Tag Archives: cacc

Revised COVID-19 Workplace Safety Plan (v3.0)
703DM CACC June 23, 2022

COVID-19 Safety Plan – snapshot
Business name:          Toronto Paramedic Services
Division/group:           Central Ambulance Communications Centre (CACC)
Division/site:              703 Don Mills (703DM)
Date revised:              June 23, 2022
Date reviewed:           June 23, 2022

How we’re ensuring workers know how to keep themselves safe from exposure to COVID-19

  • Staff updates summarizing the current situation and changes in measures are emailed on a regular basis to all Divisional staff.
  • Supervisory staff are provided with regular messaging about measures in place so they can keep staff informed.

How we’re screening for COVID-19

  • Toronto Paramedic Services requires all staff to complete an online Pre-Shift Screening tool within 2 hours of the start of their shift
  • The screening tool is based on the guidance provide by Public Health Ontario in conjunction with Toronto Public Health and the Medical Advisor for Toronto Paramedic Services and is accessible from a mobile device
  • Staff that fail screening receive a red “FAILED” screen with clear instructions on what the employee should do if they fail screening
  • All failed screenings for communications staff automatically generate an email notification to the on-duty Superintendent and the Staff Support Centre for immediate follow up.
  • Signage is in place to direct staff what to do if they fail screening
  • The Staff Support Centre will monitor staff compliance of screening protocols
  • Toronto Paramedic Services will notify Toronto Police of any positive cases while at 703 Don Mills
  • A Voluntary Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) program has been implemented. A limited number of rapid tests are available to staff to utilize prior to attending work. Rapid tests are intended to be used to enhance the current preshift screening process. Additional information is available on the TPS Staff Blog (https://torontomedics.ca/today/29183/).

How we’re controlling the risk of transmission in our workplace

Physical distancing & separation

  • Workstations adjacent to high traffic areas, like aisles & printers, have additional barriers added to a height of 6 feet to the workstation walls.

Masking

  • Fit testing is maintained for all staff in the workplace based on available City-issued N95 mask supply
  • N95 masks and/or surgical masks are available to staff upon request
  • Although no longer mandatory, masking is strongly recommended during activities where staff are required to be in close proximity to each other for an extended period of time, e.g., when a Communications Training Officer and EMD are training at a single workstation/desk
  • TPS staff who prefer to continue wearing a mask in the workplace will be supported in doing so, and masks will continue to be made available to all TPS staff members

Eye Protection

  • TPS staff who prefer to use eye protection (e.g. face shield, goggles, or safety eye glasses) in the workplace will be supported in doing so, and eye protection will continue to be made available to all TPS staff members

Cleaning

  • Facilities cleans washrooms, change rooms, kitchen, lounge and the 8th floor Ambulance Communications Centre as per normal procedures.
  • CACC staff are provided with disinfectant products for cleaning their workstations.
  • Staff are required to thoroughly clean their workstations at the beginning of their shift and as needed throughout their shift.
  • If staff are not being relieved at end of shift, they are required to clean their workstation to leave it in a state of readiness in case of an unplanned operational need.
  • Cleaning kits have been made available in areas where staff are expected to clean furniture or surfaces.

Hand Hygiene

  • (4) wall-mounted hand sanitizers have been installed throughout the 8th floor Ambulance Communications Centre

Vaccination Planning

What we will do if there is a potential case, or suspected exposure to, COVID-19 at our workplace

  • Staff that are identified as a potential case or suspected exposure through the pre-shift screening, will not be cleared for work and are directed to:
    • Don a mask
    • Leave the building immediately
    • Contact the Staff Support Centre immediately
  • Any staff that become symptomatic while on duty will immediately be removed from the 703DM site and asked to contact the Staff Support Centre (SSC)
  • The SSC will review the symptomatic employee’s situation and determine the appropriate course of action
  • If required, the SSC will conduct contact tracing for that employee to identify other staff who may have been exposed
  • If a staff member who has tested positive (PCR, RAT) has worked in the 703DM site within 48 hours of being notified, relevant work areas will be disinfected.

