TCAT Hartsville Health and Safety Plan

Student Version





TCAT HARTSVILLE


HEALTH AND SAFETY PLAN



Student Version

Revised August 2026

1 Emergency Response Procedures for the Following Locations

Tennessee College of Applied Technology Hartsville – Main Campus
716 McMurry Blvd East
Hartsville, TN

Tri-County Affiliate Campus
2575 North Springs Road
Red Boiling Springs, TN

Wilson County Affiliate Campus
415 Tennessee Boulevard
Lebanon, TN

2 Read and Understand Instructions

The life you save may be your own.

2.1 Introduction

Safety is everyone’s responsibility. All of us must be alert to potential hazards and dangers. Emergencies and disasters are unpredictable and most often strike without warning. However, even the effects of natural disasters can be minimized through preparedness.

This Health and Safety Plan contains quick-reference information and guidelines on how to report an emergency, what to do, who will assist you, and what help will come from College personnel and professional emergency units during emergencies.

2.2 Conduct

The following rules of personal conduct have been established to maintain a safe work environment for employees and students at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology Hartsville.

  1. Consumption of alcohol or unauthorized drugs is strictly prohibited on campus.
  2. Reckless operation of personal vehicles on campus will not be permitted.
  3. Flagrant disrespect for campus property and safety of personnel and other students will not be permitted.
  4. Any injury or suspected injury will be reported immediately to the instructor.
  5. Horseplay will not be permitted.
  6. Each employee and student will abide by the rules and recommendations described in the Safety Program.
  7. Possession of firearms or weapons on TCAT Hartsville property will result in immediate expulsion and local law enforcement will be notified.

2.3 Student Responsibility

Students must assume responsibility for their safety and that of others.

  1. Work within the bounds of school policies and safety regulations.
  2. Develop desirable behavioral patterns and attitudes by accepting directions, advice, and counsel.
  3. Accept personal responsibility for assisting in the safety program and working toward its success.
  4. Ask questions concerning proper operation of tools and equipment.
  5. Ask permission before operating any tools or equipment.
  6. Inspect equipment and/or tools prior to each use.
  7. Report any unsafe actions or conditions to the instructor.
  8. Utilize and wear personal protective equipment as required.

3 Evacuation Procedures

TCAT Hartsville consists of multiple instructional and administrative facilities. Students, employees, and visitors shall follow the emergency exit diagram posted within their immediate area and evacuate using the designated primary or alternate evacuation route for that location.

Generally, evacuation of a building occurs during fires, threats of explosion, or hazardous material incidents.

When evacuation is necessary, all individuals shall immediately evacuate the building. An alarm or public address system announcement will notify occupants of the emergency.

Always assume the alarm is genuine. Always evacuate.

Emergency exit diagrams identifying location and evacuation routes are posted prominently throughout each building.

Stay calm. Do not run, rush, or panic. Persons evacuating shall proceed in an orderly manner to the assembly area.

3.1 Do’s

  1. Follow the instructions of your individual evacuation plan.
  2. Close the door of your area as you leave.
  3. Form a single-file evacuation line.
  4. Use the nearest exit.
  5. Keep talking to a minimum.
  6. Do not smoke, vape, or use smoke-free tobacco products.
  7. Where applicable, use handrails in enclosed stairwells.
  8. Listen for instructions and follow them.
  9. Use the Buddy System when evacuating persons requiring assistance.
  10. Be ready to merge with other people evacuating the building.
  11. Proceed directly to your designated primary or secondary assembly area.

3.2 Don’ts

  1. Do not use elevators during an evacuation.
  2. Do not return for personal belongings.
  3. Do not run or create panic.
  4. Do not reenter the building until the All Clear is given.

3.3 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. An evacuation may be necessary due to fires, storms, gas leaks, hazardous materials, or drills.
  2. Follow evacuation procedures immediately whenever an alarm sounds.
  3. Instructors are responsible for ensuring their students are evacuated safely.
  4. Remain calm.
  5. If time permits, disengage electrical equipment currently in use.
  6. Leave all personal belongings behind.
  7. If a door is extremely hot, do not open it. Seek another exit.
  8. Exit the classroom and building according to the posted route.
  9. If smoke is present, stay as close to the floor as possible.
  10. Proceed directly to the assembly area.
  11. Remain quiet and calm.
  12. Do not reenter the building until authorized.

