CHAPTER 1
Los Angeles County
Metro Freeway Service Patrol
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
OCTOBER 1, 2003
FOREWORD
Congratulations! As a Metro Freeway Service Patrol Operator, you are a member of an elite team of congestion-relief specialists. Welcome to the Los Angeles County Metro Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) program; the largest program of its type in the country.
The purpose of this Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) manual is to consolidate and update the SOP manual, as well as to create a comprehensive manual that provides the FSP Operator with a better understanding of the rules, policies, and regulations of the FSP program. Not all situations arising in the FSP program can be covered in this manual. Therefore, sound judgment on the part of the FSP Operator should always be used.
Take pride in your job! You are fighting on the front line in a constant war to reduce congestion for Los Angeles County motorists. Your smile can make someone’s day.
The Metro Freeway Service Patrol needs your support in order to continue to achieve “Excellent” and “Good Service” ratings. Remember, the public acknowledges your good service daily through letters like this one:
“Dear Mr. Rael and Mr. Lopez,
Thank you a lot for saving our teacher because we wouldn’t have class.
You are helpful! Who are you helping next?
Love John”
You are a hero every day!
This SOP is a living document that will be occasionally updated. This SOP shall be carried by the Operator in the FSP service vehicle during FSP service hours. (Management recommends that it be placed next to the “drop location” binder).
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 - OVERVIEW OF FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL PROGRAM
1. WHY A FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL PROGRAM? 1-1
2. SCOPE OF PROGRAM 1-1
3. FSP MANAGEMENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1-2
CHAPTER 2 - CONTRACTORS DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS 2-1
2. MOTOR CARRIER PERMIT REGISTRATION AND INSURANCE 2-1
3. ON THE JOB TRAINING (OJT) FOR NEW DRIVERS (OPTIONAL) 2-2
4. REQUIRED SAFETY MEETINGS 2-4
5. UTILIZING THE SERVICES OF AN OPERATOR FROM ANOTHER CONTRACTOR 2-4
6. TIP PROCEDURE 2-4
7. FSP TOW TRUCK INSPECTION REPORT (PRE-OP) 2-4
8. QUANTITY OF FORMS/BROCHURES 2-5
9. FACILITY AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS 2-5
10. DROP LOCATION BOOK AND SOP MANUAL 2-5
11. DOCK INFORMATION FOR MECHANICAL BREAKDOWN 2-5
12. MAINTAINING FULLY-EQUIPPED BACK-UP TRUCK AND OPERATOR 2-6
13. REDEPLOYMENT 2-6
CHAPTER 3 - OPERATOR CERTIFICATION
1. ABILITY TO READ AND COMMUNICATE CLEARLY ON THE RADIO 3-2
2. CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS 3-2
CHAPTER 4 - PROFESSIONALISM
1. DEMEANOR/COURTESY 4-1
2. UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS 4-2
3. GROOMING AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE STANDARDS 4-3
5. OCCURRENCE OF CRIMINAL CONDUCT ON/OFF DUTY 4-4
CHAPTER 5 - OPERATOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. LIABILITY 5-1
2. NO PEACE OFFICER POWERS 5-1
3. NOTIFYING DISPATCH 5-2
4. TOBACCO PRODUCT USE 5-2
5. USE OF AM/FM RADIO 5-3
6. SLEEPING WHILE IN OR AROUND AN FSP SERVICE VEHICLE 5-3
7. HONESTY AND TRUTHFULNESS 5-3
8. BEAT LIMITS 5-3
9. DAILY SERVICE VEHICLE INSPECTION 5-3
10. MILEAGE LOG 5-4
11. STAGING LOCATIONS 5-4
12. SIGNING ON/OFF 5-5
13. LATE SIGN ON 5-5
14. DISPATCHED CALLS 5-5
15. TEN-MINUTE MOBILIZATION PERIOD 5-5
16. BREAKS 5-6
17. OPERATOR BECOMES SICK OR UNABLE TO WORK 5-7
18. MORE THAN ONE OPERATOR AT A SCENE 5-7
19. INOPERATIVE CALL BOXES 5-7
20. PATROL PERIOD/SHIFT 5-7
21. PATROLLING IN THE HOV LANE 5-7
22. PATROLLING TRANSITION ROADS 5-8
23. LEAVING THE BEAT 5-8
24. PERSONAL CELLULAR PHONE USAGE 5-8
25. FOOD INSIDE OF FSP SERVICE VEHICLES 5-8
26. TOWING OF MOTORCYCLES PROHIBITION 5-8
27. REFERRALS/SECONDARY TOW 5-9
28. BACK-UP TRUCK REQUIREMENTS 5-9
29. TIPS/GRATUITIES 5-9
30. UNATTENDED SERVICE VEHICLE 5-9
31. DRIVER LICENSE/DL64 REQUIREMENTS 5-10
CHAPTER 6 - OPERATIONAL SITUATIONS AND POLICIES
1. INTERACTION WITH PEACE OFFICERS 6-1
2. DISABLED VEHICLES THAT ARE OCCUPIED 6-1
3. ABANDONED VEHICLE PROCEDURES 6-4
4. TRAFFIC COLLISIONS 6-5
5. WHEN TO REQUEST A ROTATION TOW 6-6
6. REMOVAL OF DEBRIS FROM THE ROADWAY……………….. 6-7
7. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 6-8
8. PEDESTRIANS 6-9
9. ASSISTING THE VULNERABLE MOTORIST 6-9
CHAPTER 7 - SAFETY
1. FOCUS ON SAFETY 7-1
2. SAFETY OF THE MOTORIST 7-1
3. COMMON SAFETY RULES 7-1
4. SAFETY POINTS 7-2
5. TRAFFIC CONTROL 7-2
6. SAFE VEHICLE OPERATION 7-5
7. SURFACE STREETS 7-6
8. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES/NATURAL DISASTER CONTINGENCIES 7-6
9. PERSONAL SAFETY 7-7
CHAPTER 8 - TOW PROCEDURES AND POLICIES
1. HOOKING UP THE VEHICLE 8-1
2. TRAVELING WITH VEHICLE IN TOW 8-2
3. PUSHING VEHICLES 8-3
4. JUMP START WITH CABLES ONLY 8-5
5. CAR FIRES 8-7
6. VEHICLE DAMAGE 8-7
7. DROP LOCATIONS 8-7
CHAPTER 9 - RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
1. RADIO COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT 9-1
2. GENERAL RADIO PROCEDURES 9-2
3. MONITORING RADIO/SCANNER TRAFFIC 9-3
4. PROPER RADIO PROTOCOL FOR TRANSPORTATION OF FEMALES 9-4
5. RADIO DO’S AND DON’TS 9-5
6. RADIO CODES 9-7
CHAPTER 10 - MOBILE DATA TERMINAL
1. ABOUT THE CMX-4000 MOBILE DATA TERMINAL 10-1
2. MDT PROCEDURE 10-3
2. MDT USE 10-5
CHAPTER 11 - MOTORIST ASSIST FORM
1. MATCHING NUMBERS ON A MOTORIST ASSIST FORM 11-1
2. PROVIDING FSP BROCHURE AND SURVEY FORM TO ALL MOTORISTS 11-1
3. MOTORIST ASSIST FORM COMPLETION 11-1
4. WHEN TO FILL OUT THE MOTORIST ASSIST FORM 11-2
5. FALSIFYING MOTORIST ASSIST FORMS 11-2
6. CALL BOX CHECKS 11-2
7. MOTORIST ASSIST FORM GUIDELINES 11-2
8. ACCURATE COMPLETION OF THE MOTORIST ASSIST FORMS 11-5
9. SUBMISSION OF MOTORIST ASSIST FORMS 11-5
CHAPTER 12 - SPECIAL RELATIONSHIPS
1. SPECIAL RELATIONSHIPS 12-1
CHAPTER 13 - SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
1. SEXUAL HARASSMENT 13-1
CHAPTER 14 – DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY
1. CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITY 14-1
2. OPERATOR’S RESPONSIBILITY 14-1
3. ARRESTS 14-3
CHAPTER 15 – PERFORMANCE MEASURES
1. PERFORMANCE MEASURES DEMO PROGRAM 15-1
2. DRIVER AWARDS 15-2
CHAPTER 16 - VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES
1. OVERVIEW 16-1
2. CONTRACTOR PENALTIES 16-1
3. VIOLATIONS THAT MAY LEAD TO CONTRACTOR BEAT SUSPENSION 16-2
4. LIST OF VIOLATIONS 16-2
5. TERMINATIONS AND APPEAL PROCESS 16-5
6. COMPLAINT PROCESS……… ………………………………………………. 16-5
ATTACHMENTS
ATTACHMENT A - OPERATOR TRAINEE SCHEDULE (OJT)
ATTACHMENT B - PRE-OPERATIONAL INSPECTION FORM
ATTACHMENT C - REDEPLOYMENT WORK ORDER FORM
ATTACHMENT D - FSP OPERATOR APPLICANT INTERVIEW FORM
ATTACHMENT E - WEEKLY MILEAGE LOG
ATTACHMENT F - MOTORIST ASSIST FORM
ATTACHMENT G - PERFORMANCE MEASURES CRITERIA
ATTACHMENT H - CURSORY INSPECTION FORM
ATTACHMENT I - SUMMARY OF VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES
TECHNICAL DEFINITIONS
Caltrans California Department of Transportation
CHP California Highway Patrol
Contract The legal document (of which this document is a part) between the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and your tow company owner.
Contractor A tow company contracted to provide service for the Freeway Service Patrol program.
Dispatch The CHP personnel assigned to dispatch the service vehicles for the Freeway service Patrol program.
FSP Metro Freeway Service Patrol
IDT Initial Driver Training
Management Caltrans and CHP personnel assigned to supervise the FSP in the field (formally referred to as FSP Supervisors), and MTA staff assigned to the FSP program.
MDT Mobile Data Terminal
MTA Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority
Operator A trained tow truck driver certified to work for the FSP program.
Redeployment The deployment of alternate FSP Contractor resources to fill a service gap.
Service Truck A pick-up truck
Service Vehicle A tow truck or pick-up truck equipped and assigned to work for the FSP program.
SOP The FSP program’s Standard Operating Procedures.
BEAT MAPS
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
OVERVIEW OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY METRO FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL PROGRAM
1. WHY A FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL PROGRAM?
A. The purpose of the Metro Freeway Service Patrol is to provide congestion relief on the freeways, improve safety and air quality, and reduce fuel consumption by rapidly clearing incidents.
B. According to studies, over 50 percent of traffic congestion is the result of accidents and stalled vehicles. Prompt clearing of the roadway reduces the occurrence of additional accidents and slowing caused by curious onlookers and motorists trying to avoid the original incident. The keys to maintaining maximum capacity on the roadways are opening closed lanes and expediting the removal of disabled vehicles from the freeway.
2. SCOPE OF PROGRAM
A. The Metro Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) is a joint program of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the California Highway Patrol (CHP), and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).
B. Privately owned tow companies enter contractual agreements with MTA to provide continuous patrol service during morning and evening commute hours on designated portions of Los Angeles County’s most congested freeways and highways. Additional limited service is provided during off-peak midday hours, weekends and in specific construction areas.
C. Operators provide on-the-spot help to motorists, free of charge, and with no tip. An Operator may: jump start cars, repair or replace a flat tire, provide a gallon of gas, refill radiators, tape water hoses or provide other quick fixes to mobilize the disabled motorist.
D. If an FSP Operator is unable to get a vehicle running within 10 minutes, the Operator should tow the vehicle to a designated drop location where additional assistance can be requested.
E. An FSP Operator may be called upon to provide assistance in removing vehicles involved in collisions, removing debris from roadways, or assisting with other incidents as directed by the California Highway Patrol.
3. FSP MANAGEMENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
While an FSP tow truck driver (hereinafter called “Operator”) is in the spotlight for all of the services he/she (hereinafter “he”) provides, there are three organizations in the background that provide support and direction. These organizations are: the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), that combined are herein called “FSP Management”. MTA, CHP and Caltrans are equal partners in overseeing the FSP Program. Their responsibilities include:
MTA
♣ Develop, advertise, award and manage the contracts of the tow truck companies
♣ Manage FSP field and vehicle communications equipment
♣ Program lead in Multi-Agency partnership and coordination
♣ Legislative lead for statewide FSP program
♣ Manage program funds
♣ Program development (system enhancements)
♣ Procure program supplies
♣ Contract invoice processing
♣ Monitor contract-required insurance policies
▪ Administer redeployment operations
▪ Evaluate Contractor and program performance
▪ Evaluate Contractor and program complaint investigations
CHP
♣ Provide initial and annual refresher training / certification to all Operator (classroom and practical training)
♣ Provide program law enforcement services
♣ Provide field supervision
♣ Conduct ride-along evaluations of Operators
♣ Maintain SOP
♣ Perform cursory tow inspections
♣ Evaluate Operator job performance
♣ Conduct background checks of prospective FSP Operator applicants
♣ Conduct Livescan Check of each applicant’s fingerprints
♣ Ensure current registration and Motor Carrier Permit of program vehicles
♣ Conducts Operator complaint investigations
♣ Document SOP violations
♣ Dispatch FSP tow trucks from the Transportation Management Center (TMC) (hereinafter called “Dispatch”)
CALTRANS
♣ Perform fleet monitoring of all FSP tow trucks through the use of the Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) system, which monitors the precise location of all FSP trucks.
♣ Collect and evaluate statistical data for the on-going evaluation of the FSP Program
♣ Manage and update maps of authorized drop locations
♣ Distribute program supplies to Contractors
♣ Perform random and planned tow facility inspections
♣ Coordinate construction support as it relates to FSP
▪ Coordinate scantron form processing
▪ Prepare program quarterly report
▪ Evaluate beat performance
▪ Review traffic patterns of existing and proposed beats
♣ Coordinate Contractor invoice adjustments
1 CONTRACTOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS
Compliance with the FSP vehicle requirements, vehicle maintenance, and Operator uniform standards are the responsibility of the Contractor, not the Operator.
To maintain the quality, safety and professional standards of the FSP Program, the following procedures shall apply:
A. Each Contractor shall supply MTA, CHP and Caltrans with a list of authorized agent(s)/manager(s).
B. Contractor/agent/manager shall be on site during all pre-operation inspections.
C. Contractor/agent/manager shall review and sign the pre-operation inspection sheet prior to the Operator beginning his work assignment.
D. Contractor/agent/manager shall ensure that all deficient items identified on the pre-operation sheets are repaired prior to going into service and that trucks are not allowed into service until repairs are made.
2. MOTOR CARRIER PERMIT, REGISTRATION, AND INSURANCE
Part of the Contractor’s responsibility is to keep current on all laws and regulations associated with being a tow operator.
A. The Contractor shall maintain a current/valid Motor Carrier permit and provide CHP Dispatch with a current copy. Failure to maintain a valid copy will result in automatic suspension of all activity on FSP beats until a valid Motor Carrier permit is obtained.
B. The Contractor shall maintain current registration on all FSP service vehicles. Each Contractor must provide CHP Dispatch with a copy of valid registration for each vehicle in his/her fleet. Failure to maintain current registration on any FSP vehicle will result in removing the vehicle from FSP service until valid registration is obtained. The Contractor will be docked for the period that the vehicle is not providing service on the beat, unless a certified FSP back-up truck with current registration is available.
C. The Contractor shall maintain current/valid insurance for each FSP vehicle and provide MTA with a current copy. Failure to maintain current/valid insurance will result in automatic suspension of all activity on FSP beats until current/valid insurance is obtained.
3. ON THE JOB TRAINING (OJT) FOR NEW DRIVERS (OPTIONAL)
A. A Contractor may provide a new Operator without prior FSP experience up to 20 hours of reimbursable On-The-Job-Training (OJT) in an FSP service vehicle, accompanied with an experienced FSP Operator, preferably a beat leader. The OJT must begin after the FSP Operator Trainee completes the two-day Initial Driver Training (IDT) class. The OJT must be completed within 60 calendar days, starting with the first day following the successful completion of the IDT class.
B. The goal of the OJT is to provide the FSP Operator Trainee with field experience relating to the daily operations of the FSP. It is recommended that the OJT be conducted during all phases of the beat: morning, afternoon, midday, and weekend shifts, so that the FSP Operator Trainee can become familiar with all the possible shift patterns.
C. OJT Consists Of The Following:
1. Knowledge and location of authorized drop locations
1. Proper procedures to be used during motorist assists
2. Proper radio procedures
3. Effective use of MDT
4. Proper completion of Scantron forms
5. Area / beat irregularities
6. CHP David unit inspections
7. Break procedures
8. Interaction with CHP dispatch (including a 2-hour visit to the Transportation Management Center to review dispatch and fleet monitoring functions)
D. A Contractor who is new to the FSP program who does not have an experienced FSP Operator, as well as other special situations, shall be handled on a case-by-case basis.
E. A Contractor who wishes to be reimbursed for OJT shall provide a Trainee’s projected training schedule to FSP Management (CHP), using FSP Form OJT-1 (Attachment A), prior to any OJT commencing, and notify CHP of any changes to said schedule. The Contractor shall contact CHP Dispatch/Caltrans to obtain an appointment to complete the required two hours of training at the TMC.
Prior to the visit at the TMC, 10 hours of field time must be completed by the Trainee.
F. Dispatch will be notified at the beginning of each shift, when OJT is being provided. If OJT occurs on back-to-back shifts, the information will need to be repeated. Dispatch will create an “OJT CAD Log” daily and record the following information:
1. FSP call sign
2. Trainee’s ID number
3. Trainer’s ID number
This CAD Log will be printed and forwarded to FSP Management, to be used to reconcile OJT reimbursement invoices.
Trainers shall document that OJT has been provided to the Trainee using the training checklist FSP FORM OJT-2 (Attachment A).
FSP will reimburse the respective Contractor at one and one-half times his/her contracted hourly rate, upon proper documentation of the Trainee’s OJT hours. The Contractor shall maintain adequate records, documenting each date and time worked by the Trainee. In addition, the Trainer’s name and FSP ID number, as well as the FSP service vehicle used and beats worked shall be documented using FSP Form OJT-1 (Attachment A).
OJT shall be monitored by FSP Management and shall be subject to random inspections.
The Contractor shall note “OJT reimbursement” on the monthly invoice (redeployment calculation), and attach the OJT-1 and OJT-2.
Note: For any reason the prospective Operator is not qualified or chooses not to join the FSP program, the respective Contractor must reimburse FSP for the training expenses incurred.
ALL OJT MUST BE COMPLETED WITHIN 60 DAYS OF COMPLETION OF THE IDT CLASS. ANY COSTS FOR OJT AFTER THIS TIME LIMIT, SHALL NOT BE REIMBURSED TO THE CONTRACTOR.
OJT SHALL BE BILLED ONLY AFTER THE ALLOWABLE 20 HOURS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED (FIELD AND TMC SIT-IN HOURS).
4. REQUIRED SAFETY MEETINGS
The Contractor shall hold monthly scheduled safety meetings in accordance with State Law SB-198. These meetings shall be used to disseminate information regarding the FSP Program and to provide a forum where the Operator may express his concerns.
Each Contractor shall document the date, time and location of the safety meetings, including names of attendees and subjects covered, and maintain the documentation for FSP Management’s inspection upon request.
5. UTILIZING THE SERVICES OF AN OPERATOR FROM ANOTHER CONTRACTOR
A Contractor who wishes to temporarily utilize the services of an Operator from another Los Angeles County FSP Contractor, shall notify the Dispatch Supervisor of FSP Management prior to the individual working a shift. An appointment shall be made for the Operator to complete all necessary paperwork and obtain a temporary FSP ID card for secondary FSP employment. Failure to notify the Dispatch Supervisor may result in a fine.
6. TIP PROCEDURE
Should a Contractor encounter a situation where an Operator is given a tip, the Contractor shall use the following procedure:
1. The Contractor shall maintain control of the tips, (money/items received) until the next scheduled Contractors’ meeting. The Contractors is required to turn in tips and Tip Logs to the CHP at each Contractors’ meeting.
2. The Contractor shall maintain a Tip Log with the following information:
a. Date received
b. Log Number
c. Operator's ID number receiving the tip
d. Amount of money/item received
e. Running total of monetary tips received
7. FSP TOW TRUCK INSPECTION REPORT (PRE-OP)
The Contractor shall maintain the pre-operation inspection forms on a daily basis. The inspection form for the current week shall be kept in the tow office at all times and presented to FSP Management upon request. The inspection forms shall be kept on file at the Contractor's office for thirty (30) calendar days as stated in the Contract. Additionally, falsifying any pre-operation inspection forms will result in suspension/termination for the involved individual(s). (See Attachment B)
8. QUANTITY OF FORMS/BROCHURES
Contractors shall maintain a sufficient quantity of FSP brochures, Motorist Assist Forms and FSP abandoned vehicle markers (FSP 422). Additional forms can be obtained from Caltrans.
9. FACILITY AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
All Contractors shall be inspected annually by FSP Management. CHP shall coordinate the scheduling of all annual inspections.
A. Facility Inspections
All Contractors shall be inspected annually by FSP Management. Facilities shall be required to comply with the facility inspection requirements defined in the latest bid solicitation requirements.
B. Vehicle Inspections
All FSP contracted vehicles shall be inspected annually by FSP Management. Vehicles shall be required to comply with the vehicle inspection requirements defined in the latest bid solicitation requirements.
10. DROP LOCATION BOOK AND SOP MANUAL
The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that each FSP truck has a current drop location binder. The Contractor shall distribute the Drop Location Book to all his/her Operators and post the drop location and SOP updates in a conspicuous location within the company’s office as soon as they are received from FSP Management.
11. DOCK INFORMATION FOR MECHANICAL BREAKDOWN
An Operator going out of service for mechanical reasons shall be docked in 15-minute increments at straight time up to 45 minutes, until such time that the truck either returns to service or a backup truck is deployed. If the repair takes longer than 45 minutes, the dock will be double the hourly rate. The start time for the dock will revert back to the original time the Operator went out of service.
12. MAINTAINING FULLY-EQUIPPED BACK-UP TRUCK AND OPERATOR
As identified in the Contract, the back-up truck shall be outfitted with all the required equipment installed on regular FSP trucks, and shall be ready to be placed into service during all shift hours. Contractors should consider using a back-up Operator on occasion to keep them proficient in FSP policies and procedures.
13. REDEPLOYMENT
The FSP Program periodically redeploys "back-up” or available trucks in order to provide continual and/or added coverage on required FSP beats. An Operator assigned to a beat as redeployment is required to follow all FSP operational procedures, including, but not limited to, signing-on at the redeployed beat; staging areas.
A. Contractor Request For Redeployment
In an effort to assist Contractors with unforeseen vehicle and/or Operator issues, a Contractor is allowed to request redeployment for his/her contracted beat. The following conditions apply to any Contractor’s request for redeployment:
1. A request to redeploy must be received and acknowledged by MTA at least 48 hours prior to the requested start of redeployment. If this 48-hour notice is not given and the Contractor does not provide the contracted service, the requesting Contractor will be double-docked (2X) each shift until redeployment is performed. For example, requests for redeployment starting on a Monday must be received by close of business on the preceding Wednesday just as requests for redeployment starting on a Tuesday must be received by the close of business on the preceding Thursday.
2. If another Contractor cannot be found to perform the requested redeployment, the requesting Contractor will be double-docked (2X) each shift until redeployment is performed or the requesting Contractor is able to resume service.
3. Redeployment requests shall be for a minimum of 3 days (Monday - Friday). No exceptions.
Under successful completion of these conditions, the requesting Contractor will be exempt from the double-dock (2X) financial penalty; it will also not be eligible to be reimbursed for any of its beat’s redeployed service.
B. Redeployment Selection Criteria
|First Priority |Existing Contractor |
|
|Second Priority |Adjoining Beat Contractor: In order of lowest hourly rate |
|
A Contractor is offered redeployment based on the following criteria:
1. First Priority- Existing Contractor
A Contractor that is offered redeployment on one of his/her beats may use any of the trucks from that beat to provide the service. If a Contractor is operating more than one FSP beat, he/she may use an available vehicle from its other FSP beat to provide the redeployment.. If the Contractor wishes to exercise this option, he/she must inform FSP dispatch prior to redeployment. If the Contractor does not operate a second FSP beat, the redeployment automatically defaults to the second priority criteria described below.
The following criteria must be met, in order for the existing Contractor to be offered the opportunity to redeploy service:
a) Contractor agrees to perform redeployment
b) There are sufficient contingency funds in Contractor’s redeployed FSP beat contract to pay for redeployment
c) Contractor is not on “cure notice”
d) Contractor has adequate truck(s) to perform both its normal scheduled FSP operation and the requested redeployment
In the special situation where redeployment is being offered to provide Caltrans construction support, the existing Contractor providing FSP service in the immediate area of the construction will be given first opportunity to provide this extra service. The Contractor must use a vehicle from that specific beat to provide the redeployment and must meet the criteria a) thru d) listed above. If the Contractor is operating more than one FSP beat, it may use a vehicle from its other beat should a vehicle from the beat in the construction area not be available.
