Safety Policy

Purpose

This policy defines safety standards and procedures for all VONet operations, including network installations, rooftop access, events, and volunteer work. It is designed to prevent injury, promote best practices, and ensure compliance with Nevada and Clark County laws, industry standards, and fiscal sponsor requirements.

1. Legal Framework and Compliance

VONet operations comply with:

• Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 618 and Nevada Administrative Code (NAC), which establish the general duty to maintain safe workplaces
• Nevada's OSHA plan, which incorporates federal standards found in 29 CFR 1910 and 1926
• Clark County codes related to electrical, building, and fire safety, especially those affecting rooftop installations and structural work
• Any additional safety policies or requirements established by VONet’s fiscal sponsor

2. Training Requirements

• Supervisors and project leads performing installations must complete OSHA 30-hour training
• Volunteers engaged in field or technical work must complete OSHA 10-hour training before exposure to common job site hazards
• Nevada law also requires heat hazard safety protocols and written prevention plans for organizations with 10 or more workers (effective April 29, 2025)

3. General Safety Protocols

All volunteers, staff, and contractors must:

• Follow instructions from site coordinators or certified leads
• Receive proper training before using tools or working in hazardous areas
• Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, helmets, and eye protection
• Immediately report any unsafe conditions, injuries, or close calls
• Avoid working alone during potentially dangerous tasks

4. Rooftop and Elevated Work Rules

Anyone performing rooftop work or installations must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Complete VONet’s rooftop safety orientation
• Use fall protection, including harnesses and anchor points, as required by Nevada OSHA
• Inspect ladders, mounting gear, and all equipment before each use
• Follow Clark County structural and fire safety codes when mounting antennas or hardware

5. Environmental Conditions

• Outdoor work must be postponed during high wind, rain, lightning, or when surfaces are slippery or unsafe
• Volunteers must take breaks often and stay hydrated during hot weather, especially in summer
• Worksite conditions must comply with Nevada’s heat safety rules, including rest and shade requirements

6. Equipment Safety and Maintenance

• Tools must meet recognized safety standards, including ANSI and NIOSH guidelines
• Any damaged or malfunctioning equipment must be removed from use and clearly labeled
• Only trained and approved individuals may use electrical or power tools

7. Incident Reporting and Recordkeeping

• All incidents, injuries, or hazards must be reported immediately to a site lead or the Director
• A written incident report must be completed for all injuries and retained for at least 3 years
• First aid kits must be easily accessible at every active worksite or installation zone

8. Public Health Guidelines

• VONet will comply with any state or county public health orders that may affect volunteer activities
• In some cases, masks, sanitizing equipment, or distancing may be required

9. Industry Best Practices

VONet follows:

• ANSI and NIOSH standards for PPE and tool safety
• IEEE guidelines for low-voltage and wireless network installations
• Community-based network safety practices developed by organizations like NYC Mesh

10. Right to Decline Unsafe Work

All volunteers and staff have the right to decline any task they feel is unsafe or outside their training. No explanation is required.

11. Fiscal Sponsor Obligations

If VONet operates under a fiscal sponsor, that sponsor’s safety protocols, insurance policies, and risk procedures will take priority in the event of any conflict with this policy. All participants are expected to follow both VONet and sponsor safety rules.