Proactive Safety Strategies in a Modern Library
Toledo Lucas County Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
Modern libraries face unique safety and security challenges that require innovative and forward-thinking solutions. Our submission, 'Proactive Safety Strategies in a Modern Library,' equips library employees with cutting-edge strategies and tools to effectively mitigate incidents and risks to enhance protection for the Toledo Lucas County community. By adopting a proactive approach, we strive to create a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for our public spaces.
Challenge/Opportunity
As part of our innovation, it was our intention to address the following issues:
Managing Environmental Challenges for Internal and External Incidents
Updating Systems, Processes, and Equipment
Navigating the Mental Health of our Community Members and Staff
The initiatives that have proactively engaged safety, security, and health metrics within the organization are listed in the “Key Elements of Innovation” section.
Key Elements of Innovation
COMMUNICATION
- Everbridge mass communication system
- Quarterly Safety Meetings
- Monthly Safety Newsletters
- Post-Incident Debriefs & Support
- Incident chain of communication
- Implementation of Health & Safety Programs, Procedures, and Guidelines
TRAINING/EDUCATION
- Quarterly drills - Fire/Severe Weather/Active Shooter/Code ADAM
- Health & Safety Education:
- BBP, HazCom, PPE
- Fire Extinguisher
- Tabletop Exercises
- PTSD awareness, Trauma Informed Care, Crisis Intervention
ADMINISTRATIVE, ENGINEERING, AND EQUIPMENT
- Hired EHS Coordinator
- Completed voluntary PERRP audit
- Modernized emergency protocols and staff manuals
- Improved compliance with PERRP and relevant regulations
- Implemented AEDs at all locations
Administrative and workplace controls
DECISION-MAKING BY DATA
- Pulling data from Incident Reports Quarterly
- Utilizing community heat mapping tools to understand crime near locations
- Upgraded our incident reporting system (PITS - Patron Incident Tracking System)
- Collect indoor air quality
Achieved Outcomes
Internal and External Incidents
- Implemented an ERG (Emergency Response Guide) flow chart
- Administered Table Top Exercises
- Mass notification to communicate urgent information
- Preventing incidents by analyzing data from PITS
Environmental Challenges
- Networked with Oxford Schools (MI) to discuss post-active shooter plans
- Revamped Emergency Response Guides
- Implemented an Ambient Air Quality safety plan to reduce employee health risks
Outdated Equipment & Processes
- Updated Access Control system to provide better protection from outside threats by limiting access
- Implemented a new ID Badging system and policy to mandate ID badges and reduce vulnerabilities
- Installed bi-polar ionization air handlers to assist in purifying indoor air
Implemented an EHS Coordinator Position
Created Occupational Health and Safety programs, procedures, and guidelines
Procured safety and health equipment to further mitigate risks for staff and community members
Conducted BWC/PERRP Heath & Safety audit
