1. Purpose. This directive sets forth policy for the implementation and administration of an 

effective Safety and Occupational Health Program for the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation 

and Enforcement (OSM) to prevent accidents and incidents involving people and property and to 

prevent occupational illnesses. The directive identifies responsibilities and action required of 

OSM personnel to ensure an effective safety and occupational health program. 

2. Summary of Changes. This directive has been revised to:

a. Establish mandatory CPR training for employees who serve as an Automated 

External Defibrillator (AED) lay responder;

b. Incorporate reference and application of 485 DM 16 (Inspections and Abatement) 

that includes the Department’s Risk Assessment Codes;

c. Incorporate name change of the Office of Aircraft Safety to Aviation 

Management Division;

d. Incorporate an increase in the annual safety footwear allowance to $175.00;

e. Incorporate an increase in the parka allowance to $175.00;

f. Incorporate use of AEDs; and

 

g. Make other minor, organizational, and editorial changes for purposes of clarity

and consistency

3. Definitions. 

a. Abatement Plan. A written plan identifying program deficiencies, a timetable for

their correction, the individual(s) responsible for correction, and the steps to be taken in the 

interim.

b. Accident. An unplanned event that results in injury, illness, death, property 

damage, or other loss that has a negative effect on the mission. Near misses are potential 

accidents.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING

RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT

DIRECTIVES 

SYSTEM

Subject Code:

ADS-2

Transmittal Number:

959

Date:

June 4,2009

 Subject: Safety and Occupational Health Program 

 Approval: Glenda H. Owens Title: Acting Director
c. Collateral-Duty Safety Officer (CDSO). Individuals who are assigned safety 

and health duties, on a part-time, collateral-duty basis, at Headquarters, each Regional Office, 

and at each field and area office location. CDSOs are provided technical program direction by 

the Safety and Occupational Health Manager.

d. Contractor. Any individual or firm under contractual agreement with OSM for 

the performance of services (construction, landscaping, maintenance, janitorial, etc.).

e. Designated Agency Safety and Health Official (DASHO). The individual 

appointed by the Director to coordinate OSM’s safety and occupational health program.

f. Employees. Individuals employed to accomplish work, including volunteers.

g. Employee Representative. Where unions exist, a member of the work group 

selected by his/her peers to represent them in the administration of the OSM safety program.

h. Safety and Occupational Health Manager (SM). The full-time individual in OSM 

in the GS-0018 position classification series who is responsible for managing OSM’s Safety and 

Occupational Health Program.

i. First Aid Cases. Cases involving one-time treatment and subsequent observation 

of minor scratches, cuts, burns, splinters, etc., that do not ordinarily require medical care even 

though it may be provided by a physician or registered professional personnel. This also 

includes tetanus shots, initial or booster shots, hospitalization for observation only (no 

treatment), and negative x-rays.

j. Formal Evaluation/Inspection. A review of the work environment and/or 

management procedures to determine the degree of implementation, enforcement, and/or 

compliance with safety and occupational health requirements. 

k. Health Evaluation. A medical examination, the scope of which is determined by a 

physician based upon an individual’s age, sex, medical history, and position requirements.

l. Hazard. Anything that causes danger, peril, or risk to persons or property.

m. Imminent Danger. Any condition or practice that could reasonably be expected to 

cause death or serious physical harm before normal abatement actions can be taken.

n. Incident. For reporting purposes, an unplanned event involving people, 

equipment, or the environment that could have resulted in an injury, illness, or loss, but did not.

o. Office/Facility. A single physical location where OSM business is conducted or 

where services or operations are performed. Typically, it refers to Headquarters, Field Offices, 

Regional Offices, Area Offices, installations, or facilities.
p. Qualified Person. One who has received formal training and/or passed 

appropriate screening tests that established the person’s ability to perform a task in a safe and 

healthful manner.

q. Serious Accident. A job-related fatality or imminently fatal injury or illness to an 

employee, or to anyone, as a result of an employee’s action or work activity; a work-related 

occurrence that results in three or more persons being hospitalized; or a property damage 

accident resulting in $100,000 or more of loss, including cleanup costs.

r. Standards. Minimum requirements published by recognized authorities, Federal, 

state, or local government agencies, or national consensus groups. 

s. Trained Person. One who has the knowledge, skill, and ability to recognize the 

hazards associated with the task and perform it in a safe and healthful manner.