2. Second Priority - Adjoining Beat Contractor(s)
In the event that the existing Contractor cannot redeploy service on its beat, the redeployment shall be offered to another Contractor. Redeployment will then be offered to the Contractor of the nearest adjoining beat in order of lowest hourly cost. This process will continue until the redeployment request is filled, or until all Contractors in the FSP program have been offered the redeployment opportunity.
In order for a Contractor to be awarded redeployment, he/she must meet the following criteria:
a) Contractor agrees to perform redeployment
b) There are sufficient contingency funds in Contractor’s redeployed FSP beat contract to pay for redeployment
c) Contractor is not on “cure notice”
d) Contractor has adequate truck(s) to perform both its normal scheduled FSP operation and the requested redeployment
C. Contractor Unable To Perform Agreed-Upon Redeployment Work
If for some unforeseen reason, a Contractor that has agreed to provide the redeployment and has been authorized by the MTA to provide it, is no longer able to continue the redeployment work for the agreed upon term, that Contractor will be allowed to request redeployment. The following conditions apply to any such request:
A request to redeploy must be faxed to (213) 922-2955, received and acknowledged by MTA FSP Management at least 48 hours prior to the requested redeployment. If this 48-hour notice is not given and the redeploying Contractor does not provide the contracted service, the Contractor will be double-docked (2X) for each shift until redeployment is resumed. For example, requests for redeployment starting on a Monday must be received by close of business on the preceding Wednesday, just as requests for redeployment starting on a Tuesday must be received by the close of business on the preceding Thursday.
Another Contractor must be willing to accept the requested redeployment, and must meet the criteria described in section B. If no other Contractor is willing or able to perform redeployment of a redeployment and the requesting Contractor is unable to meet its obligations, the requesting Contractor shall be double docked according to the SOP for each shift following the request for redeployment for 48 hours (2 days, not service hours) or until such time that the redeployment is resumed, whichever is less.
D. Redeployment Work Order
A Redeployment Work Order form is to be filled out and signed by both the MTA and the Contractor accepting the redeployment to officially authorize any redeployment. It is then issued to the Contractor by the MTA prior to the effective date of the redeployment. This form serves as a binding agreement between the MTA and the Contractor accepting the redeployment that the redeployed service will be provided, and that the MTA will reimburse the Contractor for the service.
The Contractor accepting the redeployment offer must sign the Redeployment Work Order and immediately fax it to the MTA. If an approved Redeployment Work Order form is not returned back to the Contractor within 24 hours of the fax, the affected Contractor shall be required to contact FSP Management to ascertain redeployment status. Under no circumstances (except if it is unsafe to do so) shall a Contractor requesting the redeployment cease to provide coverage without MTA authorization; further, under no circumstances shall a Contractor accepting the redeployment offer, begin to provide this added work without having received a fully completed and signed Redeployment Work Order authorizing said redeployment.
A copy of the Redeployment Work Order form is found in Attachment C.
OPERATOR CERTIFICATION
All FSP trucks shall only be driven and operated by a certified Operator. To become a certified Operator, all applicants must pass a background-screening test (per 2436.5 V.C.), towing proficiency tests, and a sixteen-hour classroom-training program.
An Operator shall be at least 18 years of age.
Contractors shall ensure that the Operator is “qualified, experienced, competent”, and is trained and proficient in the use of the tow truck and related equipment prior to the towing proficiency test. “Qualified, experienced and competent” means that the Operator can properly and safely hook up and tow a vehicle. The Operator must also be able to tow and recover vehicles safely and efficiently without causing additional damage to the vehicle being recovered. Additionally, the Operator must be able to perform minor repairs in a timely manner and be able to exercise good and sound judgment in carrying out his duties.
A prospective vehicle Operator, including any back-up driver, shall be required to complete the FSP Management’s Driver Proficiency test. (Note that all beats shall require back-up drivers who must also be FSP certified). This test examines the technical knowledge and driving proficiency of each applicant and is overseen by experienced CHP Officers. The test is divided into five major sections: towing a vehicle using the Sling and Wheel Lift, Dolly Procedures, unlocking a vehicle, and demonstration of defensive driving techniques while in tow. Upon successful completion of this practical test, the prospective driver is allowed to continue with the next step of the selection process.
Each Operator, including any back-up driver, shall be required to complete the FSP Management’s two-day FSP Initial Driver Training (IDT) program. The Contractor shall reimburse each employee for the time spent in the IDT class. No driver will be allowed to begin employment in FSP without successfully completing these mandatory classes, unless they have prior approval from the CHP. Any driver who is found working as an FSP Operator without completing these mandatory classes shall be permanently prohibited from further Metro Freeway Service Patrol service and the Contract may be terminated. The CHP shall certify any Operator who successfully completes the training.
1. ABILITY TO READ AND COMMUNICATE CLEARLY ON RADIO
In emergency situations, it is critical that an Operator be able to clearly relay information to a Dispatcher so that the CHP can make a rapid assessment of what is needed at the scene. Whether this information is provided by voice radio or via text on computer screens, a CHP Dispatcher must be able to understand the Operator. In addition, the Operator must be able to read street signs in order to provide the CHP with accurate location information.
A. An Operator must be able to clearly communicate in English with the CHP Dispatch center.
B. An Operator must be able to read English well enough to be able to quickly read street signs while driving a vehicle.
1
2 2. CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
A. Background Screening And Certification
Before an individual begins Proficiency Testing and Initial Operator Training, he will be subject to a background screening conducted by the CHP, which will include fingerprinting and a California Driver License Check. Utilizing information and fingerprints, the CHP will check the status of each applicant’s California Driver’s License and search for any outstanding wants or warrants; in addition, a general criminal history will be obtained. Information received in this background screening, including any outstanding warrants, will result in disqualification and/or possible legal action.
Each Operator is required to have the following items for background screening:
1. Money Order for $32 or $50: $32 for California Resident applicants and $50 for Out of State applicants.
2. Valid California Drivers License.
3. FSP application (Attachment D).
4. No felony convictions (last 7 years).
5. No misdemeanor convictions (last 3 years).
The application fee is charged to perform a background check on the applicant; the amount charged is based upon the approximate cost of a criminal background check and issuance of the initial DL64. A receipt shall be provided to the applicant for the amount of fee collected. The pink copy of the DL64 (receipt) will be detached from the DL64 and given to the applicant. The pink copy is not the tow truck certificate.
♣ The temporary tow truck certificate (page 2 of the DL64) shall not be issued unless the applicant meets and passes the established criteria.
♣ The application fee shall be collected prior to the completion of the DL64 application. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of the applicant’s approval or denial of a temporary clearance form. The fee will be collected at the Background Screening.
♣ The fees collected shall be paid by money order payable to “CHP Accounting”.
The CHP will issue a temporary DL64 during the Operator’s initial driver training phase. Replacement certificates will be issued only at Department of Motor Vehicles offices.
B. Background Screening Disqualifications
The following shall disqualify an applicant if found during the background screening phase:
1. Three or more drug-related misdemeanor convictions within five years of an application for a DL64 certificate.
2. Any drug-related felony conviction within five years of application for a DL64 certificate.
An applicant shall be disqualified for a conviction of the following if the violation occurred within the previous seven years:
1. Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated - 191.5 (F) P.C.
2. DUI causing injury/death - 23152 (F) V.C.
A proven history of convictions for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs shall disqualify an applicant.
1. Two convictions of DUI within the previous two years - 23152 V.C.
2. Three DUI convictions within the previous seven years -23152 V.C.
The following criminal violations shall impose a ten-year limitation for felonies and a five-year limitation for misdemeanors before an applicant may be considered eligible to drive for the FSP Program.
1. Section 148 PC - Resisting/delaying a peace officer.
2. Section 222 PC - Administering drugs with the intent to commit felony.
3. Section 273.5 PC - Infliction of injury to spouse, cohabitant, parent or child.
4. Section 261.5 PC - Statutory rape.
5. Section 275(a) PC - Cruelty to a child.
6. Section 273(d) PC - Infliction of corporal punishment on a child which results in traumatic conditions.
7. Section 417 PC - Brandishing a firearm in a threatening manner.
8. Section 450 PC - Arson.
9. Section 453 PC - Possession of a firebomb.
10. Section 459 PC - Burglary.
11. Section 466 PC - Possession of burglary tools.
12. Section 467 PC - Possession of deadly weapon with intent to commit assault.
13. Section 470 PC - Forgery.
14. Section 470(a) PC (M) - Reproduction or falsification of a driver license or ID card.
15. Section 470(b) PC - Display or possession of a reproduced or falsified driver license or ID card.
16. Section 477 PC - Counterfeiting money.
17. Section 484(e) PC - Theft of an access card.
18. Section 484(f) PC - Forgery of an access card signature.
19. Section 484(g) PC - Fraudulent use of an access card.
20. Sections 487 and 489 PC - Grand theft, including theft of firearm 487 PC (F); Grand theft of firearm, 489 PC.
21. Section 496 PC - Receiving stolen property.
22. Section 503 PC - Embezzlement.
23. Section 538(d) PC - Fraudulent impersonation of peace officer.
24. Section 2800 VC - Evading a peace officer.
25. Section 10750 VC - Altering, defacing, or replacing vehicle-identifying numbers from another vehicle.
26. Section 10752 VC - Fraudulent acquisition or disposition of DMV or CHP issued Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN).
27. Section 10851 VC - Vehicle theft.
28. Section 20001 VC - Hit and run collision, causing injury/death.
♣ See Attachment D for FSP Operator Applicant Interview Form
C. Changing Employers
An Operator who is changing employer is required to obtain a new FSP ID prior to assuming FSP duties for the new employer. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to make an appointment with FSP Management for the Operator to obtain the new ID card. A minimum of a 24-hours notice is required to schedule an ID appointment. A new FSP ID card will not be issued until the old FSP ID card has been turned in to FSP Management.
Failure to notify FSP Management about a change of employer shall result in a fine to the Contractor.
The Operator will remain active in the FSP program if the change of employer is completed within 30 calendar days from the Operator’s last day worked. After 30 calendar days, an Operator will be considered to have left the program and will need to be reinstated.
D. Refresher Training
A Contractor/Operator desiring to maintain his FSP certification must attend two mandatory Refresher Training Classes within a calendar year. These classes will be held once every six months. A Contractor/Operator who is new to the FSP program or on his first calendar year is exempt from this requirement.
An Operator who fails to, or is unable to attend the Refresher Training Class, shall be required to attend a make-up Refresher Training Class. Refresher Training make-up shall be arranged with CHP/FSP Management prior to attendance.
An Operator failing to attend the either the refresher or make-up training class shall be immediately suspended from the FSP program.
The Contractor shall pay for the Operator and any back-up driver to attend the refresher training. These costs are not reimbursable by FSP.
E. An Operator From An FSP Program Outside of Los Angeles County
If an Operator, who is current and active in another California FSP Program (e.g. Orange County or Bay Area) wishes to work in the Los Angeles County Metro Freeway Service Patrol, he must successfully complete a proficiency test and the IDT class. This is to ensure that the individual wishing to participate in FSP receives all the information that is applicable to the Los Angeles area. This is a precautionary measure in the event there is disparity between the various programs.
F. Operator Reinstatement
For the purposes of this section, an Operator is determined to have left the program and in need of reinstatement if he has not been employed by a Contractor of the Los Angeles Metro FSP Program as an FSP Operator for 31 calendar days or more.
The following conditions shall apply to an Operator in need of reinstatement:
Shall possess or be able to obtain a valid DL64.
1. If the period is 31 calendar days to six (6) months, the former Operator may begin working in the FSP Program as soon as a criminal history and DMV check is completed and the results are acceptable. The Operator must also be current with the applicable Refresher Training. If the Operator is not current, he must complete Refresher Training Make-up.
2. If the period is more than six (6) months and less than one (1) year, the former Operator may begin to work in the FSP Program as soon as a criminal history and DMV check is completed and the results are acceptable. The former Operator must also successfully complete the next available IDT Class.
3. If one (1) year or more has passed, the former Operator shall complete the entire Operator Certification Process. This includes the background check, fingerprinting, proficiency, and classroom training.
An Operator placed into FSP service by an FSP Contractor without authorization from FSP Management may result in the Contract termination.
PROFESSIONALISM
1. DEMEANOR/COURTESY
A. An FSP Operator is a professional who represents his employer as well as MTA, Caltrans, and the CHP. An essential element of this public service is the Operator’s demeanor. For this reason, an Operator shall conduct himself in a business-like manner and ensure all public contact is professional, courteous, and efficient. Accordingly, the words “sir” and “ma’am” should be used when addressing the public. Caution must be utilized when the motorist’s gender is not immediately recognizable. Members of the public should always be addressed and treated with respect.
B. UseThis professional conductis required whenever dealing with anyone while on FSP duty, including other tow operator(s). Upon contact with a motorist, the Operator shall explain the program and offer assistance. A motorist is not obligated to accept any assistance, however, refusal of FSP service shall be reported to CHP dispatch.
To avoid being misunderstood or misquoted, and to facilitate the safe and timely removal of vehicles, the Operator shall avoid unnecessary conversation and should keep his conversations limited to the task of protecting the motorist from identifiable hazards and if necessary, removing his/her vehicle to a safety. safer environment. Some motorists may not be in a good mood due to their situation and/or their vehicle’s condition. Attempting to initiate unneeded discussion, such as religious or political conversations will not be tolerated.
C. The Operator shall not attempt to solicit or initiate any personal conversation social contacts with motorists he assists. For example, asking a motorist if he/she is married or has a “significant other” is inappropriate conversation. The Operator shall not solicit addresses or telephone numbers for personal use. The Operator shall, however, attempt to answer any questions pertaining to the FSP program that are asked by the motorist.
D. The Operator shall not use offensive language, smoke, chew tobacco, eat, drink, or have toothpicks or other items in his mouth while in contact with motorists.
E. When stopping to help a motorist, FSP personnel shall initiate contact with the disabled vehicle’s driver as soon as it is safe to do so.
F. The Operator should always remain calm. maintain a calm attitude. He will often be the first to encounter or respond to a traffic collision. The motorist will expect an Operator to initiate the request for proper emergency and police assistance. Knowledge of proper procedures will enable an Operator to handle a collision scene calmly and efficiently.
G. THE OPERATOR SHALL NOT REFER A MOTORIST TO ANY GARAGE, PRIVATE TOW SERVICE, SERVICE STATION OR MECHANIC. The referral to, or recommendation of any private business shall result in immediate termination of the Operator from the FSP program and may jeopardize his Contractor’s Contract.
H. THE OPERATOR SHALL NOT REFER ANY ACCIDENT VICTIM TO ANY LEGAL SERVICE OR MEDICAL FACILITY.
I. The Metro Freeway Service Patrol provides services to the public free of charge. The entire program is paid by public funds and NO TIPS OR ANY OTHER GRATUITIES OF ANY KIND SHALL BE ACCEPTED.
2. UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS
For public identification purposes, theEach Operator shall wear an authorized uniform while working for the FSPat all times during FSP hours. Uniform requirements will be strictly enforced to ensure that safety equipment is properly utilized, and that a positive public image is displayed by the Operator. Failure to meet uniform standards may result in the Operator being taken out of service and the Contractor being fined. Continued violations of the uniformor grooming requirements may result in the permanent dismissal of the Operator from the FSP program.
An Operator shall not wear the FSP uniform at any time other than while working for the FSP.during FSP hours IN NO EVENT SHALL AN OPERATOR WEAR AN FSP UNIFORM WHILE PERFORMING A COMMERCIAL TOW JOB OUTSIDE THE FSP PROGRAM. The FSP uniform shall be removed as promptly as possible following the termination of FSP hours.
The Contractor shall supply each Operator with uniforms. The uniform shall either be a navy-blue jumpsuit or navy-blue shirt and pants. An approved safety vest shall be worn whenever the Operator is outside of the FSP service vehicle, during FSP hours. Rain gear shall fit the individual Operator so as not to restrict his ability to move freely and must meet the FSP design requirements.
The uniform shall meet the following criteria as described below:
A. The basic uniform includes a shirt and pants or a jump suitIf a jump suit is worn, it shall have a two-way zip front with a heavy-duty brass zipper. Jump suit or shirtsleeves shall be half-raglan type, or set-in sleeve, with pleat-action back. Long sleeves may have plain barrel cuff or be equipped with snap or button closure on wrist. The length of the sleeve on short-sleeve jump suits and shirts shall be approximately one inch above the inside forearm, when the wearer’s arm is bent at a 90-degree angle. The jump suit shall have shape-holding waistbands with elastic inserts for a form fit. For safety reasons, lLegs shall be moderately taperedto avoid a baggy appearance and not baggy.. Uniforms shall not be worn unbuttoned or unzipped. If a two-piece uniform is worn, the shirt shall be tucked into the trousers. When a long sleeved shirt is worn, the sleeves may be rolled up only for that period of time required by a specific job performance.
Shirts or jump suits shall have a minimum of one chest pocket. Single pocket jump suits or shirts shall have the chest pocket placed on the left side.
B.C. An Operator may is allowed to wear either a long or short sleeved navy blue or white turtleneck T-shirt/sweatshirtlong or short sleeved, underneath hiscorresponding long or short sleeve uniform shirts, (e.g., if If a short sleeve shirt is worn, a short sleeve tee shirt must be worn (, no “baseball” sleeves)A navy blue turtleneck shirt may also be worn under the uniform shirt. No other colors are allowed. Only navy blue or white colors are allowed for shirts worn underneath uniform shirts.
C. A safety vest shall be worn with the blue uniform. The uniform is a standard reflective, orange or green-colored safety vest with the FSP logo (patch) attached to the center of the back of each vest. Additionally, the small “M” patch shall be attached on the left front pocket area of the vest and FSP patch shall be attached on the right pocket area of the vest.
D. A plain (no wording or design) navy blue jacket may be worn over the FSP uniform and under the FSP vest. The jacket must be waist length and fitted, not oversized.
E. An Operator shall wear black steel-toed boots that have an adequate amount of sole (tread) to ensure a sure grip on slippery surfaces.
F. Accessories
1. Belts - A solid navy or black belt shall be worn.
2. Name Tag - A metal or plastic name tag with Operator’s first initial of the first name and full last name shall be clearly visible and attached above the left front pocket of the vest.
3. Pins or Emblems – FSP authorized pins or emblems may be worn on the right chest pocket area of the FSP vest. No other pins or emblems are to be worn.
4. Rain Gear - During inclement weather, rain gear may be worn. For safety reasons, the rain gear must be yellow with reflective tape on the jacket. If the approved FSP rain gear is worn, the FSP vest need not be worn.
5. Approved Baseball Style FSP Cap - The uniform cap is navy blue with the FSP logo. Uniform hats will be presented to each Operator when he becomes certified. No other caps are authorized while working for the FSP.
3. GROOMING AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE STANDARD
A. Grooming
Operators shall maintain a well-groomed appearance at all times and shall be clean at the beginning of each shift. Failure to meet the grooming standards may result in an Operator being taken out of service and the Contractor fined. This includes both personal hygiene and uniform appearance and condition. Obtrusive odors, whether they be body odors or others (such as fuel odors) may be offensive to motorists. Operators will be clean shaven or present neatly trimmed beards and/or mustaches. Opeators shall not have facial hair more than one and one-half inches in length. Hair will be clean and neat. Hair that is dyed/colored in any unusual manner (multi-colors, nonstandard colors, e.g. green, yellow, purple, fluorescent, etc.) is forbidden. Long hair is discouraged. If hair is long, it shall be worn pulled back in a ponytail. Ponytails shall not be tied with multi-colored ribbons or ornamental ties (beads, elaborated leather ties, shells, etc.). Additionally, ponytails of such a length that hangs below the collar of the Operators shirt shall be placed inside there shirt or tucked neatly under the Opeators hat. Fingernails shall be kept short. For safety reasons, Operators shall use work gloves when servicing vehicles.
B. Tattoos
In order to ensure a professional appearance for all FSP Operators, all tattoos that are potentially offensive or disturbing to motorists must be concealed by Operators while working. For example, any tattoo that is satanic, racist, threatening, gang related, or sexually explicit will be deemed potentially offensive or disturbing to motorists. All FSP Operators will be required to conceal any tattoos of this nature with gloves, collars, long sleeves, or by other means acceptable to FSP Management. Facial tattoos of any variety are not permitted. If there are any questions regarding which tattoos are potentially offensive, clarification/authorization may be obtained by contacting FSP Management.
C. Personal Accessories
It is policy to minimize the wearing of jewelry for safety reasons. An Operator shall not wear jewelry in excess of one watch and one finger ring. Rings displaying any affiliation with any satanic, racist, sexually explicit, gang-related, or other potentially offensive groups or beliefs shall not be worn while on FSP duty. An Operator may wear necessary medical alert bracelets.
4. THE OCCURRENCE OF CRIMINAL CONDUCT ON/OFF DUTY
Consistent with the established standards of initial employment, off-duty Contractors/Operator who are arrested for a crime, which would otherwise preclude their qualification in the FSP Program, will be immediately suspended pending the outcome of their criminal case. This directive is consistent with California Vehicle Code -- Section 2430.3 Arrest or Conviction Notification -- and -- Section 13377(a) Denial or Revocation of a Tow Truck Certificate (DL64) --. Should a conviction occur, or there is sufficient probable cause for FSP Management to believe that the crime was committed by the Contractor/Operator, even though it resulted in a lesser conviction or no conviction, the Contractor/Operator shall immediately be terminated from participation in the Program.
The following is a list of crimes that will permanently preclude an individual from serving as a Contractor/Operator:
1. Assault with the intent to commit mayhem, rape, sodomy or oral copulation.
2. Penal Code Section 261 or 264.1: Rape, or Aiding and abetting a Rape.
3. Penal Code Section 267: Abducting person under 18 for prostitution.
4. Penal Code Section 288: Lewd act with a child.
5. Penal Code Section 289: Sexual Assault.
6. Any felony or combination of three misdemeanors that are crimes of violence.
A. Revocation Of Driving Privilege
In addition to the preceding crimes, an Operator’s tow certificate (DL64) shall be revoked if the individual’s driving privilege has been suspended or revoked. The most common reason for such a suspension usually relates to an arrest for driving under the influence, multiple citations or being labeled as a “negligent” driver by DMV. The affected individual may reapply for the tow certificate whenever the driving offenses/penalties are resolved or the applicable felony or the misdemeanor conviction is either reversed or dismissed.
OPERATOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
An Operator is expected to provide service to the motoring public only within the scope of his duties. The Operator is to refrain from any activities that exceed the scope of the program.
1. LIABILITY
An Operator can be held civilly liable if he performs any acts that are outside the scope of his duties or employment, and may also be held liable for failing or neglecting to act as is required by these policies and procedures.
2. NO PEACE OFFICER POWERS
A. An FSP Operator does not have any peace officer powers. An Operator’s duty is to patrol freeways to relieve congestion, not police them. An Operator should be a good witness and should avoid personal involvement in disputes and criminal actions, including pursuits or apprehensions of suspected violators. Should an Operator be injured, or cause damage or injury to other persons or property while acting outside the scope of his duties and employment, the Operator may be personally held liable to remedy the damage or injury.
B. An Operator witnessing or having knowledge of any significant criminal activity or suspected intoxicated motorists shall immediately notify dispatch or CHP field personnel. Observations of minor traffic infractions need not be reported (examples of minor infractions: routine speeding vehicles, passing on the shoulder in congested traffic, following too closely, smoking vehicles, etc.). Good judgment must be utilized. If an extremely hazardous condition exists or a crime of a serious nature has occurred, an Operator should report it to CHP dispatch so that the proper authorities may be notified.
An FSP Operator shall not perform any of the following:
♣ Vehicle pursuit
♣ Traffic break (this includes slowing down a traffic lane)
♣ Traffic control after CHP arrives on scene of an incident unless directed to do so by a CHP officer.
♣ Escort of any type
♣ Detention of motorists for a traffic-related offenses
♣ Request a driver’s license from a motorist at an accident scene or hold said license
♣ Request insurance information from a motorist at an accident scene or hold said information
♣ Ask what happened at an accident scene
♣ Offer advice at an accident scene
♣ Discuss the accident with involved person(s) at an accident scene
♣ Decide/discuss fault at an accident scene
♣ Take any type of enforcement action against a member of the public
♣ Interrogate/question any person regarding matters that might concern violations of law
♣ Drive on the right shoulder
♣ Drive in the center divider
♣ Quote any tow fees
♣ Make referrals to businesses (auto body shop, law firm, etc)
3. NOTIFYING DISPATCH
♣ An Operator shall immediately advise Dispatch of any criminal activity encountered or observed and shall not stop at the location.
♣ After reporting a possible intoxicated motorist, physical altercation or illegal activity, whether moving or stationary, etc., an Operator is to go 10-98.
♣ Failure to advise Dispatch that an assignment is complete (10-98) will result in a disciplinary action.
♣ Citizen arrest actions are strongly discouraged in the FSP Program. An Operator is to notify CHP of any situation warranting action outside the scope of FSP employment.
♣ Do not become involved. An Operator is not trained to handle these types of situations.
