Minutes of the Free Library Health & Safety Committee

January 29, 2002

In Attendance: Joe Perry, Sondra Corry, Michelle Belluomini, Fran Melnik, Kevin Ivery, Lillian Randolph, Carolyn Hale, Carol Boardman, Hal Rosenberg, Rich Somers, Bill Fleming, Paul McGeever, Mitch Partovi, Kathy Black

NW Regional - Sondra and Kevin reported that the trash storage issue remains unresolved. John Cunningham of the Extensions Office does not want a dumpster placed behind the building, although Kevin said the Streets Department thought there were spots a dumpster could be placed out back. Illegal dumpers would be investigated and prosecuted by the enforcement patrol. All of this information was reported to Beryl Evans.

Carolyn Hale offered to talk to Mr. Cunningham about it and see what solutions he can come up with, since he rejects the dumpster idea. Bill Fleming said that Buildings Dept. would look into it as well. Perhaps a secure storage shed could be erected in the back area.

Rodin Place - Fran Melnik reported that Sheldon Stein sent contractors to hook up the heating unit in the binder and that new lights were also installed. Electricians from Buildings did some of the wiring work. Risk Management came and inspected the ventilation system and declared it is not in good shape. Portable heaters have been distributed for now. They think running some additional duct work along the back, cold wall would make a big difference. This could be a joint project of Buildings and the landlord.

RGI - Joe Perry reported that an RGI (re-inventing government initiative) will be instituted at the Library as a collaborative effort between the union and management. They will mainly concentrate on problems related to computer use by patrons, many of which we have discussed at our meetings. Two meetings have been held so far. Kevin Vaughn represents Library management. Various solutions are being discussed, such as automated sign-up and shut-off systems in the computers; notices to patrons on the screen when their time is running out, etc. Many other problems will be tackled as well.

A demonstration of a digital copy system will be given at the Olney Branch on February 13 from 11:00 - 12:30.

Library H&S Minutes -2- January 29, 2002

Welsh Road - A purchase order to fix the electrical problems was received today. It will take about 3 days to fix the problems, and the work will be done in two to three weeks.

IOD/Risk Management Issues - Kathy Black reported on major changes that have been made in the provider network for those injured on the job. Hahnemann Hospital will no longer be used as a treatment center for City employees. Those who formerly went to Hahnemann will now go to Temple University Hospital, which has a better reputation for fairly treating workers. Workers who previously went to Elkins Park Hospital for treatment will now go to Jeans Hospital; those who went to MCP will now go to Roxborough Hospital. See the Health & Safety page of the www.dc47afscme.org website for more details.

Guard Training - Kevin reported dates have been set for the spring.

The Security Task Force discussed at the last meeting meets again tomorrow. They have flagged many policies that need major revisions.

Alarm Systems - have been installed or updated at many facilities and eventually all facilities will have up to date systems.

Central Library Issues

Wood Street Doors - An automatic interior door will have to wait for additional funding after July 1.

Front door heater - It burned out and is being repaired by a contractor.

Cafeteria - Several code violations must be dealt with before a new vendor can be sought for this service.

Extremely cold temperatures, Art & Literature - Michelle reported that over the weekend it was very cold in this area of the library - in the 50s. Calls were made on Friday and Saturday, but employees were told nothing could be done about it until Monday. These were chilly days, prior to the warm snap, but it felt like no heat was on. Mitch said he would look into it.

Skyline Room - Major renovation work begins here February 1. A new ceiling will be installed, the floor is to be restored, dividers removed and wiring work completed. The windows and doors to the terrace will be replaced. The work should be done by mid-May. Access to the Theater Collection and Foundation offices is being worked out.

The Emergency Evacuation Plan is now on Draft #7. Bill Fleming reported that there has been trouble getting help with design issues. Ordnance Disposal unit of the Police has now reviewed it. No projections on when it will be completed.

The next meeting of the Health & Safety Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, March 26, 2002, at 3:00 p.m.