4. Policy.

a. Policy. OSM’s policy is to effectively manage the Safety and Occupational 

Health Program and to ensure that appropriate resources are devoted to reducing the occurrence 

of accidents and work-related illnesses. OSM will provide employees with a safe and healthy

work environment and will involve management and employees at all levels to ensure this policy 

is fully implemented. In addition, OSM will protect its property from damage and will provide 

for the safety of the public using its facilities in connection with OSM operations. 

b. Scope. The OSM Safety and Occupational Health Program will cover all

personnel activities, facilities, motor vehicles, and equipment.

c. Organization. The OSM Safety and Occupational Health Program function is 

established in the Office of the Assistant Director, Finance and Administration, as an integral 

part of management under the Chief, Division of Administration. The Chief, Division of 

Administration, is the DASHO for the OSM. The position of SM is established in the Division 

of Administration. All Regional Directors and Field Office Directors will appoint an employee 

to function as CDSO.

5. Responsibilities. 

a. The Chief, Division of Administration, is appointed as the DASHO. As such, the 

DASHO directs OSM’s Safety and Occupational Health Program.

b. The OSM Safety and Occupational Health Manager is responsible for daily 

management of the Safety and Occupational Health Program to accomplish its objectives and to 

ensure that the program functions as directed. The SM provides technical program direction to 

CDSOs, serves as an advisor to managers and supervisors, and serves as a member on the 

Departmental Safety and Health Council.
c. Supervisors and managers are accountable for the safety and health of the public 

when visiting an OSM facility and the employees under their jurisdiction. They are responsible 

for the prevention of damage to property and equipment and for the integration of safety and 

health considerations into the planning of every job or task. Supervisors must ensure that motor 

vehicles and other equipment are maintained in safe operating condition and that operators are

provided training to perform their jobs safely. Supervisors must ensure that appropriate safety

and health training is provided for all employees, must monitor and inspect work areas for

hazardous conditions and acts, and must investigate and prepare reports about job-related 

accidents to the SM within six working days. The appointment of a CDSO does not relieve any 

supervisor from his/her safety responsibilities.

d. Employees are expected to maintain a high degree of safety awareness so that 

they perform their work without causing accidents or incidents. Any employee involved in an 

accident or incident resulting in bodily injury, occupational illness, or property damage must 

report all facts surrounding the accident/incident to his/her supervisor as soon as possible. When 

circumstances do not permit the employee to make this report, the supervisor must investigate 

and report the accident/incident. Employees should report all unsafe and unhealthy conditions to 

their supervisors for corrective actions.

e. Safety and Health Committees are required at Headquarters and each Regional 

Office, playing an important part in the Safety and Occupational Health Program and forming 

communication links between employees and the various levels of management. The 

committees assist the OSM SM and the CDSOs with implementing safety and health awareness 

activities. Each Regional Director will form a Safety and Health Committee for their respective 

region. The OSM SM will form a Safety and Health Committee at the Washington DC 

Headquarters Office. 

f. Collateral-Duty Safety Officers assist supervisors and the OSM with 

implementing the Safety and Occupational Health Program in local offices. The CDSOs must be 

familiar with and maintain a working knowledge of Occupational Safety and Health 

Administration (OSHA), Department of the Interior (DOI), and OSM safety and health 

standards, regulations, and policies. The CDSOs assist supervisors with the investigation and 

reporting of accidents/incidents in a timely manner, conducting inspections of work spaces for 

safety and health concerns, coordinating safety training, and providing a channel of 

communication between staff members and supervisory officials. 

6. Procedures.

a. Training. Safety and Occupational Health training will be provided for all OSM 

employees at all levels and occupations. Such training will include the dissemination of 

information concerning the operation of the Safety and Occupational Health Program and the 

means by which each person may participate and assist in the operation of the program. Each 

office location will prepare an annual safety training plan. The training plan will be based on: 

(1) analysis of historical accidents/incidents that occur in the work environment; (2) job safety 

analysis for new tasks or functions; and (3) health-related needs (CPR/First Aid, Blood Borne 

Pathogens, etc.), with opportunity for input from local staff members. The OSM SM may also 
require location-specific training based on analysis of historical accidents/incidents at the 

location or based on national safety training initiatives. The intent of the training will be to 

prevent the occurrence and/or recurrence of accidents/incidents and to maintain the general 

health and safety of all employees. When new employees arrive at OSM, all required safety 

training shall be completed within 60 days of entry on duty.

For mine inspectors and other field personnel, specialized training in workplace hazards and 

applicable standards will be conducted to ensure proper use of protective clothing and gear and 

to demonstrate safe procedures and conduct within a mine-site environment. Assistant Directors, 

Regional Directors, Field Office Directors, Area Office Directors, and other managers (with 

assistance from the CDSO and local safety committees) are responsible for identifying 

requirements and arranging training on any safety matter not included in the nationwide 

program. Some of the training is by DOI policy, OSM policy, and regulation. To provide a 

well-rounded safety and occupational health training program, the following training 

requirements should be implemented:

(1) Annual Training (Conducted Yearly)

(a) All training listed on the current Fiscal Year (FY) Individual 

Office Training Plan in conjunction with the current FY Safety Management Program Action 

Plan. (Mandatory) 485 DM, Executive Order 12196, 29 CFR 1960.