3.4 Assembly Areas

  1. Hartsville Campus: Easternmost parking area. Alternate location is the westernmost parking area.
  2. Tri-County Affiliate Campus: Southernmost parking area. Alternate location is the northernmost parking area.
  3. Wilson County Affiliate Campus: Rear parking area accessible to Harding Drive. Alternate location is the southernmost parking area adjacent to Tennessee Boulevard.

In the event of inclement weather, provisions should be made to minimize exposure.

3.5 Floor or Elevator Emergency

Elevators are generally safe means of transportation; however, malfunctions can occur due to sophisticated controls.

3.5.1 What to Do in an Elevator Emergency

  1. Use the emergency button and communicate clearly with responders.
  2. Remain calm.
  3. Do not force open elevator doors.
  4. Notify Administration if the malfunction is observed from outside the elevator.

3.5.2 What Happens

  1. Administration will secure assistance.
  2. Someone will communicate with occupants.
  3. Passengers will be assisted as soon as possible.

3.6 Training and Drills

Evacuation drills are necessary for the safety of students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

  1. Emergency evacuation drills are unannounced.
  2. Evacuation routes are posted in all classroom and shop areas.
  3. Students will walk in single file to the designated assembly area.
  4. The instructor will call roll once the group reaches the assembly area. Students must remain with their class. There will be no smoking at this time.
  5. When the All Clear signal is given, all occupants will return in an orderly fashion.

4 TCAT Hartsville Emergency Exit Diagrams

4.1 MAIN CAMPUS BUILDING 1

MAIN CAMPUS BLDG 1 Exit Diagram

4.2 MAIN CAMPUS Building 2 (Level 1)

MAIN CAMPUS BLDG 2 LEVEL 1 Exit Diagram

4.3 MAIN CAMPUS Building 2 (Level 2)

MAIN CAMPUS BLDG 2 LEVEL 2 Exit Diagram

4.4 TRI-COUNTY CAMPUS

TRI-COUNTY Exit Diagram

4.5 WILSON COUNTY CAMPUS

WILSON COUNTY Exit Diagram

5 EMERGENCY CODES

5.1 Medical Emergency – Code Blue

In the event an accident or sudden illness involving an employee, student, or visitor occurs in your area:

5.1.1 Action to Take

  1. Notify your Instructor immediately. If the Instructor is unavailable, notify Administration.
  2. Provide:
    • The location of the emergency.
    • Details regarding the injury, illness, or incident.
  3. Keep the injured person calm and comfortable by reassuring them that help is on the way.

5.1.2 Do Not

Warning

Do not move, or allow an injured person to move, unless remaining in their current location presents an additional hazard.

5.1.3 What Happens

  1. Administration or its designee will notify emergency personnel and the College’s Allied Health Department.
  2. A designated individual will meet emergency responders outside the building and direct them to the quickest accessible route.
  3. Basic first aid will be provided by a trained individual in accordance with College policy and procedures.

5.2 Natural Disasters – Code Black

5.2.1 Tornadoes and Severe Weather

5.2.1.1 Tornado Watch

A tornado watch means weather conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes. Continue monitoring weather conditions and be prepared to move to shelter immediately.

5.2.1.2 Tornado Warning

A tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.

Proceed immediately to your designated storm shelter area as identified on the emergency exit diagram.

5.2.1.3 Action to Take

  1. Move away from exterior walls and glass.
  2. Leave exterior areas and close doors behind you.
  3. Proceed to your assigned storm shelter area.
  4. Sit and lower your head toward your lap, or kneel and protect your head if space allows.