How we’re managing any new risks caused by the changes made to the way we operate our business

  • As new risks become known, staff updates are provided outlining the extent of the risk and the measures being implemented
  • The SSC is in daily contact with Toronto Public Health and collaboratively review recent exposures to determine areas of concern
  • Toronto Public Health provides guidance and recommendations to Toronto Paramedic Services regarding mitigation measures
  • On-going consultations with City of Toronto Ergonomist
  • Enhanced measures have been implemented. These have included restriction to some facilities, and changes in practices to reduce staff risk
  • On-going consultation and alignment with Toronto Police Communications regarding pandemic measures

How we’re making sure our plan is working

  • Pandemic measures are continually being re-evaluated based on the latest guidance from Toronto Public Health, Public Health Ontario, the City of Toronto and the Ministry of Labour
  • The SSC works closely with Toronto Public Health to review all exposures and identify circumstances that may have contributed to the transmission of COVID-19 in the workplace
  • If required, Toronto Public Health may provide specific recommendations to mitigate exposures

Revised COVID-19 Workplace Safety Plan (v3.0)
HQ CACC June 23, 2022

COVID-19 Safety Plan – snapshot
Business name:          Toronto Paramedic Services
Division/group:           Central Ambulance Communications Centre (CACC)
Date revised:              June 23, 2022
Date reviewed:           June 23, 2022

How we’re ensuring workers know how to keep themselves safe from exposure to COVID-19

  • Staff updates summarizing the current situation and changes in measures are emailed on a regular basis to all Divisional staff.
  • Supervisory staff are provided with regular messaging about measures in place so they can keep staff informed.

How we’re screening for COVID-19

  • Toronto Paramedic Services requires all staff to complete an online Pre-Shift Screening tool within 2 hours prior to entering the CACC.
  • The screening tool is based on the guidance provide by Public Health Ontario in conjunction with Toronto Public Health and the Medical Advisor for Toronto Paramedic Services and is accessible from a mobile device or on the iPads within the building screening stations.
  • The CACC screening station is located in the north hallway to ensure all incoming staff have passed/cleared screening before entering the CACC.
  • Staff that clear screening will receive a green “Cleared” screen.
  • Staff that fail screening receive a red “FAILED” screen with clear instructions on what the employee should do if they fail screening.
  • Signage and floor markings are in place to direct staff what to do if they fail screening
  • All failed screenings for CACC staff automatically generate an email notification to the on duty CACC superintendent and the Staff Support Centre for immediate follow up.
  • The Staff Support Centre will monitor staff compliance of screening protocols.
  • A Voluntary Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) program has been implemented. A limited number of rapid tests are available to staff to utilize prior to attending work. Rapid tests are intended to be used to enhance the current preshift screening process. Additional information is available on the TPS Staff Blog (https://torontomedics.ca/today/29183/).

How we’re controlling the risk of transmission in our workplace

Physical distancing and separation

  • Workstations adjacent to high traffic areas, like aisles & printers, have additional barriers added to a height of 2 meters to the workstation walls.
  • Single seating tables have been physically distanced throughout the Atrium for staff as requested

Masking in CACC

  • Fit testing is maintained for all staff in the workplace based on available City-issued N95 mask supply
  • N95 masks and/or surgical masks are available to staff upon request
  • Although no longer mandatory, masking is strongly recommended during activities where staff are required to be in close proximity to each other for an extended period of time, e.g., when a Communications Training Officer and EMD are training at a single workstation/desk
  • TPS staff who prefer to continue wearing a mask in the workplace will be supported in doing so, and masks will continue to be made available to all TPS staff members

Eye Protection in CACC

  • TPS staff who prefer to use eye protection (e.g. face shield, goggles, or safety eye glasses) in the workplace will be supported in doing so, and eye protection will continue to be made available to all TPS staff members

Cleaning

  • Facilities cleans washrooms, change rooms, kitchen, lounge and the CACC as per normal procedures.
  • CACC staff are provided with disinfectant products for cleaning their workstations.
  • Staff are required to thoroughly clean their workstations at the beginning of their shift and as needed throughout their shift.
  • If staff are not being relieved at end of shift, they are required to clean their workstation to leave it in a state of readiness in case of an unplanned operational need.
  • Cleaning kits have been made available in areas where staff are expected to clean furniture or surfaces (lounge, kitchen, Atrium, Quiet Room).
    Hand Hygiene
  • Wall mounted hand sanitizers have been installed throughout the CACC and common areas, including beside the multifunction (print, copy, fax, scan) printers in the CACC
  • Wall mounted hand sanitizers have also been installed in the Atrium and at the screening stations