(b) Five hours annual First-Aid Training for field employees. 

(Optional) 

(c) Forty hours annual CDSO Training at the DOI Safety and Health 

Seminar or at the National CDSO Safety Meeting. For a newly appointed CDSO, this training 

must be provided within six months of his/her appointment. (Mandatory) 485 DM and 29 CFR 

1960.58.

(d) Four hours of initial Hazard Communication Training for all 

employees and one hour of annual refresher training. (Mandatory) 29 CFR 1910.1200, 485 DM.

(e) One hour annual Lyme Disease Training for all employees who 

visit field sites. (Mandatory) 485 DM, 29 CFR 1960.

 (f) One hour of Fire Awareness/Extinguisher Training for all 

employees. (Mandatory) 29 CFR 1910.157, 485 DM.

 (g) Two hours of Video Display Ergonomics/Carpal Tunnel 

Syndrome/Repetitive Motion training for all employees using computers; periodic training 

thereafter. (Mandatory) 485 DM, Good Safety Practice.

 (h) Safety and Health Orientation Training for all employees, 

supervisors, and managers. Required as part of the OSM Employee Orientation Checklist. No 

required hours.
 (i) Eight hours of Safety Committee Training within six months of 

appointment. This training will include accident investigation, accident reporting, safety 

inspections, and hazard recognition. (Mandatory) 485 DM, 29 CFR 1960.58.

 (j) Tornado/Hurricane Training, where applicable. (Site Specific/ 

Optional)

 (k) Earthquake Awareness Training, where applicable. (Site 

Specific/Optional)

 (l) Other Safety Training as the need arises.

(2) Biennial Training (Conducted Every Other Year)

(a) Mandatory four to six hours of Mine Safety Training for all 

employees who visits field sites. OSM Policy ADS-2.

(b) Three to four hours CPR Training, depending on the local affiliate 

requirements. (Optional) This training is mandatory for employees who serve as a lay responder 

for the AED. AED refresher training is required every two years.

(c) Eight hours of Construction Safety Training for all employees who 

conduct official business at construction sites. (Mandatory) 485 DM, Executive Order 12196, 

29 CFR 1960.59(a), 29 CFR 1926.21.

(3) Triennial Training (Conducted Every Third Year)

(a) Defensive Driver Training including 4x4 Safety Training (when 

applicable). This training covers all employees who operate Government-owned vehicles, rental 

cars, or personal vehicles while on OSM business. (Mandatory) 485 DM, 29 CFR 1960. 

(b) Aviation Safety Training. For all employees who fly on noscheduled aircraft (not commercial) in the performance of their official duties and supervisors 

who supervise employees who fly. (Mandatory) 350-354 DM, Federal Aviation Regulations, 

14 CFR, OSM Policy ADS-14, Aviation User’s Handbook. OSM offices who do not conduct 

flight operations are not required to take this training. OSM offices should be very careful with 

the decision not to train, since no flight operations can be conducted until training is completed.

 (c) Four to six hours of initial Supervisory Safety Training within six 

months of appointment and two hours of refresher training every three years. This course will 

include supervisors’ rights and responsibilities under the program and applicable information on 

the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Executive Order 12196, 29 CFR 1960, 485 

DM, and other applicable regulations. (Mandatory) 485 DM, Executive Order 12196, 29 CFR 

1960.56. 
Note: It is the supervisor’s responsibility to ensure compliance with the training 

requirements. 

b. Facility Inspections. In order to ensure safe and healthy working conditions of 

OSM employees, all OSM workplaces must be inspected annually. Where there is an increased 

risk of accident, illness, injury, or property damage due to the nature of the work performed, 

inspections must be conducted more frequently. Inspections must be conducted by the CDSO, 

along with the supervisor/manager or other qualified persons. Supervisors will be responsible 

for annual facility inspections in their area of responsibility. Any findings must be noted and 

abated actions taken and recorded in accordance with 485 DM Chapter 6. 

c. Job Safety Analysis (JSA). JSA procedures include identification of tasks, 

potential hazards, and safe work procedures. Employees and supervisors should work together 

in the development of JSAs to ensure that all characteristics of the job are addressed. A JSA 

must be completed for:

(1) Jobs or work practices that have potential hazards;

(2) New, non-routine tasks performed where potential hazards exist; and

(3) Jobs that may require employee use of out-of-the-ordinary personal 

protective equipment (PPE), e.g., use of a self-contained self rescuer in a coal mine. Supervisors 

will discuss the job with employees prior to beginning new projects, changing work sites, or 

identifying any hazards not noted on the JSA and will discuss ways to reduce these hazards. To 

conduct a JSA, the supervisor will: (1) identify the task; (2) identify the potential hazards; (3) 

develop safe work procedures; and (4) periodically re-evaluate procedures.

d. Accident/Incident Investigations and Reporting. All occupational accidents, 

incidents, and occupational illnesses will be reported immediately to the immediate supervisor 

who will then investigate the matter and report it to the OSM SM within six days of notification. 