5.2.1.4 If You Are Moving Through the Building

  1. Proceed to the nearest storm shelter area.
  2. Do not go outside.

5.2.1.5 If You Cannot Leave Your Area

  1. Take shelter beneath a desk or sturdy surface.
  2. Protect your head, face, and neck.

5.2.1.6 If You Are Outside

  1. Lie flat in the nearest ditch, ravine, or depression.

5.2.2 Earthquakes

5.2.2.1 During the Earthquake

  1. Remain calm.
  2. Stay where you are.
  3. If indoors, take cover under a desk, table, or other sturdy object.
  4. Stay away from glass, windows, and exterior doors.
  5. If outdoors, move away from buildings and utility lines.
  6. Extinguish fires when it can be done safely.
  7. If in a vehicle, stop as quickly and safely as possible and remain inside the vehicle.

5.2.2.2 After the Earthquake

  1. Check yourself and others for injuries.
  2. Be prepared for aftershocks.
  3. Stay out of severely damaged buildings.
  4. Use telephones only for emergency purposes.
  5. If you smell gas or observe electrical hazards, evacuate immediately and notify Administration.

5.2.3 Thunderstorms

5.2.3.1 High Winds and Hail

  1. Move away from exterior walls, windows, and glass.
  2. Seek shelter in the interior portion of the building.
  3. If outdoors and no shelter is available, lie flat in a ditch and protect your head.

5.2.3.2 Lightning

  1. Seek shelter immediately in a substantial building or enclosed vehicle.
  2. Avoid telephones and electrical equipment.
  3. Do not shelter beneath isolated trees or utility poles.
  4. If your hair begins to stand on end, drop to your knees and bend forward.

5.2.4 Winter Storms

  1. Monitor weather conditions.
  2. Be prepared for isolation.
  3. Dress appropriately for weather conditions.
  4. Travel only when necessary.

5.2.4.1 Vehicle Preparedness

  • Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained.
  • Travel with another person when possible.
  • Advise someone of your route and expected arrival time.
  • Carry emergency winter supplies, including:
    • Blanket
    • Flashlight
    • Shovel
    • Sand
    • Tow strap or chain
    • Extra clothing

5.2.5 Flooding

  1. Monitor weather conditions.
  2. Remain alert and prepare for evacuation.

5.2.5.1 Evacuation Essentials

  • Vehicle keys
  • Mobile phone
  • Credit cards
  • Essential medications

5.2.5.2 If Evacuation Is Not Possible

  1. Move to higher ground or an upper level.
  2. Call for assistance.

5.2.5.3 Important

Warning

Do not drive or walk through floodwaters.

Six inches of moving water can be enough to sweep a person from their footing.

5.3 Fire Procedure – Code Red

5.3.1 Upon Discovery of a Fire

  1. Pull the nearest fire alarm if the alarm has not already sounded.
  2. If possible, close doors around the fire to help contain it.
  3. Notify your Instructor immediately. If your Instructor is unavailable, notify Administration.
  4. Provide the location of the fire and any available details.
  5. Begin evacuation immediately when the alarm sounds or evacuation instructions are issued.
  6. Follow the evacuation procedures posted for your building.

5.3.2 Do’s

  1. Use designated exits only.
  2. Avoid inhaling smoke or fumes.
  3. If trapped in smoke:
    • Take short breaths.
    • Breathe through your nose.
    • Stay low and crawl if necessary.
  4. Proceed to the designated assembly area.
  5. Wait for the All Clear signal before returning to the building.

5.3.3 Don’ts

Important
  • Do not attempt to fight large fires.
  • Do not use elevators during a fire evacuation.

5.3.4 What Happens

  1. The Fire Department is notified either by College personnel or through automatic alarm monitoring systems.
  2. A designated staff member will meet emergency responders and direct them to the fire scene.
  3. Emergency responders will manage the incident.
Help Is On The Way

Remain calm and follow instructions from College officials and emergency responders.

5.4 Bomb Threat – Code Orange

5.4.1 If a Bomb Threat Is Received

  1. Administration and emergency personnel will be notified immediately.
  2. Building evacuation will begin immediately.
  3. Follow the evacuation procedures for your building.
  4. Emergency personnel will conduct a building search.
  5. An All Clear notification will be given by Administration or its designee when authorized.
Important

Do not touch, move, or disturb any suspicious object.

Immediately notify Administration or emergency personnel of its location.