Vaccination Planning

What we will do if there is a potential case, or suspected exposure to, COVID-19 at our workplace

  • Staff that are identified as a potential case or suspected exposure through the pre-shift screening, will not be cleared for work and are directed to:
    • Don a mask
    • Leave the building immediately
    • Contact the Staff Support Centre immediately
  • Any staff that become symptomatic while on duty will immediately be removed from the CACC and asked to contact the Staff Support Centre (SSC).
  • The SSC will review the symptomatic employee’s situation and determine the appropriate course of action.
  • If required, the SSC will conduct contact tracing for that employee to identify other staff who may have been exposed.
  • If a staff member who has tested positive (PCR, RAT) has worked in the CACC within 48 hours of being notified, relevant work areas will be disinfected.

How we’re managing any new risks caused by the changes made to the way we operate our business

  • As new risks become known, staff updates are provided outlining the extent of the risk and the measures being implemented
  • The SSC is in daily contact with Toronto Public Health and collaboratively review recent exposures to determine areas of concern
  • Toronto Public Health provides guidance and recommendations to Toronto Paramedic Services regarding mitigation measures
  • On-going consultations with City of Toronto Ergonomist
  • Enhanced measures have been implemented. These have included restriction to some facilities, and changes in practices to reduce staff risk

How we’re making sure our plan is working

  • Pandemic measures are continually being re-evaluated based on the latest guidance from Toronto Public Health, Public Health Ontario, the City of Toronto and the Ministry of Labour.
  • The SSC works closely with Toronto Public Health to review all exposures and identify circumstances that may have contributed to the transmission of COVID-19 in the workplace.
  • If required, Toronto Public Health may provide specific recommendations to mitigate exposures.

Job Call – Superintendent Communications Centre

Apply online: https://hcm17.sapsf.com/sf/emailjobtofriend?jobId=18105&company=cotprd

SUPERINTENDENT COMMUNICATIONS CENTRE
Job ID: 18105
Job Category: Emergency, Fire and Paramedics Services
Division & Section: Toronto Paramedic Services, PS Toronto Central Amb Control Centre
Work Location: FIRE & PARAMEDIC HQ & EMS STATION 53, 4330 Dufferin St.
Job Type & Duration: Full-time, Permanent Vacancy
Salary: $103,313.60-$121,368.00, TM0316, Wage Grade 7.5
Shift Information: Monday to Sunday, 40 hours weekly
Affiliation: Non-Union
Qualified List will be established to fill permanent and temporary positions.
Number of Positions Open: TBD
Posting Period: 29-SEP-2021 to 20-OCT-2021
HR Contact: Carlo Redor, 416-392-1231
Division Contact: Joseph Allen Moyer, 416-397-1778/ Kimberly O’Donnell, 416-397-0109

Job Summary:
The Superintendent Communications Centre will supervise all aspects of the Toronto Paramedic Services call receiving and dispatch functions, during an assigned shift.

Reporting to the Commander, Communications Centre / Commander, Communications EDQI: Communications Superintendents may also be assigned a position within Education and Quality Improvement.