If no employee is involved, the supervisor having jurisdiction over the workplace will conduct 

the investigation. The local CDSO will assist the supervisor in carrying out his/her responsibility 

and will review all accident/incident reports. 

The supervisor will review and sign the DI-134 Accident/Incident Report Form. If a CA-1 or 

CA-2 compensation form is completed, it should be sent with the original DI-134 to the OSM 

SM with a copy of each document for Human Resources. At a minimum, every supervisor will 

conduct an investigation sufficient to determine the information necessary to complete the 

accident reports and to determine causal factors to avoid a recurrence of the accident. The local 

or regional CDSO will aid the supervisor in creating the documentation and completing the 

investigation. The information to prevent a similar accident/incident will be distributed to the 

entire office. The accident information may be distributed throughout OSM if conditions 

warrant.
(1) Investigations. An investigation at a minimum must review the human 

and physical/environmental factors, system deficiencies, and facts about causal factors of 

accidents/illnesses/incidents involving:

(a) Any employee injury, occupational illness, or death connected with 

the performance of work-related duties;

(b) Any known public injury or property damage within the 

jurisdictional administration of the OSM where there is a reasonable possibility of a tort claim 

being filed against the United States;

(c) Any fire, regardless of cost, involving equipment, structures, or 

contents of any property under OSM control; or

(d) Any motor vehicle accident involving Government vehicles, 

privately-owned vehicles used for Government business, or leased commercial vehicles. 

(2) Reporting. All occupational accidents, incidents, and occupational 

illnesses will be reported immediately to the immediate supervisor who will then investigate the 

matter and report it to the OSM SM within six days of notification. Supervisors and employees 

should use the guidance and sample documents contained in OSM’s “Accident Reporting 

Procedures for Supervisors” to prepare the required reports. This information is detailed on the 

OSM Intranet, in the Safety section within the Division of Administration. A copy of all 

completed reports must be sent to the OSM SM. Each office will maintain records in 

compliance with the regulations set forth in 29 CFR 1960, Subpart I, and 485 DM Chapter 7. 

The CDSO will maintain a tracking log of reported accidents/incidents available inspection. The 

OSM SM is designated the record custodian for Board of Investigation Reports and Forms DI143 and DI-134-C. OSM will retain records for at least five FYs following the year of 

occurrence. This information will be controlled in accordance with the Privacy Act and Freedom 

of Information Act requirements.

e. Employees Reporting Unsafe or Unhealthy Conditions. All employees should 

report any unsafe or unhealthy condition to supervisors, CDSOs, or both. The reporting may be 

via e-mail, written correspondence, or orally. An employee may also submit an anonymous 

report of unsafe or unhealthy workplace conditions. Any method of reporting should provide the 

date, location, and description of the hazard. If the hazard cannot be remedied locally, the 

supervisor or the CDSO will forward the information to the OSM SM.

(1) The CDSO and/or the supervisor will post a description of the reported 

hazard on an employees' bulletin board or inform employees through the e-mail system, along 

with notifying the office senior management official. The description will include proposed 

solutions, timeframe for resolving the hazard, and the date for posting an update report. If a 

safety hazard at a field location is reported anonymously to the SM, the SM will notify the local 

CDSO and the senior management official. The CDSO will follow the above posting procedure.
(2) Employees may anonymously report unsafe or unhealthy conditions by 

telephone.

(3) In the case of imminent danger situations, employees may make reports by 

the most expeditious means available and follow up with a written report.

(4) Reports of imminent danger conditions will be investigated immediately 

by the CDSO or the SM. Investigation of all other unsafe or unhealthy conditions will be 

initiated within one working day.

(5) The CDSO will provide a written report to employees submitting the 

unsafe or unhealthy condition within ten calendar days.

(6) A log of reports of unsafe or unhealthy conditions will be maintained by 

the CDSO at each office, and the situation tracked until resolved. This log will be available for 

inspection by requesting officials, such as OSHA and other inspection officials.

f. Motor Vehicle Safety. Supervisors should ensure that staff members who operate 

Government, rental, or privately-owned motor vehicles for OSM comply with OSM’s Motor 

Vehicle Management Directive ADS-7 and 485 DM. Each OSM office should have a system to 

ensure employees who operate Government, rental, or privately-owned motor vehicles in the 

conduct of OSM business meet the following requirements:

(1) Initial and refresher training as necessary for employees to operate motor 

vehicles safely.

(2) Possession of a valid state license for the class of vehicle being operated. 

