PUBLIC WORKS

ALEXANDER COUNTY EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN
Reviewed: Aug. 23, 2011
 

I. PURPOSE
 
  The purpose of this Annex is to provide essential public works services during an emergency/disaster to reduce the impact of the emergency and also to provide shelter upgrading during a crisis.
 
II. SITUATION AND ASSUMPTIONS
 
  A. Situation
 
    1. In an emergency their is frequently a need for manpower and equipment to remove obstructions or clear a way to an accident site for emergency debris removal and for restitution of essential utilities.
 
    2. Alexander County and the Town of Taylorsville public works departments capabilities are included in APPENDIX 3 to this Annex.
 
  B. Assumptions
 
    Public works departments have a limited but immediate capability to provide emergency services for debris removal, restitution of essential utilities and shelter upgrading.
 
III. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS
 
  A. In non-emergency periods, the role of public works is confined to landfill operations, building, ground and street maintenance, water and sewage utility service and transportation and equipment operations and maintenance.
 
  B. During emergencies, the public works function expands and coordination of public works emergency operations is essential. Public works arranges for support services for emergency response agencies and coordinates with the private sector.
 
IV. ORGANIZATION AND ASSIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES
 
  A. Organization
 
    1. The Public Works Department is managed by the Public Works Coordinator. During emergency situations operational control remains the same as during day to day activities, however, operations may then require twenty-four hour coverage.
 
    2. Public Works must be prepared to assist with lengthy operations, which start in response and continue through recovery and involve clean up activities and return of resources.
 
  B. Responsibilities
 
    Public Works Coordinator
    1. Prepare procedures to provide public works functions during emergencies (e.g., roads, streets, sewer, water and utility services).
 
    2. Develop and maintain resource lists with source, location and availability of equipment, fuel and operational personnel to support response/recovery operations.
 
    3. Provide training for selected personnel in radiological protection and radiological monitoring.
 
    4. Develop mutual aid agreements.
 
    5. Obtain equipment to protect public works personnel assigned to respond to hazardous material incidents including radiological emergencies.
 
    6. Provide containers and/or vehicles for removal of contaminated hazardous materials.
 
    7. Assist in decontamination operations.
 
    8. In emergencies, conduct shelter marking and upgrading operations.
 
    9. Jointly with Department of Transportation (DOT) direct and dispatch public works mutual aid from other jurisdictions and the State.
 
    10. Provide for backup electrical power to the EOC.
 
    11. Conduct debris clearance operations.
 
    12. Provide emergency potable water.
 
    13. Store and provide fuel for emergency vehicles.
 
    14. Provide sanitation services during emergencies.
 
    15. Prepare required reports and forward to the EOC.
 
    16. Maintain emergency power, water and sanitation resources at critical facilities in the County during emergencies.
 
    17. Assist in damage assessment operations and relay damage assessment information to the EOC.
 
V. DIRECTION AND CONTROL
 
  A. The Public Works Coordinator will direct and control public works activities during emergencies and coordinate with the EOC and other response forces.
 
  B. The Public Works Coordinator will maintain direct communication with on-site personnel via the public works radio system.
 
  C. When notified of an emergency situation, the Public Works Coordinator will determine the resources to be committed and alert appropriate personnel.
 
  D. On-site control will be coordinated by the Assistant Public Works Coordinator or individual designated in the SOP.
 
VI.  CONTINUITY OF GOVERNMENT
 
  The line of succession is:
    1. Director of Public Works / Maintenance
    2. County/City Manager
    3 Chairman, Board of Commissioners/Mayor, Town Council
 
VII.  ADMINISTRATION AND LOGISTICS
 
  A. Records and Reports
 
    1. Records of personnel and equipment will be maintained.
 
    2. Informational data and maps pertaining to County facilities, streets and utility systems will be maintained in the Department of Public Works.
 
    3. Records and reports regarding expenditures incurred during emergency response activities (e.g., personnel and equipment, time and supplies consumed) will be kept.
 
  B. Communications - The communications system will make maximum use of available radio and telephone communication resources.
 
VIII. PLAN DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE
 
  A. This Annex will be reviewed on an annual basis.
 
  B. The Public Works Coordinator will maintain procedures and personnel notification/recall rosters to support this Annex.