COURSE INFORMATION
Instructor Name
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Tony Bramblett
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Building/Office Number
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Wilson Building (WB), Room 104
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Office Hours
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Monday through Friday 7:00 am until 8:00 am.
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Virtual Hours
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None
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Office Telephone
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(409) 882-3021
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Email Address
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Tony.Bramblett@lsco.edu
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Course Schedule |
Building: Wilson Building (WB), Room: 0000134, Dates: 8/25/2025 - 12/16/2025, Days: MTWRF, Times: 10:01am - 11:00am
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Course Description |
PTAC 1308 Safety, Health and Environment (41.0301) 4-4-0
Development of knowledge and skills to reinforce the attitudes and behaviors required for safe and environmentally sound work habits. Emphasis on occupational safety, health, and environmental practices and associated equipment including: safety mindset and attitude; personal safety equipment; general safety policies and procedures; hazards communications; HAZWOPER/emergency response; first aid and CPR; industrial hygiene; exposure monitoring; and regulatory compliance issues. This course will give students an overview of various governmental regulations mandated by OSHA, EPA, SARA, RCRA, DOT, NFPA, etc. TEC.
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Required Textbook & Materials
Safety, Health and Environmental
Edition: 2nd
Publisher: Pearson
ISBN-13: 9780135572498
Upon registration for classes, LSCO students are automatically charged $14 per semester credit hour for access to all required textbooks, lab manuals, lab codes, and electronic books on the first day of class through the Gator Book Pack. Information about the LSCO Gator Book Pack as well as responses to common FAQs can be found on LSCO's webpage. ALL STUDENTS WILL HAVE UNTIL THE SECOND DAY OF THE SEMESTER TO OPT-OUT OF THE GATOR BOOK PACK.
Every student MUST have access to the required textbooks by the week of class. The student will be responsible for all assignments given. Failure to have a text may result in being dropped from the class. Failure to follow instructions (written or oral) will result in penalties.
Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs)
Upon successful completion of this course, students will acquire the following course learning outcomes:
Core Objectives
Course Level: Introductory |
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Course Description: An overview of safety, health, and environmental issues in the performance of all job tasks in process industries. |
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End-of-Course Outcomes: Describe the components of a typical plant safety and environmental program and the role of a process technician in relation to safety, health, and the environment; identify the functionality of safety, health, and environmental equipment used. |
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Lab Recommended |
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CIP Code Description: 41.0301 (Chemical Technology/Technician) |
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Effective Date: September 1, 2022 |
Course Overview |
1. |
Recall industrial accidents and other events in the process industries that have impacted safety, health and the environment. |
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2. |
Describe the necessity of occupational safety regulations. |
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3. |
Describe governmental agencies and regulations that address safety, health, security and environmental issues including equivalent state agencies.
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Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
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Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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Department of Transportation (DOT)
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Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)
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Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
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Maritime Security (MARSEC)
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4. |
Describe how you can impact safety, health, security and environmental issues. |
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5. |
Describe good safety habits |
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6. |
Describe safe work practices:
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Following all procedures
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Using proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
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Attending training
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Performing housekeeping and sanitation
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Handling materials properly
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Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Types of Hazards and their Effects |
1. 2. |
Identify common types of hazards to health, environmental and safety.
Explain the various routes of entry that chemical and biological hazards use to enter the human body. |
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3. |
Describe the short-term and long-term effects that hazards can have on an individual’s health and safety. |
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4. |
Describe security concerns and their potential impact. |
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5. |
Describe the short-term and long-term effects that hazards can have on: ï‚· an individual’s health
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Recognizing
Chemical Hazards |
1. |
Identify the various chemical hazards (gases, liquids, and particulates) found in the process industries and discuss potential effects such chemicals have on safety, health and the environment. |
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2. |
Identify specific categories of hazardous chemicals used in the process industries and describe the potential health and environmental hazards posed by each (e.g., asphyxiates, corrosives, toxins). |
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3. |
Explain the purpose and function of labeling systems found in local process industries. |
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4. |
Explain the purpose and components of Safety Data Sheets (SDS). |
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5. |
Describe the primary governmental regulations relating to chemical hazards (labeling, storage, etc.). |
Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Recognizing
Biological
Hazards |
1. |
Identify potential biological hazards in the process industries and discuss their potential effects on safety, health and the environment.