(Employees are required to notify their supervisor if their drivers’ licenses are suspended, 

revoked, or canceled). 40 U.S.C. 491(j), 485 DM. 

(3) Supervisory approval to operate the vehicle. Additionally, the supervisor

must ensure the following:

(a) Procedures to investigate and analyze motor vehicle accidents to 

prevent recurrence of accidents/incidents are followed;

(b) Motor vehicles are inspected and maintained in a safe operable 

condition;

(c) Training records pertaining to each operator in the motor vehicle 

safety program are maintained; and

(d) All motor vehicle occupants use the provided seat belts at all times 

when the motor vehicle is in motion.
(4) OSM employees shall not use a cell phone while operating or driving any 

vehicle in the course of official business. Hands-free devices including phones with “voice 

activated” features are also prohibited. Passengers may use a cell phone as long as it does not 

distract the driver. If it becomes necessary to use a cellular phone while driving, the employee 

should pull safely off the road before making the call. 

(5) Smoking is prohibited in all Government-owned and leased (GSA) 

vehicles.

g. Aviation Safety. The Aviation Management Division (AMD) is responsible for 

Department-wide functions related to aircraft services and facilities. AMD has adopted Federal 

Aviation Regulations as minimum standards to conduct aviation activities within the 

Department. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring compliance with OSM’s ADS-14, Aircraft 

Safety Directive, 350-354 DM, and AMD Operational Policy Memoranda and Information 

Bulletins prior to approving any non-commercial flights in helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft.

h. Occupational Health (Industrial Hygiene Program). Supervisors will provide 

employees adequate protection from adverse environmental conditions (noise, chemical 

exposures, excessive temperature, dusts, mists, vapors, etc.) by implementing the following 

requirements:

(1) Identification of work areas or activities where excessive noise exists;

(2) Identification of employees likely to be exposed to excessive noise and the 

conducting of initial baseline, annual, and exit audiograms;

(3) Use of provided hearing protection where required;

(4) Training provided upon employment and as needed; and

(5) A hazard communications program (29 CFR 1910.1200) that should 

include the following:

(a) Reviewing procurement requests for potentially hazardous 

chemicals;

(b) Obtaining and maintaining material safety data sheets (MSDS). 

Any item received without the required MSDS shall not be accepted. A copy of all MSDS 

should be maintained in a location known to employees for their use;

(c) Employees, supervisors, and managers trained on the hazard 

communication program;

(d) Containers labeled with chemical content;

(e) Hazardous chemicals inventoried at least annually; and 
(f) A medical surveillance program for employees required to work in 

environments where harmful conditions are identified.

(6) Employee health-related records are maintained according to 485 DM and 

medical records maintained according to OPM Operating Manual, The Guide to Personnel 

Recordkeeping, Chapter 3, Table 3-G, and Publication CA-810, Chapter 9-3.

i. Fire Safety. Supervisors will conduct the following fire prevention activities:

(1) Annual inspection of fire detection/suppression equipment;

(2) Fire drills as necessary;

(3) Training in the use of fire extinguishers; 

(4) Training in the basics of fire prevention and emergency response. Special 

training will be provided to all employees with assigned duties in the Emergency Occupancy 

Plan, such as floor wardens, monitors, etc.;

(5) Use the National Fire Protection Association Life Safety Code as the 

criteria in OSM-occupied space; and

(6) Maintain appropriate fire safety activities records.

j. Contractor Safety and Health.

(1) OSM will require contractors to have a Substance Abuse Awareness 

Program in place and promote a drug-free work environment in accordance with 48 CFR 

52.223-6.

(2) OSM offices engaged in construction contracts exceeding $20,000 will 

include, as a minimum, a safety and health clause similar to that appearing in 48 CFR 52.236-13.

(3) OSM will enforce safety and health requirements in contracts in the same 

manner as other contract requirements. 

(4) Where conflicts in safety and health standards exist, the most stringent 

standard will apply.

k. Safety and Health Promotion Activities. Each office should establish a safety 

awards program to recognize employees who make a significant contribution to the safety and 

health program. Supervisors will conduct safety promotion activities that will include:

(1) Employee Safety Meetings;
(2) Posters, flyers, publications, and safety literature; and

(3) Promotional campaigns such as Seat Belt Use; slip and fall awareness; 

safe motor vehicle operation; fire prevention (work and home); physical fitness activities; and 

safety (off-the-job).

l. Safety Performance Standards.

(1) Every manager and supervisor will have in their performance plan an 

employee safety and occupational health performance measure. 