4. TOBACCO PRODUCT USE
Using any tobacco product inside or near FSP service vehicles (including tow trucks and service trucks) during FSP hours is prohibited, and is highly discouraged after FSP hours; FSP hours includes breaks. This section shall not be construed to permit the smoking or use of controlled substances or marijuana at any time. Vehicles should not only be clean at all times but also not smell like ashtrays. As such, the ash tray of each FSP service vehicle shall be cleaned prior to the start of each shift.
5. USE OF AM/FM RADIO
An Operator who wishes to listen to a public radio station should turn off the radio while in-tow or during an FSP transmission to dispatch. At no time shall the radio volume be such that the FSP radio equipment (CHP dispatch, etc.) cannot be clearly heard or understood.
6. SLEEPING WHILE IN OR AROUND AN FSP SERVICE VEHICLE
An FSP Operator shall not sleep while on duty or in a service vehicle displaying the FSP logo, whether on duty or not. This prohibition is applicable to rest breaks and lunch periods. Sleeping is not permitted at any time during a shift. If an Operator is fatigued to the point of needing sleep during his work shift, he should not be working on the roadways. For the purpose of this section, sleeping is defined as actually sleeping or presenting the appearance that one is asleep.
7. HONESTY AND TRUTHFULNESS
It is imperative that each FSP Operator be honest and truthful regarding all aspects of FSP operations. An Operator shall provide truthful information to FSP Management and his Contractor whether it be through voice radio, MDT, in person, and/or by written document. Any violation of this will be handled on a case-by-case basis based on the facts available.
8. BEAT LIMITS
The beat limits are identified in the Contract. These limits include the turn-around points and must be adhered. FSP Management understands that there will be times when it is necessary to drive beyond the limits, such as when an Operator observes a disabled motorist ahead. However, this should not occur without notification and approval from Dispatch, as the additional driving time increases the response time to other incidents. If an Operator does find him/herself at an incident that is beyond the limits of his/her beat, that individual shall complete the call after obtaining approval from Dispatch.
9. DAILY SERVICE VEHICLE INSPECTION
An Operator shall inspect his truck on a daily basis, prior to the beginning of each shift. Each truck must be inspected using an FSP Tow Truck and Equipment Daily/Weekly Inspection Report; no other inspection forms may be used. The Operator shall use an ink pen (not pencil) when completing the pre-op form. Any problem shall be fixed prior to the start of the operation of the vehicle in FSP service. The symbol “X” shall be used for items in compliance and the symbol “O” shall be used for items not within compliance on the form.
*See Attachment B for FSP Tow Truck and Equipment Daily/Weekly Inspection Report
10. MILEAGE LOG
An Operator is required to keep a mileage log in his truck during the hours of FSP operation. The Contractor must ensure that the forms are maintained in the SOP binder, and that the binder is kept in each Operator’s truck. Mileage forms are to be kept in the vehicle for the duration of the month, and then filed in the Contractor’s office at the completion of the month for reference through the contract period.
The mileage log is divided into four separate sections: AM Shift, Midday Shift, PM Shift, and Weekends. The form is further separated into days of the week (Monday through Sunday). A new form should be started every Monday morning on the AM shift. Each Operator is responsible for making accurate entries on the mileage form consistent with the day and shift he works.
The mileage forms are designed to track mileage on a weekly basis. The Operator is required to enter his truck’s odometer reading at the beginning and end of each shift on a daily basis, as well as enter the total number of miles driven on that particular shift. Additionally, there is a place provided on the mileage form to enter the total number of assists for the shift along with the Operator’s name and ID number.
The Operator shall have the mileage forms available for inspection by David Units upon request. Failure to provide the mileage form upon request or providing the form with inaccurate entries is a violation.
*See Attachment E for Weekly Mileage Log.
11. STAGING LOCATIONS
Each Contractor shall have a pre-designated area/location where all of the Operators on the beat shall meet prior to shift start time. This location is known as a beat’s “staging location.” A staging locations allows the Beat Leader the opportunity to see that all Operators are in uniform with the appropriate FSP safety vest on, confirm that their equipment is ready to go, and check that all FSP signs are affixed to each tow truck. If an Operator cannot be at the staging location, he shall notify Dispatch immediately. If for any reason a staging location needs to be changed, a CHP David Unit’s approval must be given prior to using a new staging area.
12. SIGNING ON/OFF
An Operator is required to sign on at the beginning of the shift and to sign off at the end of the shift. This is done using a Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) or the voice radio if the MDT is down. A Contractor or his/her designee shall notify Dispatch immediately when a truck and/or an Operator is not available at the beginning of a shift.
13. LATE SIGN ON
A late sign-on will result in a dock situation. An Operator anticipating a late sign-on situation shall contact Dispatch immediately and advise of the situation. Dispatch will create and assign the Operator to a “Dock” CAD log which will be provided to FSP Management for invoicing. An Operator shall make radio notification to Dispatch when going 10-8 (in service). Failure to do so could result in additional dock time.
In the event an Operator is late for the FSP shift, a complete pre-operation inspection shall still be performed. Failure to perform the pre-operation inspection may result in disciplinary action against the Operator.
14. DISPATCHED CALLS
An Operator is required to handle all calls assigned to him that are received prior to the end of shift, even if that means working overtime. Overtime is used for the completion of an ongoing assist or as directed by Dispatch or FSP Management. The Operator is required to request and receive authorization from Dispatch of the estimated amount of overtime needed to complete the assist.
The Contractor is paid for overtime at the hourly rate. To guarantee payment of overtime, the Operator shall document the date, the overtime log number and the David Unit/Adam(Dispatch) approval number on the Motorist Assist Form. In addition, an Operator shall provide Dispatch with a complete description of the vehicle being serviced, including the license plate number, and the problem with the vehicle. Dispatch will approve overtime for up to 15 minutes and FSP Management will approve overtime greater than 15 minutes. This information is to be obtained from Dispatch at time of request. If an Operator refuses to work overtime, the Contractor shall be fined.
15.TEN-MINUTE MOBILIZATION PERIOD
An Operator is allowed to spend no more than ten minutes attempting to mobilize a vehicle. If the necessary service or tire change takes longer, the Operator shall tow the vehicle off the freeway to an approved drop location and complete the service.
16. BREAKS
When working during weekday hours, an Operator shall not take a break during the first hour of the shift, and all breaks shall be completed before the last half-hour of the shift. When working weekend hours, an Operator shall not take a lunch break (30 minute) during the first hour of their shift, and the lunch shall be completed before the last hour of the shift. Dispatch will not authorize break periods for missed breaks or breaks at the end of shift. In addition, an Operator who does not take a break, regardless of the reason, shall not return to the shop fifteen minutes early. Any unauthorized break shall result in a fine. Because of the limited number of Operators on a beat, and to continue a positive public appearance, only one Operator on a beat at any time shall be allowed a break. An Operator shall coordinate his breaks with his beat partners so that their breaks do not overlap. The use of the shop radio will enable Operators to coordinate their breaks. Each break begins once the Operator leaves the freeway and ends when the Operator re-enters the same beat.
Any Operator working a complete four hour or three and one half hour shift is entitled to one fifteen minute break. This break shall be taken off the freeway and directly adjacent to the assigned beat, but not at a residence. Any Operator working a complete eight hour shift during weekend services is entitled to one fifteen minute break, a half hour lunch and another fifteen minute break after lunch. The breaks shall be taken at least one hour apart from each other so that the breaks are not stacked together to form one large break. If an eight-hour weekend shift is split by more than one Operator, each Operator is entitled to one fifteen-minute break. No thirty-minute break is granted to either Operator unless one Operator works more than six consecutive hours. That Operator is then entitled to a thirty-minute lunch.
A restroom break, outside of the regular 15 minute break, is allowed only when necessary and should not exceed 10 minutes. If an Operator has to take a restroom break, the Operator shall do so at a service station or other facility having a public restroom, directly adjacent to the freeway, and complete the break as quickly as possible. An Operator shall not loiter at that location or use the break to purchase food or beverages. In no instance shall two trucks be at the same location at the same time on a restroom break.
Abuse of restroom breaks will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Flagrant and/or repeated violations of any aspect of the FSP Break Policy shall result in a minimum one-day suspension for the Operator.
17. OPERATOR BECOMES SICK OR UNABLE TO WORK
If, during a shift, an Operator becomes sick and feels unable to return to the beat, that Operator shall immediately notify Dispatch and the Contractor via the shop radio so a back-up Operator can be sent as a replacement.
18. MORE THAN ONE OPERATOR AT A SCENE
FSP policy prohibits more than one FSP truck at the scene of an incident unless requested by Dispatch. If an Operator has safety concerns (i.e. narrow shoulder), the Operator may advise Dispatch and request another unit.
19. INOPERATIVE CALL BOXES
When an Operator is informed of (or encounters) an inoperative call box, Dispatch shall be notified of the call box number and problem.
20. PATROL PERIOD/SHIFT
All trucks assigned to a beat shall be on the beat at the shift start time and remain on the beat until the shift end time. This provision does not allow an Operator to leave his shop at the shift start time or arrive at his shop at the shift end time. During the last 30 minutes of the shift, the Operator shall not focus his patrol efforts adjacent to the freeway exit he normally takes for travel back to the shop. The Operator shall continuously patrol his entire beat until the end of the shift.
21. PATROLLING IN THE HOV LANE
An Operator will be allowed to access the High Occupancy Vehicle Lanes (HOV) under certain conditions to render assistance to disabled vehicles or to remove traffic hazards. The following guidelines shall be followed in order to access the HOV lanes:
♣ When requested to do so by the CHP.
♣ When assisting another Operator (advise Dispatch for authorization).
♣ When monitoring the CHP scanner for traffic hazards or traffic collisions that are within the HOV lane.
The aforementioned only applies during hours of FSP operation, and does not apply to the HOV lane on a freeway on-ramp, unless actually providing service on the on-ramp. All trucks providing service in an HOV lane must have FSP signs properly displayed.
22. PATROLLING TRANSITION ROADS
Transition roads are NOT to be routinely patrolled by FSP service vehicles. If the Beat Leader sees a disabled vehicle on a transition road, he shall stop to provide service. If the disabled vehicle needs to be towed off, or needs service for longer than ten minutes, then the Operator shall request a beat partner to tow the disabled vehicle off the freeway.
23. LEAVING THE BEAT
Other than taking a break, there are four (4) occasions when an Operator is allowed to leave the beat during the shift. They are as follows:
a. The truck becomes disabled, or the Operator becomes ill or incapacitated.
b. FSP Management places the Operator out of service.
c. The Operator is directed to go to a specific location because of a problem with the FSP radio equipment (MDT, AVL, etc.). Repairs should be performed after the shift ends.
d. The Operator needs to re-supply after servicing a motorist.
In all of the above cases, the Operator shall notify and receive authorization from Dispatch prior to leaving the beat due to an “out of service” status.
24. PERSONAL PHONE USAGE
While working for the FSP, an Operator is not permitted to use a personal telephone (mobile, cellular or land line) for personal reasons, except when on an authorized fifteen-minute break or if authorized by FSP Management. If a personal emergency situation arises where an Operator must use the telephone while working, Dispatch shall be notified immediately to obtain approval.
25. FOOD INSIDE OF FSP SERVICE VEHICLES
There shall be no eating or drinking while driving an FSP vehicle.
26. TOWING OF MOTORCYCLES PROHIBITION
The FSP does NOT tow motorcycles because the possibility for damage during the tow is too great. However, an Operator shall offer other assistance such as gasoline. If the motorcycle requires towing, contact Dispatch for a rotation tow to handle.
27. REFERRALS/SECONDARY TOWING
Referrals to commercial tow companies or automotive repair facilities (including themselves), or providing secondary tow services are not allowed. When asked by a member of the public for a referral, the correct procedure for an Operator is to politely explain that referrals to other businesses are prohibited, and to direct their attention to the nearest telephone book.
28. BACK-UP TRUCK REQUIREMENTS
If a truck is determined to be in non-compliance with the Contract prior to the beginning of the shift, a fully equipped back-up truck shall be deployed after notifying Dispatch with the appropriate changes in vehicles.
The back-up truck shall receive a pre-operation inspection by the FSP Operator prior to going out on the beat. Back-up trucks can be inspected by CHP at any time.
29. TIPS/GRATUITIES
The acceptance of tips or gratuities is strictly prohibited. If a motorist offers an Operator a tip, the Operator shall inform the motorist that he is not allowed to accept tips. The Operator may further advise the motorist that while the gesture is certainly appreciated, the motorist can reward him by sending in the survey form with a positive comment about the program.
Should an Operator encounter a situation where a motorist strongly insists that the tip be accepted, or the tip is discovered after the motorist has departed, the Operator shall use the following procedure:
1. Report the amount of the tip to Dispatch.
2. Receive a log number for the tip reported from Dispatch.
3. Record the information on the Motorist Assist Form.
4. Turn the tip in to the Contractor at the end of shift.
30. UNATTENDED SERVICE VEHICLE
An Operator shall not leave the FSP truck unattended at any time other than on an authorized break. When leaving the truck unattended for any length of time, the engine shall be shut off, parking brake set, the keys removed, and the vehicle locked. Leaving an unattended vehicle with the engine running is a violation of the California Vehicle Code.
31. DRIVER LICENSE/DL64 REQUIREMENTS
An Operator is required to be in possession of a current valid California Drivers License (CDL) and DL64 to work during FSP hours. If an Operator is in possession of an expired CDL and/or DL64, the Operator shall immediately be placed out of service and fined. The Operator will not be allowed to resume FSP duties until the deficient items are made current.
If the CDL, DL64 or the FSP identification card is mutilated, it is the responsibility of the Operator to obtain a replacement document within 10 calendar days.
OPERATIONAL SITUATIONS AND POLICY
This section covers how to handle special operational situations and circumstances that may occur in the course of FSP service.
1. INTERACTION WITH PEACE OFFICERS
AN OPERATOR MUST OBEY ALL LAWFUL PEACE OFFICER ORDERS. If a Peace Officer (Any sworn member of a Law Enforcement Agency as defined in the California Penal Code) orders an Operator to complete a task, the Operator shall comply with the lawful order without complaint; obeying the lawful order takes precedence over policies listed in this document.
When a CHP Officer in the field directs an Operator to complete a task outside the FSP Policy, the Operator shall follow those directions provided the task: can be completed safely, is within the capacity of the truck, and does not endanger the public. If this is the case, the Operator shall:
▪ advise the Officer of possible dangers of performing the task
▪ notify Dispatch of the incident as the Officer will assume responsibility for any relevant damage or injury
▪ obtain the Peace Officer’s: name, employing Agency and Identification and/or badge number and place it on the Motorist Assist Form. The information collected shall be provided to CHP Dispatch as soon as possible.
o If the Peace Officer is employed by the CHP, then only the identification number need be obtained.
If the request seems unreasonable per FSP Policy, the Operator shall contact Dispatch and obtain approval from CHP.
2. DISABLED VEHICLES THAT ARE OCCUPIED
An Operator approaching a disabled vehicle, whether in the traffic lane, center median or on the right shoulder, shall stop in front of the disabled vehicle. The only exception to this rule is if stopping in front of the vehicle is physically impossible or unsafe. Stopping behind the disabled vehicle will require the Operator to pull the tow truck back into moving traffic to re-position it for towing. By pulling in front of the disabled vehicle, the Operator is ready to tow.
A. Disabled Vehicle In Traffic Lane
An Operator encountering a disabled vehicle in the traffic lane shall immediately determine the safest way to approach the situation rather than unduly risking accident or injury to remove the vehicle in a timely manner. Depending on visibility and the speed of traffic, the Operator shall consider two options.
1. If visibility is good and traffic is moving slowly, the Operator shall hook up the vehicle and tow it to the closest authorized drop point where any necessary service can be completed.
2. If visibility is poor and/or traffic is moving too fast, the Operator should position his truck on the right shoulder behind the location of the disabled motorist and request a “traffic break” (or “round robin”) by a CHP Officer via voice to Dispatch. Under no circumstances is an Operator allowed to perform a traffic break! Once a traffic break is accomplished, the disabled vehicle shall be removed by towing it, as expediently and as safely as possible. With regard to speed and visibility, it is up to the Operator to make the proper decision as to which option should be employed.
B. Disabled Vehicle On The Right Shoulder
While servicing vehicles on the right shoulder is considerably safer than within traffic lanes, danger still exists. The following explains how this condition is to be handled:
1. An Operator shall look out for the safety of both the motorist and himself. The motorist should be directed to sit in the right front seat of the tow truck or other place of safety. At no time is an Operator allowed to direct the motorist to stand or walk between vehicles.
2. Tow truck hazard lights (emergency lights) and overhead lights shall be off while the truck is parked on the right shoulder.
3. With safety always in mind, an Operator shall attempt to service the disabled vehicle as expeditiously as possible and not spend an excess of 10 minutes servicing the vehicle.
4. If the necessary repair or services are unsuccessful or too time consuming, the Operator shall offer to tow the motorist off the freeway to an authorized drop point where the motorist can make other necessary arrangements. Once arriving at a drop location, and upon the motorist’s request, an Operator will request Dispatch to contact AAA or another towing service from a company of the motorist’s choice.
5. If the motorist refuses or declines service, an Operator shall notify Dispatch. For documentation and liability purposes, an Operator shall advise Dispatch of the vehicle description and license plate number, as well as the reason the motorist is declining service. The Operator should have the motorist sign the Scantron Motorist Assist form declining FSP service.
6. As soon as possible (within 30 minutes of the assist) the Operator shall complete the Motorist Assist form, including pertinent information and any narrative.
C. Disabled Vehicles In The Center Divider
A vehicle which becomes disabled within the center median (or divider) or HOV Lane is faced with additional problems, as it is restricted to a smaller area with little or no room for escape, and where call boxes are not located. As a result, a motorist stranded in the center median might be tempted to run across the freeway lanes to get to a telephone or call box. After encountering a disabled vehicle in the center median, an Operator shall never leave the motorist, even if they refuse service. The Operator shall notify Dispatch and request that CHP respond. Once CHP arrives at the scene, the Operator may then leave if no longer needed. If the motorist already has help en route, at the very least, the vehicle should be moved to the right shoulder. If possible, the disabled vehicle should be moved to the drop location. The Operator should inform the motorist of drop locations which will enable him/her to be placed out of danger from oncoming traffic. In addition, an Operator shall also advise Dispatch of the drop location that the motorist has been taken to.
D. Vehicles In Other Dangerous Locations
In addition to the center median, an Operator shall never leave a motorist in a gore point, within a traffic lane or HOV lane, partially within a lane, on a narrow shoulder, or any other location that would hinder a motorist’s ability to safely enter and exit his/her vehicle. Failure to adhere to this policy could place the Operator in a serious liability situation.
The State of California Vehicle Code -- Section 22651 (f) -- allows a motorist to leave his/her vehicle on the freeway for four hours if it is not a danger to others or is not in a traffic lane. In this case the Operator is to tag the vehicle with a green FSP 422 and go 10-98; CHP need not be called.
E. Passing Of Disabled Vehicles
An Operator shall not pass a disabled vehicle while on patrol unless already dispatched to a separate call. For example: an Operator who is dispatched to a call of a vehicle blocking a lane can pass by a disabled vehicle situated on the right shoulder. However, if an Operator observes a disabled vehicle while en route to another call, he shall attempt to contact a beat partner on the shop radio to coordinate his response. If an Operator cannot reach a partner, and the incident is not one of a higher priority than the one he is responding to, Dispatch shall be advised so a second truck can be dispatched.
F. Disabled Vehicles On Ramps
If a disabled vehicle is encountered blocking an intersection while exiting or entering a freeway ramp, Operator shall not stop to assist. Immediately notify Dispatch so the appropriate agency can be contacted to handle the incident.
3. ABANDONED VEHICLE PROCEDURES 2
Authorization to tow an abandoned vehicle from the traffic lane must first be obtained from a CHP officer or from Dispatch. An Operator encountering an abandoned vehicle within a lane shall request Dispatch to contact a CHP Officer. If traffic is moving slowly, the Operator shall position his truck in a safe location in front of the abandoned or disabled vehicle. If traffic is moving fast, the Operator should pull to the right shoulder behind the disabled motorist and wait for CHP. The CHP officer can direct the Operator to tow the vehicle to the right shoulder or off of the freeway. The CHP Officer will then be responsible to request, for storage purposes, a rotation beat tow to remove the abandoned vehicle. The Operator shall not accept a vehicle storage request in this instance or in any other situation while on FSP duty.
An Operator directed by CHP to remove an abandoned vehicle from the freeway shall obtain the CHP Officer’s ID number and write it on the Motorist Assist form. If for any reason an Operator is not followed off of the freeway by the directing Officer, the abandoned vehicle shall not be dropped. The Operator shall contact Dispatch and request CHP response for a storage report and request a rotation tow to take possession of the abandoned vehicle. Additionally, the Operator should ensure that Dispatch has contacted FSP Management.
An Operator is required to stop for abandoned vehicles parked on the shoulder only when a CHP422 tag (yellow in color) cannot be seen. When stopping for an abandoned vehicle, the Operator shall leave a FSP422 tag (green in color) and an FSP pamphlet on the vehicle. The FSP422 tag shall be placed in a visible location on the rear window and the pamphlet on the windshield. If a motorist returns to a vehicle with a green tag on it, the Operator should stop to see if additional assistance is necessary. The Operator shall also stop for motorists who are out on the freeway for any amount of time, even if a CHP/FSP422 is placed on the vehicle, in the event the motorist changes his/her mind and decides to utilize FSP services.
4. TRAFFIC COLLISIONS
When an Operator encounters or responds to an incident and determines that the motorist(s) is involved in an accident, the following procedures shall apply:
A. Accident investigation officers shall coordinate with the Operator for the expeditious removal of vehicles involved in property damage only (PDO) type accidents from the freeway lanes and/or shoulders to a location immediately off the freeway, e.g. adjacent surface street. (Established FSP drop locations shall not be used as the off-freeway parking location for accident-related incidents.)
B. Prior to leaving the collision scene, investigating officers shall coordinate the call out of either rotation or auto club tow services to respond to the off-freeway location. If these services were dispatched prior to CHP arrival, officers shall inform CHP dispatch of the new off-freeway location.
C. The motorist(s) and passenger(s) of non-operative vehicles should be transported to the off-freeway location by an Operator and/or CHP.
D. Any driver or registered owner of a vehicle involved in a PDO accident should ride in the tow truck with the Operator so that he/she can accompany his/her vehicle to the off-freeway location.
E. If involved vehicles are drivable, only officers shall determine the sobriety and/or injuries of involved motorists prior to requesting they drive their vehicles to the off-freeway location.
F. At the conclusion of his/her contact with the involved motorists, the CHP officer shall determine if there are any safety concerns for the motorist(s) at the off-freeway location. Such concerns may require transporting motorist(s) to a secondary location.
G. If a motorist desires to leave his/her vehicle at the off-freeway location, the CHP officer shall advise the motorist of the potential for theft or vandalism to his/her vehicle and any local or state law parking restrictions.
H. If a CHP rotation tow is dispatched by the CHP and has arrived on scene, the Operator shall not stop. Towing responsibility shall be relinquished to the rotation tow company and the Operator shall continue FSP Patrol. To avoid confrontation, it is not the responsibility of the FSP Operator to request or demand a CHP log number from the rotation tow driver claiming if he/she was in fact dispatched.
5. WHEN TO REQUEST A ROTATION TOW
A rotation tow will be called any time a motorist needs more assistance than an Operator can provide. For instance, if a motorist desires to be towed to a residence, place of employment, service station, place of repair, or other location, and the motorist does not request a specific company (the motorist may not request the tow company currently providing the FSP assist), a rotation tow shall be requested via Dispatch. The Operator, however, should explain to the motorist the hazards that he/she may experience by remaining on the freeway, and the benefits of being towed to a safe drop location.
A. When FSP and Rotation Tow are Present at the Same Scene
There may be occasions when a rotation tow is sent by Dispatch to assist a motorist during an FSP shift. This is usually done for liability reasons, as sometimes an Operator may be too busy to handle all the disabled motorists within their beat. As a general rule, the first tow truck on scene should handle the motorist from contact to conclusion, unless the motorist requests otherwise. An Operator providing the motorist with assistance who encounters a rotation tow at the same location, shall not have any type of confrontation with the rotation tow operator. Instead, the Operator is to immediately notify Dispatch so any problems can be quickly resolved. The Operator may complete the assist, however, should the CHP rotation tow driver become disagreeable, the Operator is to advise Dispatch and go 10-98 IMMEDIATELY. The Operator should obtain all the necessary information and write it down on the Motorist Assist form.
B. Unusual Tow Situations
An Operator coming into contact with situations beyond the scope of his FSP employment, such as an irate motorist/tow driver or perhaps a tow company soliciting on the freeway, shall adhere to the following:
1. Immediately advise Dispatch of the situation.
2. Obtain the name(s) of the involved person(s) and/or company, phone number and addresses, vehicle description(s) and license plate number(s).
