Catalog of Sample Policies for Pennsylvania's Conservation Districts

Use of Equipment and Vehicles
(Pike Conservation District)

Equipment and vehicles essential in accomplishing job duties are expensive and may be difficult to replace. When using property, employees are expected to exercise care, arrange for required maintenance, and follow all operating instructions, safety standards, and guidelines. The Office Administrator should be notified promptly if any equipment, machines, tools, or vehicles appear to be damaged, defective, or in need of repair.

Employees who operate District vehicles must maintain a current Pennsylvania driver's license. Vehicle use by employees will be prioritized based on distance and destination. Long distance travel and fieldwork by technical staff are highest priorities for vehicle use. Employees should sign up in advance for vehicle use on the calendar provided in the office and complete mileage logs supplied in each district vehicle to track use. Credit cards for fuel and other vehicle supply purchases are available in each vehicle for employee use. Vehicles should not be returned to the office with less than a quarter of a tank of gas.

District vehicles may not be operated for personal use. District vehicles may be kept overnight at staff residences if necessitated by before- or after-hours District business-related travel. Non-staff volunteers who are associated with District programs or activities are permitted to ride in District vehicles.

Employees who are involved in an accident while traveling on business must promptly report the incident to the Office Administrator, who, in turn, will report the accident to the County. Costs incurred by District employees for traffic and/or parking violations are the responsibility of the employee cited. The improper, careless, negligent, destructive, or unsafe use or operation of equipment or vehicles, as well as excessive or avoidable traffic and parking violations, can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.