(2) Each CDSO’s performance standards will include measurable safety 

activities to reflect collateral-duty responsibilities, such as:

(a) Timely response to deadlines for quarterly reports, accident 

reports, comments, and other safety reports and actions as required by the SM; 

(b) FY Safety and Health Action Plan activities;

(c) Office safety meetings and safety awareness activities;

(d) Timely response to safety and health complaints; 

(e) Safety Training classes conducted in the office;

(f) Timeliness of annual safety inspections, preparation of abatement 

reports/activities, and reports submitted to the SM; and 

(g) Maintenance of the required safety and health logs.

(3) Performance rating officials should consult the SM for employee safety 

and occupational health performance input.

m. Personal Protective Equipment. OSM’s policy is to provide its employees with 

safe and healthy working conditions and to comply with all applicable standards including those 

from the OSHA, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the National Institute of 

Occupational Safety and Health. Each supervisor shall follow established policy and procedures 

for obtaining, using, and wearing PPE by OSM personnel while performing official duties. 

When specific PPE is available through OSM, it is mandatory for the employee to use such 

equipment. Should an employee fail to do so, it is the supervisor's responsibility to take 

necessary steps to ensure compliance, including appropriate disciplinary action within the 

guidelines of 370 DM 752.

(1) The JSA process shall be used to identify hazards in a job task. JSAs 

should be reviewed by the CDSO and the SM to ensure PPE meets appropriate safety standards. 
(2) Due to the diversity of the occupational environments encountered by 

OSM employees and the various types of PPE available, the immediate supervisor, in 

coordination with the SM, decides which specific devices are required for a particular 

environment. Each supervisor reviews his/her operational activities and work environments, via 

the JSA, to determine the hazards and the need for specific PPE. 

n. Purchases.

(1) General. In order to buy safety toe footwear at OSM’s expense, 

employees must obtain approval from their immediate or higher level supervisor having the 

authority to approve requisitions. Only safety toe footwear that meets ANSI Z41 is authorized 

for use by OSM employees. After approval has been obtained, the employee may buy the 

footwear or have the appropriate OSM purchasing office buy the footwear.

(2) Purchase by OSM. If an employee elects to have OSM purchase the 

safety toe footwear, the employee must submit an approved requisition to their respective 

authorized purchase card holder. The authorized purchase card holder will buy the footwear from 

the appropriate Federal Supply Schedule contractor. OSM will pay the vendor for the purchase 

up to a maximum of $175 a pair per year. Assistant Directors, Regional Directors, or Field 

Office Directors may waive the quantity of yearly safety boot purchases per employee, based 

upon local conditions. 

o. Active Surface Mines and Underground Mines. Employees with jobs requiring 

them to visit operating mines shall, as a minimum, wear PPE as required by the mine operator 

and mine safety regulations. In all cases, OSM employees who visit working areas of surface 

mines and surface areas of underground mines will wear safety glasses, self-rescue devices 

(when applicable), hard hats, safety toe work boots, and any other necessary PPE meeting the 

requirements of this directive. 

p. Abandoned Mine Sites. Because the degree of hazards encountered at abandoned 

mine sites may vary from minimal to imminent danger, no specific single standard for PPE 

applies for all situations. Gas detection equipment should be made available and utilized, and 

employees should be trained in its use. Where the following conditions occur, the specified PPE 

will be utilized:

(1) Uneven, rough terrain with no earthmoving or drilling operations. Sturdy 

industrial safety toe footwear at least six inches high and/or covering the ankle bone with lug 

sole bottoms or some appropriate nonskid materials that will provide suitable traction to help 

prevent slip and fall type accidents shall be worn. 

(2) Where earthmoving or drilling equipment is operating. The same 

protective clothing as specified for working in areas of active mines shall be worn. This includes 

sturdy industrial safety toe foot wear at least six inches high and/or covering the ankle bone with 

lug sole bottoms or some appropriate nonskid material that will provide suitable traction to help 

prevent slip and fall type accidents. 
q. Additional Personal Protective Equipment. OSM employees shall wear the 

following type of PPE to prevent injuries and illness:

(1) Eye and face protection shall be required when there is a reasonable 

possibility of injury that can be prevented by use of such equipment. No unprotected person 

shall knowingly be subjected to a hazardous environmental condition. Regular safety glasses 

may be purchased through UNICOR. Purchases include prescription safety glasses, although 

costs of eye examinations are not reimbursable. An employee, however, may be reimbursed for 

their personal purchase of prescription safety lenses and frames with advance approval of the 

Assistant Director, Regional Director, or Field Office Director and supported by a receipt 

marked "paid." In addition, Assistant Directors, Regional Directors, or Field Office Directors 

may authorize glare-resistant safety glasses where he/she has determined that glare protection is 

needed to prevent potential accidents. These instances will be documented and submitted with 

the SF 1164. Assistant Directors, Regional Directors, and Field Office Directors may waive the 

quantity or frequency of purchases per employee based upon local conditions and other factors, 

such as safety glasses damage, prescription change, etc. 