3. Obtain the name(s) of any motorist that might be in the vicinity.
4. Be a good witness and gather any pertinent information.
5. Place all information on a Motorist Assist form
6. After contacting Dispatch, go 10-98 as soon as possible.
6. REMOVAL OF DEBRIS FROM THE ROADWAY
A. When Traffic Is Stopped
1. Park the truck behind the debris.
2. Activate emergency warning lights.
3. If debris is in adjacent lane or up ahead of tow truck and traffic is stopped, the Operator may remove it with caution, always keeping an eye on traffic.
4. Place debris on shoulder or center divider area.
5. Advise Dispatch of the location of debris (Dispatch knows who to notify to remove debris).
6. Do not take debris home with you. This will result in a disciplinary action against the Operator.
B. When Traffic Is Moving
1. Position the truck on the shoulder behind the debris allowing traffic to avoid the debris and tow truck (Use caution, always keep your eyes on traffic and be prepared to take evasive action).
2. During evening hours, the Operator should illuminate the debris utilizing the tow truck spotlight, providing it can be done in a manner that will not interfere with traffic.
3. Advise Dispatch of the location of the debris, including the affected traffic lane(s) and request a traffic break from the CHP.
4. When a traffic break is in place, move the debris to the right shoulder. If the CHP cannot respond to create a traffic break, the Operator is to leave the location of the debris so personnel can respond at a later time to pick it up.
C. Live Animals
When dealing with animals on the freeway, assume that all are dangerous and may bite. Leave the capture and removal of these animals to those who know how to deal with them. Simply advise Dispatch of the situation so they may request the proper agency and continue patrolling the beat. An Operator should not stand by with, detain, or put the stray animal on or in their FSP truck.
D. Found Property On The Freeway (Including Shoulders And Ramps)
Property found on the freeway shall not be kept. Leave the item(s) where it lays and inform Dispatch of the location and item(s) found. Dispatch will contact the CHP and an officer working the beat will take possession of said item(s). Selling or keeping a found item(s) will result in Management Review and possible disciplinary action.
7. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
An Operator arriving at the scene of hazardous material spills or potential hazardous material spills are advised to stay as least 300' away from the substance; uphill, upwind, and upstream. If there is a substance leaking, liquid or powder, or if there are any flames, an Operator shall leave the area and should escort others nearby away from the scene. In addition, the Operator shall not step in or taste the unknown substance (what looks like sugar or salt could be Hydrochloric Acid). If possible, contact the driver of the vehicle carrying the material and obtain a description of the material. Notify Dispatch immediately of the description of the material and any other pertinent information.
In this type of situation, an Operator can never get too much information. Additionally, Dispatch shall be notified immediately and advised if the truck or vehicle carrying the unknown substance is equipped with any placards. If so, that information should be conveyed to Dispatch.
A. Considerations At A HazMat Scene
Hazardous material spills are common in Los Angeles County. Recent incidents involving an Operator prompt a reminder that any unknown substance in any package (i.e. bags, boxes, or barrels), or in any form (liquid, gas, or solid), should be considered a hazardous material, and the above precautions shall be taken. An Operator should be extremely careful at accident scenes involving big rig trucks since these vehicles often carry hazardous materials. As such, the use of flares vs. cones should be carefully considered. Traffic cones should be used instead of flares if there is reason to believe that flammable materials might be present. Do not request Caltrans clean up crews or hazardous materials teams; this will be the responsibility of the CHP Incident Commander. Once CHP arrives on scene, the Operator should go 10-98. Taking a hazardous material incident too lightly can be deadly.
8. PEDESTRIANS
An Operator Is prohibited from making contact with pedestrians
Unless a pedestrian is clearly with a disabled vehicle, an Operator shall not make contact. If the pedestrian appears disoriented and is wandering dangerously close to the freeway lanes, the Operator is to immediately advise Dispatch of the location and general description of the pedestrian, and continue patrolling.
9. ASSISTING THE VULNERABLE MOTORIST
1.
A. Female Motorist
An Operator must be particularly aware of his responsibility when assisting a female motorist. Among the Operator’s many considerations should be the time of day and location. For example, a drop location in a certain part of town could pose a greater safety risk to females during the hours of darkness than it might during daylight hours. An Operator encountering an unsafe drop location, or a request from a female motorist to remain with her, shall do so until additional assistance is on scene. The Operator shall immediately notify Dispatch in this situation.
B. Motorists with Children
Pregnant females and persons with infants or small children present additional challenges for an Operator. An Operator must consider whether a pregnant female is physically able to step up high enough to be seated in the tow truck. The possibility of a rough ride in a tow truck aggravating her already delicate condition is another consideration. Additionally, the requirement that the Operator obey all traffic laws demands that an Operator be aware of child seat/restraint mandates when servicing parties with infants or small children.
C. Notification of Vulnerable Motorist
Occasionally, an Operator encounters a female motorist who declines the offer of FSP assistance because she has private assistance en route. In addition to advising Dispatch of the refusal for service, an Operator should also advise that the party is a lone female motorist. Since a female alone on the shoulder of a freeway in or about a disabled vehicle could be considered vulnerable, notifying Dispatch of her presence is important so that CHP can monitor the arrival of her assistance as well as her overall safety.
An Operator must be prepared to encounter motorists with a variety of special circumstances and problems. A courier’s vehicle, for example, could become disabled on the freeway carrying valuables such as jewelry. The courier, male or female, understandably might fear for their safety unless special measures are taken to ensure his/her well-being. In these type situations, the Operator is expected to assess the situation and contact a CHP for instructions.
SAFETY
1. FOCUS ON SAFETY
NOTE: THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE RELATING TO ALL ASPECTS OF THE FSP SERVICE IS SAFETY. Whether driving on the beat or stopping to assist a disabled motorist, the Operator should always be thinking about safety.
2. SAFETY OF THE MOTORIST
9.
Once an Operator comes into contact with a motorist, he/she is responsible for that motorist’s safety and well being until the motorist is safely underway again or taken off the freeway to a designated drop point. Accordingly, an Operator needs to take charge of the situation and impart all appropriate safety instructions to the motorist.
3. COMMON SAFETY RULES
A. Safety Rules That Should Be Followed At All Times
Above all else, the primary objective of FSP Management is to ensure the safety of all Operators and the motorists they are assisting. Although expediting the movement of traffic is the ultimate goal of the FSP program, nothing is worth the injury or death of an Operator or motorist. To ensure the safety of all concerned, violating any of the following may result in a verbal/written warning, fine, suspension or termination:
1. Any violation of law.
2. Failure to utilize seat belts (Operator or passenger).
3. Failure to properly use drag lights, two safety straps and two safety chains.
4. Failure to wear gloves while providing service not requiring precise manual dexterity (such as lockouts, using the radio or writing).
5. Walking, standing or working between the vehicles at any time (Operator or passenger).
6. Walking, standing or working in a traffic lane, when the lane is not closed (Operator or passenger).
7. Turning back to traffic, unless looking over shoulder.
8. Allowing motorist to roam around an unsafe area.
9. Failure to park in front of the disabled vehicle. This includes a vehicle in the traffic lane, accident, etc. The exception will be if it is physically impossible to do so.
10. Any other unsafe practice that can jeopardize the safety of the Operator or the motorist being assisted.
The Operator is expected to comply with all requests and directions that are given during and following cursory inspections. In the event that the Officer places the Operator out of service for a safety or any other violation, the Operator is expected to comply without argument.
4. SAFETY POINTS
A. It has been proven over and over again that complacency is a killer when working on the freeways. For this reason, each Operator is strongly encouraged not to become overconfident or comfortable during his/her daily routine. An Operator should take the extra steps to be safe and remember the following:
1. Whether driving or standing on the freeway, always have an escape route.
2. Request assistance whenever necessary (utilizing FSP Dispatch).
3. Take time to do the job safely.
B. An Operator shall not carry any weapons while on duty, such as knives, guns, etc., or any other item described in Section 12020 of the California Penal Code.
5. TRAFFIC CONTROL
A. An Operator is required to remain calm at all times. This is especially important at a collision scene where people could understandably be upset and/or excited. By remaining calm, an Operator can help those who are distressed. In addition to remaining calm, an Operator should also be courteous and polite.
B. While directing traffic, an Operator will be advising the motoring public of what to do. This requires a great deal of common sense on the part of the Operator. When dealing face to face with the public, an Operator should attempt to convince them that the direction given is the safest and easiest way to accomplish the goal. Most people will comply with reasonable requests. Technically speaking, an Operator does not have the legal authority to direct traffic unless directed to do so by a peace officer. Thus, an Operator shall avoid any verbal confrontations that could arise if motorist(s) refuses to follow his direction.
REMEMBER: Resume FSP patrol as soon as a CHP officer arrives on scene and instructs the Operator to leave.
C. When directing traffic, an Operator should use uniform signals that a motorist can understand. By doing so, it not only creates credibility and respect, but the public understands what is expected of them. Ultimately, it makes the job of directing traffic much easier.
D. There are three goals that effective traffic control accomplishes:
1. Provides safety to both the Operator and the motoring public.
2. Prevents secondary accidents by reducing the number of conflicts.
3. Helps reduce and control traffic congestion.
E. An Operator should always expect the unexpected. A flare or cone pattern does not guarantee one’s safety. An Operator should also watch for intoxicated and inattentive drivers. By knowing the surroundings and having an escape route if needed, an Operator can better ensure his individual safety. The majority of Operators involved in collisions have to do with the tow-trucks being rear-ended by other motorists. Therefore, a good safety rule is: NEVER TURN YOUR BACK TO TRAFFIC! Statistical data supports the above advice as 85% of disabling injuries that CHP officers receive happen during the performance of traffic control duties.
F. Stopping Traffic
An Operator shall not attempt to stop traffic.
G. Setting Up A Flare Pattern
1. Assess the scene and determine which lane(s) is to be closed.
2. Start away from the accident scene and work your way in toward the accident scene.
3. Determine if there is a fire danger before lighting flares.
4. When lighting a flare, point it down and away from your body.
5. Turn your face and eyes away.
6. Keep flares away from your body by extending your arm.
7. Never hold the burning end of a flare higher than the part you hold in your hand (the melting sulfur will burn your hand/arm).
8. Place lighted flare down while keeping your eyes on traffic. Attach cap to NON-LIT end of flare to keep it from rolling.
9. No smoking.
10. Avoid breathing toxic fumes from burning flares.
11. While walking back to the accident scene do not turn your back on traffic.
12. Just because flares are laid out, do not rely on them to keep traffic from coming through.
13. Do not step on burning flares.
14. Do not place flares on plastic striping or Bott’s dots.
15. Place flares approximately 20 to 25 feet apart.
16. Flare patterns should be set to direct traffic to one side only. If at all possible, leave an escape route.
17. To extinguish the flare, pick it up from the unlit end and rub the burning end on the pavement. Do not throw flares or leave them burning unattended.
H. The use of traffic cones can also be an effective way to regulate traffic. There are a few instances where the application of traffic cones is required. Common sense on the part of the Operator still must be applied. Situations requiring the use of traffic cones generally are when the presence of a flame would deteriorate the situation.
The following are examples of this condition:
♣ Gasoline/diesel is present at the scene of the accident (remember; gas and diesel do not mix well with water, consequently a hazard still exists during rain or fire department wash downs).
♣ Presence of another flammable substance.
♣ Presence of an explosive.
♣ Fire area; nearby dry brush could easily catch fire from a road flare.
The following steps should be utilized when setting up traffic cones:
♣ The placement of traffic cones is essentially the same as road flares.
♣ Assess the scene and determine which lane(s) should be closed.
♣ Start away from the accident scene and work your way in toward the accident scene.
♣ Place cone down while keeping your eyes on traffic (use reflectorized sleeves on cones when deployed during the hours of darkness).
♣ While walking back to the scene, never take your eyes off of traffic.
♣ Place cones approximately 20 to 25 feet apart.
♣ Cones should be set to direct traffic to one side only.
6. SAFE VEHICLE OPERATION
A. Patrolling From The Right Lanes
Since most of the vehicles to be serviced will be situated on the right shoulder, an Operator should patrol from the right hand lanes. The exception to this rule is when Dispatch sends an Operator to a call of a disabled motorist located in the center divider, or in one of the traffic lanes.
B. Space Cushion, Following Too Close
While driving, an Operator should allow for a proper space cushion between his/her truck and the vehicle ahead. As a rule, an Operator should maintain approximately one truck length for every 10-MPH increment of the vehicle speed. For instance, if traveling at 50 MPH, there should be at least five truck lengths between the truck and the car ahead of it. When towing another vehicle, an Operator should allow for a larger space cushion.
C. Blind Spots
An Operator should identify his vehicle’s blind spots and should always use his mirrors, as well as looking over his shoulders before changing lanes. When stopping and entering traffic, an Operator should also be aware of his surroundings.
D. Use of Emergency Lights
The use of emergency lights to aid while entering traffic or stopping is strictly prohibited. In addition, using another Operator to slow traffic down in order to enter traffic is prohibited.
E. Inclement Weather
An Operator should be aware of weather and its effect on operations. When it is raining or when the roadway is wet or icy, a vehicle’s stopping distance increases substantially, so an extra margin of safety is required.
7. SURFACE STREETS
- SURFACE STREETS
A. Clearing Intersection
When driving on city streets, an Operator should watch for dangers at intersections. To avoid an accident, an Operator should use the two-second rule when clearing an intersection; wait two seconds after the signal turns green, look left, right, and left again before proceeding. An Operator should also be alert for pedestrians who could suddenly walk or run into the path of their moving truck.
B. Safe Backing
To ensure safe backing with a vehicle in tow, an Operator shall always use both mirrors as well as looking behind to see that no potential hazards exist. This is especially important when children are playing nearby.
C. Incident Off Of The Freeway
FSP responsibility is limited to congestion relief on the freeway. Therefore a disabled vehicle not found on the freeway by an Operator is not the responsibility of FSP. In the case of an accident (or 11-25), notify Dispatch so the proper authority can be notified.
Y PROCEDURES / NRA DISASTER CONTINGENCIES
8. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES/NATURAL DISASTER CONTINGENCIES
Los Angeles County has often experienced natural disasters, earthquakes, fires, floods, mudslides and civil unrest. In order to provide safety to both an Operator and the public, the following guidelines shall be taken when a disaster occurs:
♣ Each Operator should remain calm and not panic; fear is contagious.
♣ In an emergency, Dispatch will conduct a roll call. An Operator is to acknowledge with a Code-4 (OK) when call sign is announced and provide emergency information to Dispatch about the location and situation as appropriate. Unless information is life threatening, an Operator should not attempt to interrupt the dispatcher.
♣ An Operator shall use his shop radio if unable to make contact with Dispatch and advise his company dispatcher of the situation. The company dispatcher will immediately telephone FSP Dispatch with an update.
♣ FSP Dispatchers will relay directions and information to all tow Operators in the case of an actual emergency. Unless notified, an Operator shall continue to patrol his beat and assist stranded motorist(s) unless it appears to be unsafe to do so.
♣ The Contractor(s) will be notified by FSP Management of possible redeployment and/or beat changes.
9. PERSONAL SAFETY
A. Avoiding Accidents
Avoiding traffic collisions is the responsibility of every member of the motoring public. Since the Operator logs several thousand miles per month assisting the public, it is imperative that an Operator employ defensive driving techniques to reduce the chance of collisions. First and foremost, an Operator should maintain a High Visual Horizon while patrolling their beat. This technique requires each Operator to keep his eyes up and look as far down the roadway as he/she can while driving. This enables the Operator to see problems on the roadway as far in advance as possible, allowing time to react safely.
To avoid a traffic collision, an Operator must be Alert and Rested while driving his vehicle. Insufficient sleep reduces a driver’s reaction time. The driver’s reflexes become slowed and their decision-making ability is impaired. A driver in this condition should not be operating a vehicle. This driver is a danger to himself/herself and every person near him/her on the roadway.
B. Threats
The vast majority of motorists encountered by an Operator expresses gratitude for the assistance provided. However, some individuals are ungrateful and/or expect more than the Operator is able to provide. Sometimes these individuals threaten the safety of an Operator when the Operator cannot comply with their demands.
If an Operator encounters a motorist outside his truck who makes threats against the Operator’s safety, the Operator should do the following:
1. Tell the person, “OK, let me see what I can do,” or “I’ll see if I can get permission.” Say anything to the individual that will allow you to get back into your truck.
2. Once back in the truck, immediately drive away from the scene.
3. Contact Dispatch immediately to report the incident. Give the dispatcher the location and a detailed description of the individual if possible, including vehicle description. The dispatcher will notify the CHP, who will respond to the scene.
In the event that the party making the threat is a passenger in the Operator’s tow truck and the Operator fears for his safety, the Operator should do the following:
1. Type 33 (emergency) SEND on the MDT.
2. If you can use your LA radio to confirm your location without alerting the individual, do so.
3. Follow the individual’s instructions while mentally gathering as much identifying information as possible.
The CHP and FSP David units will be en route to your location to assist you. The main objective at this time is to get this individual out of your truck.
TOW PROCEDURES AND POLICIES
1. HOOKING UP THE VEHICLE
A. Safety Chains - Use And Placement
An Operator shall use two (2) safety chains regardless of the distance traveled. The only temporary exception to the two-safety chain rule is when an Operator is towing a vehicle from an extremely hazardous location such as a traffic lane. In this situation, the Operator shall attach one safety chain and then tow the vehicle to the nearest right shoulder or out of lane location where the second safety chain shall be attached. The hook mount points should be as low as possible. An Operator shall use the anchor rings in the body of the tow truck. Hooks on the chains should always be facing down to ensure proper chain installation. An Operator should avoid using “J hooks” when “S hooks” or grab hooks can be used. All safety chains and winch hooks shall have retaining clips.
B. Drag Lights
An Operator shall use drag lights regardless of the distance traveled. The only temporary exception to using drag lights is when an Operator is towing a vehicle from an extremely hazardous location such as a traffic lane. In this situation, the Operator shall tow the vehicle to the nearest right shoulder or out of lane location where the drag lights shall be placed on the towed vehicle.
C. Crossbeams (4 x 4’s)
Crossbeams should be used at all times when using a tow sling. This will keep the tow bar and sling away from the soft body metal or plastic.
D. Placing The Vehicle In Neutral Prior To Towing
An Operator is to ensure that the towed vehicle’s transmission is placed in neutral and that the parking brake is released prior to lifting the vehicle off the ground. Failing to do this (including front wheel drive vehicles) may place unnecessary stress on the transmission and may cause damage.
E. Wheel Lift Straps
Wheel lift straps are required at all times when using the wheel lift.
F. Maximum Weight FSP Trucks Shall Tow Is 6,000 Pounds
The weight specifications for the FSP require that vehicles weighing over 6,000 pounds shall not be towed, even if the truck is capable of towing a higher weight class. If a CHP Officer orders an Operator to tow a vehicle that weighs more than 6,000 pounds, the Operator shall tell the Officer that it is outside of FSP Policy to do so. If the Officer persists, the Operator shall immediately notify Dispatch and receive direction from CHP. The Operator shall obtain the Officer’s agency and identification number and place it on the Motorist Assist form.
G. Tow Dolly
A tow dolly is a four-wheel carriage often used in towing to support the trailing end of a vehicle. A tow dolly is used when the towed vehicle’s wheels will not roll freely. It is also used to keep the drive wheels of a towed vehicle from turning, thereby avoiding damage to the transmission. An Operator shall use tow dollies when the situation warrants its use. It is suggested that the Operator tie down the wheels to the dollies using the required tie downs. Many late model vehicle manufacturers recommend having their vehicles towed with a flatbed. This does not preclude an Operator from towing the vehicle. If the motorist refuses to have his/her vehicle dollied, after dollying has been explained, the Operator is to call Dispatch to request a beat rotation flatbed tow truck. The Operator is to drive at a very slow rate of speed when dollying. Additionally, when preparing to tow a vehicle, a traffic break shall not be requested or used to turn a tow truck around simply to avoid using the tow dollies.
2. TRAVELING WITH VEHICLE IN TOW
A. Avoid Excessive Speed And Over-Braking
An Operator shall be aware of speed and braking capabilities before and after hook-ups and avoid unnecessary hard braking and steering while towing. Items that are susceptible to becoming damaged by hard braking and steering include the disabled vehicle’s sway bar, C.V. boots, and tie rods.
B. Avoid Dragging of Safety Chains
An Operator shall avoid the dragging or binding of safety chains. The use of a bungee cord will help in achieving the proper slack. Dragging the chain diminishes its strength and reliability. If a chain has been dragged and has the appearance of excessive wear, the CHP may put the truck out of service until the chain can be replaced.
C. Passengers Prohibited In The Towed Vehicle
For obvious safety reasons, an Operator shall not allow any passengers to ride inside a vehicle that is being towed. If there are too many passengers in the vehicle, an Operator should call for CHP assistance. If CHP has an extended ETA, a request for an additional FSP truck should always be made via Dispatch to provide assistance in the transport of passengers.
D. Flashing Amber Lights
Flashing Amber lights may be used when servicing a vehicle in a hazardous location, or when the truck is blocking traffic lane(s). Additionally, the rear 180-degree lights may be utilized when in tow as long as the truck and towed vehicle are going at a speed less than traffic.
3. PUSHING VEHICLES
A. When You Should Push
1. When the vehicle is stalled in a lane adjacent to the right shoulder or center median and traffic speed is slow enough to push the vehicle safely; do not push off the freeway.
2. When directed to push a vehicle by a CHP Officer at the scene.
3. Disabled vehicles only. Unless requested by an Officer at the scene, no vehicles involved in a collision may be pushed.
B. When You Should Not Push
1. When the disabled vehicle is on an on-ramp, off-ramp, or down hill.
2. When a Motorist refuses to have their vehicle pushed.
3. If the vehicle is not freewheeling, (i.e. flat tire, transmission locked, serious suspension problems, steering problems, etc.).
4. When you are unable to communicate with the motorist of the disabled vehicle.
5. When the vehicle bumper and the push bumpers do not line up.
6. When the manufacturer recommends the vehicle not be pushed due to design of the car or bumper.
7. For the purpose of “jump starting” a manual transmission vehicle.
C. Procedures For Pushing
1. Identify the problem of the disabled vehicle; determine if the vehicle can be pushed.
2. You must be able to communicate with the driver of the disabled vehicle.
3. Ascertain if the driver is capable of steering and braking the stalled vehicle.
4. Assure bumper alignment and note any prior bumper damage. Notify motorist of pre-existing damage. (Record damage on Motorist Assist form.)
5. Provide the following instructions to the driver of the stalled vehicle:
a. Place ignition key in the on position.
b. Place transmission in neutral.
c. Release emergency brake.
d. Have driver apply the service (parking) brake.
e. Tell the driver where he/she will be pushed to.
f. Instruct the driver not to make any erratic or abrupt turns.
g. Do not have the driver try to start the vehicle by push starting or releasing the clutch while being pushed.
h. Tell the driver to avoid abrupt braking.
i. Have driver use the rear-view mirror to watch for further instructions from the Operator.
j. Have driver release service brake after contact is made, bumper to bumper, prior to pushing.
k. Advise the driver when they apply the brake pedal, it may be harder than normal to stop the car with the engine off. (No power brakes.)
l. Advise the driver that steering the vehicle may be harder than normal because they have no power steering when the engine is turned off.
m. Instruct the driver to set the emergency brake and take the vehicle out of neutral when they get to the pre-determined location and the vehicle comes to a complete stop.
6. Push the vehicle slowly and to the pre-determined location.
7. Re-inspect bumper and note any damage. Advise the driver of any damage noted.
8. Complete Motorist Assist form and record pre or post push damage.
4. JUMP START WITH CABLES ONLY
Jump-starting a dead battery can be dangerous, and there are several precautions that should be taken. Only the Operator shall jump start the vehicle. The Operator is responsible for all aspects of the jump start.
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5. CAR FIRES
A. Safety Precautions At The Scene Of A Car Fire
At times, an Operator may encounter a car fire. Since an Operator is not adequately trained to deal with car fires, he should not become involved trying to put one out. In addition, an Operator should be aware that smoke inhalation is a dangerous health hazard, so always park upwind. The Operator’s main objective should be to ensure the motorist’s safety as well as their own. An Operator should keep himself and the motorist away from fire. Dispatch should be promptly notified so the fire department can be summoned.
B. Engine Fires
During an engine fire, opening the hood will only supply the fire with what it needs---oxygen. This, in turn can cause a flare-up. Therefore, an Operator shall never open the hood if there is smoke coming from the engine area! In addition, battery fires are very dangerous as they emit toxic fumes and can explode.
C. Fire Extinguisher Use
If a motorist requests to use the fire extinguisher, an Operator should give it to the motorist for them to operate, after admonishing the motorist of the hazards of being near the vehicle.
6. VEHICLE DAMAGE
A. Reporting Damage To Motorist’s Vehicle
An Operator who causes any damage while servicing or towing a disabled vehicle shall immediately report the damage to Dispatch, regardless of the extent of damage. Broken lug nuts, dents and scratches, are all examples of damage. The Operator is also required to note such damage on the Motorist Assist form.
