HIALEAH FIRE DEPARTMENT - Local 1102local1102.com/.../03/Professional-standards-manual.pdf · Local 1102, or the Rules of the City of Hialeah. l. Require employees to hold over or

HIALEAH FIRE DEPARTMENT

“Committed to Serve and Protect our Community” since 1925

City of Hialeah Fire Department Professional Standards Manual Page 1

Fire Fighter Code Of Ethics Pg. 3

Organizational Values Pg. 5

Article I Foreword / Acceptance Pg. 7

Article II Authority Pg. 8

Article III Administration Pg. 9

A. Fire Chief Pg. 9

B. Deputy Chief Pg. 11

C. Chief Officer of Operations Pg. 13

D. Chief Officer of Administration Pg. 17

E. Fire Officer Pg. 20

F. Station Commander Pg. 24

G. Fire Engineer Pg. 27

H. Fire Fighter Pg. 29

I. Fire Inspector Pg. 31

J. Civilian Employees Pg. 32


Article IV General Pg. 33

A. Rules of Conduct Pg. 33

B. Chain of Command Pg. 36

C. Discipline Pg. 38

D. Communications Pg. 38

E. Grooming Pg. 38

F. Uniforms Regulations Pg. 40

G. Operations Regulations Pg. 44

H. Reporting To Work Pg. 45

I. Special Rules of Conduct Pg. 46

Article V Pg. 48

A. Patriotic Customs Pg. 48

B. General Driving Rules Pg. 49

C. Political Activities Pg. 50

D. Miscellaneous City Policies Pg. 52

E. Fire Fighters’ Bill of Rights Pg. 53

F-K. Disciplinary Procedures and Actions Pg. 54

Disciplinary Matrix Pg. 63


Firefighter Code of Ethics

I understand that I have the responsibility to conduct myself in a manner that reflects

proper ethical behavior and integrity. In so doing, I will help foster a continuing

positive public perception of the fire service. Therefore, I pledge the following...

Always conduct myself, on and off duty, in a manner that reflects positively on

myself, my department and the fire service in general.

Accept responsibility for my actions and for the consequences of my actions.

Support the concept of fairness and the value of diverse thoughts and opinions.

Avoid situations that would adversely affect the credibility or public perception of the

fire service profession.

Be truthful and honest at all times. Avoid dishonest acts that compromise the integrity

of the fire service.

Conduct my personal affairs in a manner that does not improperly influence the

performance of my duties, or bring discredit to my organization.

Be respectful and conscious of each member’s safety and welfare.

Recognize that I serve in a position of public trust that requires stewardship in the

honest and efficient use of publicly owned resources, including uniforms, facilities,

vehicles and equipment and that these are protected from misuse and theft.

Exercise professionalism, competence, respect and loyalty in the performance of my

duties and use information, confidential or otherwise, gained by virtue of my position,

only to benefit those I am entrusted to serve.

I will provide the highest quality of care and treatment available to my patients,

which includes the prevention of illness and injury, and the alleviation of pain and

suffering. I will keep them from harm and promote the optimization of health. I will

be the patient’s advocate that will always strive to protect the individual, their

families, and the community we serve. I will demonstrate respect, keep privacy and

be empathetic especially in matters of life and death.

Avoid financial investments, outside employment, outside business interests or

activities that conflict with or are enhanced by my official position or have the

potential to create the perception of impropriety.

Never propose or accept personal rewards, special privileges, benefits, advancements,

honors or gifts that may create a conflict of interest, or the appearance thereof.

Never engage in activities involving alcohol or other substance use or abuse that can

impair my mental state or the performance of my duties and compromise safety.

Never discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, age, marital status,

national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual preference, medical condition or handicap.

Never harass, intimidate or threaten fellow members of the service or the public.

Responsibly use social networking, electronic communications, or other media

technology opportunities in a manner that does not discredit, dishonor or embarrass

my organization, the fire service and the public.



Organizational Values

Service Excellence

We do all we can to ensure we deliver the best possible service to our internal and external

citizens/communities through smart, well trained, humble, dedicated, competent, hard

working, safe members. We are active participants in the communities where we live and

work.

Embrace Diversity

Recognizing the value of diversity helps us to work together as a team to serve our

community. We are dedicated to reflecting and respecting diversity throughout our

organization.

Integrity and Honesty

We value the public’s trust and are committed to honest and ethical behavior. We hold

ourselves accountable to these values. We believe in a personal commitment to the

organization and the community. Self-discipline is the foundation for managing behavior.

Team Work

We seek out and value the input and opinions of members at all levels of the organization.

Teamwork is the building block that drives the department’s labor/management process. We

work as a team to cooperate locally, regionally, and nationally to improve service to the

public and maintain a safe, effective work environment. We believe that members have a

responsibility to mentor others.

Innovation

We recognize the value of change in responding to and meeting the ever-evolving needs of

our citizens and members. We are committed to seeking out effective methods and

progressive thinking towards change. We recognize the value of ongoing education and

training.


Honor and Respect

We are a Fire Department family. We are committed and accountable to each other because

our lives depend on it. We value the role each member plays in our organization. We respect

those that came before us and will strive to make the organization better for those who

follow.

Communication

We believe communication is essential to the cohesiveness and performance of our

organization. We are committed to provide an effective and responsive means of

communication throughout the organization and community.



Article II – Authority

The Fire Department will be administered under the laws of the United States, the State of

Florida, Miami-Dade County through the Home Rule Charter, The City of Hialeah Charter,

those rules promulgated by the Mayor’s Office, this Professional Standards Manual, and the

current Collective Bargaining Agreement.


Article III – Administration A. Fire Chief

1. Authority

The Fire Chief’s rights and powers include but are not limited to the authority to:

a. Determine the missions and objectives of the Department.

b. Set standards of service to be offered to the public.

c. Determine the methods, means, and number of personnel needed to carry out the

goals and objectives of the Fire Department.

d. Exercise control and discretion over the organization and operations.

e. Take such actions as may be necessary to carry out services during emergencies

declared by the Mayor.

f. Recommend discipline or discharge employees for just cause.

g. Schedule operations and shifts.

h. Introduce new or improved methods, operations, or facilities.

i. Hire, promote, transfer, or assign employees.

j. Schedule overtime work as required.

k. Amend, revoke and add to these rules so long as it is not in conflict with specific

articles contained in the current Collective Bargaining Agreement with IAFF

Local 1102, or the Rules of the City of Hialeah.

l. Require employees to hold over or return to work in emergencies or other

assignments.

m. Issue permits for certain acts of burning, use of explosives and fireworks or to

deny their issuance.

n. Enforce the Miami Dade County Fire Prevention and Safety Code.

2. Duties and Responsibilities

The Fire Chief is responsible for the entire operation of the Fire Department, and its

interactions with other government agencies and the public.


3. Command

The Fire Chief shall assume command of any incident or operation at his/her

discretion.

4. Readiness

The Fire Chief establishes levels of readiness and sets criteria for the instruction and

training of all members of the Fire Department.

5. Planning

The Fire Chief plans the goals and objectives to carry out the mission of the Fire

Department.

6. Evaluation

The Fire Chief evaluates the overall performance of the entire Fire Department and

its ability for carrying out established goals and objectives.

7. Safety

The Fire Chief is responsible for the safety of all personnel in the Fire Department.


B. Deputy Chief

The Deputy Chief is subordinate and reports directly to the Fire Chief.

1. Authority

The Deputy Chief’s rights and powers include but are not limited to the authority to:

a. Determine the goals and objectives of his/her Division.

b. Apply standards of service to the public through the use of Department personnel

and available resources as established by the Fire Chief.

c. Assume command of the Fire Department during the absence of the Fire Chief.

d. Recommend discipline for just cause.

e. Schedule overtime work as required.

f. Transfer or assign employees in his/her Division.

g. Issue orders and commands the services of any subordinate member of the Fire

Department.

h. Assigns special details and temporary duties to subordinate officers in the Fire

Department.


a. Provide direct assistance to the Fire Chief in fire administration, fiscal

management, planning, evaluation, communications, logistics, and fire

prevention.

b. Plan, direct and coordinate administrative division activities of the Fire

Department.

c. Conducts special inspections to ensure the proper use of equipment and physical

plant facilities in the Fire Department.

d. Responsible for the preparation and control of the Fire Department’s budget.

e. Responsible for the preparation of all departmental reports as required by the Fire

Chief and other government and private agencies.

f. Respond to alarms of fire or other emergencies upon special call.

g. Develop and enforce rules of conduct and departmental regulations.

h. Maintain liaison with other departmental divisions and appropriate agencies.

i. Responsible for the safety of all subordinate members of the Fire Department.


3. Readiness

a. Establishes levels of readiness and sets criteria for the instruction and training of

personnel under his/her command.

b. Ensures and recommends proper staffing criteria is maintained to handle fire and

rescue emergencies and assists in the assignments of personnel in the Operations

Division as may be established by the Fire Chief.

4. Evaluation

a. Establishes review and evaluation procedures to assure consistent control of

functions for the Division.


C. Chief Officer of Operations

The Operations Chief and District Chief shall be considered Chief Officers of Operations.

The Operations Chief is considered the shift commander. It is the highest command

position on shift and reports directly to the Fire Chief. The District Chief is subordinate

and reports directly to the Operations Chief.

