About the Safety and Health Officer

The Safety Officer position was established in 1974 to assist the Fire Chief in reducing on-duty injuries. The first to hold this role was Herman Williams, Jr., who later became Chief of the Fire Department. In 1995, the position was expanded to Safety and Health Officer, with an additional officer (Lieutenant) assigned to support the office.

Responsibilities

The Safety and Health Officer oversees the planning and implementation of employee safety programs to ensure compliance with departmental, local, state, and federal regulations. Key duties include:

  • Investigating all accidents involving Fire Department vehicles to determine causes and prevent future incidents.
  • Observing and reporting hazards and unsafe operating procedures to the Fire Chief or Incident Commander, with recommendations for correction.
  • Maintaining liaison with the Department of Public Works regarding the inspection, maintenance, relocation, and installation of approximately 8,700 fire hydrants.
  • Coordinating with other agencies responding to fires and emergencies to address safety concerns.

Accident Review Committee

The Safety and Health Officer chairs the Fire Department's Accident Review Committee, which ensures that:

  • Fire Department members operate vehicles safely and follow all laws and regulations.
  • Serious accidents (including those causing injuries) are investigated and reviewed.
  • Accidents are classified as preventable or non-preventable.
  • Recommendations for retraining or disciplinary action are made if necessary.

Injury Prevention & Compliance

The Safety and Health Officer keeps records of all on-duty injuries and conducts detailed investigations into the most serious cases, such as:

  • Burns
  • Lacerations
  • Smoke inhalation
  • Broken bones

Additionally, the officer compiles OSHA 200 Summary Forms and submits reports to the City's Office of Occupational Medicine and Safety (OOMS).

Health & Wellness Initiatives

The Fire Department's Joint Labor/Management Safety & Health Committee, in collaboration with the Safety and Health Officer, is developing a Fitness and Wellness Program aimed at reducing injuries and time lost due to sickness.

Emergency & Crisis Response

When the City's SWIFT (Snow, Wind, Ice, Flood, Tornado) Action Plan is activated, the Safety and Health Officer:

  • Reports to the City’s Storm Center
  • Coordinates with Utility Operations on hydrant issues
  • Works with Public Works on snow removal and other emergency response needs

Inspections & Fireground Response

The Safety and Health Officer conducts an annual inspection of:

  • All fire stations
  • Fire apparatus and vehicles
  • Protective gear and equipment

Fire Response Protocol

  • During regular hours (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM): Responds to all working fires.
  • After hours and weekends: Responds to all additional alarms.
  • In the officer’s absence: The Incident Commander assigns an Acting Safety Officer.