7. DROP LOCATIONS
A. Description Of Drop Locations
A drop location is a specific on-street public parking area that has been designated by Caltrans and the CHP as an appropriate place to leave a disabled vehicle that has been removed from the freeway. A drop location is usually adjacent to the freeway and no farther than one and one half miles from the beat. A drop point should be in close proximity to services that are beneficial to the motoring public, i.e., telephone, service station, restaurant, 24-hour business, etc.
B. Where/When Not To Drop Vehicles
An Operator is required to drop a towed vehicle off the freeway at a designated drop point. A drop location is usually adjacent to every off-ramp of the freeway that the beat covers. An Operator is strictly prohibited from dropping any vehicle inside a service station or inside any private parking facility. There are, however, three exceptions to dropping a vehicle at a non-designated drop location:
1. When given permission by Dispatch.
2. When given permission by FSP Management.
3. When ordered by a CHP Officer to take the vehicle to another location other than a FSP drop point. If directed by the Officer, the Operator is required to obtain the CHP Officer’s identification number and document it on the Motorist Assist form. The Operator shall immediately advise Dispatch of the circumstances.
C. Looking Up Drop Locations
An Operator shall not ask Dispatch to look up a drop location. Instead, the Operator shall use his Drop Location Book, which should always remain in his truck, and advise Dispatch of the exact drop location to be used. Problems or suggestions regarding specific drop locations should be directed to the Contractor, who will forward them to Caltrans.
D. At The Drop Locations
Once at the drop location, the Operator shall suggest additional assistance (such as requesting a rotation tow, AAA, etc.) to the motorist. All calls for additional assistance shall be made either through Dispatch, or by the motorist via telephone. Once additional assistance has arrived, the Operator shall advise Dispatch that he is clear for additional calls. An Operator remaining at a drop location for more than 15 minutes shall obtain approval to stay, from CHP.
It is possible that the Operator may encounter changing conditions at a drop location which may make it unsuitable to leave a motorist, as well other situations which may compromise the safety of the motorist. It is the Operator’s responsibility to ensure the motorist’s safety at a drop location. If the motorist expresses he/she is fearful of the area where they are dropped or if in the Operator’s opinion, the present conditions are less than safe, the Operator should offer to wait with the motorist until assistance has arrived. In addition, if a drop location is absent of a telephone and/or shelter, it may be a good idea to transport the motorist, without the vehicle, to a “safer location”. An Operator transporting motorists to a secondary drop location, or waiting with motorists until assistance arrives, shall immediately notify Dispatch. Above all else, an Operator shall use common sense to ensure the safety of any motorist being assisted.
E. Ensuring A Motorist Has Help En Route
It is the Operator’s responsibility to ensure a motorist has help en route or has access to other services. If the motorist has a private tow company, friend or family member en route, the Operator should confirm that whomever is responding to assist has been advised of the drop location. In short, the Operator should confirm that the motorist is being attended to before returning to the beat.
F. Drop Locations Do’s And Don’ts
1. When leaving a motorist at a drop point, an Operator shall advise the motorist of any parking restrictions that may exist at that location.
2. An Operator shall use discretion when dropping a motorist in an area that, due to the time of day, may not be safe. When there is a question as to the motorist’s safety, the Operator shall make arrangements to transport motorists to a place of adequate shelter and safety. Dispatch shall be advised of the situation.
3. An Operator shall not tow a vehicle that has been involved in a collision or fire to drop locations; this is the responsibility of the rotation tow. An Operator shall advise the motorist that the drop location is for temporary use only and that the motorists must remove the vehicle as soon as possible, as it is subject to all applicable rules and regulations associated with the parking location.
4. If an Operator drops a motorist’s vehicle in a location where parking is restricted at the time of the drop, the Contractor will be held responsible for the error and any ensuing charges incurred by the motorist.
5. An Operator shall have a thorough working knowledge of the drop locations for his specific beat. Since parking restrictions or safety margins can change, an Operator shall notify Caltrans via the Contractor’s authorized agent/manager of any requested changes to the drop location(s). Caltrans shall determine the corrective action necessary to facilitate improvements or changes.
6. An Operator shall not drop vehicles on private property. Drop locations are public on-street parking, not private parking lots.
7. An Operator should attempt to use as many different parking locations at a drop location as possible. Do not use the same spot each time if there is more than one parking location identified. Do not take up more than one parking space per vehicle.
8. Designated drop locations are not always “safe” drop locations. Be aware of the motorist’s safety as well as your own.
9. When there is a question of the motorist’s safety, advise a motorist that you can stay until his/her assistance arrives and transports him/her (not their vehicle) to an adequate place of shelter. When requested to stay with a motorist, an Operator shall advise Dispatch. An Operator anticipating standing by longer than 15 minutes shall obtain approval from FSP Management (CHP David-Unit). The David Unit’s number shall be placed on the Motorist Assist form.
10. An Operator is only allowed to take the motorist to the nearest available drop location. The motorist shall not be transported from one end of the beat to the other for the motorist’s convenience.
11. An Operator is required to ensure the party being assisted accompanies him in the tow truck to the drop location.
RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
1. RADIO COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT
Each FSP tow truck, including required back-up truck, shall be equipped with a FSP radio, Mobile Digital Terminal (MDT) and Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL) to enable the Operator to communicate with Dispatch. The FSP Program shall furnish and install this equipment. The Contractor is required to ensure that the equipment is operational and that the Operator is proficient in the use of all equipment.
In the event the FSP radio, AVL, or MDT requires repair, the following procedure will be followed:
1. The Contractor or Operator will immediately contact Dispatch to advise of the problem. The Contractor or Operator should be prepared to relay the call sign and truck number of the vehicle in question. Dispatch will document all pending repair appointment in the Repair Authorization Log.
2. Dispatch will contact the MTA Radio Repair Shop each business day to advise of equipment in need of repair. MTA personnel will then schedule appointments based on priority and availability. Repairs to the FSP radio will be given immediate priority.
3. Each business day, Dispatch will advise the affected Operator(s) of his scheduled repair appointment. When en route to the MTA Radio Repair Shop, the FSP Operator shall advise Dispatch so that a CAD log can be generated and log and authorization numbers can be provided to the Operator.
4. Once the repair is complete, the Operator will advise Dispatch that he is 10-98 and en route to the shop/beat, etc.
5. If it is outside the regular FSP shift hours, overtime will be authorized for the time the truck was at the MTA radio shop (not travel time).
It is prohibited for any Operator or Contractor to tamper with the FSP communication equipment so that it does not function properly. This includes, but is not limited to, breaking evidence tape on FSP radio equipment connections.
2. GENERAL RADIO PROCEDURES General Radio Procedures
An Operator should know his location at all times. This is not only important in an emergency situation, but is also important when requesting other services such as a rotation tow truck, fire department, ambulance, or the CHP. If unsure about precise location, an Operator should use a prominent landmark to assist Dispatch in determining the correct location.
In Los Angeles County, there are many different freeways, interchanges, transition roads, collector roads, connector roads, etc. Therefore, it is very important that an Operator be specific about the location(s) he broadcasts on the radio. For instance, if an Operator is on the collector road of the freeway as opposed to the main portion, then that Operator should broadcast, “Los Angeles, 604-3A, I’m eastbound I-10 at Vermont on the collector road.” If on the main portion of the freeway, the Operator should give the lane number he is in. It is also helpful to give access directions to responding emergency vehicles whenever appropriate. The more pertinent information the responding agencies have, the sooner the entire incident will be mitigated.
A. Calling Dispatch
Always remember that there are many Operators who will likely be using the radio at the same time. While it will be necessary to advise Dispatch of various details regarding incidents that occur, all radio transmissions should be clear and concise. The following is the correct procedure to notify and receive acknowledgment from Dispatch.
1. It is necessary to identify the party with whom contact is desired by call-sign. In the FSP’s case, it will be “Los Angeles” or “L. A.”
2. The person calling must be identified by giving their call-sign. Call signs are distinguished by the radio frequency number the Operator is working, the assigned beat the Operator is working and an alpha character. (For example, “604-3A”).
3. An Operator must advise Dispatch the type of incident he has encountered, especially any incident requiring additional emergency support response. Example: “Los Angeles, 604-3A…1183.” After pre-alerting Dispatch, an Operator is to wait for acknowledgment from Dispatch. Dispatch will acknowledge the Operator (by call-sign) and tell him to proceed with further instructions. An example of further details could be, “Los Angeles, 604-3A, 11-79, northbound I-5 south of Main Street, the #1 and #2 lanes are blocked, roll CHP and 11-41.” IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT THE OPERATOR FIRST PROVIDE THE LOCATION OF THE INCIDENT. Without a location, emergency response will be delayed.
4. Following this message, an Operator is to wait for acknowledgment from Dispatch that the details of the incident have been copied. (For example, “604-3A, LA copies”). It is important that an Operator receive an acknowledgment from Dispatch as there are many trucks on the frequency and Dispatch may not have copied the Operator’s traffic. Dispatch will advise the Operator over the air after the proper notifications have been made (“604-3A…1039 to CHP and LA Fire”).
An Operator shall use his MDT rather than radio in the course of routine FSP duties (for example; signing on, signing off, going 10-97 with a vehicle, 1148x mileage information, 10-7, etc.) The use of the MDT conserves airtime and allows an Operator with necessary traffic to get through to Dispatch. The MDT shall be used to record 1148X mileage information.
B. Reporting Emergencies
When reporting emergencies and other priority traffic, an Operator should “pre-alert” Dispatch with an indication of the type of emergency present and wait for Dispatch to acknowledge the call. A true emergency occurs when an Operator or the public is in immediate danger or has been hurt. These types of calls should be broadcast as “priority traffic.” After acknowledging the Operator, Dispatch will put all other Operators on standby (10-23). As a reminder, “priority traffic” should only be used in emergency situations.
3. MONITORING RADIO/SCANNER TRAFFIC
While patrolling an assigned beat, an Operator shall monitor both the FSP radio and the scanner. An Operator is required to keep his radio scanner tuned to the appropriate CHP frequency corresponding to his assigned FSP beat. This will allow each Operator to be better informed of current freeway incidents, and enhance response times to incidents as needed. The frequencies scanned should include both the “S” (Station To Car) and “C” (Car to Station) channels. No other frequencies, other than the appropriate CHP frequencies, shall be monitored. The following examples reflect the advantages to monitoring the scanner:
♣ An Officer’s request for an FSP truck will be heard by an Operator before the request is conveyed by Dispatch. During busy radio conditions, requests for FSP response can be delayed. Monitoring the scanner will allow an Operator to start responding to an incident before the call is actually dispatched.
♣ A CHP Officer’s/Dispatcher’s report of a traffic collision and subsequent updates of the incident will be heard by an Operator which will assist him in restoring the efficient flow of traffic much sooner.
♣
A CHP Officer’s/Dispatcher’s report of crimes in progress, a pursuit, or other traffic hazards present will help to ensure an Operator’s safety and alert him of areas to be avoided.
• 4 Transportation of Females
4. PROPER RADIO PROTOCOL FOR TRANSPORTATION OF FEMALES
As part of his duties, an Operator will occasionally provide transportation to a female motorist(s) whose vehicle has been towed off the freeway. The appropriate radio code when providing transportation for any female motorist is “11-48X”. Consistent with the policies of the California Highway Patrol, the following procedure shall be adhered to when providing transportation for any female:
A. An Operator shall immediately advise Dispatch of the transportation of one or more females. After acknowledgment by Dispatch of the “11-48X” call, the Operator shall provide relevant information in the following order:
1. Operator’s starting location
2. Operator’s identification number
3. The female’s last name (If more than one female is being transported, the last names of each female shall be provided)
4. Drop location where the female(s) is being transported
Example, “Los Angeles, 604-3A, my starting location is I-10 eastbound at Eastern Ave. ID number is 11-11, party’s last name is Smith (sometimes the name must be spelled if not common spelling) and drop location will be 11-J-3.”
B. It is the policy of the CHP that mileage, when beginning and ending the transportation of females be documented in the Operator’s CAD log. Odometer readings shall be entered via the MDT at the starting and ending locations. Voice will be used for this only if the MDT transmission fails.
C. Radio Dead Spots While Providing 11-48X
Operators in locations where dispatch cannot be contacted, (known as radio "dead spots") shall record mileage when beginning and ending transportation of females via the MDT's. The remainder of the relevant information, Operator's starting location, Operator's Identification Number, the female(s) last name and the drop location shall be provided to Dispatch via the radio as soon as reception allows.
5. RADIO DO’S AND DON’TS
A. Required Communications Equipment
The Program has adopted the CHP aural brevity code and the phonetic alphabet systems in order to simplify radio communications. These codes and radio procedures shall be used when communicating with Dispatch.
B. Correct Procedure When Using The Radio
1. Remain calm and try to think about what you are going to say before you say it. It may help in the beginning to write down what you want to say and read it to Dispatch.
2. When talking on the radio, remember to hold the microphone approximately two to three inches away from your mouth and speak slowly, clearly, and briefly.
3. As airtime is limited and several FSP Operators are sharing the same radio frequency, please be concise with your radio traffic, providing only pertinent information.
4. Transmit only the information requested by Dispatch.
5. Always use proper radio codes as they maintain brevity. Whenever in doubt, use plain English.
6. Always know your location.
C. The Term “Back-up”
The term “back-up” should be avoided on the FSP radio, as this usually refers to an Officer in need of immediate assistance. An Operator needing an additional truck at an incident can contact Dispatch to have another Operator “11-98” with them.
D. Requesting Telephone Calls Through Dispatch
An Operator should direct a motorist to use a freeway call boxes or a public telephone at a drop location when a telephone call is requested. Requesting telephone calls over the radio is prohibited.
E. Personal Conversations with Dispatch or Other Unprofessional Radio Traffic
An Operator shall not have a personal conversation with Dispatch or other Operator using the FSP radio. Pleasant and friendly comments such as “Good morning,” “Nice to hear you,” “Have a nice night,” only take up radio time and are a violation of FCC regulations; these conversations also prevent other Operators from legitimately communicating with Dispatch.
F. “Walking on” Other Operator/Dispatch
An Operator should adjust the volume on his shop radio before talking with Dispatch. Of all radios within the truck, the FSP radio should be the most audible. Prior to using the FSP radio, an Operator shall listen to hear if Dispatch is engaged in conversation with another Operator. Purposely interfering during voice transmissions presents a safety concern. Microphone keying or other abuse of voice transmission is not allowed and will not be tolerated. Violation of this policy is grounds for immediate termination.
G. Maintaining Professionalism on the Radio
The FSP radio frequencies are monitored by the Federal Communications Commission, other agencies and the media. Therefore, all radio communications must be done in a professional manner. It is a direct violation of FSP Policy to use inappropriate, foul or confrontational language with anyone while using the FSP radio.
H. Providing False Information to Dispatch / FSP Management
An Operator shall not provide false information to Dispatch or any member of FSP Management. This includes, but is not limited to, the creation of a false dispatch log via MDT or voice transmission, a false answer to a direct question, or falsifying any type of documentation.
6. RADIO CODES
A. Aural Brevity Codes
10-1 poor reception 11-24 abandoned vehicle
10-2 good reception 11-25 traffic hazard
10-4 message received 11-26 disabled vehicle
10-5 relay message 11-41 ambulance required
10-6 busy, stand by 11-42 fire dept. required
10-7 out-of-service 11-48 provide Transportation
10-8 in-service 11-48x transport female
10-9 repeat transmission 11-79 t/c ambulance en-route
10-10 off duty 11-80 accident-major injury
10-19 return to 11-81 accident-minor injury
10-20 location 11-82 accident-property damage
10-21 telephone 11-83 accident-no details
10-22 disregard 11-84 direct traffic
10-23 stand by 11-85 tow truck required
10-39 message/item delivered 11-98 meet or meet with
10-97 arrived at scene
10-98 assignment complete
B. Phonetic Alphabet
1 A - ADAM H - HENRY O - OCEAN V - VICTOR
B - BOY I - IDA P - PAUL W - WILLIAM
C - CHARLES J - JOHN Q - QUEEN X - XRAY
D - DAVID K - KING R - ROBERT Y - YELLOW
E - EDWARD L - LINCOLN S - SAM Z - ZEBRA
F - FRANK M - MARY T - TOM
G - GEORGE N - NORA U - UNION
C. Common Radio Abbreviations
BO BAD ORDER NOT WORKING
ETA ESTIMATED TIME OF ARRIVAL
DOT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
GOA GONE ON ARRIVAL
PD POLICE DEPARTMENT
SO SHERIFF’S OFFICE
TC TRAFFIC COLLISION
UTL UNABLE TO LOCATE
MOBILE DATA TERMINAL
CMX-4000
Mobile Data Terminal
1. ABOUT THE CMX-4000 MOBILE DATA TERMINAL
Lights when a message
has been received but not viewed. Unit beeps
every 15 seconds until the message is viewed.
Comes on when SEND key
is pressed. The light will go out when the
transmission is successful, or will blink if the
transmission fails.
Resend if the light blinks.
Comes on when the radio is transmitting.
1 Sign On
Press
FOR EACH ASSIST: SENDING MESSAGES
1. Send status message of “95” or “97”.
2. Send location status message “02”, “03” or “25”.
3. Send status message for problem with vehicle or type of assistance.
4. Send messages for towing vehicle or transporting passenger, if applicable.
5. Send “98”, completed assignment.
Enter the message mode to view received messages.
Show the next line of the message currently being displayed.
Go back one line of the message currently being displayed.
Display the next message (next highest number) in memory.
Display the previous message (next lowest number) in memory.
Show which message number is being viewed.
Clear (erase) the message being viewed from memory. Clear memory often.
Go to STATUS mode. Show current status message or select from list.
Message mode: send an acknowledgment of he current displayed message to
the dispatcher.
Status Mode: Send the displayed status message to the dispatcher.
Displays the Sign On Form.
Displays the Transport Passenger Form
Status Mode
Sends status message to the dispatcher.
Press the STAT key, followed by the status keys, then the SEND key.
+ +
Code from below
Right Shoulder
Center Divider
Unable to Locate
10-7, Out of Service
10-8, In Service
10-10, Off Duty
Flat Tire
Out of Gas
Overheat
Dead Battery
Mechanical
Other
Debris
Vehicle
Cancel Present Assignment
11-24, Abandoned Vehicle
Hazard in Traffic Lanes
Disabled Vehicle
Code 33
11-83, Traffic Collision
11-85, In Tow
Self-Dispatch
10-97, Arrived
10-98, Completed Assignment
2. MDT PROCEDURE
A. Signing Onto The System
1) Press the “F1” key.
2) Enter the three (3) digit “CONT#” + “VEH#” + “DRIV#” + “AREA# + “BEAT#” + the two (2) “SHIFT#” review then press the “SEND” key.
B. Receiving The Confirmed Sign-On Status And/Or Any Other Messages
1) When you receive a message signified by the “MSG” Light Emitting Diodes (LED) being lit, press the “RDY” key. The first two (2) lines of the message will be displayed.
2) To scroll for additional lines in a message press the “ 6 Line” key. To scroll backward press the “ 5 Line” key.
C. Acknowledging A Message
1) To manually accept a message while in the message mode, display the message you wish to acknowledge and press the “SEND” key.
D. Dispatched To An Incident
1) When Dispatch sends you a message, you must acknowledge the message by pressing the “SEND” key. Use the LINE keys to view messages that contain several lines of text.
2) When you arrive at the scene, you must indicate that you are at the incident by pressing the “STAT” + “9” + “7” + “SEND” keys (STAT 97 – Arrived at Scene).
3) Send location status message “02”, “03” or “25” (e.g., STAT 02 – Right Shoulder).
4) Send the incident type status message “24”, “26”, or “83” (e.g., STAT 11-26 – Disabled Vehicle).
5) Send status message for problem with vehicle or type of assistance “11”, “12”, “13” etc., (e.g., STAT 11 – Flat Tire).
6) Send message for towing and transporting passengers, if applicable (e.g., STAT 85 – in Tow and “F2” mode).
7) Send “98” status (STAT 98 – Completed Assignment.)
E. Unable To Locate Incident (UTL)
1) If you are dispatched and cannot locate the incident, send the “97” status (STAT 97 – Arrived at Scene).
2) Send “04” status (STAT 04 – Unable to Locate).
3) Send “98” status (STAT 98 – Completed Assignment).
F. Self Dispatched
1) When arriving at an incident, found by you, press the “STAT” + “9” + “5” + “SEND” keys (STAT 95 – Self Dispatched).
2) Send location status message “02”, “03” or “25” (e.g., STAT 03 – Center Divider).
3) Send the incident type status message “24”, “26” or “83” (e.g., STAT 11-24 – Abandoned Vehicle).
4) Send status message for problem with vehicle or type of assistance “11”, “12”, “13” etc., (e.g., STAT 12 – Out of Gas).
5) Send message for towing and transporting passengers, if applicable (e.g., STAT 85 – in Tow and “F2” mode).
6) Send “98” status (STAT 98 – Completed Assignment).
G. Transporting Passengers
1) After following the above procedure (e.g., Status “95” or “97”, location status, incident type status, etc.), you must send the “85” status (STAT 85 – In Tow).
2) Press the “F2” key (Transport Passenger Mode).
3) Enter the gender information (1 or 2)
4) (1) = Male (2) = Female
5) Enter the starting mileage (e.g., ).
6) Enter all zeros for ending mileage (e.g., ).
7) Review then press the “SEND” key. Proceed to the drop point.
8) Once you arrive at the drop point, press the “F2” key.
9) Enter the gender information (1 or 2).
10) Enter all zeros for the starting mileage (e.g., ).
11) Enter the ending mileage (e.g., ).
12) Review then press the “SEND” key.
13) NOTE: For female passengers, you must advise Dispatch of the female’s last name along with the drop point location (e.g., Driver “Los Angeles 602-23A 1148X INFO.” Dispatch “602-23A GO AHEAD WITH YOUR 1148X INFO.”, Driver LOS ANGELES 602-23A LAST NAME SMITH DROP POINT 23D NUMBER 3”).
14) When completed, send “98” status (STAT 98 – Completed Assignment).
H. Emergency Status
1) Status “33” (Code 33) is used only during life threatening situations. This means, if your life is in danger press the “STAT” + “3” + “3” + SEND”.
I. Break Period
1) When you are clear to take your fifteen (15) minute break, Send “07” status (STAT 7 – Out of Service).
2) When you are finished with your fifteen (15) minute break (you must indicate that you are available), send “08” status (STAT 8 – In Service).
J. Erasing A Message
1) To erase messages, while in the message mode, display the message to be erased then press the “CLR” key.
2) The MDT can hold up to nineteen (19) messages. If the message queue is at its maximum, you will no longer be able to transmit or receive messages.
K. Dead Zones
1) When you are in a dead zone (MDT messages do not transmit), do not continue to send the same MDT messages.
2) Look at your I.Q. Modem, on the face there are two (2) lights, one red the other green. When the red is flashing this means that the signal strength is good. If the green is on this means that the signal strength is poor.
3) When you move to another location with good signal strength, the message will go through.
L. Signing off the system
Send “10” status (STAT 10 – Off Duty)
3. MDT USE
A. MDT Use Is Required
An MDT must be used at all times by an Operator during FSP Service. Failure to properly use the MDT is a violation.
B. MDT Communication Failure
An Operator encountering a problem with the MDT unit is to contact Dispatch and advise of equipment failure. Dispatch will contact MTA’s RRC maintenance to obtain an appointment time to have the equipment checked. Once an appointment time has been confirmed, Dispatch will notify the Operator of the time, repair authorization number and log number. An Operator is not to leave the beat without a Dispatch confirming log number and appointment time. When MDT equipment failure occurs, an Operator will communicate with Dispatch using the voice radio.
C. MDT Equipment Tampering
For safety reasons, an Operator is not allowed to disconnect or tamper with the communications equipment. An Operator are required to inform Dispatch of any MDT equipment malfunctions.
MOTORIST ASSIST FORM
1. MATCHING NUMBERS ON A MOTORIST ASSIST FORM
The Motorist Assist Form is a two-part form with identical numbers, the purpose of which is to maintain accurate statistics regarding program performance. One portion is a survey to be completed by the Operator; the other half is to be given to the motorist (Freeway Service Patrol Survey). When a motorist questionnaire is given out, the Operator shall complete the corresponding motorist assist portion. Each assist will have both a log number and Motorist Assist form number. There shall be only one assist per vehicle, even if multiple tasks are performed to aid the motorist.
2. PROVIDING FSP BROCHURE AND SURVEY FORM TO ALL MOTORISTS
An Operator is required to give every motorist assisted or approached an FSP brochure explaining the Program, along with a "Freeway Service Patrol Survey" form. Additionally, each Operator shall advise the motorist that the survey form is not an accident report and is not retained for public use. Failure to provide the above information will result in a dock situation. Each Freeway Service Patrol Survey form not given out will constitute a separate violation.
If the service does not involve a motorist, such as debris in the traffic lane, write on survey form, "debris". Do not discard these unused forms behind or under the seat; this will give the appearance that the Operator is not giving out the forms. Submit the unused survey form, along with the Motorist Assist form to your Contractor.