1. Authority

The Chief Officer of Operations’ powers include but are not limited to the authority to:

a. Determine the goals and objectives for their shift in line with established

Department wide goals and objectives.

b. Assume command of the shift operation and personnel under his/her command.

c. Recommend discipline for just cause.

d. Issue orders and commands the services of subordinate members of the Fire

Department.

e. Grant or deny leave and standbys to subordinates under his/her command.


a. Responsible to maintain proper staffing levels during their shift of duty in

accordance with specific directives from the Fire Chief. (The Fire Chief

determines minimum staffing on duty.)

b. Documents all pertinent information affecting personnel, equipment, fire stations,

buildings, and major incidents of departmental or public interest that involves

their command.

c. Discuss necessary information with the previous shift commander.

d. Review and sign all orders at the beginning of each tour of duty.

e. Process all request for time off for subordinates under their command, including

leave and standby in accordance with the Department’s policy, and grant or deny

as soon as practical.

f. Review subordinate’s reports for accuracy and completeness.

g. Collect and/or distribute necessary paperwork throughout the shift. Review,

complete, and process shift and departmental correspondence in a timely manner.

h. Assist in the preparation of the fire suppression budget.


i. Control expenditures and that portion of the budget that deals with their jurisdiction.

j. Monitor supply request from subordinate officers. Ensure inventory control of

expendable items. Submit special supply requests to the Logistics Division.

k. Attend meetings as directed by a superior officer.

l. Inspect each station on a monthly schedule to determine physical maintenance

and repair. Verify that scheduled station duties are being carried out, and that any

condition needing repair is brought to the attention of the Logistics Division.

m. Provide for the dissemination of information to members of the press present at

incidents under their command. If because of the nature of the incident, the Chief

Officer of Operations is unable to talk to the press while in command, this officer

is responsible for requesting support assistance through the Communications

Center to carry out the public information function.

n. Recommend discipline for subordinates to the Fire Chief via chain of command

when required, and in accordance with Department and City policy. (See rules

pertaining to discipline in this Professional Standards Manual.)

o. Establish and maintain good employee relations.

p. Develop and establish policies for the efficient operation of the units under his/her

command in line with the Department’s Professional Standards Manual, and the

policy of the Administration of the City of Hialeah.

q. Organize and develop the shift into an effective working team.

r. Ensure assignment of qualified individuals to work out of class on their particular shift.

s. Administer the affairs of all personnel under his/her command in matters

pertaining to the operation of the City of Hialeah Fire Department.

t. Provide Fire Administration (Support Services Division) with daily up-to-date

and accurate rosters of their shift showing the total number of personnel and their

assignments.

u. Report and submit through the chain of command any condition, issue or problem

that cannot be resolved which requires the Fire Chief’s attention.

v. Investigate and report to the Fire Chief or his/her designee and the Logistics

Division any vehicular accident occurring during their shift and follow with the

complete appropriate written reports. (See vehicular accident procedures.)


w. Confirm that all personnel under their command have received and understand

any written or verbal communications directed to the shift, stations, or individual

personnel.

x. Make subordinate officers accountable for enforcing the Professional Standards

Manuals of the City of Hialeah Fire Department.

y. Inspect and correct deficiencies found in personal attire and safety gear.

3. Command

a. When dispatched, responds to alarms; assumes on-scene command, and directs

operations according to I.C.S., until relieved by a higher ranking officer.

b. Advise the officers of any special activities for the day, including unplanned

training or inspections, and verify its completion.

4. Readiness

a. Be acquainted with potential life and fire hazards in the City.

b. Inspect stations, apparatus, equipment, and personnel for operational readiness.

Assist the officers in correcting problems and initiate corrective action for any

problems that exceeds the scope of their command.

c. Review and study fire fighting methods, fire and building codes, provisions,

inspection practices, training methods and other related material required by the

department as effecting performance.

5. Planning

a. Assist the Officers concerned in maintaining records in proper order.

b. Plan shift activities including inspections, maintenance and company drills that

will improve service, effectiveness, and meet Department objectives.

6. Evaluation

a. Attend and evaluate unit effectiveness during various drills and classes. Evaluate

pre-fire planning reports and review the results with the appropriate officers.

b. Evaluate the effectiveness of all officers in their command and instruct them in

the specific duties of their position and the results required.

c. Hold subordinates responsible for their work.


7. Safety

a. Ensure the safety of personnel within their command.

b. Ensure the wearing of appropriate protective clothing and equipment at fires and

emergencies.

c. Promotes general safety practices, and enforces safety rules in effect.

d. Investigates accidents causing injury to personnel under their command and

recommends action to correct possible safety hazards.

8. Problem Solving

a. Actively work toward resolving personnel problems by understanding Fire

Department policy related to the issue, good fact finding and utilizing proper

supervisory methods.

9. Reports and Records

a. Advise the Fire Chief or his/her designee of major or unusual incidents occurring

during each tour of duty as soon as practical.

b. Provide the Fire Chief or his/her designee with information concerning the

disposition of personnel, equipment, and material within the City as required.

c. Maintain a current file for all subordinates on their shift of telephone numbers,

addresses, bid assignments and individual qualification certifications. Provide the

Fire Administration Division with complete and current information for all

individuals in their command.

d. Complete all fire and rescue reports originated by the Chief Officer of Operations

prior to leaving a tour of duty.


D. Chief Officer of Administration

The Chief Officer of Administration is subordinate and reports directly to the Fire Chief

or his/her designee. The Assistant Chief of Administration, Logistics Chief, Training

Chief, Rescue Chief, Communications Chief, and Fire Marshall shall be considered Chief

Officers of Administration.

1. Authority

a. Plan and coordinate the Division’s work in accordance with Department

objectives.

b. Determine, assemble, and arrange personnel and equipment under their command

required to accomplish Department objectives.

c. Establish program review and evaluation procedures to assure consistent control

over the Division’s functions.

d. Issue orders and command the services of any subordinate member to carry out

division and department goals and objectives.

e. Enforce rules of conduct and discipline subordinates in accordance with

Department and City policy.


a. Supervise and command the activities of the Division’s work.

b. Translate plans and policies into workable procedures and practices.

c. Prepare Division budget programs and establish appropriate priorities for

purchase recommendations.

d. Analyze Department problems, recommend and suggest alternatives to the Fire

Chief or his/her designee.

e. Provide appropriate training in order to develop subordinates to meet position

responsibilities.

f. Make specific delegation for accomplishing work.

g. Review and evaluate the Division’s activities and take appropriate action to

ensure good performance.

h. Maintain liaison with appropriate agencies.

i. Coordinate Division efforts with those of adjacent Divisions.


j. Provide for the dissemination of information to members of the press present at

incidents under their command. If because of the nature of the incident the Chief

Officer of Administration is unable to talk to the press while in command, this

officer is responsible for requesting support assistance through dispatch to carry

out the public information function.

k. Maintain a current list of telephone numbers, addresses, assignments and

individual qualification certifications for personnel under their command.

l. Establish and maintain good employee relations.

m. Process all request for time off, including leave and standby time for personnel

under their command, in accordance with Department policy and grant or deny as

soon as practical.

n. Attend meetings as directed by a superior officer.

o. Advise the Chief Officer of Operations and subordinates of any special activity

for the day, including unplanned activities and verify their completion.

p. Confirm that all personnel in the Division have received and understand any

written or verbal communications directed to the Division or individual personnel.

q. Report and submit any item or issue requiring the Fire Chief’s attention in

accordance with the chain of command.

r. Respond to alarms as required, may assume command of, and direct specific and

specialized functions of the Division in accordance with I.C.S.

s. Inspect and correct deficiencies found in personal attire and safety gear.

3. Readiness

a. Inspect each facility within the Division on a monthly schedule and submit a

written work order with the inspection report for any situation requiring repair.

Follow-up with Logistics and information flow to the subordinates should be

regular and frequent.

b. Review and study firefighting methods, fire and building codes, inspection

practices, training methods, and other related material required by the department

as necessary for effective performance.

c. Develop and evaluate supply control measures and conduct inspections to ensure

the proper use of equipment and supplies.


d. Notify the Chief Officer of Operations of any inconsistencies in the use of

materials and supplies for corrective action.

4. Evaluation

a. Evaluate the effectiveness of all personnel in the Division and instruct them in the

specific duties of their position and results required.

b. Evaluate personnel effectiveness during various exercises, classes, and work

activities.

c. Follow established review and evaluation procedures to assure consistent control

of their division’s functions.

5. Safety

a. Responsible for the safety of all subordinate members of the Fire Department.

b. Ensure the safety of subordinate personnel including, when appropriate, the

wearing of protective clothing and equipment at fires and emergencies.

6. Problem Solving


Department policy related to the issue, good fact finding, and utilizing proper


b. Analyze Division functions in order to provide effective fiscal control.

7. Report and Records

a. Review subordinates’ reports for accuracy and completeness and sign to indicate

approval.

b. Collect and/or distribute necessary paperwork. Review, complete, and process

requested correspondence in a timely manner.

c. Monitor supplies request. Review the inventory of expendable items for

conformance to Department inventory standards.


E. Fire Officer

The Fire Officer is subordinate and reports directly to the Chief Officer. Captains and

Lieutenants shall be considered Fire Officers. Captains and Lieutenants assigned to a Fire

Suppression Unit shall be considered Station Commanders and will assume all the

responsibilities and authority as listed in the Professional Standards Manual for Station

Commander.

1. Authority

a. Be in command of a Fire-Rescue Unit and crew during a tour of duty (shift).

b. Respond to alarms, assume on-scene command, and direct operations.

c. Issue orders and command the services of subordinates under their command to

carry out company and station duties.

d. Recommend disciplinary action for subordinate members when necessary via

chain of command.

e. Establish company rules regulating work and conduct of members in line with the

District’s established rules and policies.

f. Assign station duties to subordinates under their command.

g. Supervise station activities, special activities for the day, including unplanned

training or inspections and verify their completion.


a. Responsible for the security of all Fire Department inventory under their

command. Report immediately any equipment found to be missing or damaged

via the chain of command.

b. Responsible for the safety and welfare of on-duty personnel within their

command.

c. Sign medical authorizations for personnel injured in the line of duty under their

command. Report via chain of command to the District Chief all injuries and

accidents as soon as possible. Ensure that personnel who have been injured on

duty seek medical assistance if necessary, and that they follow instructions

established by attending physicians with regard to limitation of work.

d. Responsible for the apparatus, its equipment, and the conduct and effectiveness of

the unit’s personnel.


e. Assist the Station Commander in maintaining the station apparatus equipment and

records in proper order.

f. Place units out of service only with permission from the District Chief except in

an emergency, and notify Communications immediately stating the reason and

location.

g. Keep Communications informed via radio about the current status and location of

the company, and notify the District Chief for non-dispatched, non-scheduled

zone departures.

h. Recommend disciplinary action or acts deserving commendation when necessary

for subordinates under their command via chain of command.

i. Be responsible for inspecting and correcting deficiencies found in personnel

attire, safety gear, station, and equipment under their command.

j. Inspect and correct deficiencies found in personal attire and safety gear.

k. Respond to alarms by the most direct safe route and see that all rules governing

the driving of the apparatus are observed.

l. Implement safety procedures while riding on the apparatus.

m. Promote general safety practices and holds subordinates accountable for wearing

appropriate protective clothing, service uniform, and equipment at fires and

emergencies.

n. Carry on the apparatus:

1) A listing of hydrants, standpipes, and sprinkler connections of the territory

when available.