5.5 Hazardous Materials or Natural Gas Leak – Code Green

5.5.1 Hazardous Materials Emergency

Only individuals trained in Hazardous Materials Emergency Response may respond to a hazardous materials incident.

5.5.1.1 Action to Take

  1. Notify your Instructor immediately. If your Instructor is unavailable, notify Administration.
  2. Provide the following information:
    • Name of the material.
    • Location of the release.
    • Approximate quantity released.
    • Duration of the release.
    • Whether the release entered the air, ground, or drainage system.
    • Any known injuries or medical concerns.
  3. Evacuate and isolate the area immediately.
  4. Avoid inhaling fumes, smoke, gases, or vapors.

5.5.2 Natural Gas Leak

5.5.2.1 Action to Take

  1. Notify your Instructor immediately. If your Instructor is unavailable, notify Administration.
  2. Provide:
    • The location of the gas leak.
    • Available details regarding the leak.
  3. Evacuate and isolate the area.
  4. Move a safe distance away from the building.
  5. Wait for the All Clear notification.

5.5.2.2 Don’ts

Important
  • Do not touch spilled materials.
  • Do not assume a material is harmless because it has little or no odor.
  • Do not inhale fumes, vapors, smoke, or gases.

5.5.2.3 What Happens

  1. Administration will notify emergency responders as needed.
  2. Designated personnel will coordinate the emergency response.

5.6 Violence on Campus – Code White (Lockdown)

5.6.1 Lockdown Procedure

  1. A Code White announcement will be made over the public address system.
  2. Leave open areas immediately and move to your assigned training area.
  3. Move away from doors and windows.
  4. Instructors will secure training-area entrances.
  5. Students and instructors shall remain inside the secured area.
  6. Students will not be allowed to leave the training area.
  7. Do not allow anyone to enter unless authorized by Administration.
  8. Maintain lockdown status until the All Clear signal is received.
Important

Do not attempt to investigate the situation.

Interference may hinder emergency response efforts.

5.6.2 Serious or Violent Crimes

5.6.2.1 Weapon on Campus

  1. If a weapon is suspected, remain in the area and notify your Instructor immediately.
  2. If a weapon is displayed:
    • Remain calm.
    • Do not attempt to disarm the individual.
    • Stay away from the individual.
  3. Use slow, non-threatening gestures.
  4. Avoid confrontation, criticism, or arguments.

5.6.2.2 Fights or Assaults

  1. Do not attempt to physically stop a fight.
  2. Notify your Instructor immediately.
  3. If your Instructor is unavailable, notify Administration.

5.6.2.3 Hostage Situation

  1. Notify Administration immediately.
  2. Remain calm.
  3. Follow all instructions given by the hostage taker.
  4. Do not attempt to negotiate or intervene.
  5. Once law enforcement negotiators arrive, follow their instructions exactly.

5.7 Nuclear Event – Code Yellow

5.7.1 Action to Take

  1. Watch for warning indicators such as a bright, intense flash of light.
  2. If a flash is observed:
    • Take cover immediately.
    • Do not look directly at the flash.
  3. Seek shelter inside a building whenever possible.
  4. If no shelter is available:
    • Lie flat on the ground.
    • Cover your head and face.
  5. Move to a designated fallout shelter when conditions permit.

5.8 Electrical Emergency – Code Brown

5.8.1 Low Voltage Electrical Shock

  1. Notify your Instructor immediately.
  2. If your Instructor is unavailable, notify Administration.
  3. Determine whether the individual is still in contact with the electrical source.
  4. Assume energized equipment remains energized until confirmed otherwise.
  5. Never attempt to free a person using your bare hands.
  6. Emergency personnel should evaluate the injured person.

5.8.2 High Voltage Electrical Shock

Danger

Always assume power lines and high-voltage equipment are energized.

  1. Immediately notify Administration and call 911 if necessary.
  2. Do not attempt to remove the victim from the electrical source.
  3. Stay clear of the area.
  4. Keep others at least 50 feet away.

6 Other Potential Emergencies

6.1 Emotional or Behavioral Disturbance

6.1.1 Response Guidelines

  1. Present a calm and professional appearance.
  2. Listen to the individual without accepting verbal abuse.
  3. If appropriate, state:

“The way you are speaking to me is not acceptable. I am willing to listen to your concerns as soon as you are willing to speak calmly and respectfully.”

