LAS VEGAS FIRE & RESCUE

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

ADMINISTRATION / HAZING
Reviewed Date:
Effective Date: / 02/15/94
Supersedes: / NEW / SOP / 100.60 / Page 1 of 1

I. INTRODUCTION

A. Purpose: In today's modern, professional fire service, hazing, horseplay and pranks are inappropriate and only serve to discredit the professional image the fire service community has worked so hard to attain. Such incidents can cause embarrassment and shame for the department, the city and all fire service personnel. Therefore, the Las Vegas Fire Department hereby prohibits hazing, horseplay and pranks among fire personnel.

B. Scope: This policy applies to all department personnel.

C. Author: The Deputy Chief for Administration, through the SOP Coordinator, shall be responsible for the content, revision and review of this policy.

D. Definition: Hazing is defined as:

Behavior or conduct which has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work performance or job satisfaction or which creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment.

Examples. Hazing can include, but is not limited to:

* Name-calling/Nicknames: "Hill-Billy" "Tripper" etc.

* Negative comments about a person's physique/anatomy or appearance: "Slim Jim" "Beer Belly" "Baldy" etc.

* Unwanted teasing, jokes or remarks.

* Horseplay.

* Pranks.

* "Initiation" rites.

II. RESPONSIBILITY

A. All Personnel are responsible for refraining from hazing others.

B. Company and Chief Officers are responsible for enforcement of this policy.

III. POLICY

Hazing, horseplay and pranks will not be tolerated.