2) Current protocol manual.

o. Notify the District Chief, followed by written memo, of any equipment belonging

to another company or having no identifying marks.

p. When the on-coming shift arrives at the station and finds that the apparatus is at

an incident, order personnel to equip themselves for duty, notify the District

Chief, and wait for instructions.

q. Exercise judgment when discovering an emergency while responding to an alarm,

and notify Communications of existing conditions and the action to be taken.


r. When arriving at an emergency situation outside the unit’s normal jurisdiction,

take appropriate action until released by the incident commander.

s. Request necessary assistance, including inspectors or agencies needed at the

scene of a fire or emergency. The unit shall remain on the scene until arrival of

the requested assistance unless relieved by a superior officer.

t. Notify the District Chief immediately of any injury to personnel or of any

accident or damage to apparatus. This will be followed by the timely initiation of

required reports, e.g., first report of injury, accident report, and/or memorandums.

u. Supervise the daily routine of unit personnel including cleaning and maintenance

of station and apparatus, inspections, drills, classes, demonstrations, inventory,

and other special assignments.

v. Accurately complete and sign required reports.

w. Communicate, utilize and be responsible for radios assigned to the unit.

x. Evaluate unit personnel in accordance with the Employee Performance Rating Manual.

y. Process any requests for time off in a timely manner via chain of command.

z. Train company personnel to work as a team to provide effective service.

aa. Assure the observance of required conservation practices related to the use of Fire

Department apparatus.

3. Readiness

a. Maintain necessary personnel proficiency for subordinates under their command,

and conduct company drills to instruct the company personnel in approved

methods for rescue and firefighting.

b. Assign a qualified subordinate to drive and operate apparatus during the absence

of the assigned driver.

c. Make necessary arrangements to train or provide training for the driving and

operation of equipment.

4. Planning

a. Develop and establish action plans for the efficient operation of their company in

line with established departmental and shift policy.

b. Organize and develop the company under their command into an effective

working group.


5. Evaluation

a. Conduct a continuing evaluation of the condition of the station, apparatus,

equipment and personnel, and report any deficiencies via chain of command.

b. Instruct subordinates in their company of specific requirements of their position,

provide information as to what is expected of them, and evaluate their

effectiveness.

6. Problem Solving


Department policy related to the issue, good fact finding, and utilizing proper



a. Report major defects concerning the apparatus and equipment to the District

Chief and/or Station Commander.

b. Initiate and be responsible for the accuracy and completeness of all company

records and reports.

c. Report and recommend via chain of command acts by subordinates deserving

commendation.

d. Report all accidents immediately via radio and as soon as practicable with proper

reports through the chain of command.

e. Complete all fire and rescue reports prior to ending a tour of duty.


F. Station Commander

The Station Commander is subordinate and reports directly to the District Chief. Captains

and Lieutenants assigned to Fire Suppression Units shall be considered Station

Commanders. In the event of a member acting in the capacity of an Officer assigned to

a Suppression unit, the highest ranking officer at the station shall be considered the

Station Commander for that said day.

1. Authority

See Authority under Fire Officer.


a. Be responsible for a fire station building, grounds, apparatus, equipment, and all

department property at that station.

b. Inventory all capital equipment at their station and report any discrepancies in

writing via chain of command to the District Chief.

c. Keep all City property assigned to their station secured, until written authorization

has been received from the Logistics Chief via chain of command to dispose of it.

d. Receive and discuss pertinent information with the previous shift’s Station

Commander.

e. Responsible for following established work and training schedules.

f. Responsible for station and equipment security.

g. Inspect and correct deficiencies found in personnel attire, safety gear, station and

equipment under their command.

h. Inspect and correct deficiencies found in personal attire and safety gear.

i. Verify and enforce work schedules and station maintenance assignments.

j. Be responsible for station supplies and their proper use.

k. Responsible for greeting visitors to the fire station and making sure that all

common courtesies are extended to the public.

l. Responsible for greeting superior officers visiting their fire station and

ascertaining the proper handling of any requests or inquiries they might have.

m. Accompany superior officers on inspection tours of their station. Note and correct

any deficiencies found during the inspection as soon as practical, or as ordered.


n. Prepare and post a list of station work assignments, equalizing as fairly as

possible among subordinates the quantity of work to be performed.

o. Originate all requests for maintenance of station and equipment and forward them

via chain of command.

p. Assure observance of energy conservation practices by reducing use of

unnecessary lights and air conditioning.

q. Sign and is responsible for medical authorizations for subordinates under their

command. Ensure that personnel who have been injured on duty seek medical

attention if necessary, and that they follow instructions established by attending

physician with regards to limitation of work.

r. Implement all general, special and administrative orders, as well as directives of

the Fire Department of the City of Hialeah.

s. Be responsible for the following:

1) Weekly station supply order.

2) An inventory of each apparatus and equipment assigned to the station.

3) Annual testing of all fire hoses at the station.

4) Monthly inspection of all station assigned fire extinguishers.

t. Keep exterior doors in unattended areas locked. Security shall be maintained at all

times. Overhead apparatus doors shall be closed at times when personnel are out

of the station, and as of 2100 hours.

u. Assure that bulletin boards contain only current and authorized material.

v. Must ensure access to manuals and/or files which include:

1) Station log book.

2) Fire Department Professional Standards Manual.

3) Fire Department memos.

4) Standard Operating Guidelines (S.O.G.).

5) Engineer’s S.O.G.

6) EMS Protocol Manual.

w. Responsible to maintain reserve apparatus and equipment located in their station

with the same care as regularly assigned apparatus and equipment.

x. Responsible for the maintenance of the Hydrant Book for the area covered in their district.


3. Readiness

a. Be acquainted with potentially serious life and fire hazard in their station area.

b. Conduct a morning briefing with all on-duty members present and review the

daily log. Explain all orders and memorandums received since the last tour of

duty.

c. Test or verify that the station emergency generator is tested according to the

established schedule.

4. Planning

See Planning under Fire Officer.

5. Evaluation

See Evaluation under Fire Officer.

6. Problem Solving

See Problem Solving under Fire Officer.


a. Begin the daily station log and record appropriate entries throughout the duty day.

Maintain a filing system and all written communications received in a neat,

orderly, and accessible manner.

b. Report in writing directly to the Deputy Chief any serious or continuing problem

at the station that has not been resolved by the Chief Officer of Operations within

a reasonable period of time.

c. Submit required reports, logs, supply orders, maintenance requests, and other

required forms on the required dates.


G. Fire Engineer

The Fire Engineer is subordinate to the Fire Officer.

1. Authority

a. Second in command of a fire company.

b. When authorized by the Company Officer to perform non-emergency activities

including but not limited to apparatus and equipment maintenance, the Fire

Engineer is authorized to issue orders and assign temporary duties to Fire Fighters

assigned to their units.


a. Follow departmental Fire Engineer’s S.O.G.

b. Inspect and correct deficiencies found in personal attire and safety gear.

3. Readiness

a. Maintain and inspect the apparatus and equipment to which they are assigned, in a

state of readiness and service.

b. Ascertain that all the equipment assigned to their apparatus is in its proper

position and secured during travel.

c. Become familiar with the station’s response zone, and the addresses and major

thoroughfares in their district.

4. Safety

a. Drive the apparatus with extreme care. Have the apparatus under control at all

times and consider the safety of all personnel on the unit.

b. Follow rules concerning the wear of appropriate protective clothing and

equipment at fires and other emergencies.

5. Problem Solving

a. Contribute toward resolving company problems by understanding Fire

Department policy related to the issue and working in conjunction with the Fire

Officer.


a. Immediately report any problem with the apparatus to the Company Officer.

b. Take note of all equipment removed from apparatus at fires or other emergencies and

report any equipment missing to the Company Officer prior to leaving the scene.


c. Report any damage to the apparatus or equipment and the cause of the damage as

soon as practicable to the Company Officer.

d. Report all accidents to the Company Officer as soon as possible.


H. Fire Fighter

The Fire Fighter is subordinate to the Company Officer and/or the Fire Engineer. At

emergency and non-emergency activities the Fire Fighter will report directly to the

Company Officer.

1. Authority

a. Perform specific functions according to the assigned unit.

b. In the Fire Engineer’s absence and when assigned, assume the authority and

responsibilities of that position.

c. When assigned by the Company Officer, assume command at special details.


a. Respond to emergency calls.

b. Perform station, apparatus and equipment maintenance as ordered.

c. Perform any special detail as ordered by the Company Officer or Fire Engineer.

d. Become familiar with fire fighting and rescue techniques.

e. Become familiar with station response zone and perform fire inspections and

building surveys.

f. Perform clerical duties and other related work.

g. Assist in the enforcement of fire prevention codes and ordinances.

h. Accountable for all Fire Department issued safety gear, equipment and uniform.

Inspect and correct deficiencies found in personal attire and safety gear.

i. Maintain safety gear on the apparatus to which they are assigned and ready to be

donned when necessary.

j. Responsible to carry out any legal order or assignment given by a superior officer.

3. Planning

a. Plan assigned duties and responsibilities so as to complete them in the prescribed

time, and as outlined in the daily schedules (i.e. training, station duties, apparatus

maintenance, etc.).

4. Evaluation

a. Conduct a continuing evaluation of the condition of the equipment and personal

gear, and report deficiencies to the Company Officer.


