How to prepare for flooding:
1. Floods and storms can also knock down power lines. If you
lose power, never use a gas oven, range, barbecue, hibachi or
portable propane heater to heat your home. These units give off
deadly carbon monoxide.
2. Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. You can be
stranded, trapped or swept away. Flood water depths can be much
deeper than they appear. The depth of water may be difficult to
assess.
3. Flood waters carry silt, raw sewage, oil or chemical waste.
Wash your hands frequently with soap and disinfected water to
prevent spread of disease.
4. Be especially cautious at night. It is harder to recognize
the danger at night.
5. Know where high ground is and how to get there quickly.
6. Store drinking water in clean bathtubs and in various
containers. Water service may be interrupted.
7. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream where water is above
your knees.
8. Boil drinking water before using. Wells should be pumped out
and the water tested for purity before drinking.
9. Use flashlights, not lanterns or torches, to examine
buildings. Flammables may be nearby.
10. Throw away food, frozen or otherwise, that may have come in
contact with flood waters.
The Division
of Risk Management provides access to flood insurance.
Tornadoes
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Tornadoes occur
in many parts of the world but are most frequently found in
the United States east of the Rocky Mountains during the
spring and summer months. In an average year, 800 tornadoes
are reported nationwide, resulting in 80 deaths and over
1500 injuries. The most violent tornadoes are capable of
tremendous destruction with wind speeds in excess of 250
miles per hour. Occasionally, two or more tornado funnels
occur at the same time. Waterspouts are weak tornadoes that
occur over water.
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Tornadoes can
occur at any time of year at any time of day.
Tornado Watch
- Tornadoes are possible in
your area. Remain alert for approaching storms.
Tornado Warning -
A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
If a tornado warning is issued for your area and the sky becomes
threatening, move to your pre-designated place of safety.
Remember,
tornadoes occasionally develop in areas in which a severe
thunderstorm watch or warning is in effect.
How to prepare for
tornado weather:
1. Develop a plan for you and your family for home, work, school
and when outdoors. Have frequent drills.
2. Have a NOAA weather radio with a warning alarm tone and
battery back-up to receive warnings. Listen to radio and
television for information.
3. In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such
as a basement or inner hallway or a room with no windows. Make
sure to stay on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of
furniture. Use pillows or mattresses to shield your head. If
they are not available, use your hands.
4. Stay away from windows.
5. Get out of automobiles. Do not try to outrun a tornado in
your car, instead, leave it immediately. Tornadoes can change
directions quickly and can easily lift up a vehicle and toss it
through the air. If possible, get under an overpass or other
sturdy concrete structure. If all else fails, lay in a ditch or
other low point.
6. Mobile homes, even when tied down, offer little protection
from tornadoes and should be abandoned. Mobile homes can easily
be turned over. As in #5 above, seek shelter outside of the
trailer.
7. Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums,
cafeterias, gymnasiums, and large hallways. Stay away from
windows and open spaces.
8. If in a high-rise building, go to small, interior rooms or
hallways on the lowest floor possible and seek protection as
outlined above.
9. Most public places have a shelter area for such emergencies.
Make sure that you know the whereabouts of such shelters at all
times.
10. If unaffected by the tornado, stay out of the damaged area
until allowed by officials, your presence may hamper emergency
operations.
Hurricanes
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Hurricane
season officially runs from June 1st through the end of
November. Many people think that they will not be affected
by a major hurricane, and do not take time to think about
preparedness. The State Insurance Fund reported that the
state of Alabama had hurricane related damages to roofs as
far north as Fort Payne!
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A hurricane is
an intense tropical weather system with a well defined
circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher.
The bulk of damage is caused by what is known as the storm
surge. The storm surge is a large dome of water, often 50 to
100 miles wide, that sweeps ashore near where a hurricane
strikes land and typically accounts for nine of ten
hurricane fatalities.
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Tornadoes and
flooding are secondary hazards related to hurricane.
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Thanks to
modern detection and tracking devices, the National Weather
Service can usually provide 12 to 24 hours of advance
warning. Advisories are issued by the Weather Service of
NOAA when hurricanes approach land.
Hurricane Watch
- This advisory is issued
whenever a hurricane becomes a threat to coastal areas. Everyone
in the area covered by the watch should listen for further
advisories and be prepared to act promptly if a hurricane
warning or evacuation order is issued.
Hurricane Warning -
This advisory is issued when hurricane winds of 74 miles
an hour or higher, or a combination of dangerously high water
and very rough seas, are expected in a specific coastal area
within 24 hours. Precautionary actions should begin immediately.
Here are some steps to prepare for hurricane weather:
1. If you live in a coastal area, identify your evacuation
route. Your community's hurricane evacuation plan includes
designated safe areas, areas to be evacuated during a hurricane
emergency, and safe evacuation routes to shelter. Get
information on emergency planning in your area by contacting
your local civil defense or emergency services office.
2. Keep tuned to local radio or television stations for the
latest National Weather Service advisories as well as special
instructions from local government.
3. Check battery-powered equipment. Your battery-operated radio
could be your only source of information, and flashlights will
be needed if utility services are interrupted. Keep extra
batteries on hand.
4. Keep your car fueled up should evacuation become necessary.
Also, service stations may be inoperable after the storm
strikes.
5. Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles and
cooking utensils as your towns water system may be contaminated
or damaged by the storm. Obtain extra prescription medications
and medical supplies.
6. Board up windows or protect them with storm shutters. Windows
are broken mainly from wind-driven debris. Wind pressure may
break large windows, garage doors and double entry doors.
7. Secure outdoor objects that might become debris. Garbage
cans, garden tools, toys, signs, porch furniture, and a number
of other harmless items become deadly missiles in hurricane
winds.
8. Moor your boat securely well before the storm arrives, or
move it to a designated safe area early. Do not stay on the boat
or you may drown.
9. If you live inland away from the beaches and low-lying
coastal areas, your home is well constructed, and local
authorities have not called for evacuation in your area, stay
home and make emergency preparations.
10. Be alert for tornado watches and warnings as tornadoes are
often spawned by hurricanes. Should your area receive a tornado
warning, seek shelter immediately in an interior bathroom or
small hall, preferably below ground level.
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