3. MOTORIST ASSIST FORM COMPLETION
A “Motorist Assist Form” (see Attachment F) shall be completed by the Operator for every incident during the hours of FSP operation. When an Operator is sent by Dispatch to an incident, assistance may not be possible because: the vehicle departed prior to/upon the Operator’s arrival, the vehicle is abandoned, or the Operator is unable to locate (UTL) any incident. In any case, the Operator shall complete a “Motorist Assist Form”, making sure to include the dispatch log number. This will show that the Operator was unavailable for other calls during that time period. The log number should be written on the back of the Motorist Assist form in the “Comments” section. When dealing with an abandoned vehicle, the FSP survey form and the brochure shall be placed on a conspicuous portion of the vehicle, such as under the windshield wiper arm. All Contractors and Operators shall attend a mandatory training class on the proper method of completing a Motorist Assist form.
4. WHEN TO FILL OUT THE MOTORIST ASSIST FORM
The Operator shall promptly fill out the Operator Portion of the Motorist Assist form after servicing a vehicle and prior to responding to another call. The Motorist Assist form should be filled out within 30 minutes of the service. The bubbles can be filled out later if the pertinent information and any narrative are filled out as soon as possible.
5. FALSIFYING MOTORIST ASSIST FORMS
An Operator shall never falsify a Motorist Assist form. If an Operator is performing his job properly, there is no reason to falsify a form. Falsifying a motorist assist form will result in termination. It is strongly urged that a Contractor review the Operator’s Motorist Assist forms prior to sending them to Caltrans in order to check for accuracy and to maintain Operator efficiency and professionalism in the field.
6. CALL BOX CHECKS
If Dispatch sends an Operator to a call box to perform a “call box check”, the Operator will do the following:
1. Respond to the applicable location.
2. If there is a motorist in need of assistance, stop and render aid.
3. Advise Dispatch of any known problems with the call box.
If there is no vehicle at the location, the Operator is to roll by the call box without stopping and advise Dispatch. A Motorist Assist form shall be completed for all call box checks.
7. MOTORIST ASSIST FORM GUIDELINES
⎭ Write today’s date and your driver ID on top of the right side of the Motorist Assist form. Fold the form in half and then tear the form at the fold. Give the right side of the form, the FSP Survey, to the motorist.
⎭ The Motorist Assist Form can be filled out with a pen or a thin black felt pen (Sharpie), but the data boxes must be shaded with a Sharpie ONLY. NO RED colored marker.
⎭ THE DATE: today’s date. First, fill in the spaces above the word “DATE,” then shade-in the appropriate data boxes. The “MO” (month) and the “DAY” each must have two (2) data boxes shaded-in. The “YR” (year) has only one data box shaded-in.
EXAMPLE: January 5th, 2001 is MO 01, DAY 05, YR 1.
⎭ TIME ARRIVED: the time of day that you arrived at the incident. First, fill in the spaces above the word “TIME,” then shade-in the appropriate data boxes. All time is written as military time.
EXAMPLE: 7:15 AM is 0715 and 4:49 PM is 1649.
⎭ TIME DEPARTED: the time of day that you complete the incident (this includes the completion of the Motorist Assist Form). First, fill in the spaces above the word “TIME,” then shade-in the appropriate data boxes. All time is military time (see above example).
⎭ DRIVER ID: the identification number that is on your FSP badge (NOT YOUR TRUCK NUMBER). First, fill in the spaces above the word “DRIVER,” then shade-in the appropriate data boxes using all six digits (first three digits are the Contractor’s company number, second three digits are the driver’s badge number, use zeros to precede when necessary).
EXAMPLE: Contractor# = 32, driver# = 47, therefore Driver ID = 032047
⎭ BEAT ID: the beat that you are working on at the time of the incident. If you are redeployed to a beat, indicate the beat you are assigned to. First, fill in the spaces above the word “BEAT,” then shade-in the appropriate data boxes using all three digits.
EXAMPLE: Beat #6 is 006.
⎭ DISABLED VEHICLE LICENSE NO: Write in the license number of the vehicle being assisted. If the license plate is a California plate, then shade-in the “California” data box. If the license plate is not from California, or if there is no license plate, then shade-in the “Other” data box. If you are assisting in debris removal, indicate “Other”.
⎭ MOTORIST NAME: The motorist’s name is optional. Ask for their name, but if they refuse, write in “Refused”.
⎭ LOCATION OF DISABLED VEHICLE: where the vehicle is located on the freeway.
EXAMPLE: Northbound on the Golden State (I-5) freeway just north of Burbank Blvd. would be N/B 5 N/O Burbank Blvd.
If the Operator is instructed by Dispatch to check if a call box is operational, check “Call Box”.
⎭ LOCATION DISABLED VEHICLE TOWED TO: The location that you have chosen from your drop location book where the vehicle was taken.
EXAMPLE: 31H #5
⎭ HOW LONG DID MOTORIST WAIT: Ask the motorist how long they have been disabled at that location. Write the number of minutes in the area on the left, then shade-in the corresponding data boxes on the right. The data boxes only go up to 99 minutes. If the wait time was greater than 99 minutes, circle the section and write the number of minutes and why on the back of the form. If the wait time is unknown for any reason, then use 00 minutes.
⎭ DID YOU TOW VEHICLE TO: Shade-in only one (1) data box.
⎭ DID THE MOTORIST NEED ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE: Indicate if the motorist requested additional assistance after a tow (ex. AAA). All requests should be placed through Dispatch. Shade-in only one (1) data box.
⎭ AT WHAT SPEED WAS TRAFFIC TRAVELING PRIOR TO THIS ASSIST? The estimated speed that the traffic (only in the direction that you are traveling not the other side of the freeway) is traveling at as you pull up to the incident. Shade-in only one (1) data box.
⎭ PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE: Shade-in only one (1) data box, NO MORE. If the vehicle has more than one problem (which you will find often), pick the one that made the motorist pull off the roadway.
EXAMPLE: The vehicle overheated and the motorist ran down the battery trying to start the vehicle. You assist the motorist by adding water and jump-starting the vehicle. The problem would be “Over Heated,” not “Electrical Problem.”
⎭ TYPE OF VEHICLE ASSISTED: Shade-in only one (1) data box. In the event an Operator arrives at a call involving more than one vehicle, the Operator shall fill out one Motorist Assist form for each motorist/vehicle assisted. If a second Operator arrives on the same scene (per request from Dispatch), the primary Operator (first on scene) will fill out the Motorist Assist Forms. The second unit arriving on the scene shall not fill out a Motorist Assist Form. If you shaded-in “Debris Removal” in the “PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE” section, fill in “Other” in this section.
RECAP: Only use a black felt marker (Sharpie only) to shade the data boxes. Shade-in one data box for each section.
Be sure to shade-in the data box completely, no “-”, “o” or check marks. DO NOT mark on the shaded area on the right side of the form. DO NOT staple anything to this form.
8. ACCURATE COMPLETION OF THE MOTORIST ASSIST FORMS
A “Motorist Assist” form must be completed correctly by the Operator for each incident during FSP hours of operation. Each beat is allowed to have less than a 10% error rate on their submitted forms (total number of cards with at least one error divided by the total number of cards submitted) for any given month. The Contractor shall be notified in writing of any beat exceeding the 10% threshold. The Contractor and all the Operators from that beat shall attend a mandatory re-training class on the proper method to complete a Motorist Assist form. This class will be conducted by Caltrans staff at the Caltrans building located at 120 S. Spring Street, Los Angeles. The training must be completed within two weeks from the date of the Caltran’s letter; if not, the Contractor will be suspended from working the beat until training has been completed.
Penalty Schedule For On-Going Errors With Motorist Assist Forms
1. First Violation: Re-training class for Contractor and Operator on the beat. A violation occurring more than 12 months after the last violation will be considered a first violation.
2. Two violations within one 12-month period: Re-training class and one-week suspension from the beat.
3. Three or more violations within one 12-month period: Re-training class and one-month suspension from the beat.
9. SUBMISSION OF MOTORIST ASSIST FORMS
The package must be delivered or postmarked no later than the first Wednesday following the last working day of the previous week. Late or absent forms shall result in a fine against the Contractor.
▪ $50 per batch for Motorist Assist forms that are submitted late to Caltrans.
▪ $500 per batch for Motorist Assist forms that are lost or not submitted to Caltrans.
NOTE TO THE CONTRACTOR: Completed Motorist Assist Forms shall be submitted to Caltrans on a “weekly basis”. A “weekly basis” is defined as all forms from Monday through Sunday in one group/package. DO NOT mix weeks or mix beats. The package should be labeled and delivered to:
Mail:
California Department of Transportation
Office of Traffic Management
Metro Freeway Service Patrol
120 S. Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012-3606
Hand-Deliver:
California Department of Transportation
Office of Traffic Management
120 S. Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012-3606
2nd floor Annex, Reception Area
Metro Freeway Service Patrol mailbox
Note: A receipt must be obtained for proof of delivery.
SPECIAL RELATIONSHIPS
1. SPECIAL RELATIONSHIPS
A. Once an Operator establishes any contact with a motorist, that Operator has established what the FSP refers to as a “special relationship.”
B. An Operator is to exercise reasonable care of a motorist once a special relationship has been established.
C. An Operator shall not place a motorist, passenger, or pedestrian in a position of foreseeable danger from either traffic or other potentially hazardous factors after contact has been made.
D. It is the responsibility of the Operator not to leave the motorist in a worse situation than that which existed before contact was made. This includes not leaving a motorist stranded at a drop location where the safety of the motorist may be compromised. IT IS THE OPERATOR’S RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT HELP IS EN ROUTE OR THAT THE MOTORIST HAS ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL PUBLIC SERVICES.
E. An Operator should treat a motorist as if he/she were a member of his own family. An Operator should ask himself if he would leave one of his family members in the same situation as he would leave a motorist.
F. While all drop locations have been checked by the CHP, an Operator should be aware of any changing conditions that may adversely affect the suitability of the site. If the Operator feels a drop location is unsafe, he should immediately notify Dispatch.
G. Center dividers, gore points and narrow shoulders are always considered dangerous locations. Once an Operator establishes contact with a motorist in any situation that may be dangerous, it is that Operator’s responsibility to stay with the motorist until relieved by the CHP, another tow company or until the motorist is moved to a safer location.
H. If a motorist refuses FSP service or if the Operator leaves the motorist, the Operator must inform Dispatch and advise the motorist of potential hazards and provide freeway safety tips.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
It is the policy of the FSP program that the working environment be free of sexual harassment. The MTA, CHP, and Caltrans prohibit harassment by any FSP personnel. Immediate and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against those individuals who violate this policy, up to and including dismissal from the FSP program.
Definition: Sexual harassment is defined as unsolicited and unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other offensive verbal, physical, or visual conduct of a sexual nature.
The following sections contain common examples of sexual harassment:
A. Making unsolicited written, verbal, physical and/or visual contact with sexual overtones.
♣ Written examples: suggestive or obscene letters, notes, and invitations
♣ Verbal examples: derogatory comments, slurs, jokes, and epithets
♣ Physical examples: assault, touching, impeding, or blocking movement
♣ Visual examples: gestures leering, display of sexual suggestive objects or pictures and cartoons
B. Continuing to express sexual interest after being informed that the interest is unwelcome. (Reciprocal attraction is not considered sexual harassment.)
C. Making reprisals, threats of reprisal or implied threats of reprisal following a negative response. For example, either implying or actually withholding support for an appointment, promotion or change of assignment; suggesting a poor performance report will be prepared, or suggesting probation will be failed.
D. Engaging in implicit or explicit coercive sexual behavior that is used to control, influence or affect the career, salary, and/or work environment of another employee.
E. Offering favors or employment benefits, such as promotions, favorable performance evaluations, favorable assigned duties or shifts, recommendations, re-classifications, etc., in exchange for sexual favors.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY
1. CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITY
A. The Contractor is responsible for complying with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations pertaining to a drug and alcohol free workplace. The Contractor is required to have a drug and alcohol policy in writing, which must be distributed and made easily accessible to all of his/her employees.
B. PENALTY
Failure to comply with the requirements of this document and the requirements set forth in the Contract, will be handled on a case-by-case basis and may result in fines to the Contractor, suspensions, and/or termination from the FSP program.
1 2. OPERATOR’S RESPONSIBILITY
The Freeway Service Patrol program is dedicated to providing safe and efficient service to the public. Because of the nature of our work, this program has a zero tolerance policy for substance abuse. Freeway Service Patrol Operator are prohibited from using, purchasing, selling, possessing, distributing or being under the influence of a controlled substance or alcohol while on duty, or driving an FSP vehicle to and from FSP duty.
THE USE OF ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUGS WHILE ON FSP DUTY IS ABSOLUTELY FORBIDDEN. ANY OPERATOR FOUND TO BE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS AND/OR ALCOHOL WILL BE IMMEDIATELY TERMINATED FROM THE PROGRAM AND MAY FACE CRIMINAL PROSECUTION.
A. Drugs
OPERATOR FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF ILLEGAL DRUGS WHILE ON DUTY WILL BE CHARGED WITH ALL APPLICABLE VIOLATIONS OF LAW AND IMMEDIATELY TERMINATED FROM THE PROGRAM.
1 Prescription Drugs
An Operator is required to inform his Contractor immediately if he is taking prescription medication that may hinder his ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. In such a situation, the Operator MAY NOT operate any FSP service vehicle until he is FULLY CAPABLE of doing so. Failure to notify the Contractor may result in IMMEDIATE TERMINATION from the program.
B. Alcohol
1. On Duty
AN OPERATOR SHALL NOT BE ON DUTY WHILE HAVING THE ODOR OF AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE ON HIS BREATH OR PERSON. AN OPERATOR FOUND TO HAVE THE ODOR OF AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE ON HIS BREATH OR PERSON SHALL BE IMMEDIATELY PLACED OUT OF FSP SERVICE. PENALTIES FOR BEING ON FSP DUTY WHILE SMELLING OF AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE WILL BE HANDLED ON A CASE-BY-CASE BASIS, DEPENDING ON THE FACTS OF EACH INCIDENT. THE PENALTY MAY INCLUDE TERMINATION FROM THE FSP PROGRAM.
When an Operator is suspected by his Contractor or Supervisor, or determined by a uniformed employee of the California Highway Patrol, to have the odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath or person, the Operator will be immediately removed from FSP duty. The Operator will be offered by CHP the opportunity to voluntarily submit to a breath test on a CHP PAS (Preliminary Alcohol Screening) device to measure the alcohol level of his breath. However, if the Operator refuses to submit to a breath test, he will be suspended until an investigation by CHP is completed.
The aforementioned paragraph only applies to situations where an Operator is NOT believed to be under the influence of alcohol. However, if an Operator is believed to BE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, he will be arrested by the CHP and the arrest, blood alcohol testing, and booking shall be performed as required by law.
2. Off Duty
An Operator, 21 years and older, arrested for being in violation of Section 23152 (A) CVC – Driving Under the Influence, while off duty from FSP, shall immediately report this arrest to his Contractor and CHP prior to his next work shift. Failure to do so will be considered a flagrant violation, subject to termination from the program. Once an arrest of this nature is reported, the Operator will be placed on a 30-day probation concurrent with the DS 367 Temporary Driver License during which the Operator is encouraged to request a DMV hearing as outlined on the DS 367. Once the 30-day period has elapsed, the Operator will surrender his DL64 and FSP ID card. The Operator will be placed on suspension pending DMV and court action. A second offense of this section within 7 years will result in immediate suspension and/or termination from the FSP Program.
An Operator under 21 years of age who is detained and/or arrested for violation of section 23136 CVC – Minor Driving with BAC .01% or more, or section 23140, while off duty from FSP, shall immediately report this arrest to his Contractor and CHP supervision prior to his next work shift. Failure to do so will be considered a flagrant violation subject to termination from the program. Once an arrest of this nature is reported, the Operator will be placed on a 30-day probation concurrent with the DS 367 M Temporary Driver License during which the Operator is encouraged to request a DMV hearing as outlined on the DS 367M. Once the 30-day period has elapsed, the Operator will surrender his DL64 and FSP ID card. The Operator will be placed on suspension pending DMV and court action. A second offense of this section within 7 years will result in immediate suspension and/or termination from the FSP Program.
3. ARRESTS
IF ANY OPERATOR IS ARRESTED, WHILE OFF DUTY, FOR ANY ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUG-RELATED OFFENSE(S), HE IS REQUIRED TO NOTIFY HIS CONTRACTOR AND FSP MANAGEMENT IMMEDIATELY. FAILURE TO DO SO WILL RESULT IN SUSPENSION AND/OR TERMINATION FROM THE FSP PROGRAM.
PERFORMANCE MEASURES
1. Performance Measures Demo Program
The FSP Performance Measures Incentive Program was implemented as a means to recognize Contractors/Operators who maintain an exemplary operational performance record on their beat. See Attachment G for criteria.
The FSP incentive reward program was implemented on a demonstration basis, effective January 1, 2003. Incentive Criteria and Incentive Awards may be modified as necessary through the demonstration period as the performance measure program develops in order to better reflect performance improvements.
Awards will be distributed on a quarterly basis. The Incentive Program and service improvements will be evaluated after a 6-month demo period, and a decision made whether to: modify the criteria, continue the incentive program or cancel the program altogether.
A. Incentives
▪ Any Contractor that has a beat with a total of 10 points in any quarter will be given an incentive award of $1000 per beat to distribute amongst the Operators of that respective beat and the Contractor. A maximum of $5000 will be distributed to all qualifying 10-point beats per quarter. In the event that there are more than 5 beats in the 10-point category, the $5000 incentive will be evenly distributed amongst the qualifying 10-point beats.
▪ Any Contractor’s beat receiving a total of 9 points in any quarter will be given an incentive award of $500 per beat per quarter to distribute amongst the Operators of that respective beat and Contractor. A maximum of $2500 will be distributed to all qualifying 9-point beats. In the event that there are more than 5 Contractors in the 9-point category, the $2500 incentive will be evenly distributed amongst the qualifying 9-point beats.
▪ An award will be given to a contracted beat that has successfully served for the entire quarterly review period. In such cases where a Contractor’s Contract is expiring within a quarter, both the former and new Contractor(s) will receive the incentive award; for example, if a Contractor operates a beat for one month and another Contractor operates the same beat for two months and the beat rating is a 9 or 10, both Contractors will share (50/50 split) the award for that quarter. If the same Contractor operates the beat for the entire quarter, the beat’s Contractor will be eligible for the entire award.
▪ The Incentive Award Program is subject to cancellation by FSP Management for any reason and without prior notice.
2. Driver Awards
A. Driver of the Month
To recognize superior performance, FSP Management convenes once a month to select an FSP “Professional Tow Operator of the Month”. Selection will be determined by Contractor nominations followed by CHP group evaluation of the nominated Operators; one Operator will receive this award. In order to receive this prestigious award, an Operator must continuously conduct himself in a professional and exemplary manner. Selection factors include: field evaluations regarding the Operator’s appearance, performance, professional conduct and commendations received from FSP Survey forms, or other written commendations from the public.
B. Driver of the Year
Recognition of “Driver of the Year” will be made based on the criteria set forth for “Driver of the Month”, including field evaluations regarding the Operator’s appearance, performance, professional conduct and commendations received from FSP Survey forms. The recipient of this award will be selected from the year’s “Driver of the Month” winners. This annual award will recognize the Operator that has provided exceptional service to the motoring public and has been determined to be the finest Operator in the FSP program for the calendar year.
The recipient of this award will be given a personalized plaque highlighting this accomplishment and an FSP token of appreciation.
VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES
1. OVERVIEW
The California Highway Patrol (CHP), and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), in cooperation with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), have developed a standard set of penalties for failure to meet the guidelines and policies set specifically for the FSP program.
This list is not all-inclusive, and each offense will be weighed on its own merit. The penalties are only a guide. The CHP shall utilize a “progressive discipline” policy when deciding adverse actions. An employee who has been penalized for inappropriate behavior on prior occasions can expect to get a more severe penalty than an employee who does not have a negative work history. All penalties shall be based on the totality of facts available. Multiple violations of policies and procedures can result in increasingly severe actions, up to and including termination from the FSP program.
All documentation of investigations shall be retained by the CHP for a minimum period of three years beginning on the date the violation occurred.
The FSP Operator and/or Contractor has 30 calendar days to file an administrative appeal to an adverse action. The request for appeal must be submitted in writing. Once the request has been received, a review session will be scheduled with MTA, Caltrans, the CHP, and the Contractor. The 30-day period will commence upon the date that the adverse action notice is served to the Contractor.
2. CONTRACTOR PENALTIES
The purpose of this overview to the Freeway Service Patrol’s SOP is to establish a fair and equitable system of objectively assessing fines and penalties for various types of violations charged to the Contractor. By establishing these procedures, FSP Management will ensure that all Contractors will be treated fairly and uniformly.
Since a Contractor is ultimately responsible for the actions of his/her Operators, both the Contractor and the cited Operators(s) shall receive an appropriate violation letter. Penalty assessment can be issued to either the Operator or Contractor. FSP Management retains the right to impose and enforce any appropriate penalty(s), provided adequate documentation exists. Penalties assessed against a Contractor will specify whether the penalty applies to individuals or beat(s).
A Contractor who does not suspend an Operator within 30 days of notification by CHP will be fined a monetary amount commensurate with the Contractor’s hourly program rate, and/or the suspension amount for the Operator’s violation.
3. VIOLATIONS THAT MAY LEAD TO CONTRACTOR BEAT SUSPENSION
In order to better clarify the seriousness of these violations, as well as to explain their ensuing consequences, possible violations have been assigned to three basic categories: MINOR, MAJOR, and FLAGRANT violations.
A. Per beat: A Contractor receiving fifteen (15) or more letters documenting minor violations within any floating twelve (12) month period, shall be subject to termination from the FSP contract.
B. Per beat: A Contractor receiving four (4) or more letters documenting major violations within any floating twelve (12) month period, shall be subject to termination from the FSP contract.
C. A Contractor participating in or encouraging any activity constituting a FLAGRANT violation, or withholding required reporting of such violation to FSP Management shall be subject to immediate termination of his/her Contract.
The Contractor is ultimately responsible for the actions of his employees during FSP operating hours. For any recurring problems that an Operator fails to address, the Contractor will receive a “minor violation” letter.
4. LIST OF VIOLATIONS
The following common violations are only examples to illustrate the three violation types, but do not represent an exhaustive list.
A. Minor Violations:
1) Failing to display FSP operating logo(s) during FSP hours
2) Display of FSP vehicle logo(s) while off duty or during non-FSP hours
3) Wearing FSP uniform while off duty or during non-FSP hours while performing other tow services
4) An Operator displaying poor grooming as specified in the SOP
5) An Operator not complying with the established basic uniform standards as specified in the SOP
6) Minor equipment violations constituting an out-of-service status
7) An Operator failing to complete the pre-operation inspection form
8) A Contractor failing to possess pre-operation inspection forms for a previous 30-day period at his/her place of business
9) Contractor having knowledge of, and failing to report to a FSP Management, any act, omission, or violation of the SOP by an FSP Operator that most likely would result in a written reprimand or minor suspension (five days or less) shall receive a written reprimand. Examples of these violations include:
a) An Operator using poor judgment
b) An Operator displaying inappropriate behavior or using foul language
c) Poor performance
▪ Note: All minor violations will be documented on a Cursory Inspection form.
▪ See Attachment H for example of Cursory form.
B. Major Violations:
1) Major equipment violations
2) FSP trucks not insured
3) An Operator having an invalid, suspended, or revoked driving license
4) A Contractor falsifying information, orally or in written form, to FSP Management or Dispatch
5) A Contractor having knowledge of or falsifying pre-operation inspection forms
6) A Contractor having knowledge of and failing to notify FSP Management of any level of violation that could result in a suspension or termination to either Contractor or Operator, pursuant to the SOP. Some examples include:
a) An Operator involved in any type of collision without subsequent notification to FSP Management
b) An Operator leaving the FSP beat without authorization during FSP hours
c) An Operator failing to report intentional or unintentional damage to a vehicle serviced, towed, or pushed
d) An Operator failing to report a breakdown of an FSP truck
e) An Operator lying to Dispatch or FSP Management
f) An Operator sleeping during an FSP shift (including during rest break)
7) FSP truck operating with expired registration
8) Providing or recommending a secondary tow service, following an initial service
9) Not providing scheduled service
▪ Note: Major violations will be a three day work suspension and any other subsequent offense will be a mandatory five day work suspension.
Numerous violations committed on the same incident will be dealt with on an individual basis. Each violation will be handled separately.
C. Flagrant Violations:
Due to the severity of these violations, the Contractor will be subject to immediate termination of his/her Contract when having knowledge of, or encouraging/participating in the following:
1) Stealing or charging for FSP service
2) Selling any items
3) Soliciting any service that would require subsequent compensation
4) Providing or recommending a secondary tow service, for compensation, following an initial service
5) A Contractor allowing an uncertified driver to perform FSP duties
6) Retaining tips or other gratuities
7) An Operator driving an FSP vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
▪ Note: Flagrant violations will be handled on a case by case basis for the first offense with the second offense resulting in termination.