Spoiler title

Major Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for the effective supervision, management and coordination of staff and equipment engaged in call receiving and dispatch functions during the course of an assigned shift.
  • Ensures service is maintained at a high level in accordance with Divisional operating policies and procedures.
  • Ensures that service is maintained at a high performance level in accordance with divisional and provincial operating policies, procedures and legislated requirements (i.e. effective unit hour utilization through coordination and distribution of calls and assignment of medical priorities).
  • Provides leadership to ensure a positive and efficient work environment.
  • Ensures that staff exhibit professional attitudes leading to excellent customer service and patient care.
  • Ensures day to day operations are service oriented and fiscally sound.
  • Manages and monitors system performance to ensure satisfactory compliance with all Dispatch operating policies and procedures.
  • Manages and monitors individual performance and conducts basic and remedial training.
  • Makes effective recommendations to the Commander for changes to operating policies and procedures to improve efficiency
  • Conducts interviews, conducts performance reviews, carries out attendance management, deals with labour relations matters and takes disciplinary action when required.
  • Reviews scheduling forecasts and coordinates with Scheduling to ensure appropriate Communication Centre staff levels are achieved.
  • Monitors the general status of the fleet to maximize resource availability at all times.
  • Ensures cross-municipal service resource coordination.
  • Ensures staff are provided with updates impacting operational performance as required. For example, road closures, detours, station closures.
  • Ensures daily implementation of specific operational procedures where necessary.
  • Responsible for ensuring that the Communications Centre component of on time performance meets acceptable divisional standards.
  • Responsible for monitoring and minimizing end of shift overtime for paramedics.
  • Liaises with the Operations Superintendents, Deputy Commanders and Commanders and other Management staff as necessary to ensure coordination in the delivery of service.
  • Ensures effective coordination and resource management during major operational incidents.
  • Responsible for initiating contingency responses in the event of disruption to the normal function of the Communications Centre (i.e. activation of back up communications procedures and equipment).
  • Ensures the maintenance and repair of the Dispatch Centre’s equipment through coordination with Communications Systems Engineering group
  • Prepares reports regarding shift coverage, complaints, response delays, incidents, etc.
  • Investigates and resolves CACC related service complaints and makes recommendations to the Commander.
  • Liaises with Allied Emergency services, Health Care partners and other organizations on operational issues, response to calls, etc.
  • Acts as back up to Emergency Medical Dispatchers, for example, during incidents, etc.
  • Supports Divisional priorities and Key Messaging in all interactions with staff and external stakeholders.
  • Ensures that an effective daily working relationship is maintained between Toronto Paramedic Services and other governmental and outside organizations (other EMS and allied services, TTC, Wheeltrans, GTA CACCs, etc.).
  • Liaises with senior staff, operational managers and supervisors to problem solve, plan and ensure effective delivery of service.
  • Manages the links between the Community Medicine and specialized teams with the public and allied agencies Coordinates and directs all special project teams (i.e. Response Program, Critical Care Transport, Emergency Task Force Medics, Chemical Biological, Radioactive and Nuclear Team, Community Medicine Teams) as required.
  • Formulates, develops and makes recommendations to the Commander and Supervisor Communications Systems Operational Support regarding longer term CACC and operational planning initiatives, and implements CACC and operational system strategies.
  • Ensures thorough, accurate and timely documentation of all appropriate shift events.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications:

  1. Extensive experience as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher or Senior Emergency Medical Dispatcher or proven leadership in communications centre operations.
  2. Experience in supervising, coaching, and training staff to provide work direction effectively and manage performance in a unionized setting.
  3. Must possess current certification as an EMD with the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch at time of hire.
  4. An ability to mentor staff and provide positive feedback in real time.
  5. An ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing, at a supervisory level.
  6. Ability to deal effectively with day to day labour relations matters.
  7. A thorough working knowledge of all practices and procedures related to the effective operation the Ambulance Communications Center.
  8. Must be able to work 12-hour rotating shifts including days, nights, weekends and statutory/religious holidays.
  9. A proven ability to exercise good judgment in emergency situations and in respect to public and human relations.
  10. An ability to deal effectively with day to day labour relations matters.
  11. Familiarity with government legislation in the area of Occupational Health and Safety.

A Qualified List of candidates will be established for the Superintendent Communications Centre position in the Toronto Paramedic Services and will be in effect for up to one year from the date the list is created. Qualified candidates on the list may be considered when filling future permanent and/or temporary vacancies in this position.

Notes

  • Applicants are required to demonstrate in their resume that their qualifications match those specified in the job posting.
  • If selected for a temporary position, employee’s placement is conditional on the approval of his/her executive director/general manager or designate
  • Temporary and fixed-term part-time non-union employees will be reassigned to this position
  • In accordance with the City’s Acting Assignment policy, if the posted non-union temporary position becomes permanent, it may not be reposted

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The City is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to creating a workplace culture of inclusiveness that reflects the diverse residents that we serve. Learn more about the City’s commitment to employment equity.

Accommodation

The City of Toronto is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive organization. We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require Code-protected accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs. Disability-related accommodation during the application process is available upon request. Learn more about the City’s Hiring Policies and Accommodation Process.