5. Safety

a. Follow rules concerning the wearing of appropriate protective clothing and

equipment at fires and other emergencies.

6. Problem Solving

a. Contribute toward resolving company problems by understanding Fire

Department policy related to the issue.


a. Report all damage, worn, or missing equipment to the Company Officer as soon

as possible and practicable.

b. Report all on the job injuries to the Company Officer as soon as possible and

always on the day the injury occurred.

c. Report all off-duty injuries to the Company Officer that affect the Fire Fighter’s

ability to perform his/her duties and responsibilities.


I. Fire Inspector

Fire Inspectors are subordinate to the Fire Marshal and the Fire Lieutenant in the Fire

Prevention Bureau. 1. Authority

a. Authority to conduct assigned building inspections.

b. Authority when assigned to conduct fire arson investigations.

c. When assigned by the inspector’s supervisor, assume command of special details

involving other inspectors.


a. Perform inspections of places of assembly, industrial, commercial, and residential

properties to determine compliance with fire prevention codes and ordinances.

b. Become familiar with all pertinent fire codes and ordinances applicable to the

City and the State.

c. Responsible to enforce fire codes, ordinances, and any other fire or life safety

regulation as dictated by the Fire Marshal. Recommend to the Fire Marshall via

chain of command changes and addition to the fire codes.

d. Review plans for new construction of buildings in the City of Hialeah.

e. Investigate complaints pertaining to violations of the fire or life safety codes, and

give advice for corrective action.

f. Maintain the vehicle and equipment to which they are assigned to in a state of

readiness and service. g. Organize and present public education programs related to fire prevention.

h. Conduct fire inspections and arson investigations in a courteous and respectful manner.

i. Responsible to safeguard and turn into the officer in command of a fire scene any

valuables found during investigations.

j. Responsible to report to the Fire Marshal directly any offers of money or

valuables made by the public while performing fire inspections. Fire Inspectors

are not to accept any valuable gifts, special favors, or any other type of

compensation from the public, without the express written consent of the Fire

Marshal with approval from the Deputy Chief.

k. Follow rules concerning the wearing of the appropriate safety gear while

conducting inspections and investigations.


J. Civilian Employees

All non-sworn personnel will abide by the Professional Standards Manual as applicable.


Article IV – General

A. Rules of Conduct:

Any person who acts in a manner tending to bring discredit upon the individual, the

Department, or who fails to perform assigned duty or to promptly obey all lawful orders

and instructions issued by a supervisor or superior officer is subject to disciplinary action.

All personnel shall:

1. Appearance: Present a neat, clean appearance unless assignment makes the

requirement temporarily impractical.

2. Be polite, courteous, respectful and helpful when dealing with the public, City

Officials, and other members of the Department.

3. Not be antagonistic toward supervisors and fellow members, nor engage in conduct

which interferes with the proper cooperation of members or impairs the efficiency of

the City service.

4. Abusive language: Not use threatening, obscene, profane, vulgar or insulting

language.

5. Discussions or Views: Not engage in any political, racial, or religious discussions to

the detriment of good discipline. Derogatory or inflammatory statements shall not be

used or allowed.

6. Accountability: Be held accountable for the custody, maintenance, appearance and

serviceability of any City property, fixed or movable, issued or assigned for use.

7. Report any lost, damaged or unserviceable condition of any City property to their

supervisor immediately.

8. Negligence: May be required to replace in kind or pay for any item which is lost,

damaged or destroyed by negligence.

9. Supplies: Do not improperly use nor waste station, office or apparatus supplies.

10. Telephone: Answer telephone promptly and courteously, giving the facility or office

designation, rank or title and last name.


11. Not use alcoholic beverages at any time while on duty, or at any time on or around

Fire Department property including apparatus, vehicles, and/or station. No one shall

report for work while demonstrating an influence from such substance. The Fire

Chief at his/her option may allow the temporary storage of alcoholic beverages in a

secured place for off duty social activities associated with the Fire Department.

a. Do not use illegal substances or abuse legal substances on or off duty at any time.

Any member of the Fire Department suffering from an addiction to any drug,

including alcohol will report it immediately to the Chief Officer of Operations.

b. Medically prescribed drugs may be stored on the premises of the Fire Department

after authorization from the Company Officer. The officer in charge (Chief

Officer of Operations) must be informed of any drugs being taken while on duty.

Anyone taking prescribed medication shall bring a note from the prescribing

physician stating the effect of the medication, and that the medication will not

hinder them in the performance of the duties. This information will be forwarded

to the Office of the Fire Chief through the chain of command.

12. Leave: Not be absent from duty or leave an assignment without permission.

13. Gambling: Do not gamble on Fire Department property.

14. Gifts, Favors: Not accept any gift, service loan, or promise from any person while in the

performance of Fire Department duties. Donations for legitimate charities may be

accepted by recognized Fire Department associations. Offers of gifts to be used by

personnel on station property must be approved by the Fire Chief prior to being accepted.

15. Use of Position: Not use a Fire Department position, badge or uniform to obtain

special service or accept free or discounted meals from any food or business

establishment.

16. Conflict of Interest: Not have a financial or other personal interest which appears to

be a conflict of interest with fire department business.

17. Not engage in unlawful activities while on or off duty.

18. Firearms, Fireworks: Not have firearms, ammunition, explosives or fireworks

stored in the fire station or apparatus, nor in the possession by personnel on duty

unless authorized by the Fire Chief.


19. Injuries: Report on-the-job injury to the supervisor as soon as possible, always prior

to leaving work that duty day. Any off duty injury which would interfere with

performance of the member’s duties and responsibilities must be reported to the

immediate supervisor when reporting for duty.

20. Assistance: Respond to any reasonable request for assistance from city departments,

law enforcement, or other Fire Department personnel.

21. Smoking: The City of Hialeah maintains a smoke and tobacco free environment. No

smoking or other use of tobacco products (including but not limited to pipes, cigars,

snuff, and/or chewing tobacco) is permitted in any part of a City building, garage, or

motor vehicle.

Note: Pursuant to the Agreement between the City of Hialeah and the Hialeah

Association of Fire Fighters I.A.F.F. Local 1102, Fire Fighters hired after October 1st,

1988, shall not be permitted to use tobacco products on or off duty.

22. Fighting: No altercations, fighting or acts of violence shall be permitted.

23. Reports: Not knowingly make a false report.

24. Reporting Arrests: Report to the immediate supervisor any involvement in any

accident, criminal action, or arrest whether on or off duty. Supervisors will report via

chain of command to the Fire Chief any of the above activities reported to them by

their subordinates.

25. Subpoena: Notify the immediate supervisor as soon as practical or when reporting

for duty when a subpoena concerning Department activities is served. Personnel are

obligated to respond to subpoenas.

26. Reporting of Valuables: Report items of value or money discovered at a fire or

emergency scene to the officer in charge of the scene and maintain proper security.

No one shall remove any item of value or money from the scene with out proper

authority.

27. Public Complaints: Notify the immediate supervisor when a complaint from the

public in regards to any member’s action or problem concerning the Department is

received.

28. Chain of Command: Observe the chain of command.

29. Reporting Off Duty: Report for duty when ordered by proper authority.


30. Any individual defacing material of an official nature is subject to disciplinary action.

31. Park private vehicles in the designated area. No vehicles will be parked next to or

block entrances to facilities or service areas.

32. Working Out of Class: All members of the Fire Department selected to act

temporarily in a classification other than their own will assume all the authority,

duties and responsibilities of the temporary position as stipulated and covered in this

Professional Standards Manual and Standard Operating Guidelines.

33. Employees may be assigned departmentally owned vehicles, lockers, desks, cabinets

and cases for the mutual convenience of the Department and its personnel. All

personal items kept in such containers/facilities are at the risk of the employee and the

Department will not be responsible for any losses. Such equipment is subject to entry

and inspection without notice, even if the employee has placed a personally owned

lock on Departmental property.

34. All members of the Fire Department engaged in outside employment, shall notify the

office of the Fire Chief in writing of such employment, including the: Miami-Dade

County Outside Employment Statement for Full-Time County and Municipal

Employees. Notification should be forwarded within five days of acceptance of

outside employment, and any time the individual changes or terminates his/her

employment. The Fire Chief will determine using valid criteria, if an individual’s

outside employment endeavors are in conflict with the operation of the Fire

Department, and his/her performance in the Fire Service.

B. Chain of Command:

1. The organization of the Fire Department is structured to provide the proper span of

control and direction. The rank structure of the Fire Department empowers certain

individuals serving in a supervisory or managerial capacity to give orders and

assignments. The powers of these individuals are commensurate with the rank they

hold in the Fire Department.


For the purpose of this Professional Standards Manual the City of Hialeah Fire

Department’s rank structure in ascending order is as follows:

a. Support Personnel (non sworn)

b. Fire Fighter

c. Engineer

d. Lieutenant

e. Captain

f. District Chief

g. Operations Chief, Division Chief, and Assistant Chief

h. Deputy Chief

i. Fire Chief

j. Mayor

2. Any officer, regardless of assignment, is empowered to give orders to subordinates

(exception see I.C.S.).

3. Orders given by officers to subordinates, who are not in their direct chain of

command, will be reported to the subordinate’s immediate supervisor as soon as

practicable.

4. All lawful orders given by a superior officer will be obeyed without question or

hesitation.

5. Questions concerning the legality of an order, may be addressed to the superior’s

immediate supervisor via chain of command.

6. All officers will exercise courtesy and respect towards subordinate members of the

Fire Department.

7. Courtesy and respect will be exercised towards all superior officers.

8. All superior officers will be addressed by their proper rank and last name while on

official duty and/or in uniform.

9. It is the responsibility of the senior Fire Officer at a fire facility or field activity to

greet and accompany superior officers on inspection, until relieved by the visiting

superior.


C. Discipline: (see rules on disciplinary action)

1. All supervisors shall take proper action for commending employees. Personal

knowledge of acts which may warrant commendations shall be reported by the

Supervisor in writing to the Fire Chief.

2. All supervisors shall take proper action for any violations of the Professional

Standards Manual or other governing the Department. Supervisors who knowingly

fail to take official action for violations shall be subject to disciplinary action.