The activities listed in each of the three categories are not intended to be an exhaustive list (refer to the SOP for further penalties). Caltrans, MTA, and the CHP reserve the right to characterize any activities that violate the Contract, but which are not listed in the SOP, in the manner they see fit. See Attachment I for fines and penalties regarding all three categories of violations
5. TERMINATIONS AND APPEAL PROCESS
Termination of an Operator from the FSP program is considered permanent. However, an Operator who has been terminated from the program by FSP Management, and who desires reinstatement may appeal in writing to the FSP review committee. Appeals will be denied unless “good cause” can be established, in writing, by the individual making the appeal. Because of the confidentiality of criminal histories, any person disqualified from working in the FSP program for a criminal conviction may only appeal to the CHP.
6. COMPLAINT PROCESS
All complaints made against an Operator will be accepted and investigated by the CHP in a fair and impartial manner. Complaint investigations are necessary to resolve occasional problems, maintain the favorable regard of the public, and to identify any problems or additional training needs. Because of the investigations, the CHP may initiate recommendations to MTA for contract action. Should the filing of criminal charges be a possibility, the CHP will handle to conclusion and, if warranted, request prosecution by a court of law. The most common types of complaints include (and are a direct violation of this SOP):
1) Rude or discourteous conduct such as yelling, cursing or making inappropriate hand gestures to a member of the public.
1) Lying, such as giving untrue information about an Operator’s actions or location. This includes lying to FSP Management or Dispatch.
2) Inappropriate conduct with members of the opposite sex, such as displaying behavior with sexual overtones.
3) Soliciting, accepting, and/or not reporting tips.
5) Unsafe driving practices.
6) Insubordination - disobeying orders from FSP Management or Dispatch.
Metro Freeway Service Patrol --------- Los Angeles County
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OPERATOR TRAINEE
PROJECTED O.J.T. SCHEDULE
FSP LA OJT-1 (Rev. 05-02) OPI 516
H:\Data\516\FSP\Operator Training\OJT\OJT-1 OJT Projected Schedule.doc
|TRAINEE NAME: | |TRAINEE ID#: | |
| | |
|COMPANY: | |
| | |
|Date of Initial Operator Training Completion | |
| | |
|OJT completed No Later Than | |
THIS FORM SHALL BE FAXED TO (213) 897-7715 PRIOR TO ANY OJT BEING PERFORMED
TRAINING SCHEDULE
| |
| | | | |Trainer’s |# of Hours |Log |
|Date |Shift |Call-Sign |Trainer’s Name |ID# | |Number |
|10-28-01 |AM |45C |John Smith |35-4 |4 |1341 |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | |Dispatch/ CalTrans** | |2 | |
| | | | |Total # of Hours | | |
This projected schedule is to be provided to FSP Management PRIOR to any OJT being performed by the Trainee.
** Contractors shall contact FSP Dispatch to arrange a two-hour time slot for each Trainee. This training does not have to occur as the last 2 hours. At or near 10 hours of OJT completed is preferred.
This schedule is to be used as a guide to FSP Management as to where Trainees are being utilized on FSP beats.
Any modifications shall be noted on a revised schedule and faxed to (213) 897-7715.
Metro Freeway Service Patrol --------- Los Angeles County
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O.J.T.
CHECKLIST
FSP LA OJT-2 (Rev. 12-01) OPI 516
H:\Data\516\FSP\Operator Training\OJT\OJT-2 OJT Checklist.doc
|TRAINEE NAME: |«First_Name» «Last_Name» |TRAINEE ID#: |«FSP_ID» |
| | |
|COMPANY: |«Contractor» |
| | |
|Date of Initial Operator Training Completion: |1/23/03 |
| | |
|OJT completed No Later Than: |03/23/03 |
This form is to be used by FSP Operator Trainers to ensure that the tasks listed are either performed by, demonstrated to or discussed with the Trainee Operator. This checklist is to be used one per Trainee, but can be completed by more than one Trainer. Completed form shall be submitted along with Invoice to FSP Management for reimbursement.
|TRAINING CHECKLIST | |Completed by: | |Date |
|( |2 Hours of Dispatch and Fleet Management training at Traffic Management Center (Bring|LOG #__________ | | |
| |this Form) |Dispatch or Caltrans Only | | |
| |(** Contact Dispatch for appointment **) | | | |
|( |Pre-Op Inspection Completion and Documentation | | | |
|( |FSP SOP and required forms | | | |
|( |Staging location procedures (3.8.5) | | | |
|( |Signing on & off (3.8.3) | | | |
|( |MDT procedures | | | |
|( |CHP radio communication procedures | | | |
|( |Beat responsibilities | | | |
|( |Safe vehicle operations | | | |
|( |Tow truck and vehicle placement | | | |
|( |Motorist and vehicle contacts | | | |
|( |Use of tow lights | | | |
|( |Fire hazards and extinguisher use | | | |
|( |Traffic control and scene management | | | |
|( |Debris in roadway | | | |
|( |Directions by CHP Officers | | | |
|( |Gratuities, tips and items of value | | | |
|( |Clearing the scene | | | |
|( |Drop locations | | | |
|( |Safety issues and concerns in and around truck | | | |
|METRO FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL |
|TOW TRUCK & EQUIPMENT WEEKLY PRE OPERATIONAL INSPECTION |
|This sheet will be maintained in the office for the current week |
|Company Name |Truck License Number |Truck Number |Date Beginning |Date Ending |
|Vehicle |
|TOW TRUCK & EQUIPMENT WEEKLY PRE OPERATIONAL INSPECTION (CONTINUED) |
This sheet will be maintained in the office for the current week
|Vehicle |
| |
| |AM Beginning |AM Ending |TOTAL |PM Beginning |PM Ending |TOTAL |
|Tuesday | | | | | | |
|Wednesday | | | | | | |
|Thursday | | | | | | |
|Friday | | | | | | |
| |Weekly Total | | |Weekly Total | |
|Truck mileage/last oil change and lubrication |Date of last tune-up |
|Type or print name of Contractor / Agent at the end of the week | |
|Signature of Contractor / Agent | |
This inspection form (for the current week) shall be kept at each respective tow yard at all times, and upon request be available for review by FSP Management. Falsifying any pre-operation inspection form will result in the Operator(s) being suspended / terminated from the Program.
|METRO FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL |
|TOW TRUCK & EQUIPMENT WEEKEND PRE OPERATIONAL INSPECTION |
|This sheet will be maintained in the office for the current week |
|Company Name |Truck license number |Truck Number |Date Beginning |Date Ending |
|Vehicle |Saturday |Sunday | | | |Operator |
|Equipment |Re-deployment |Re-deployment | | | |Remarks |
|AVL/MDT Secured | | | | | | |
|Public address system operational | | | | | | |
|Shop radio Operational | | | | | | |
|FSP radio Operational | | | | | | |
|SOP in vehicle | | | | | | |
|Survey forms & brochures | | | | | | |
|Operational manual | | | | | | |
|Truck interior | | | | | | |
|Current registration form | | | | | | |
|Current insurance form | | | | | | |
|Brakes operational (service/parking) | | | | | | |
|Drop location map booklet | | | | | | |
|California driver license | | | | | | |
|DL-64 (tow truck certificate) | | | | | | |
|FSP identification card | | | | | | |
|Name tag | | | | | | |
|Shaven | | | | | | |
|Steel toe boots | | | | | | |
|Uniform in good condition | | | | | | |
|Rain gear | | | | | | |
|Flashlight & spare batteries | | | | | | |
|First aid kit - 5” X 9” minimum | | | | | | |
|Leather Gloves | | | | | | |
|Truck lettering/Numbers/FSP Logos | | | | | | |
|Truck / bed paint | | | | | | |
|Truck body (damage) | | | | | | |
|Tires, Wheels, Lugs (pressure) | | | | | | |
|Check engine fluids | | | | | | |
|Exterior lights / Reflectors | | | | | | |
|Cones-(6) (cleaned & labeled) | | | | | | |
|Absorbent (five gallons) | | | | | | |
|Trash can (empty) | | | | | | |
|Diesel fuel (5 gal)(clean cont.) | | | | | | |
|Unleaded gas (5 gal)(clean cont.) | | | | | | |
|Water (10 gal)(clean cont.) | | | | | | |
|Dollies (tread / air pressure) | | | | | | |
|Winch cable (good condition) | | | | | | |
|Sling (good condition) | | | | | | |
|Cross bar (stinger) pivot | | | | | | |
|Safety chains and clips | | | | | | |
|Bridle rollover chain (operational) | | | | | | |
|20’ chain w/2 grab hooks | | | | | | |
|Stiff leg (for rollover) | | | | | | |
|Spacer blocks (2) | | | | | | |
|*Operator states the above | | | | | |BOTH MUST BE |
|is true and correct (initial) | | | | | |INITIALED PRIOR |
|*Contractor / Agent concurs | | | | | |TO THE OPERATOR |
|with Operator (initial) | | | | | |ENTERING THE BEAT |
|METRO FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL | | | |
|TOW TRUCK & EQUIPMENT WEEKEND PRE OPERATIONAL INSPECTION (CONTINUED) | | | |
|This sheet will be maintained in the office for the current week | | | | | | |
|Vehicle |Saturday |Sunday | | | |Operator |
|Equipment |Re-deployment |Re-deployment | | | |Remarks |
|Wood blocks (4” X 6” X 12”) | | | | | | |
|Tow chains (5/16” & J-hooks) | | | | | | |
|Cross beams (4 x 4’s / 4’ & 5’) | | | | | | |
|Air tank (80 PSI minimum) | | | | | | |
|Bolt cutters | | | | | | |
|Broom (24” minimum) | | | | | | |
|Pry bar (36”) | | | | | | |
|Square tipped shovel | | | | | | |
|Fire extinguisher | | | | | | |
|Flares 36 (15-minute) | | | | | | |
|Floor jack (2-ton plus) | | | | | | |
|Jumper cables (25’) | | | | | | |
|Lock out tools & wedge | | | | | | |
|Lug wrench (std. & metric) | | | | | | |
|Trailer ball (1 7/8” & 2” | | | | | | |
|Triangle reflectors | | | | | | |
|Flexible funnel | | | | | | |
|Crescent wrench | | | | | | |
|Electrical / Duct tape | | | | | | |
|Motorcycle straps | | | | | | |
|Needle nosed pliers | | | | | | |
|Rubber mallet | | | | | | |
|Screwdrivers (Phillips #1 & #2) | | | | | | |
|Screwdrivers (1/8”, 3/16” ¼”, 5/16”) | | | | | | |
|Sledge hammer (min 4 lb) | | | | | | |
|Mechanic’s wire | | | | | | |
|Wheel lift safety straps | | | | | | |
|Push Bumpers / Mud Flaps | | | | | | |
|Fuel Cap | | | | | | |
|Throttle Control | | | | | | |
|Fluid leaks of any kind | | | | | | |
|Steering Wheel Strap | | | | | | |
|Tire Pressure Gauge | | | | | | |
|Seat Belt Operation | | | | | | |
|Windshield/ Mirrors/ Wipers | | | | | | |
|Wheel retainers (good shape) | | | | | | |
|*Operator states the above | | | | | |BOTH MUST BE |
|is true and correct (initial) | | | | | |INITIALED PRIOR |
|*Contractor / Agent concurs | | | | | |TO THE OPERATOR |
|with Operator (initial) | | | | | |ENTERING THE BEAT |
|WEEKLY MILEAGE |
| |
| |Beginning |Ending |Total |
|Saturday | | | |
|Sunday | | | |
| |Weekly Total | |
|Truck Mileage/last oil change and lubrication |Date of last tune-up |
|Type or print name of Contractor / Agent at the end of the week | |
|Signature of Contractor / Agent | |
This inspection form (for the current week) shall be kept at each respective tow yard at all times, and upon request be available for review by FSP Management. Falsifying any pre-operational inspection form will result in the Operator(s) being suspended / terminated from the Program
FSP OPERATOR APPLICANT INTERVIEW FORM
|DATE: | |NAME OF APPLICANT: | |
| | | | |
|COMPANY NAME: | | | |
| | | | |
|DOES THE APPLICANT HAVE A VALID CALIFORNIA DRIVER LICENSE? |( YES |( NO |
| | | | |
|DOES THE APPLICANT HAVE A VALID DL-64 CERTIFICATE? |( YES |( NO |
This form was developed to assist FSP Contractors in the Pre-Screening of prospective FSP Operator. This form IS NOT intended to replace a complete and thorough background check, which will be conducted using fingerprint comparisons from State and Federal Law enforcement databases.
|SECTION ONE |
|HAS THE APPLICANT BEEN CONVICTED OF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SPECIFIC CRIMES? |
|(PC - California Penal Code) |
|( YES |( NO |220 PC |Assault with the Intent to Commit Mayhem, Rape, Sodomy, or Oral Copulation. |
|( YES |( NO |261 PC |Rape or Aiding & Abetting a Rape |
|( YES |( NO |267 PC |Abducting Person Under Age 18 for Prostitution |
|( YES |( NO |288 PC |Lewd Act with a Child |
|( YES |( NO |289 PC |Sexual Assault |
|( YES |( NO |Murder, Attempted Murder, Voluntary Manslaughter or Mayhem. |
|( YES |( NO |Rape, Sodomy or Oral Copulation by Force, Violence, Duress, Menace, or Fear of Immediate and Unlawful Bodily Injury on the Victim or |
| | |Another Person. |
|( YES |( NO |Robbery or Arson that Causes Great Bodily Injury, or that Causes an Inhabited Structure or Inhabited Property to Burn. |
|( YES |( NO |Any Felony in which the Defendant Inflicts Great Bodily Injury on Any Person Other Than an Accomplice, or any Felony in Which the |
| | |Defendant Uses a Firearm. |
|( YES |( NO |Kidnapping, Carjacking. |
|( YES |( NO |Criminal Street Gang Convictions; Extortion / Threats to Victims or Witnesses. |
|( YES |( NO |Burglary(First Degree), When Another Person, Other Than an Accomplice, Was Present in the Residence During the Crime. |
|SECTION TWO |
|HAS THE APPLICANT BEEN CONVICTED OF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SPECIFIC CRIMES? |
|(PC - California Penal Code VC - California Vehicle Code SOP - LA Metro FSP Standard Operating Procedures) |
|( YES |( NO |3.3.1 SOP |Any Felony Conviction Within the Previous Seven Years |
|( YES |( NO |3.3.1 SOP |Any Misdemeanor Conviction Within the Previous Three Years |
|( YES |( NO |191.5(a) PC |Gross Vehicular Manslaughter while Intoxicated Conviction Within the Previous Seven Years |
|( YES |( NO |23153 VC |Driving while Under the Influence and Causing an Injury or Death Within the Previous Seven Years. (Any subsection) |
|( YES |( NO |23152 VC |Three or More Convictions of Driving while Under the Influence Within the Previous Seven Years. (Any subsection) |
|( YES |( NO |Three or More Misdemeanor Drug Related Convictions, Within the Previous Five Years. |
|( YES |( NO |Any Drug Related Felony Convictions, Within the Previous Five Years. |
FSP Operator Applicant Interview Page 2
|SECTION THREE |
|HAS THE APPLICANT BEEN CONVICTED OF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SPECIFIC CRIMES? |
|(PC - California Penal Code) (VC - California Vehicle Code) |
|If an Answer is (YES, Check the appropriate check box if, if known, |
|to indicate either (( F) for a Felony conviction or (( M) for a Misdemeanor conviction. |
|ALL YES ANSWERS SHOULD BE EXPLAINED IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW, |
|(DATE / LOCATION / CIRCUMSTANCES) |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |148 PC |Resisting/Delaying a Peace Officer |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |222 PC |Administering Drugs With the Intent To Commit a Felony |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |273.5 PC |Infliction of Injury to Spouse, Cohabitant, Parent or Child |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |261.5 PC |Statutory Rape |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |275(a) PC |Cruelty To Child |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |273(d) PC |Corporal Punishment of a Child, Resulting in a Traumatic Condition |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |417 PC |Brandishing a Firearm in a Threatening Manner |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |450 PC |Arson |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |453 PC |Possession of a Fire Bomb |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |459 PC |Burglary |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |466 PC |Possession of Burglary Tools |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |467 PC |Possession of Deadly Weapons With the Intent to Assault |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |470 PC |Forgery |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |470(a) PC |Reproduction / Falsification of Driver License or ID Card |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |470(b) PC |Display/ Possess Reproduced / Falsified Driver License or ID Card |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |477 PC |Counterfeiting Money |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |484(e) PC |Theft of an Access Card |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |484(f) PC |Forgery of Access Card Signature |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |484(g) PC |Fraudulent Use of an Access Card |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |487 PC |Grand Theft |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |496 PC |Receiving Stolen Property |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |503 PC |Embezzlement |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |538(d) PC |Fraudulent Impersonation of A Peace Officer |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |2800 VC |Evading a Peace Officer |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |10750 VC |Altering, Defacing or Replacing Vehicle ID Numbers |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |10752 VC |Fraudulent Acquisition of DMV or CHP VIN Numbers |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |10851 VC |Vehicle Theft |
|( YES |( F ( M |( NO |20001 VC |Hit and Run Causing Injury or Death |
|COMMENTS: | |
| |
| |
| |
I certify that the above information is true and correct, and that no omissions have been made.
This form will be forwarded to FSP Management (CHP) as part of your Background Screening. Applicants are advised that giving false information to a Peace Officer, either orally or in writing, is a Misdemeanor pursuant to vehicle code sections 20 and 31.
|FSP APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE | |DATE | |
BACKGROUND PRE-SCREENING
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FSP CONTRACTORS
Have your prospective FSP Operator complete the “FSP OPERATOR APPLICANT INTERVIEW FORM” and use the results to “Pre-Screen” the applicant using the information below for each Section of the form.
(Note: Any Pre-qualification is dependent on the information received from the applicant, and completion of this form does not guarantee the issuance of a DL-64.
|SECTION ONE |
|IF THE ANSWER TO ANY OF THE QUESTIONS IN SECTION ONE (1) WAS “YES”, THE APPLICANT IS PERMANENTLY DISQUALIFIED FROM WORKING IN ANY FSP PROGRAM. |
|An FSP Operator must be qualified to be issued a Tow Truck Driver Certificate (DL-64) by the Department of Motor Vehicles. California Vehicle Code section |
|13377(a) denies the issuance the DL-64 if any of the above circumstances are met. |
|SECTION TWO |
|IF THE ANSWER TO ANY OF THE QUESTIONS IN SECTION TWO (2) WAS “YES”, THE APPLICANT IS DISQUALIFIED FOR THE INDICATED TIME, FROM WORKING IN THE FSP PROGRAM. ONCE |
|THE APPLICANT CAN ANSWER THE INDICATED QUESTION “NO”, HE/SHE MAY REAPPLY. |
|These disqualification convictions are based on the recommendations made by the Emergency Roadside Assistance Advisory Committee (ERAAC) and the Los Angeles County|
|Metro FSP Standard Operating Procedures. |
|SECTION THREE |
|IF THE ANSWER TO ANY OF THE QUESTIONS IN SECTION THREE (3) WAS “YES”, THE APPLICANT IS DISQUALIFIED FOR 10 YEARS FOR FELONY CONVICTIONS AND 5 YEARS FOR |
|MISDEMEANOR CONVICTIONS, FROM WORKING IN ANY FSP PROGRAM. These disqualification convictions are based on the recommendations made by the Emergency Roadside |
|Assistance Advisory Committee (ERAAC). |
EACH APPLICANT IS REQUIRED TO BRING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS FOR BACKGROUND SCREENING:
1) ( Valid California driver license.
License must indicate current address
or have in possession an address change card (DL-43), issued by DMV.
2) ( Form #1-1a “Freeway Service Patrol” Operator applicant interview form.
( Signed by Applicant.
3) ( Form #2 Tow Operator/Driver information, CHP Form # 234F.
( Signed by Contractor and Applicant.
4) ( Form #3 “Freeway Service Patrol” Operator application form.
( Signed by Applicant.
5) ( Form #4 LiveScan Worksheet.
( Signed by Applicant.
6) ( If the applicant has a valid DL-64, bring it to background screening.
7) ( Fees for the processing of the Criminal History Check
This applicant has lived in California continuously for the last seven (7) years.
Applicant needs to bring a check or money order for $32.00, made out to “CHP”.
This applicant has lived outside of California within the last seven (7) years.
Applicant needs to bring a check or money order for $50.00, made out to “CHP”.
( Rolling Fees for the processing of LiveScan Fingerprinting.
The Company used for this service changes periodically.
Contractors will be notified prior to each Background processing cycle.
|Instructions: Please type or print clearly. Form must be filled out completely. |
|Operator/Driver Full Name | | | |
| |(First, Middle, Last) |
| |
|Date of Birth | |List all AKA’s | |
| | |(Use additional pages if necessary) |
| |
|Company Name | | | |
| |
|Driver License Number | |State | |Exp. Date | |
| |
|License Class | |Endorsements | |Medical Certificate? |Yes | |No | |
| |
|Medical Certificate Expiration Date | |Job Title/Classification | |
| |
|Number of years experience as a tow truck Operator/driver in the following CHP classes: |
| |
|Class A | | |Class B | | |Class C | |
| |
|Operator/Driver presently enrolled in the DMV Pull Notice Program? |Yes | |No | | |
| |
|Operator/Driver ever been convicted of a crime? |Yes | |No | |. If yes, explain the |
|circumstances. Include the crimes committed, sections violated, date of convictions, country, state and county where crimes were committed. |
| |
| |
| |
| |
|(Use additional pages if necessary) |
| |
|I certify that the above information is true and correct, and that no omissions have been made. |
| |
|The Operator and Driver are advised that giving false information to a peace officer, either orally or in writing, is a misdemeanor pursuant to vehicle Code |
|Sections 20 and 31. |
| |
|Contractor’s signature | |Date | |
| |
|Tow Driver’s signature | |Date | |
| |
|Receiving Officer’s Name | |ID# | |Initials | |
| |
| |
|FOR CHP USE ONLY: |Approved | | |Disapproved | | |
| |
|If an individual is not approved, provide tow Operator with a written reason for the action and attach a copy of the reason to this form. |
FSP OPERATOR APPLICATION FORM
|FSP CONTRACTOR: |
| |
|COMPLETE NAME (FIRST MIDDLE LAST) |SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER |HOME PHONE NUMBER |
| | |( ) |
|HOME ADDRESS (NUMBER AND STREET) |CITY AND STATE |ZIP CODE |
| | | |
|DRIVER LICENSE INFORMATION |
|SEX: CIRCLE ONE |HAIR COLOR: |EYE COLOR: |HEIGHT: |WEIGHT: |BIRTH DATE (MM/DD/YY) |
|M F | | | | | |
|PERMANENT LICENSE NUMBER: |STATE: |CLASS: |DATE LICENSE EXPIRES: |
| | | | |
|TEMPORARY LICENSE NUMBER: |CLASS: |DATE TEMPORARY ISSUED: |ISSUING OFFICE: |
| | | | |
|GLASSES REQUIRED TO BE WORN |OTHER DRIVING RESTRICTIONS: (EXPLAIN) |ENDORSEMENT/S: |
|WHEN DRIVING? (YES ( NO | | |
| |
|Has your driver’s license ever been suspended, revoked or placed on probation? ( YES ( NO |
|If Yes, list all offenses giving an approximate date, City of offense, circumstances and final disposition below. |
| |
| |
| |
| |
|List any FSP companies you have worked for previously: (date, reason for leaving) ( Check here if NO prior FSP |
| |
| |
| |
|Were you ever discharged, suspended or have you been requested to resign or have resigned under unfavorable |
|circumstances from any employment ? (YES (NO If yes, please explain each individual incident below. |
| |
| |
| |
| |
|List all traffic citations you have received: (approximate date, City of offense and violation) |
| |
| |
| |
| |
|List all arrests, detentions by police agencies: (approximate date, City of offense and violation) |
|DO NOT INCLUDE JUVENILE ARRESTS |
| |
| |
| |
|I certify that the above information is true and correct, and that no omissions have been made. |
|This form will be forwarded to FSP Management (CHP) as part of your Background Screening. Applicants are advised that giving false information to a Peace Officer,|
|either orally or in writing, is a misdemeanor pursuant to Vehicle Code, sections 20 and 31. |
| |
|FSP APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE | |DATE | |
| |
|REVIEWING OFFICER’S NAME | |DATE | |
DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL
SOUTHERN DIVISION FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL UNIT
Form FSP-BG 4 - LiveScan Worksheet (Rev. 06-02) OPI 514
H:\Data\516\FSP\Forms\BG 4 LiveScan Worksheet.doc or BG 4 LiveScan Worksheet.pdf
Live Scan Worksheet
[pic]
The following information is required prior to Live Scan Fingerprinting.
The information that you provide will be transferred to a four part NCR form.
