LETTER: Construction projects on campus pose safety hazards which should be avoided

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by Renee Block

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To the editor:

During the next 24-month period, there will be many construction projects underway.

These construction sites pose potential safety risks due to the actual construction itself and the use of heavy equipment.

Therefore, I would like to encourage each of you to adhere to the rules and policies outlined within the Student Handbook under the section styled Unauthorized Entry, Possession of Keys and Vandal- ism.

It reads as follows:

"For reasons of personal safety, protection of property and personal rights and prevention of unwarranted suspicion in the event of theft, damage, etc., certain afreas are off limits to students.

"Unless they have been given specific permission by the appropriate university authority for entry, students are not to enter or be in:

* Utility tunnels (which carry live steam, high voltage distribution lines, telephone cables)

* Telephone switchboard and equipment areas (subject to federal jurisdiction)

* Mechanical and electrical equipment rooms

* Construction areas

* Roofs and walls of buildings

* Any University buildings outside their posted open hours

* Locked offices or study carrels.

"Entry into these or other areas without permission or extenuating circumstances is sufficient to warrant stringent disciplinary action including suspension.

"Stealing or destruction of property belonging to others will result in disciplinary action as will unauthorized removal of materials from construction, renovation or repair projects or illegal use or damage to telephone equipment.

"Disciplinary action by the university for stealing, vandalism or destruction of property does not preclude court action by state or municipal authorities in the event that the injured party decides to press charges."

Again, please be safe.

Renee Block

Risk Manager

This item appeared in the Opinion section of the March 29, 1996 issue.

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