3. All supervisors are authorized to recommend corrective action, punishment,

reprimands, suspension, reduction in grade, and/or dismissal of persons subordinate

in rank.

D. Communications:

1. Reports and communications shall be addressed and forwarded through the proper

channels.

2. All official correspondence is to bear the working title of persons mentioned. The

signature of the individual initiating such correspondence or report must include

working title or classification.

3. Reports and communications shall be signed by each person(s) concerned, indicating

rank and title, and forwarded without unnecessary delay to the next higher authority.

When approval or disapproval is indicated, a brief explanation shall be given.

4. In an emergency, verbal reports and communications may be directed to the

supervising authority concerned, followed without delay by written reports through

proper channels.

5. Departmental communications to be given to the press, radio and television shall be

through the Public Information Officer as designated by the Fire Chief or his/her

designee.

E. Grooming:

All Officers are required to ensure the Department’s personal appearance standards are

enforced.


1. Hair Regulations:

a. Members shall maintain a well-groomed and neat appearance at all times while on

duty. Unorthodox styles and colors such as, but not limited to mohawks and

ponytails or styles that present an unprofessional image are not permitted. The

Fire Chief’s interpretation is final.

b. When standing erect, hair shall not extend below where the collar joins the uniform

shirt on the back of the head, and shall not cover the lower part of the ear.

c. Certified Fire Fighters with longer hairstyles shall keep their hair pinned in order

not to interfere with proper fit of issued safety equipment and neatly groomed for

the entire tour of duty to conform to item “b.”

d. Styles that are consistent with the above and that do not detract from the uniform

appearance and standards are acceptable.

e. Mustaches are permissible provided they are neatly trimmed. The mustache shall

not extend into the seal area of any breathing mask or past an inch downward

from the mouth nor an inch beyond the corner of the mouth.

f. Sideburns shall be neatly trimmed and shall not extend below the bottom of the

earlobe or forward into the seal area of any breathing mask face piece. They shall

end in a clean shaven line.

g. Any chin or facial hair other than permitted mustaches or sideburns are forbidden.

h. At no time will the hair be worn in such a manner that it obstructs to any degree

the vision of the employee.

i. The wearing of ball caps shall conform to this Professional Standards Manual

and shall not be worn to circumvent the above hair regulations.

A professional appearance by our members is fundamental to the Fire Service and

contributes to building the spirit essential to an effective Fire Department. The vital

ingredients are pride and self-discipline which our members bring to the organization.

It is the responsibility of the Officers to ensure the personnel under their supervision

present a neat appearance at all times. Each member is a representative of the City of

Hialeah Fire Department and should dress and behave in a professional manner. The

goal is to reflect credit upon the individual, the Fire Department and the City of

Hialeah.


F. Uniform Regulations:

1. Regulation Uniforms shall be classified as follows:

a. Dress Uniforms:

1) Hats: Blue Fire Fighter and Engineer

White All Officers

2) Coats: Black Chief Fire Officers

3) Pants: Blue Fire Fighter through Captain

Black Chief Fire Officers

4) Shirt (short sleeve): White Fire Fighter and Engineer

5) Shirt (long sleeve): White Lieutenant through Chief Fire Officer

6) Tie: Blue Lieutenant and Captain


7) Winter Jacket: Blue Fire Fighter through Captain


8) Shoes & Belt: Black All personnel

(polishable or paten leather)

9) Socks: Black or Dark Blue All personnel

10) Insignias: Badge Above left pocket flap

Name Plate Right pocket flap

“Since” Plate Under the name plate

Collar Insignias On collars

Approved pins On left pocket flap

The following are approved medals and pins and may be worn as follows:

11) EMT/Paramedic Pin: Left pocket flap of dress shirt

12) Small metal replica of American Flag: Left pocket flap of dress shirt.

13) A professional Fire Fighter axe (must be the same color as badge) and/or a

union pin: Left pocket flap of dress shirt.

14) Any addition to the above must be approved by the Fire Chief.


b. Work Uniforms:

1) Chief Officers:

a) White short or long sleeve button down shirt: Anytime conducting

business at Fire Administration or City Hall.

b) Pants or B.D.U. black/blue.

c) White polo style shirt: May be worn with the above exceptions.

2) Fire Fighter through Captain:

a) Blue polo style shirt: Will be worn any time in public, unless the Officer

in charge has determined that full dress uniform will be worn. Polo shirts

will not be used for physical training under any circumstances.

b) T-shirts: Hialeah Fire Department issued t-shirts are authorized to be worn when:

(1) Responding to calls while performing physical training.

(2) Performing a.m. station duties.

(3) Performing training exercises.

(4) Performing equipment checks.

(5) Responding on emergency calls after 10:00 p.m. The entire Fire

Company must wear the same uniform.

c) Ball Caps: Department issued ball caps are authorized to be worn, except

when wearing dress uniform.

d) Socks: No ankle length socks are to be worn when wearing pants.

e) Pants: Department issued blue/black B.D.U. style pants.

3) Fire Inspectors

a) Dress and work uniform:

(1) Winter Jacket: Navy blue issued.

(2) Shirt (short sleeve): White issued

(3) Pants: Blue issued

(4) Shoes & Belt: Black polishable or paten leather.

(5) Socks: Black or dark blue.

(6) Insignias: Badge and name plate. b) Fire Scenes: Blue B.D.U. pants and grey polo shirt.

Note: Fire Inspectors may wear civilian attire while on duty when authorized

by the Chief Officer of Administration in charge.


4) Clerical Personnel work uniform:

a) Pants or skirt: Navy blue issued

b) Shirt (long sleeve): Blue issued

c) Polo shirt: Light blue issued

d) Shoes: Black or navy blue polishable

e) Belt: Black

Note: Clerical staff at their discretion may wear civilian attire that presents a

neat and proper appearance and is within the guidelines of the City’s dress

policy.

5) Utilityman uniform:

a) Pants: Blue or gray issued

b) Shirt: Gray polo issued

c) Shoes: Black shoes

d) Belt: Black

e) Socks: White or navy blue

2. Rules for Uniforms:

a. When it becomes necessary for off-duty personnel to be in uniform for periods

longer than one hour before duty or one hour after duty, permission must be

obtained from a Chief Fire Officer.

b. Winter jackets may be worn by all personnel during their regular tour of duty.

c. White undershirt may be worn under white dress shirt, as long as it is not visible.

d. Only HFD issued ball caps shall be worn.

e. Blue t-shirts shall not be worn under white shirts.

f. If the uniform is outgrown, the Fire Fighter is responsible for its replacement. If

the uniform’s appearance is altered without expressed written consent of the Fire

Chief, the employee will be responsible for its replacement. Altering the

appearance of Departmental issued uniform will be considered deliberately

destroying City property.

g. HFD patches shall be present on both sleeves of white dress shirt.

h. The entire Fire Company will wear the same uniform at the same time.


i. Uniforms are replaced on an exchange basis, i.e., any old items shall be turned in

for replacement. Uniforms will not be replaced when they are damaged through

neglect or lost due to not being properly and clearly marked.

j. Only issued equipment will be allowed to be worn.

k. Uniforms shall be kept clean and repaired at all times.

l. Insignias shall be bright and free from tarnish and corrosion.

m. Hats shall be worn squarely on the head with the bottom edge horizontal.

n. Shoes shall be kept shined and in good repair.

o. Undershirts and regular shirts shall be tucked in at all times.

p. All uniforms and bunker gear shall be stenciled in the manner that has been

prescribed by the Chief Officer of Operations from the Logistics Department. All

other types of markings are not permitted.

q. Members shall neither eat nor loiter in the fire station kitchens, dining rooms or

lobbies, when not properly attired with an approved uniform.

r. Uniforms and protective equipment become the responsibility of the individual to

whom the gear is issued. Any lost or damaged uniforms and/or protective gear as

result of negligence on the part of the employee will be replaced by the

Department at the individual’s expense.

s. Long sleeve blue or grey sweat shirts may be worn underneath regular shirts

during cool, cold or damp weather when wearing a winter jacket.

t. Female personnel shall be required to wear a brassiere at all times while on duty

for their personal protection and privacy.

u. The wearing of any jewelry (i.e. chains, earrings, bracelets, etc.) is prohibited for

emergency response personnel. Watches and wedding rings are exempt from this rule.


G. Operations Regulations:

1. Wear the prescribed uniform in a neat, clean and proper manner. Each member shall

maintain a full dress uniform on hand while on duty.

2. Maintain a full set of bunker gear in clean and serviceable condition and place it on

the apparatus when reporting for duty, then remove it when going off duty. Hialeah

Fire Department personnel are responsible for the security and care of all issued gear.

3. Immediately report any Fire Department equipment that is lost, damaged or

discovered missing to the supervisor, followed by a memo through the chain of

command to the Chief Officer of Operations, explaining the incident and providing

sufficient information. Recommendations will be made at each supervisory level.

4. Tag any equipment or items for repair or replacement. The tag will state the date, the

item description, the station and/or unit number, the problem, the shift and the

signature of the officer in charge. An entry will be made in the station log.

5. It is the responsibility of all personnel to wear the proper Personal Protection

Equipment during emergencies and non-emergencies as deemed necessary.

6. Full bunker gear including helmets and gloves must be placed on apparatus by each

member of our Department immediately upon reporting for duty.

7. If the driver of a unit becomes involved in operations, he/she will be responsible for

the use of proper equipment as outlined.

8. Complete bunker gear must be carried on all units at all times and inspected

accordingly.

9. Wear seat belts or safety belts when riding on Fire Department vehicles.

10. Maintain files and records according to department S.O.G.

11. Be responsible for providing a correct address and telephone number for the

department files. Any change will require notification of the Chief Officer of

Operations within 24 hours and the proper form to be submitted immediately through

the chain of command.

12. Maintain the station, apparatus and equipment in a clean and orderly condition.

13. Have a valid Florida driver’s license. Suspension or revocation must be reported

through chain of command to the Fire Chief immediately.