  1. If the individual is standing too close:
    • Politely ask them to step back.
    • Reposition yourself so that you are not directly facing the individual.
    • Maintain at least five feet of separation whenever possible.
  2. Do not argue, belittle, criticize, or patronize the individual.
  3. If appropriate and safe to do so, move the conversation to a quiet but public location.
  4. For immediate assistance, send someone to notify Administration.

6.2 Harassment

6.2.1 Physical, Verbal, or Written Harassment

  1. If you feel that you are in immediate danger:
    • Ask another person to remain with you.
    • Notify Administration immediately.
  2. Maintain documentation of incidents, including:
    • Date
    • Time
    • Location
    • Witnesses
  3. Preserve any letters, gifts, notes, messages, or other evidence.
  4. Report all incidents to Administration.
  5. Racial or sexual harassment must also be reported to the Affirmative Action Officer.

6.2.2 Harassing Email or Voice Mail

  1. Do not delete the message.
  2. Do not respond to the message.
  3. Save the email or voice mail for investigation.
  4. Print email messages, including header information when possible.
  5. If the message originated on campus, notify Administration immediately.
  6. If the message originated off campus, notify:
    • Administration
    • The originating Internet Service Provider when appropriate
  7. Report all threatening communications to the Affirmative Action Officer.

6.3 Stalking

  1. Do not attempt to manage the situation alone.
  2. Avoid traveling alone whenever possible.
  3. Vary daily routines and travel routes.
  4. Trust your instincts.
  5. Report all incidents to Administration.
  6. If possible and safe to do so, obtain a photograph for identification purposes.

7 Fire Protection

A successful fire protection program requires the cooperation of all students, employees, and visitors.

Everything necessary to start a fire exists within a typical training environment, including:

  • Flammable liquids
  • Combustible materials
  • Solvents and paints
  • Plastics and packaging materials
  • Electrical equipment
  • Sparks and ignition sources
  • Oxygen in the atmosphere

Most fires can be prevented through:

  • Good housekeeping
  • Proper storage practices
  • Routine maintenance
  • Periodic inspections
  • Safe work habits

7.1 Fire Prevention and Housekeeping

7.1.1 General Fire Prevention Practices

  1. Do not permit trash or discarded materials to accumulate.
  2. Do not run extension cords unnecessarily.
  3. Keep combustible materials only in quantities needed for immediate work.
  4. Store combustible materials in approved storage areas.
  5. Never store combustible materials near heaters or electrical equipment.
  6. Never use gasoline, benzene, naphtha, or similar flammable liquids indoors.
  7. Never allow oil-soaked or gasoline-soaked rags to accumulate.
  8. Never smoke or use open flames near combustible materials.
  9. Keep fire exits, passageways, and fire extinguishers unobstructed at all times.

7.1.2 Fire Drills and Evacuation Preparedness

All students and employees shall be familiar with:

  • Building evacuation routes
  • Assembly areas
  • Fire extinguisher locations
  • Fire alarm pull station locations

Fire drills will be conducted periodically to ensure familiarity with emergency evacuation procedures.

7.2 Fire Training

  1. Evacuation diagrams shall be posted in prominent locations.
  2. Instructors shall provide instruction regarding:
    • Fire prevention
    • Fire safety practices
    • Evacuation procedures
    • Fire extinguisher awareness `

8 First Aid and Medical Emergency Policy

First aid is the immediate and temporary care provided to an injured or ill individual until professional medical assistance is available.

The primary objective of first aid is:

  • Preservation of life
  • Prevention of further injury
  • Stabilization of the injured individual

If a student is injured:

  1. The Instructor shall initiate appropriate first aid measures.
  2. Administration shall be notified immediately.
  3. The Allied Health Department shall be notified when appropriate.
  4. The medical situation shall be evaluated for additional treatment needs.

8.1 First Aid Supplies

Each training area shall maintain a properly stocked first aid kit.

8.1.1 Inventory Requirements

  1. Supplies shall be inspected regularly.
  2. Disposable items shall be replaced as needed.
  3. First aid kits shall be maintained in ready condition.