PLEASE PRINT VERY LEGIBLE OR TYPE THE FOLLOWING:
| |
|Name of Applicant: | | | | |
| |Last |First |MI | |
| |
|AKA’s: | | |CDL No. | | |
| |Last |First | | | |
| |
|DOB: | |SEX: |( Male ( Female | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
|HT: | |WT: | |Home Phone No. |( ) | |
| | | | | | | |
|EYE Color: | |HAIR Color: | |Home Address: |
| | | | | |
|Place of Birth: | | | | |
| | | |Street or PO Box | |
|SSN#: | | | | |
| | | |City, State and Zip Code | |
| | | | | |
I certify that the above information is true and correct, and that no omissions have been made.
This form will be forwarded to FSP Management (CHP) as part of your Background Screening. Applicants are advised that giving false information to a Peace Officer, either orally or in writing, is a Misdemeanor pursuant to vehicle code sections 20 and 31.
|FSP APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE | |DATE | |
DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL
SOUTHERN DIVISION FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL UNIT
Form FSP-Mileage Log (Rev. 06-02) OPI 514
H:\Data\516\FSP\Forms\Mileage Log.doc
|WEEKLY MILEAGE LOG |
|Dates: From |/ |to: |/ |Company: | |
| |Unit #: | |
|AM |ODOMETER |Total |Total |OPERATOR | |
|SHIFT |Start |End |Miles |Assists |NAME |ID # |
|Monday | | | | | | |
|Tuesday | | | | | | |
|Wednesday | | | | | | |
|Thursday | | | | | | |
|Friday | | | | | | |
|MIDDAY |ODOMETER |Total |Total |OPERATOR | |
|SHIFT |Start |End |Miles |Assists |NAME |ID # |
|Monday | | | | | | |
|Tuesday | | | | | | |
|Wednesday | | | | | | |
|Thursday | | | | | | |
|Friday | | | | | | |
|PM |ODOMETER |Total |Total |OPERATOR | |
|SHIFT |Start |End |Miles |Assists |NAME |ID # |
|Monday | | | | | | |
|Tuesday | | | | | | |
|Wednesday | | | | | | |
|Thursday | | | | | | |
|Friday | | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
|Comments: | | | | | | |
MOTORIST SCANTRON FORM [pic]
[pic]
1 PERFORMANCE MEASURES CRITERIA
METRO FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL
CURSORY INSPECTION / COMMENDATION – VIOLATION FORM
| |
|COMPANY |OPERATOR / N/A (Owner’s Responsibility) |FSP I.D. NUMBER |
|TRUCK # |TRUCK LICENSE # |CALL SIGN |PHOTOS TAKEN |NUMBER OF PHOTOS |
| | |60 - |YES NO | |
|DATE |TIME (2400) |MILEAGE |BEAT NUMBER |
|INSPECTING OFFICER |INSPECTING DAVID UNIT # |LOG NUMBER (if applicable) |LOCATION |
| |12345678910 | | |
|OPERATOR |RATING |COMMENTS |
|DRIVER LICENSE |PASS FAIL |EXPIRES: |
|FSP IDENTIFICATION CARD |PASS FAIL | |
|DMV CERTIFICATE (DL-64) |PASS FAIL |TT- |
|VEHICLE REGISTRATION |PASS FAIL |EXPIRES: |
|NAME TAG |PASS FAIL | |
|SHAVEN / DAY AND EVENING SHIFT |PASS FAIL | |
|GROOMING |COMMENDABLE EXCEEDS MEETS NEEDS IMPROVEMENT |
|BLACK STEEL TOE BOOTS (POLISHED) |COMMENDABLE EXCEEDS MEETS NEEDS IMPROVEMENT |
|VEST (NOT WORN OR DIRTY) |COMMENDABLE EXCEEDS MEETS NEEDS IMPROVEMENT |
|UNIFORM (FORM FITTING/NOT FADED) |COMMENDABLE EXCEEDS MEETS NEEDS IMPROVEMENT |
|TRUCK |RATING |COMMENTS |
|SCANNER (APPLICABLE CHP FREQUENCY) |PASS FAIL | |
|SHOP RADIO |PASS FAIL | |
|G.P.S. (SECURED) |PASS FAIL | |
|FSP UPDATES / SOP |PASS FAIL | |
|LIGHTS (FRONT, REAR, TURN, ETC.) |PASS FAIL | |
|MIRRORS |PASS FAIL | |
|WINDSHIELD |PASS FAIL | |
|SAFETY CHAINS |PASS FAIL | |
|TIRE TREAD (FRONT 4/32 REAR 2/32) |PASS FAIL |AIR PRESSURE: PASS FAIL |
|WINCH / PROPER WRAP (GOOD CABLE) |PASS FAIL | |
|FSP SIGNS (CLEAN / GOOD REPAIR) |PASS FAIL | |
|CONES (6- CLEAN AND LABELED) |PASS FAIL | |
|FUEL (UNLEADED. / DIESEL 5 - GALS. EACH) |PASS FAIL |CONTAINERS CLEAN: YES NO |
|WATER (10 – GALS.) |PASS FAIL |CONTAINERS CLEAN: YES NO |
|ABSORBENT CONTAINER |PASS FAIL | |
|TRASH CONTAINER (EMPTY) |PASS FAIL | |
|DOLLY TIRES |PASS FAIL |AIR PRESSURE: PASS FAIL |
|AIR BOTTLE (80 PSI MINIMUM) |PASS FAIL | |
|FIRE EXTINGUISHER |PASS FAIL |CHARGED: YES NO / EXPIRATION DATE: / |
|HYDRAULIC JACK (2 – TON) |PASS FAIL | |
|TRUCK / BED / INTERIOR |COMMENDABLE EXCEEDS MEETS NEEDS IMPROVEMENT |
|OVERALL RESULTS |COMMENDABLE EXCEEDS MEETS NEEDS IMPROVEMENT |
| |
|BASED ON THE ABOVE RATINGS YOU HAVE BEEN: (CHECK BOX(S) BELOW) |
|COMMENDED CENSURED |
|FINED ( ) HOURS ( ) MINUTES AT STRAIGHT TIME OR DOUBLE THE HOURLY RATE |
|SUSPENDED FROM THE FSP PROGRAM FOR ( ) WORKING DAYS (DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED) |
|TYPE OF VIOLATIONS |EQUIPMENT / SUPPLIES OPERATING PROCEDURES DRIVER / TRUCK APPEARANCE DOCUMENTS |
|REMARKS |
|PAGE #: DIV. #: SECT. #: VERBAL |VIOLATION / VERBAL DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: ( |
|PAGE #: DIV. #: SECT. #: VERBAL |VIOLATION / VERBAL DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: ( |
|PAGE #: DIV. #: SECT. #: VERBAL |VIOLATION / VERBAL DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: ( |
|PAGE #: DIV. #: SECT. #: VERBAL |VIOLATION / VERBAL DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: ( |
|OPERATOR SIGNATURE |RECOMMENDING SUPERVISOR SIGNATURE |
1) Original – Caltrans 2) Yellow – MTA 3) Pink – CHP 4) Gold – Contractor
| |
|2-1 |Contractor not following pre-operation criteria |$50.00 |X |X | | |
|2-1 |Proof of registration not in tow truck |$50.00 | |X | | |
|2-1 |Failure to notify Management of an Operator working for another Contractor |$50.00 |X |X | | |
|2-4 |Contractor not following proper tip procedure |$50.00 | | |X | |
|2-5 |Contractor not maintaining adequate supply of forms. |$50.00 | |X | | |
|3-1 |FSP truck operated by a driver who is not FSP certified |$750.00/FSP Management Review |X | | |X |
|3-5 |Failure to follow reinstatement procedures for FSP Operator |Terminate Contract |X |X | |X |
|4-1 |Failing to be courteous at all times |FSP Management Review | | |X | |
|4-1 |Inappropriate comments or conversation with a motorist |FSP Management Review | | |X | |
|4-1 |Offensive mannerisms |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-2 |Operator wearing other than FSP approved uniform |$50.00 |X |X | | |
|4-2 |Wearing FSP uniform off duty |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|4-2 |Wearing an unauthorized tee-shirt |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-3 |Not wearing the proper vest during hours of FSP |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-3 |Failing to comply with FSP vest requirements |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-3 |Wearing an unauthorized jacket |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-3 |Unauthorized boots |$50.00/Censurable |X |X | | |
|4-3 |Wearing unauthorized belt/buckle |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-3 |No name tag worn, or if worn, one which is broken or excessively scratched |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-3 |Wearing unauthorized emblems or pins |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-3 |Wearing non-FSP rain gear without the FSP vest and reflective tape requirements |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-3 |Wearing an unauthorized hat |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-3 |Wearing an unauthorized hair style or failure to maintain long hair |$50.00/Censurable |X |X | | |
|4-4 |Unauthorized tattoos |$50.00/Censurable |X | | | |
|4-4 |Wearing unauthorized jewelry, makeup and other personal accouterments |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|4-4 |Occurrence of criminal activity (on or off duty) |Termination/FSP Management Review |X | | |X |
|4-4 |Crimes which lead to permanent suspension from FSP |Termination |X | | |X |
|4-5 |Suspended California Drivers License |Suspension for duration of DMV action |X | | |X |
|5-1 |Operator acting beyond the scope of FSP employment |FSP Management Review | |Any may apply |
|5-1 |Operator inappropriately performing police officer roles |FSP Management Review | | |X |X |
|5-1 |Failure to resume FSP patrol after encountering illegal activity |FSP Management Review | | |X |X |
|5-2 |Smoking in or near the truck during the FSP shift |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-2 |Chewing tobacco on FSP time |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-3 |Radio too loud in FSP vehicle |$50.00 | |X | | |
|5-3 |Sleeping during FSP hours |$50.00/Censurable, | | | |X |
| | |FSP Management Review | | | | |
|5-3 |Lying to FSP Management |Termination | | X |
|5-3 |Failure to perform a daily truck inspection and complete inspection form |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|5-3 |Tow truck inspection form not posted in tow truck for the current week (per truck) |$100.00 | | |X | |
|5-4 |Operator not complying with shift entrance location criteria |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-5 |Late sign on (15 minute increments) |Double hourly rate | |X | | |
|5-5 |Failure to complete assigned calls |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|5-5 |Not recording overtime on motorist assist form |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-5 |Taking more than 10 minutes to service vehicle on freeway |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-6 |Violation of break criteria (length and where) |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|5-6 |Violation of break criteria (when) |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-6 |Operator overlapping breaks |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-6 |More than one truck at a break location from the same beat. |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-6 |Operator loitering or buying food or beverages during restroom break |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|5-7 |More than one truck at one scene or outside one’s own beat and not notifying Dispatch |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-7 |Failure to be on the beat at the beginning of shift |Double hourly rate | |X | | |
|5-7 |Operator not patrolling entire beat at the end of shift |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-7 |Inappropriate use of the car pool lanes |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|5-8 |Leaving the beat without authorization (restroom OK) |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|5-8 |Operator using phone during shift, (outside or regular break) |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-8 |Visible food inside the cab of truck (includes glove box and closed containers) |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|5-8 |Towing motorcycles |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|5-9 |Referring motorist to another to perform additional services |Termination |X | | |X |
|5-9 |Prohibited secondary tow violation |Termination |X | | |X |
|5-9 |Failure to notify Management of back up truck going in service. |$50.00 | | |X | |
|5-9 |Back up truck not fully equipped (each item counts as one violation) |$50.00 |X |X | | |
|5-9 |Operator not following proper tip procedure |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|5-9 |Not reporting acceptance of tips or gratuities |Termination |X | | |X |
|5-9 |Leaving FSP truck unattended with engine running |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|5-10 |FSP I.D. Card, California Driver License or Tow Certificate not in possession. |$50.00/Censurable |X |X | | |
|5-10 |Operator in possession of expired drivers license, FSP I.D. card or tow certificate |$50.00/Censurable |X | | |X |
|5-10 |Mutilated drivers license, FSP I.D. card or tow certificate |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|6-1 |Operator not complying with law enforcement officer |FSP Management Review | | |X | |
|6-1 |Not appropriately handling misunderstandings with officers |FSP Management Review | | |X | |
|6-1 |Failure to stop in front of disabled vehicle |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|6-2 |Failure to follow criteria regarding vehicle in traffic lanes |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-2 |Allowing motorist or passengers to stand in a dangerous location |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-2 |Failure to follow criteria regarding vehicle on the right shoulder |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-3 |Leaving motorist in the center divider area |FSP Management review | | | |X |
|6-3 |Leaving motorist in a dangerous location |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-4 |Failure to provide service |FSP Management Review |X | | |X |
|6-4 |Failure to follow criteria regarding abandon vehicle on the right shoulder |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-4 |Failure to follow criteria regarding abandon vehicle in the traffic lanes |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-5 |Not following correct procedure at the scene of an accident |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-5 |Not following correct procedure at traffic collisions (tow situation) |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-5 |Not following correct procedure at traffic collisions (non-tow situation) |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-6 |Failure to follow correct procedure when another tow is on scene |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-6 |Failure to properly utilize a rotation tow |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|6-6 |Failure to follow procedure regarding FSP and rotation tow at the same incident |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|6-6 |Failure to follow procedure regarding unusual incidents |FSP Management Review | |Any may apply |
|6-7 |Debris procedure-stopped traffic |$50.00/Censurable | | |x | |
|6-7 |Debris procedure-moving traffic |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|6-7 |Stopping with animals on the freeway |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|6-8 |Keeping items/property found on the freeway |FSP Management Review | | | |X |
|6-8 |Not following correct procedures at a hazardous materials incident |FSP Management Review | |Any may apply |
|6-9 |Operator making contact with a pedestrian and there is no vehicle in sight |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|7-1 |Failing to exercise reasonable care for others during contact (possible termination) |FSP Management review | |Any may apply |
|7-1 |Placing persons in place of danger |FSP Management review | | | |X |
|7-1 |Violation of safety rules |FSP Management review | | |X | |
|7-2 |Not being courteous while directing traffic |$50.00/Censurable | |Any may apply |
|7-3 |Operator fails to resume FSP patrol when CHP arrives on scene. |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|7-3 |Not directing traffic properly / general directions |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|7-3 |Not directing traffic properly / uniform signals |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|7-3 |Not directing traffic properly / turning back to traffic |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|7-3 |Not directing traffic properly / stopping traffic |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|7-3 |Not directing traffic properly / flare patterns |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|7-4 |Not directing traffic properly / traffic cones |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|7-5 |Continuous patrolling, in other than far right lane |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|7-5 |Following too close |$50.00/Censurable | |Any may apply |
|7-5 |Unsafe lane change(s) |$50.00/Censurable | |Any may apply |
|7-5 |Improper use of emergency lights / slowing down a traffic lane |$50.00/Censurable | |Any may apply |
|7-6 |Failure to clear intersection |$50.00/Censurable | |Any may apply |
|7-6 |Unsafe backing |$50.00/Censurable | |Any may apply |
|7-6 |Not following emergency procedures |$50.00/Censurable | |Any may apply |
|8-1 |Failure to properly use chains, “S” or “J” hooks |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-1 |Failure to use drag lights |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-1 |Failure to use crossbeam when using tow sling |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-1 |Failure to place towed vehicle in neutral, prior to lifting |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-2 |Failure to use wheel lift straps / using “J” hooks on vehicles with CV Boots |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-2 |Towing vehicle over 6,000 pounds |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-2 |Improper tow dolly procedures |$50.00/Censurable | |Any may apply |
|8-3 |Dragging safety chain(s) |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|8-3 |Passengers riding in the towed vehicle |$50.00/Censurable | | | |X |
|8-3 |Inappropriate use of the amber emergency lights |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-5 |Improper jump start procedures |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-7 |Failure to use good judgment at the scene of a car fire |$50.00/Censurable | |Any may apply |
|8-7 |Opening the hood of a vehicle on fire |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-7 |Failing to immediately report damage to Dispatch |FSP Management review | |Any may apply |
|8-8 |Dropping vehicle at a location other than an approved drop location |Termination |X | | |X |
|8-8 |Drop location book not in FSP truck |$50.00/Censurable |X | | | |
|8-8 |Operator asking Dispatch to look up drop locations |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-8 |Failure to notify Caltrans of inappropriate drop location |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|8-8 |Failing to follow drop location procedures |FSP Management review | |Any may apply |
|8-8 |Leaving motorist stranded at a drop location |FSP Management review | |Any may apply |
|8-9 |Not ensuring motorist has help en route or additional public services |FSP Management review | | | |X |
|8-9 |Using poor judgment at a drop location |FSP Management review | |Any may apply |
|9-1 |Truck not equipped with proper equipment; re-install and charge repair labor & equip. |Charge, Dock at double hourly rate |X | |X | |
|9-1 |Failure to follow correct equipment repair procedure |$50.00 | | |X | |
|9-1 |Communication equipment not secured |$50.00 |X | |X | |
|9-2 |Not knowing location |$50.00/Censurable, Retraining |X | |X | |
|9-2 |Unable to be specific during radio communication |$50.00/Censurable, Retraining |X | |X | |
|9-2 |Not following correct radio procedures / normal |$50.00/Censurable, Retraining |X | |X | |
|9-3 |Not following correct radio procedures / emergency |$50.00/Censurable, Retraining |X | |X | |
|9-3 |Failure to monitor FSP radio and/or scanner |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|9-5 |Failure to follow 11-48 x-ray procedures / general |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|9-5 |Failure to follow 11-48 x-ray procedures / mileage |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|9-5 |Failure to follow 11-48 x-ray procedures / radio “dead spots’ or Dispatch busy |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|9-5 |Inability to fully utilize aural brevity codes |$50.00/Censurable, Retraining |X | |X | |
|9-5 |Improper use of the term “BACK-UP” |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|9-6 |Asking Dispatch to make telephone calls |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|9-6 |Personal comments on CHP radio (good morning, good night, etc.) |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|9-6 |Intentionally walking on others (keying microphone on purpose) |Termination |X | | |X |
|9-6 |Not following correct procedure |$50.00/Censurable, Retraining |X | |X | |
|9-6 |Unprofessional radio traffic (includes making noises) |Termination |X | | |X |
|9-6 |Making Dispatchers job difficult |$50.00/Censurable, Retraining | |Any may apply |
|11-1 |Not matching Motor Assist Form numbers. |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|11-1 |Failure to distribute Motor Assist Form/FSP Survey Form (each one is a violation) |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
|11-1 |Failure to follow criteria regarding abandon vehicles and hand outs. |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|11-2 |Not completing assist forms in a timely fashion (30 minutes) |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|11-2 |Falsifying Motorist Assist From(s) |Termination | | | |X |
|11-2 |Improper procedure regarding call boxes |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
|11-5 |Motorist Assist Forms not filled out properly (see attached schedule) |Per attached schedule | |X | | |
|11-5 |Fines for assist form errors (see attached schedule) |Per attached schedule | | |X | |
|11-5 |Failure for Contractor to submit assist forms (see attached schedule) |Per attached schedule | |X | | |
|12-1 |FSP not offering service (leaving scene after learning that another tow in en route) |FSP Management review | | |X | |
|12-1 |Failing to follow correct procedure if motorist refused FSP assistance |FSP Management review | |Any may apply |
|13-1 |Sexual harassment violations |FSP Management Review |X | | |X |
|14-1 |Illegal Drug use |Termination |X | | |X |
|14-1 |Prescription drug use while operating an FSP vehicle |$750.00/FSP Management Review |X | | |X |
|14-1 |Violation of the Drug and Alcohol Policy |Termination/FSP Management Review |X | | |X |
|16-5 |Citizen complaint investigations |FSP Management Review |X |Any may apply |
|4,8 |Failing to look and act professionally |$50.00/Censurable |X |X | | |
|8 |Failing to shave or trim beard |$50.00/Censurable |X |X | | |
|8 |Unprofessional appearance, failing to take daily shower or bath, etc. |$50.00/Censurable |X |X | | |
|8 |Dirty hands |$50.00/Censurable | | | | |
| |Contractor failing to supply/maintain uniforms |$50.00 | |X | | |
|6 |Uniform specifications are not to FSP requirements |$50.00 |X |X | | |
|6 |No chest pocket on uniforms |$50. 00 | |X | | |
|8 |Wearing a soiled uniform (such as one from a previous shift that is very dirty) |$50.00/Censurable |X |X | | |
| |Alcohol consumption up to 0.079% |$500/FSP Management Review |X | | |X |
| | |Second occurrence – Termination | | | | |
| |Alcohol consumption .08% and over |$750.00/Termination |X | | |X |
| |Failure to comply with CHP/FSP 14,000 pound GVWR criteria |Terminate Contract |X | | |X |
| |Tow truck must be painted white |Out of service until in compliance/Dock|X | |X | |
| |Not complying with truck number criteria |$50.00 | |X | | |
| |Mutilated lettering or numbering on the truck |$50.00 |X |X | | |
| |Failure to paint wheel lift or repair vehicle damage in a timely manner. |Out of service until in compliance/Dock|X | |X | |
| |Failure to comply with FSP logo criteria |$50.00 |X |X | | |
| |Truck and equipment not clean |$50.00/Censurable |X |X | | |
|5 |Inappropriate advertising on the FSP Truck |$50.00 |X |X | | |
| |Displaying FSP logos beyond the completion of FSP duties |$50.00/Censurable | | | |X |
| |Failure to fully equip FSP truck (each item counts as one violation) |$50.00/Censurable |X |X | | |
| |Missing equipment per occurrence |$50.00 |X |X | | |
| |Gas, diesel and water not at appropriate limits |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
| |Tow truck missing reflectors |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
| |Required lighting not in proper working condition |$50.00 |X |X | | |
| |Tires not in compliance with SOP. |$50.00 | |X | | |
| |Fire extinguisher expired or not certified. |$50.00 |X |X | | |
| |Tow cable not in good condition |$50.00 |X |X | | |
| |Failure to supply Operator with drop light and high power flashlight |$50.00 |X | |X | |
| |More than one truck at an incident without notifying dispatch |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
| |Failure to notify dispatch when going beyond FSP scope to assist disabled motorist |$50.00/FSP Management Review | | |X | |
| |Not properly towing disabled person’s vehicle |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Leaving disabled person unattended |Termination |X | | |X |
| |Failing to ensure the motorist has help en route |FSP Management review | | |X | |
| |Failure to properly assist a disabled motorist |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Not following correct Dispatch procedure for mechanical breakdown of truck |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
| |Failure to notify dispatch of unavailable tow truck |$50.00 | |X | | |
| |Involved in accident - failure to request CHP for collision report |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Failure to obtain log number from Dispatch when involved in accident |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
| |Failure to adhere to all traffic laws when responding to a traffic collision |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Operator standing by accident scenes when not needed |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Operator not properly evaluating an accident scene |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Unauthorized recovery work |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Failure to follow correct roll over procedures |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Fire extinguisher not certified, expired or not charged |$50.00/Censurable |X | | | |
| |Fire extinguisher not mounted and/or notice is missing/worn |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
| |Failing to comply with law enforcement request |3 day suspension | | | |X |
| |SOP manual replacement charge |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
| |Proper facility and working environment |$50.00 |Inspected | | | |
| | | |during initial | | | |
| | | |site inspection| | | |
| |Failure to submit memorandum stating intention to carry pepper spray |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
| |Not directing traffic properly / starting traffic |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Not directing traffic properly / providing parking for emergency vehicles |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Scanner inoperable or missing (per shift) |$50.00 |X | |X | |
| |PA system and/or external speaker inoperable or missing (per shift) |$50.00 |X | |X | |
| |Failure to follow 11-48 x-ray procedures / additional assistance |$50.00/Censurable | | |X | |
| |Not following criteria regarding numerous Operator at one scene / Scantrons |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
| |Failing to comply with additional Motor Assist Form guidelines, per occurrence |$50.00/Censurable | |X | | |
Notes:
CHP maintains files for all FSP Operators.
Two censures of the same reprimand without time limit will lead to one day suspension.
Three censures of different reprimands in a six-month period will lead to three days of suspension.
Four or more censures of different reprimand in a six month period will lead to FSP Management’s review of the Operator’s performance for further disciplinary action
-----------------------
Coded Communications CMX 4000
MSG
RDY
XMT
SIGN-ON CONT# VEH# DRIV#
AREA# BEAT# SHIFT#
RDY
STAT
LINE
LINE
NEXT
MSG
LAST
MSG
SAVE
*
RCL
#
0
F2
SEND
7
6
8
9
CLR
F1
1
5
4
2
3
MSG LED
RDY LED
XMIT LED
Followed by Contractor ID#, Vehicle ID#, Drive ID#, Area #, Beat ID#, and Shift ID#
Then Press
DEPRESS THE “SEND” KEY IMMEDIATELY. AFTER VIEW EACH MESSAGE FOR THE FIRST TIME
SEND
F1
RDY
LINE
LINE
NEXT
MSG
LAST
MSG
RCL
#
CLR
STAT
SEND
F1
F2
STAT
SEND
0
2
0
3
0
4
0
7
0
8
1
0
1
1
1
2
1
4
1
3
1
5
1
6
1
7
1
8
2
2
2
4
2
5
2
6
3
3
8
3
8
5
9
5
9
7
9
8
[pic]
[pic]
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