14. Be responsible for preparing any required report and written statement promptly.


15. Obtain the address, type of alarm and a call-back number when an alarm is reported

to a member by a citizen. This information shall be reported to Communications

immediately.

16. Obtain accurate information regarding work performed by maintenance personnel at

or for the station and by mechanics for entry to the station log.

17. Perform all duties that apply to a station when the company is temporarily located at

another station.

18. Recreational activities shall not be permitted until after 3:00 P.M., and the completion of

duties, nor after 11:00PM (Pool playing and weight room activities will end by 10:00PM).

19. Fire apparatus shall be thoroughly cleaned at the beginning of each shift.

20. Do not leave the station grounds unless authorized by an officer.

21. While on duty, all members shall possess and monitor their assigned radios at all

times except while inside their assigned Fire Station for their tour of duty.

22. All members shall immediately respond to emergency calls to which they are

dispatched and exert their greatest effort to perform to the best of their ability under

all circumstances. There shall not be any unnecessary delay (i.e., calling

Communications to dispute, question and/or inquire if they are the appropriate unit)

in the performance of their duties.

23. Treat the public with the utmost courtesy and respect.

H. Reporting to Work:

1. Be at the assigned station and ready for duty as follows:

a. All 24 hour shift personnel will report to their designated station with personal

gear on units and ready to respond no later than 7:00 A.M.

b. All other personnel will report to their work location prepared for work at a time

designated by the appropriate supervisor.

2. Absenteeism: Notification needs to be given prior to the beginning of a tour of duty

or work day stating the reason for absence. Anyone who fails to call in or report to

duty within two hours after report-in time shall be considered absent without leave.

Disciplinary action, if warranted, will be taken based upon circumstances of the

occurrence.


3. Report status to a supervisor on each work day absent. Unless the number of

continuous days of absentees can be estimated in advance, change in status must be

reported.

4. Tardiness is defined as: Three (3) times in a thirty (30) day period.

5. Roll Call:

a. Off going shift 6:55 A.M. to 7:00 A.M.

b. On coming shift 7:00 A.M. to 7:05 A.M.

c. The Station Commander shall ensure that all information concerning the

operation of that station is transmitted to the on coming shift.

I. Special Rules of Conduct:

It is the policy of the City of Hialeah Fire Department to treat everyone equally

regardless of sex, race, national origin or religion. To this endeavor, and to insure proper

treatment of everyone employed in the Department, the following rules are established:

1. All officers are charged with the responsibility to direct and insure equal and proper

treatment for all under their command.

2. All officers are to report via chain of command to the Fire Chief all charges of

discrimination or abuse, reported to them by a subordinate.

3. All personnel can report directly to the Chief Officer and/or the Fire Chief any act of

discrimination or abuse against the individual or as observed against anybody else in

the Department.

4. Chief Fire Officers are to investigate and present their findings to the Fire Chief on

any reported case of discrimination or abuse for subordinates under their command.

5. Fire Officers are to take steps necessary to correct possible causes of discrimination

or abuse with the approval of the Fire Chief.

6. The Department recognizes equal treatment to all its members, but due to tradition

and normal rules of society, female and male personnel require some special

arrangements to ensure their privacy in normal life as well as in the work place.

7. All personnel should perform to the Standards and Fire Fighting Skills at an

appropriate and accepted level by the Department so as to upkeep the level of service

provided to the community.


8. The performance standards for all personnel are based on bona-fide job related

requirements necessary to perform the duties of a Fire Fighter.

9. While on duty, Department personnel are not allowed to undress in view of members

of the opposite sex.

10. All personnel are required to wear a t-shirt, athletic shorts, or uniform pants to bed.

11. Only one person is allowed to occupy a bed at a time. This includes sitting on a bed

while somebody else is laying down on it.


Article V

A. Patriotic Customs:

1. When the national anthem is played and the flag is not displayed, all present shall

stand and face the music. Those in uniform shall salute, using the hand salute to the

visor of the cap at the first note of the anthem, retaining the salute until the last note is

played. All others shall stand at attention. The men will remove their headdress.

When the flag is displayed, all present should face the flag.

2. During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag, or when the flag is passing in a

parade or in a review, all persons present shall face the flag, stand at attention, and

salute. Those present in uniform shall use the hand salute to the visor of the cap; those

not in uniform should remove their headdress with the right hand, holding it at the left

shoulder so that the hand is over the heart. Those without hats should salute in the

same manner.

3. The salute to the flag in the moving column is made at the moment the flag passes.

4. Flags will be lowered by 1800 hours and during inclement weather.

5. The flag will only be flown at half-mast according to Federal custom and at the

direction of the Fire Chief.

6. In the event of the death of a present or formal official of the Florida State

government or the death of member of the Armed Forces from Florida who dies

while serving on active duty, the Governor may proclaim that the National and State

Flags shall be flown at half-staff, in accordance with 4 U.S.C. § 7. Rules for

particular State Government officials and Armed Forces members follow:

a. Present or former Governor of Florida: The National and State Flags shall be

flown at half- staff from the day of death until the day of interment over the State

Capitol, at the State facilities throughout Florida, and at all county courthouses

and city halls throughout Florida.

b. Member of the Armed Forces from Florida who dies while serving on active duty:

The National and State Flags shall be flown at half-staff on the day of interment

(or day of family’s preference) over the State Capitol and at the county

courthouse and city hall in decedent’s (or the family’s) hometown.


c. Prominent present or former State of Florida officials: The National and State

Flags shall be flown at half-staff on the day of interment over the State Capitol

and at the county courthouse and city hall in the decedent’s hometown.

d. Florida law enforcement officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty, and

selected other State and local officials: The National and State Flags shall be

flown at half-staff on the day of the interment at the local agency where the

decedent was employed and at the county courthouse and city hall in the

decedent’s hometown.

B. General Driving Rules:

1. Obey all traffic laws except as authorized in # 2 below, and observe extreme caution

at all times.

2. When responding to an emergency:

a. Use headlights and the emergency warning lights.

b. Use available audible warning devices.

c. Come to a complete stop at all stop signs, signal lights showing red, and proceed

only if granted the right of way by other traffic. When encountering a school bus

while stopped loading and unloading children, come to a complete stop then

proceed with caution only if granted the right of way by the school bus driver.

3. Anyone operating an emergency response vehicle must use due regard. “Due regard

is defined by how a reasonably careful person performing under similar

circumstances would act”.

4. Seat belts and shoulder harness will be worn when riding in all Fire Department or

City vehicles at all times.

5. Drive the unit with extreme care. Always have the apparatus under control and give

serious consideration to the safety of all personnel on the unit.

6. Drive defensively.

7. Fire Engineers, Aerials, Haz-Mat 7, Rescue Trucks, and B.L.S. units:

a. When backing an apparatus, except for unusual conditions at emergencies, the

driver shall have the assistance of at least two people with one person at the rear

of the vehicle on the driver’s side. If one person assisting remains at the rear of


the apparatus, another person must clear any intersection. One person may assist

when returning apparatus to the stall after station work requirements are

completed. Rescue vehicles require one person at all times.

8. Report all accidents involving a Fire Department vehicle as soon as possible (see

HFD accident procedures).

9. Cell phone and texting while driving any City vehicle:

a. When driving a City vehicle, and if in need of a cellular phone, a hands-free

device is required; otherwise, the employee must safely pull to the side of the road

before making use of it.

b. Employees shall not engage in text messaging:

1) When driving a City vehicle or when driving a privately-owned vehicle while

on official business.

2) When using electronic equipment supplied by the City while driving.

C. Political Activities:

1. Employees of the City:

a. Shall not become a candidate for any City of Hialeah elective Office.

b. Shall not use an official position, authority, or influence for the purpose of

interfering with an election or a nomination to Office by coercing or influencing

the vote of another person.

c. Shall not directly or indirectly coerce or attempt to coerce, command, or advise

any other employee to pay, lend, or contribute any part of City salary, pay sum

of money, or anything else of value to any party, committee, organization,

agency, or person for political purpose.

d. Shall not be prohibited as an employee from expressing an opinion on any

candidate or from participating in any political campaign during off duty hours, so

long as such activities are not in conflict with the provisions of sub-paragraph A,

B, and C.


2. Elections:

The following are the policies of the City of Hialeah and the Fire Department

regarding elections and campaigns.

a. There will be no Fire Department personnel present in uniform at any voting

precinct that is not located at a Fire Station, with the exception of personnel

voting in accordance to the Collective Bargaining Agreement Article: 13,

Voting.

b. On-duty personnel and emergency vehicles are not permitted at a voting

precinct that is not a Fire Station, unless dispatched to the facility for an

emergency by the Communications Center.

c. In accordance with City of Hialeah Code: 74-146 (10) and (11), Station

Commanders will assure that there are no political signs placed on public

property including but not limited to; fences, sidewalks, swales, poles or

utility equipment surrounding the Fire Stations or otherwise on Fire Station

property.

d. In accordance to City of Hialeah Code: 74-1; Political Signs is defined as: Any

sign that indicate the name, cause, or affiliation of anyone seeking public

office, or that describes an issue for which a public election is scheduled to be

held.

e. Campaign workers/volunteers may utilize the facilities in the bay area.

However, in accordance with the Miami Dade County Elections Department

policy, no one is permitted to be in the polling area wearing any item that

identifies a candidate or issue.

f. In accordance with the Miami Dade County Elections Department policy

regarding members of the media, photography/filming is not allowed inside

the polling area located at the Fire Stations. The media may film from the

outskirts as long as it does not interfere with the voters.

g. Any questions regarding voting procedures may be directed to the Miami

Dade County Elections Department, Precinct Supervisor. There is a

Supervisor assigned to each of the designated facilities the day of the

election.


D. Miscellaneous City Policies:

Fire Department personnel will abide by any and all City Directives and Policies

including, but not limited to, Internet/Social Media, Sexual Harassment, Cell Phone and

Texting Policies.


E. Fire Fighters’ Bill of Rights (Florida Statutes 112.82):

Whenever a firefighter is subjected to an interrogation, such interrogation shall be

conducted pursuant to the terms of this section.