(2) Safety glasses, goggles, or face shields should be worn if small flying 

particles and flying objects, such as concentrations of cement, dusts, sand, gases, fumes, liquids, 

ammonia, injurious radiation, blood, body fluids, and creosote exist. In field situations, glasses, 

goggles, or face shields should be used where the risk of eye injuries exists from overhanging 

limbs, brush and twigs, and other objects.

The following care for eye protection is recommended: 

(a) Wipe lens frequently with a clean cloth or soft tissue; 

(b) Keep frames, including side shields, free from dust and grit; 

(c) Treat lens to prevent fogging when necessary; and 

(d) Replace lenses when they become scratched, pitted, or otherwise 

damaged in a way that inhibits visibility.

r. Head Protection. Suitable protective head gear shall be required where there is a 

reasonable probability of injury that could be prevented by use of such equipment. Hard hats:

(1) Must be worn when working in all construction activities/mine site 

activities, working in confined spaces, or engaging in fire suppression work; 

(2) Must be worn if there is danger from falling or flying objects;

(3) Must be nonconductive and insulated;
(4) Should fit snugly with an air space of one-half inch or more between the 

head and top of crown of hat. The hat should be evenly centered to protect the head properly; 

and

(5) Should be replaced when they are damaged. Nonmetallic based paint shall 

be used. Check with the manufacturer for shelf life of hard hats.

s. Hand Protection. Use of hand protection will be required where there is a 

reasonable probability of injury that could be prevented by the use of such equipment. 

(1) Appropriate hand protection will be provided for the task when 

performing work that might cause injury to the hands; however, gloves shall not be worn where 

they would create a greater hazard by becoming entangled in the moving parts of equipment. 

(2) It is especially important when working with chemicals to ensure special 

liquid or chemical hazard resistant gloves are selected that are appropriate for the chemical being 

used. 

(3) When there is a reasonable possibility an employee will be exposed to 

another individual’s blood or bodily fluids, the employee should, whenever possible, use latex 

gloves to form a protective barrier between the employee and the potentially harmful material.

t. Safety Belts, Harnesses, Rope, Life Jackets, Seatbelts. 

(1) Safety belts, harnesses, lanyards, and rope are required to protect 

employees on unguarded above-ground surfaces over excavations, shafts, pits, highwalls, and 

sink holes where there is a danger of falling. A second person shall tend the lifeline when bins, 

tanks, or other dangerous areas are entered. 

(2) Life jackets or belts must be worn where there is danger of falling into 

water.

(3) Seatbelts must be worn at all times. 

(4) Frequent inspections of safety belts are conducted for worn, dry, hard 

leather; pliability; worn or broken stitching; cuts; cracks; loose rivets; and worn buckles, snaps, 

rollers, tongues, D-rings, etc. Check safety ropes frequently for broken fibers. Safety belts or 

straps should never be weakened by punching extra holes in them.

u. Respirators. Respiratory protection is not a substitute for engineering controls. 

When engineering controls are not feasible, such as in case of an emergency or when working 

with carcinogens, the following respiratory protection measures must be implemented:

(1) Respirators shall only be assigned to employees who have been certified 

by a doctor to be physically fit to perform the required work and to use the equipment.
(2) Respirator training must be conducted by a qualified person. Each wearer 

must receive fitting instructions, including demonstrations and practice on how the respirator is 

worn, how to adjust it, and how to determine if it fits properly. This training must be 

documented and filed. 

(3) Face piece leak and fit testing must be conducted before initial use. 

Sealing and pressure testing must be conducted each time the respirator is worn.

v. Other PPE. Assistant Directors, Regional Directors, Field Office Directors, and 

the SM shall evaluate particular situations not covered by the above criteria and, where deemed 

advisable or required by applicable regulations, prescribe additional protective equipment for 

mandatory wear and/or use. Such equipment may include, but not limited to:

(1) Chemical or flame retardant clothing;

(2) Ear plugs or ear muffs to prevent hearing loss;

(3) Disposable dust respirators for excessive road or other nuisance dust;

(4) Snake leggings;

(5) Parkas, which may be purchased through a uniform vendor or from local 

sources at the discretion of the Field or Area Office Director. In addition, because of the 

diversity in temperature extremes between Field or Area Offices, Field or Area Office Directors 

may choose to authorize either a heavier down-filled or lighter weight fiber-filled parka. In 

either case, the parka must have the OSM emblem/patch sewn on the left shoulder and all parkas 

purchased by the Field or Area Office must be uniform in color and appearance. Individual 

parka purchases will not exceed $175 each, and Field or Area Offices will follow standard 

purchasing procedures in attempting to obtain quantity discounts; and

(6) Suitable protective clothing to cover the entire body to be worn when 

handling corrosive or toxic substances, blood, body fluids or other materials which might cause 

injury to the skin.