8.1.2 Medications

The following shall not be distributed:

  • Aspirin
  • Over-the-counter medications
  • Alcohol-based medicinal products
  • Expired medical products

No medication shall be dispensed by the College.

8.2 Primary Considerations

  1. Determine the severity of the injury.
  2. Obtain medical assistance when necessary.
  3. Apply only essential first aid measures.
  4. Contact emergency medical services when required.

8.2.1 Serious Injury Response

  1. Emergency medical services shall be summoned immediately.
  2. Transportation to the nearest medical facility shall be arranged.
  3. Emergency contact information shall be utilized.
  4. College personnel transportation shall only be considered after all other transportation options have been exhausted.

9 Safety Procedures

Students may work in training areas only after successfully completing required safety instruction for their program area.

All activities shall be conducted in accordance with the approved Health and Safety Plan.

9.1 Safety Rules

Safety rules establish the minimum and maximum standards for acceptable behavior.

Students are expected to:

  • Understand safety requirements
  • Follow all safety instructions
  • Utilize proper protective equipment
  • Demonstrate safe work practices

Failure to comply with safety requirements may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the College.

9.2 Care and Maintenance of Physical Facilities

Students are responsible for maintaining clean and orderly training areas.

Training areas shall be maintained through:

  • Daily housekeeping
  • Proper material storage
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Organized workspaces

A safe and productive work environment depends upon:

  • Proper housekeeping
  • Safe equipment
  • Appropriate machine guards
  • Regular maintenance
  • Safe work practices

9.3 Housekeeping

9.3.1 General Requirements

  1. Remove rubbish and debris regularly.
  2. Keep floors free of oil, grease, and liquids.
  3. Clean spills immediately.
  4. Maintain clear aisles and exits.
  5. Store materials safely.
  6. Return tools to their designated locations.
  7. Place scrap materials in designated scrap containers.

9.3.2 Daily Cleaning

  1. Empty waste containers regularly.
  2. Remove debris from work areas.
  3. Inspect the area for safety hazards.
  4. Correct hazards immediately when possible.

9.4 Machine Safety and Guards

Guards and protective devices help prevent injury from:

  1. Contact with moving machine parts.
  2. Flying particles and debris.
  3. Equipment malfunction.
  4. Electrical hazards.
  5. Operator error.

Safe equipment operation requires:

  • Proper machine guards
  • Preventive maintenance
  • Operator training
  • Continuous attention to safety procedures

10 Emergency Code Quick Reference Cards


Code BLUE

Medical Emergency

ACTION TO TAKE
Notify Instructor and/or Administration immediately. Provide location and emergency details.
Keep the injured person calm and comfortable. Await emergency assistance.


Code BLACK

Natural Disaster

ACTION TO TAKE
Proceed immediately to the designated storm shelter area. Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
Follow Instructor directions. Remain sheltered until the All Clear is given.


Code RED

Fire Emergency

ACTION TO TAKE
Pull the nearest fire alarm. Notify Instructor or Administration.
Evacuate immediately using posted evacuation routes. Proceed to the assembly area.


Code ORANGE

Bomb Threat

ACTION TO TAKE
Follow evacuation instructions immediately. Remain clear of the building.
Do not touch suspicious objects. Await the All Clear notification.


Code GREEN

Hazardous Materials / Natural Gas Emergency

ACTION TO TAKE
Notify Instructor or Administration immediately. Evacuate and isolate the area.
Avoid inhaling fumes, smoke, gases, or vapors. Remain clear of the affected area.


Code WHITE

Violence on Campus / Lockdown

ACTION TO TAKE
Move immediately to your training area. Stay away from doors and windows.
Remain quiet and await instructions. Do not leave until the All Clear is issued.


Code YELLOW

Nuclear Event

ACTION TO TAKE
Take cover immediately. Do not look directly at the flash.
Seek shelter indoors. Move to a fallout shelter if directed.


Code BROWN

Electrical Emergency

ACTION TO TAKE
Notify Instructor or Administration immediately. Do not touch an energized victim.
Keep others away from the area. Await emergency responders.