1. The interrogation shall take place at the facility where the investigating officer is

assigned, or at the facility which has jurisdiction over the place where the incident

under investigation allegedly occurred, as designated by the investigating officer.

2. No firefighter shall be subjected to interrogation without first receiving written notice

of sufficient detail of the investigation in order to reasonably apprise the firefighter of

the nature of the investigation. The firefighter shall be informed beforehand of the

names of all complainants.

3. All interrogations shall be conducted at a reasonable time of day, preferably when the

firefighter is on duty, unless the importance of the interrogation or investigation is of

such a nature that immediate action is required.

4. The firefighter under investigation shall be informed of the name, rank, and unit or

command of the officer in charge of the investigation, the interrogators, and all

persons present during any interrogation.

5. Interrogation sessions shall be of reasonable duration and the firefighter shall be

permitted reasonable periods for rest and personal necessities.

6. The firefighter being interrogated shall not be subjected to offensive language or

offered any incentive as an inducement to answer any questions.

7. A complete record of any interrogation shall be made, and if a transcript of such

interrogation is made, the firefighter under investigation shall be entitled to a copy

without charge. Such record may be electronically recorded.

8. An employee or officer of an employing agency may represent the agency, and an

employee organization may represent any member of a bargaining unit desiring such

representation in any proceeding to which this part applies. If a collective bargaining

agreement provides for the presence of a representative of the collective bargaining

unit during investigations or interrogations, such representative shall be allowed to be

present.

9. No firefighter shall be discharged, disciplined, demoted, denied promotion or

seniority, transferred, reassigned, or otherwise disciplined or discriminated against in

regard to his or her employment, or be threatened with any such treatment as

retaliation for or by reason solely of his or her exercise of any of the rights granted or

protected by this part.


F. Disciplinary Procedures and Actions:

1. Purpose:

a. City of Hialeah Fire Department members are required to conduct themselves in a

highly self-disciplined manner, obeying the City of Hialeah Charter, those rules

promulgated by the Mayor’s Office, this Professional Standards Manual, Civil

Service Rules and Regulations, City Policies, Departmental Standard Operating

Guidelines, current Collective Bargaining Agreement, the member’s

constitutional rights, and/or the Fire Fighters’ Bill of Rights.

b. In situations where members do not adhere to these expectations, supervisors will

take the necessary action(s) to correct the problem(s).

c. These procedures will guide the Hialeah Fire Department supervisors in dealing

with disciplinary issues they may encounter. If supervisors have any questions

concerning employee discipline, they should consult via the chain of command

with the appropriate Chief Officer.

2. General Information:

a. It is the policy of the Fire Department that supervisors administer discipline in a

corrective, progressive, and lawful manner. This manual, along with the

accompanying Disciplinary Matrix, serves as a guide to the administration of

disciplinary action, as it cannot account for every circumstance and/or situation

that may arise.

1) Corrective: It is the purpose of these procedures to help the supervisor and

the member to come to an understanding about the causes and/or reasons for a

member’s deficiencies, to correct those deficiencies, and restore the member

to a productive and positive employment status.

2) Progressive: Discipline will normally begin with an oral reprimand. When

circumstances of separate or related incidents warrant, proceed to written

reprimand, suspension, demotion, and finally to dismissal.


3) Lawful: The discipline and procedures shall not violate the City of Hialeah

Charter, those rules promulgated by the Mayor’s Office, this Professional

Standards Manual, Civil Service Rules and Regulations, City Policies,

Departmental Standard Operating Guidelines, the current Collective

Bargaining Agreement, the member’s constitutional rights, or the Fire

Fighters’ Bill of Rights.

b. Disciplinary proceedings and the results thereof are confidential. Supervisors are

responsible for maintaining this confidentiality.

c. All media inquiries pertaining to investigations or disciplinary actions shall be

directed to the Fire Chief.

d. The contents of a reprimand or separation notice are public record and are subject

to disclosure.

G. Civilian Complaints:

1. Purpose:

a. All Hialeah Fire Department members will respond to the public in a courteous,

caring and appropriate manner.

b. All civilian concerns and/or complaints regarding Fire Department members

and/or services will be addressed in a prompt, courteous, and positive manner.

2. General Information:

a. Civilian complaints and/or concerns range from individual performance or non

performance to the overall service delivery provided.

b. Management and supervisory personnel will attempt to service and resolve

complaints at the lowest appropriate level in the Department.

c. Official Citizen complaints should be documented in such form but not limited to

an email or letter.

d. Fire Department Citizen Record Form shall be used and forwarded to the Fire

Chief via the chain of command.


e. If the facts or nature of the complaint or offense warrants a formal investigation

be conducted, Officers of the rank of Fire Officer and above will refer the incident

with recommendations in writing to a Chief Officer.

H. Charges by Supervisors:

Formal charges or complaints will be made in writing to the Fire Chief and submitted via

chain of command by all supervisory Officers against any subordinate member of the

Fire Department for any violations of the rules, regulations, orders, and instructions, or

for conduct prejudicial to good order, efficiency, or discipline which may come to the

attention of said supervisory officers.

I. Complaints Against Supervisors:

Complaints against supervisory officers by subordinate members shall be made in writing

in a detailed report to the Fire Chief.

J. Disciplinary Procedures:

Whenever a supervisor deems necessary to initiate disciplinary action against a member

of the Fire Department, the following procedures will serve as a guide to administering

and documenting discipline:

1. Counseling of the employee by the immediate supervisor or Chief Officer: Use Fire

Department Counseling Form(s) stating the reason(s), place, date, and the time of the

counseling and kept by the immediate supervisor or the Chief Fire Officer for that

person.

2. Oral reprimand of the employee:

a. To be documented by using the City of Hialeah Fire Department Disciplinary

Action Form(s).

b. This form is to be reviewed and signed by the Chief Officer, the employee’s

immediate supervisor, and the employee. It is to be forwarded to the Fire Chief

via the chain of command.


3. Written reprimand by a Chief Officer:

a. To be documented by using the City of Hialeah Fire Department Disciplinary

Action Form(s).

b. This form is to be signed by the Chief Officer, the employee’s immediate

supervisor, and the employee. It is to be forwarded to the Administration Division

of the Fire Department via the chain of command. This form will be entered in the

employee’s permanent record.

4. Administrative Hearing:

a. Administrative hearing before administrative personnel of the City of Hialeah Fire

Department, where a determination will be made as to what further action will be

taken against the employee.

K. Disciplinary Actions:

1. Suspensions, Demotions, or Dismissals:

a. Suspensions, demotions, or dismissals are utilized as punitive, yet corrective

measures taken for numerous repeated incidents of infractions or a single

significant infraction of this Professional Standards Manual by a member.

b. Only supervisors of the rank of Chief Officer and above, may recommend

suspension of any subordinate member of the Department. This may require

relieving the member from duty with pay pending formal charges until same can

be reported to the Fire Chief via chain of command for his/her approval and

confirmation.

c. It is the responsibility of the supervisor to stabilize the situation in which

immediate action is necessary.

2. Surrendering of Badge and Identification:

a. Any member of the Department under suspension will immediately surrender

his/her Fire Department badge and identification card to the suspending officer.

b. Said officer will then submit them to the Office of the Fire Chief via chain of

command.


3. Investigation of Complaints or Misconduct:

a. The Chief Officer will promptly launch an investigation of every complaint or

misconduct coming to their attention on members of their respective division.

b. The investigation is a fact-finding process and supervisors must be cautioned not

to make judgments until a thorough investigation is concluded.

c. The supervisor shall forward the original complaint together with all reports

received, the results of the investigation, actions taken if any, and/or

recommendations regarding dispositions to the Fire Chief via the chain of

command.

4. Investigative Process:

Whenever it comes to the attention of a Fire Officer that a subordinate under his/her

command has violated any of the provisions of the Professional Standards Manual of

the City of Hialeah Fire Department, Civil Service Rules, or any applicable law or

directive, which in the opinion of the officer requires disciplinary action for the

subordinate, the following steps should be followed:

Note: This process does not apply to an incident directly witnessed by and/or

involving the officer.

a. The officer may conduct an “informal inquiry” meeting with the subordinate to

mediate a complaint or discuss the facts to determine whether a formal

investigation should be initiated.

b. If the facts or nature of the complaint or offense warrant a formal investigation be

conducted, officers of the rank of Captain and Lieutenant will refer the incident

with recommendations in writing to their respective Chief Officer.

c. The District Chief will immediately notify the Chief Officer of Operations (Chief

Officer of Administration if subordinate is a Division Staff Member) who will

make a determination as to the course of action to follow in accordance with Fire

Department policy and the alleged offense.


d. If in the opinion of the Operation/Administration Chief Officer, the offense

warrants a formal investigation, one should be conducted by this officer or his/her

designee as soon as practicable.

e. A formal investigation is conducted once it has been determined that there is a

good possibility because of the evidence that the subordinate shall be

reprimanded, suspended, or terminated.

f. During the formal investigation, the questioning of a subordinate is conducted for

the purpose of gathering evidence of misconduct.

g. Questioning during the formal investigation by the investigating officer shall be

conducted under the following conditions (as per Florida Statute 112.82 – Fire

Fighters’ Bill of Rights):

1) The interrogation shall take place at the facility where the investigating officer

is assigned or at Fire Administration.

2) The subordinate will receive written notice of sufficient detail of the

investigation in order to reasonably apprise the individual of the nature of the

investigation.

3) The subordinate shall be informed before hand of the names of all complaints.

4) All interrogations shall be conducted at a reasonable time of day, preferable

when the individual is on duty, unless the importance of the interrogation or

investigation is of such a nature that immediate action is required.

5) The subordinate under investigation shall be informed of the name, rank, and

unit or command of the officer in charge of the investigation, the

interrogators, and all persons present during any interrogation.

6) The interrogation sessions shall be of reasonable duration and the Fire Fighter

shall be permitted reasonable period for rest and personal necessities.

7) The subordinate being interrogated shall not be subjected to offensive

language or offered any incentive as an inducement to answer any questions.