w. Private Citizens. Any private citizen accompanying an OSM Inspector on 

official business to a mine site must be provided PPE, as required. Such equipment will be 

returned to the OSM office upon completion of the visit. This includes PPE such as:

(1) Hooded Jacket (water resistant);

(2) Bib Overall/Rubberized Trousers;

(3) Twill Coverall (water resistant);

(4) Rubberized Over-the-shoe Boots;
(5) Hard toe shoes/hard toe shoe covers;

(6) Safety glasses; and

(7) Ear plugs or ear muffs.

x. Aircraft/Helicopter Passengers. OSM employees and official passengers on an 

aircraft employed in special use activities must, while on board such aircraft, wear the 

appropriate personal protective equipment specified in 351 DM 6.4E and OSM Directive ADS14 such as:

(1) Aviator's protective headgear;

(2) Fire retardant flight suits, gloves; and

(3) All-leather boots.

Natural materials such as wool and cotton shall be worn under the flight suit while conducting 

special use flight operations. Thicker fiber provides more protection. Synthetic materials will 

not be worn during flight operations because they burn easily and will contribute to the severity 

of injuries in case of a fire.

y. Employees with Infrequent Mine Site Exposure. For employees with jobs 

requiring infrequent exposure to mine site hazards, protective equipment for common usage will 

be made available at OSM offices. Common usage equipment includes:

(1) Hard hat shells (individual suspensions should be issued);

(2) Visitor-type eye protectors suitable for wearing over eye glasses; and

(3) Toe guards for use over work boots.

z. Employee-Owned Equipment. Where employees provide their own protective 

equipment, the employer will be responsible for ensuring adequacy, including proper 

maintenance, of such equipment. It is recommended that employees use PPE issued by OSM.

aa. Design. PPE shall be of safe design and construction for the work to be 

performed.

bb. Application. Protective equipment, including PPE for eyes, face, head, and 

extremities, protective clothing, respiratory devices, protective shields, and barriers will be 

provided, used, and maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition. This equipment is necessary 

because of possible hazards or mechanical irritants encountered in a manner capable of causing 

injury or impairment in the function of any part of the body through noise, absorption, inhalation, 

or physical contact.
cc. Firearms. No employees shall carry firearms while on official duty. Firearms are 

defined as a weapon (including starter guns) that will, or may readily, be converted to expel a 

projectile by the action of an explosive.

dd. Automated External Defibrillators. Each OSM office must have an Emergency 

Medical Response AED Plan to respond to a medical emergency. Any employee that is named 

as Lay Responder and is expected to provide emergency care to a patient will be trained in CPR 

and AED use. This training will conform to the American Heart Association’s Heart Saver AED 

Standards. This plan will list internal notifications, Emergency Medical Service notification, and 

AED locations in the facility. All employees shall be informed of the Emergency Medical AED 

Procedures. AEDs must be tested on a regular basis to ensure that they operate properly in the 

event of an emergency.

7. Reporting Requirements. Annual Report to the Department. The OSM SM will prepare 

an annual report that evaluates the operation of OSM’s Safety and Occupational Health Program. 

8. Effect on Other Documents. Supersedes Directive ADS-2, dated December 6, 2000

9. References.

a. American National Standards Institute Z41.1-1967, Z87.1-1968 and Z89.1-1969

b. 350-354 DM, AMD Policy Manual and Operational Procedures Memoranda

c. ADS-14 Directive, Aviation User’s Handbook

d. 29 CFR 1910. OSHA General Industry Standards

e. 29 CFR 1926, OSHA Construction Standards as amended

f. 30 CFR 77.1710, MSHA Protective Clothing Requirements

g. 30 CFR 75.1720, MSHA Protective Clothing Requirements

h. 370 DM 752, Discipline and Adverse Actions

i. Federal Acquisition Regulations, Subpart 8.4

j. 485 DM Safety and Health Handbook

k. Title 30, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 0-199, Mineral Resource Public Law 

91-596, Federal Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Sections 6 and 19

m. 43 U.S.C 1457 (Refers to public safety)
n. Executive Order 12196, Occupational Safety and Health Programs for Federal 

Employees

o. Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1960, Basic Program Elements for 

Federal Employee Occupational Safety and Health Programs

p. Davis-Bacon Act, 48 CFR Parts 1-53

q. ADS-7, Motor Vehicle Management Directive

r. Accident Reporting Procedures for Supervisors

s. 18 U.S.C. 

t. American Heart Association Guidelines

u. American Red Cross Guidelines

v. 485 DM Risk Assessment Codes, Chapter 6, Inspections and Abatement 

w. OSM’s Medical Surveillance Program

10. Effective Date. Date of issuance

11. Distribution. By electronic format

12. Appendices. None

Contact: Finance and Administration Directorate, Division of Administration