ECG - Use of Personal Appliances

It is the responsibility of RSU #1 to provide a safe and healthy learning and working environment for all staff. It is also the responsibility of RSU #1 to comply with all recommendations for maintaining safe and healthy facilities as outlined in our annual safety audit conducted by our insurance carriers. The conservation of energy is a high priority in RSU #1's long-range facilities plan and the elimination of unnecessary appliances assists in the effective management of fiscal resources.

RSU #1 underscores the importance of maintaining attractive, clean, energy efficient, safe and healthy facilities. In the interest and compliances with best practices in pest management, fire and personal safety, school appearance and cleanliness, personal appliances will not be allowed to be used in any school classrooms. Personal appliances include toaster ovens, microwave ovens, personal televisions, coffee pots, air conditioners, refrigerators, heaters and similar appliances. Fans are permitted with prior approval of the Director of Maintenance who will insure that the fan meets appropriate codes. The fan must be able to plug directly into the wall without an extension cord. Home extension cords are prohibited. A classroom needing an extension cord for temporary reasons will contact the Director of Maintenance. If a staff member has any question about the propriety of a particular appliance, the Director of Maintenance should be consulted who will make a recommendation to the school principal. Should an appliance be necessary as part of a specialized educational program, approval for this will be given by the school principal, after it has been inspected by the Director of Maintenance to insure that it meets all current codes. Should teachers have a special event that requires the short term use of an appliance, such as making applesauce in fall, or holiday cookies, special permission can be granted by the building principal. Personal laptops can be used in school, but not personal desktop computers.

RSU #1 affirms its commitment to all staff by providing attractive staff lounges with quality appliances for their personal use. The staff is expected to keep all appliances clean and orderly. As a courtesy to all staff, the custodial staff will empty and clean the refrigerators in staff lounges during the Thanksgiving, Christmas, February, and April vacations.

First reading: August 13, 2007

Adopted: November 14, 2007