8) A complete record of any investigation shall be made, and if a transcript of

such interrogation is made, the subordinate under investigation shall receive a

copy of it.


9) The subordinate under investigation at his/her preference may be

accompanied and represented at any formal investigation or interrogation by a

representative of the bargaining unit Local 1102 of the I.A.F.F.

10) If the investigating officer finds sufficient evidence based on the offense to

discipline the subordinate, then the City of Hialeah Fire Department

Disciplinary Procedures should be followed.

5. Causes for Dismissal, Suspension or Demotion:

The following items, including but not limited to, are declared to constitute a breech

of duty and to be grounds or cause for dismissal, suspension and/or demotion from

the Fire Department:

a. The employee has been convicted of a felony, or a misdemeanor involving moral

turpitude, under any statute, law or ordinance.

b. The employee has been intoxicated on/off duty; his/her conduct bringing reproach

upon the Fire Department or the City.

c. The employee has conducted himself/herself in a cowardly manner in the

performance of his/her official duties.

d. The employee has violated any lawful Department rule, regulation, order, and/or

failed to obey any lawful directive and/or order made or given by an officer where

such violations or failure to obey amounts to any act of insubordination,

disrespect, or a breach of discipline.

e. The employee is incompetent, negligent, and/or inefficient in the performance of

his/her duties.

f. The employee has been absent without leave, not approved, revoked, and/or

cancelled by the Fire Chief or has failed to report for duty after leave of absence

has expired.

g. The employee has indulged in an immoral or criminal act.

h. The employee has conducted himself/herself in a manner unbecoming a member

of the Department.

i. The employee has a chronic or permanent physical or mental ailment or defect

which incapacitates him/her from properly performing his/her duties.


j. The member has contracted a contagious disease and failed to report such disease

to the Fire Chief.

k. The employee has communicated unauthorized information concerning

Department business or any of its members to an unauthorized person.

l. The employee has solicited or accepted for personal use a fee, gift, and/or other

valuable thing in the course of his/her work or in any connection with it. When

such fee, gift, and/or other valuable thing is solicited and/or given to him/her

might be construed to be a means of receiving a favor or obtaining better or

preferential treatment than that accorded to other persons either on a present or a

future basis.

m. The employee is antagonistic toward superiors or fellow employees, criticizing

orders, rules and regulations, and policies. Whose conduct interferes with the

proper cooperation of employees and impairs the efficiency of the Department.

n. The employee has failed to properly identify himself/herself upon reasonable

request.

o. The employee has violated any of the provisions of the Professional Standards

Manual and/or the Civil Service Rules and Regulations.

p. The employee has caused damage to the City owned or leased property and/or has

wasted City supplies through negligence or willful misconduct.

q. The employee has hindered the regular operation of the Department and/or his/her

division because of excessive absenteeism.

r. The employee has been induced, has induced, or has attempted to induce an officer or

employee in the service of the City of Hialeah to commit an unlawful act, or to act in

violation of lawful Departmental or official rules, regulations, or orders.

s. The employee has misappropriated City funds, appropriated City property for

personal use, and/or illegally disposed of City property.

t. The employee has been habitually tardy in reporting for duty, or has absented

himself/herself frequently from duty during regular working hours, or has refused

to perform a reasonable amount of emergency work after working hours, or has

refused a call to report for duty when such extra duty work is deemed necessary

by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.


u. The employee, whose position may require the operation of a motor vehicle in the

performance of his/her duties, has lost their driver’s license and driving privileges

by due process of law, or by failure to renew his/her driver’s license when

required by law.

v. The employee has made misrepresentation of fact to the Fire Chief or the Mayor

in order to obtain a leave of absence.

w. The employee, after employment, is found to have made a false statement in

his/her application for employment, or has omitted pertinent and required

information in the application.

x. The employee has falsified, altered, or caused to be falsified or altered, a time

record, or failed to report from duty to competent authority.



PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS MANUAL

Disciplinary Matrix

Level I

OFFENSES AND DEFICIENCIES

FIRST OFFENSE

SECOND OFFENSE THIRD

OFFENSE

Carelessness which affects the

safety of personnel, equipment, tools, or property or causes

materials, parts, or equipment to be

damaged or scrapped.

Written

reprimand

1 Shift suspension

Dismissal

Excessive Absenteeism Guide Follow the current Collective Bargaining Agreement

Engaging in malicious mischief or

similar types of disorderly conduct. Written reprimand 1 Shift Suspension Dismissal

Failure to report an accident or

personal injury in which the

employee was involved while on

the job.

Written reprimand 1 Shift Suspension Dismissal

Creating or contributing to unsafe

and unsanitary conditions or poor

house keeping.

Written reprimand 1 Shift suspension Dismissal



PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS MANUAL

Disciplinary Matrix

Level II

OFFENSES AND

DEFICIENCIES FIRST OFFENSE SECOND OFFENSE

THIRD

OFFENSE

Violating a safety rule and/or safety practice through

carelessness which affects the

safety of personnel.

Written reprimand

1 Shift suspension 2 Shifts suspension Dismissal

Willful neglect in the performance

of assigned duties. 1 Shift suspension 2 Shifts suspension Dismissal

While the operations are continuous, an employee shall not

leave his/her post at the end of

his/her scheduled shift until he/she is relieved by his/her supervisor or

his/her relieving employee.

Written reprimand

1 Shift suspension

Written reprimand

2 Shifts suspension Dismissal

Failure to report an accident involving a City vehicle.

Written reprimand 1 Shift suspension


Posting, distributing or removing

any written or printed material on bulletin boards and/or City

property at any time unless

authorized.

1 Shift suspension 2 Shifts suspension

up to dismissal Dismissal

Reporting to work and/or being on

City’s premises under the influence

of intoxicating beverages and/or controlled substances.

Written reprimand


Willfully failing to notify the

Department of any suspension and/or revocation of Driver

License.

2 Shifts suspension up to dismissal


Dismissal


HIALEAH FIRE DEPARTMENT PROFESSIONAL

STANDARDS MANUAL

Disciplinary Matrix

Level II (continued)

OFFENSES AND DEFICIENCIES

FIRST OFFENSE SECOND OFFENSE THIRD

OFFENSE

Unauthorized use, possession, or

operation of any City property or equipment, or the property and

equipment of any employee.



Dismissal

Threatening, intimidating, coercing, interfering, and/or using

abusive language to a fellow

employee or supervisor.

Written reprimand

and/or 1 Shift suspension

Dismissal

Failure to perform work assigned.

Written reprimand

and/or

1 Shift suspension


Discourtesy to persons with whom

he/she comes in contact while in

the performance of his/her duties.

Written reprimand

and/or

1 shift suspension


Any violation of the statutory

authority, Civil Service Rules and

Regulations, the Professional Standards Manual, and/or City

policies.

Written reprimand

and/or 1 shift suspension




STANDARDS MANUAL

Disciplinary Matrix

Level III

OFFENSES AND

DEFICIENCIES FIRST OFFENSE SECOND OFFENSE

THIRD

OFFENSE

Using intoxicating beverages or controlled substances while on

duty.


Failure to comply with Drug and

Alcohol Testing. Dismissal

Making false claims or

misrepresentation in an attempt to

obtain benefits.

Dismissal

Deliberately destroying, misusing,

or damaging public property or

negligence on any City property or equipment or the property and

equipment of any employee

2 Shifts suspension

and/or dismissal Dismissal

Theft or removal from City

locations of any City property or

property of another

person/employee without proper authority.

2 Shifts suspension and/or dismissal

Dismissal

Fighting, provoking or instigating

a fight while on duty. 2 Shifts suspension Dismissal

Unauthorized possession of

firearms, explosives, or

weapons at the fire station or apparatus nor in the possession by

personnel on duty unless

authorized by the Fire Chief.

Written reprimand,

2 Shifts suspension

and/or dismissal

Dismissal

Insubordination and/or refusal to

perform work assigned or to

comply with written or verbal instructions of the supervisory

force.

2 Shifts suspension 3 Shifts suspension Dismissal



STANDARDS MANUAL

Disciplinary Matrix

Level III (continued)

OFFENSES AND

DEFICIENCIES

FIRST OFFENSE SECOND OFFENSE THIRD OFFENSE

Concerted curtailment or

restriction of production or interference with work in or

about the City’s work stations,

including but not limited to

instigating, leading or participating in any walkout,

strike or slowdown.

Dismissal

Refuse to give testimony in an

investigation.

2 Shifts suspension

and/or dismissal

Dismissal

Making false claims or

misrepresentation in an

investigation.


Failure to return from an

authorized leave of absence. If

the absence is for three (3) consecutive work days,

consider the employee to have

abandoned the position and

resigned from the City.

Dismissal

Absence without authorized

leave or permission. If the

absence is for three (3) or more consecutive work days, the

employee will have been

deemed to have abandoned the position and resigned from

City employment.

2 Shifts suspension

up to dismissal

Dismissal

Conviction of a misdemeanor involving physical violence,

theft, or driving under the

influence of alcohol or drugs.

Dismissal



STANDARDS MANUAL

Disciplinary Matrix

Level III (continued)

OFFENSES AND

DEFICIENCIES FIRST OFFENSE SECOND OFFENSE THIRD OFFENSE

Conviction of a felony. Dismissal

Immoral, unlawful, or

improper conduct or indecency, either on or off the

job which would tend to affect

the employee’s relationship to his/her job, fellow workers, the

City’s reputation, or goodwill

in the community.

Written reprimand

2 Shifts suspension 3 Shifts suspension Dismissal

Wanton/willful or flagrant

violation of statutory authority,

the Professional Standards Manual, Civil Service Rules

and Regulations and/or City

Policies.

Written reprimand 2 Shifts suspension

Dismissal

Posting, distributing or

publishing of unauthorized

false, vicious, or malicious

statements concerning any employee, supervisor, the City

or its operations.

2 Shifts suspension

up to dismissal

3 Shifts suspension

Up to dismissal Dismissal

Falsification

(intentionally/willfully) of any

City records or documents.


Violating the Sexual

Harassment/Discrimination

Policy.
