Environmental Health and Safety (FAC 100-013)

1.0 Purpose

Baker College recognizes the importance of integrating environmental stewardship, health promotion, and safety practices into our daily operations and long-term planning. By adhering to this EHS Policy, Baker College aims to create a campus environment that supports the well-being of our community, enhances our sustainability efforts, and prepares our students to be responsible global citizens. 

2.0 Definitions

None

3.0 Scope

Baker College strives to protect faculty, staff, students, and campus visitors from avoidable and unnecessary risks of illness, injury or death. Responsibility for implementing this policy rests with all levels of the organization, and compliance will be monitored and enforced accordingly.

4.0 Policy Statement

Compliance - Baker College will comply with all applicable environmental, health, and safety laws, regulations, and standards. Our goal is to exceed these requirements wherever possible to ensure the well-being of our campus community.

Environmental Stewardship - We are dedicated to minimizing our environmental impact through resource conservation, waste reduction, recycling initiatives, and sustainable practices. We will integrate environmental considerations into decision-making processes across campus operations and strive to continuously improve our environmental performance.

Health and Safety - The health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors are paramount. We will provide a safe and healthy campus environment through risk assessment, hazard prevention, and the implementation of effective safety measures and protocols. Training and education programs will be provided to promote awareness and ensure compliance with safety guidelines.

Pollution Prevention - We are committed to preventing pollution and reducing emissions through the responsible use of resources, energy-efficient practices, and the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies and products.

Emergency Preparedness - We will maintain effective emergency response plans and procedures to protect lives and minimize damage to property and the environment in the event of emergencies or disasters.

Education and Awareness - We will promote environmental and safety awareness among students, faculty, and staff through educational initiatives, campaigns, and outreach activities. Our goal is to empower individuals to take personal responsibility for their environmental impact and safety practices.

Continuous Improvement - We will establish measurable objectives and targets to monitor and continually improve our environmental, health, and safety performance. Regular reviews, audits, and assessments will be conducted to evaluate progress and ensure compliance with this policy.

Community Engagement - We will engage with our college community, local stakeholders, and regulatory agencies to address environmental health and safety concerns, solicit feedback, and collaborate on initiatives that promote sustainability and safety.

5.0 Procedures

None

6.0 Responsibilities

Facilities Team

• Perform regular inspections of campus facilities to identify hazards and potential hazards and determine compliance with OSHA and fire regulations.
• Recommend corrective actions which are submitted to appropriate personnel.
• Utilize a program of safety training for employees to comply with OSHA regulations and to promote safe and healthful operating procedures.
• Investigate employee job-related injuries and illnesses and recommend necessary action to reduce the possibility of recurrence.
• Review proposals for new construction and major remodeling to ensure compliance with OSHA and fire safety regulations.
• Provide technical expertise and knowledge of regulatory compliance techniques for the guidance of management in the formulation of policy and decisions regarding the maintenance of a safe and healthful campus environment and operations, and to ensure compliance with health and safety laws and regulations.
• Operate the hazardous waste management system and provide necessary control measures to ensure compliance with hazardous waste laws and regulations.
• Develop for adoption all necessary safety rules and procedures to implement the College's compliance with OSHA regulations.

Employee

• Report any unsafe conditions, practices or equipment to your supervisor.
• Abide by all Baker College safety policies.
• Complete required safety training.
• Inform your supervisor if you are taking any medication that may jeopardize your safety.
• Immediately report all on-the-job injuries, no matter the severity, to your supervisor.
• Use and maintain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Supervisors 

• Enforce all Baker College safety policies.
• Ensure that employees receive the proper training needed to safely perform their job.
• Verify compliance to safety policies and individual practices.
• Allow adequate time for employees to attend safety training.
• Promote safety.
• Ensure that the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is available for employees.

7.0 Citations & Related Information

None