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Micro-organisms (such as viruses and bacteria)
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Arthropods (arachnids and insects)
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Poisonous snakes
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Plant allergens and toxins
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Protein allergens from vertebrate animals
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2. |
Describe how blood borne pathogens can affect the human body. |
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3. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address biological hazards. |
Equipment and Energy Hazards |
1. |
Discuss the equipment and energy hazards posed by certain activities performed in the process industries.
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Working with moving or rotating equipment
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Working with equipment that is pressurized, has extreme temperatures, or emits radiation
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Working with energized equipment (powered by electricity or other power source)
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2. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address equipment and energy hazards. |
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3. |
Describe the purpose Energy Isolation (lockout/tag out). |
Fire and
Explosion
Hazards |
1. |
Recognize specific physical hazards present in the process industries and explain the potential safety, health and environmental hazards posed by:
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Fire
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Explosions ï‚· Detonation
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2. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address fire and explosion hazards. |
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3. |
Describe the following terminology: o Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) o Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)
o Boiling Liquid Evaporation Vapor Explosion (BLEVE) |
Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Pressure,
Temperature and
Radiation Hazards |
1. |
Recognize specific physical hazards present in the process industries and explain the potential safety, health and environmental hazards posed by:
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Vacuum
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High pressure
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Compressed gases
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Pressure vessels (runaway reactions)
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Temperature extremes
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2. |
Recognize the hazards of heat and temperature in the working environment. |
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3. |
Understand the effects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. |
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4. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address pressure, heat and radiation hazards. |
Hazardous
Atmosphere and
Respiratory
Hazards |
1. |
Name specific hazards associated with hazardous atmospheres, ventilation, and other respiratory-related issues: ï‚· Oxygen-deficient atmosphere
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Improper use of respiratory protection
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Toxins
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Explosive atmosphere
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Acid / caustic atmosphere
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2. |
Describe the effects of hazardous atmospheres on respiration. |
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3. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address hazardous atmospheres and respiration hazards. |
Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Working Area and Height Hazards |
1. |
Name specific hazards associated with work areas, such as:
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Working surface (scaffold, railing, slips)
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Escape route
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Heights (fall protection, falling objects)
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Confined spaces
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2. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address working surfaces, means of egress, height and confined space hazards. |
Noise and Hearing Hazards |
1. 2. |
Name specific hazards associated with noise generated in a process industry environment. Describe how these variables can impact hearing:
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Volume of noise (decibel rating)
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Length of exposure (TEL- Total Exposure Limit)
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3. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address noise and hearing protection. |
Construction,
Maintenance and
Tool Hazards |
1. 2. |
Name specific hazards associated with construction and maintenance tasks in a process industry environment. Describe how hand and power tools can be dangerous.
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Improper use of tool
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Improper grounding
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Broken guards on power tools ï‚· Improper use of PPE, etc.
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3. |
Describe hazards associated with maintenance construction activities.
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Critical Lifts
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Excavation
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Heavy equipment
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Scaffolding
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Chemical exposure, etc.
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3. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address construction, maintenance and tool hazards. |
Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Vehicle and
Transportation
Hazards |
1. |
Name specific hazards associated with vehicles and transportation used in the process industry environment: ï‚· Forklifts
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Powered platforms
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Cranes
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Trucks
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Trains
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Watercraft
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Pipeline
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Helicopters
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Personal vehicle
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Bicycles and carts
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2. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address vehicle and transportation hazards. |
Natural Disasters and Inclement
Weather |
1. |
Name specific hazards associated with natural disasters that could impact the process industries:
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Hurricanes
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Tornados
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Floods
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Inclement weather (lightening, hail, flood, etc.)
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Earthquakes
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Extreme temperatures
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2. |
Describe how emergency preparedness plans address natural disasters. |
Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Site Security |
1. |
Identify special vulnerabilities, risks, and threats associated with the process industries:
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Terroristic threats or acts from organizations and/or hostile nation-states
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Disgruntled employees
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Criminal elements (theft, vandalism, computer hacking)
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Suspicious activities (unauthorized photos, entry, etc.)
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Workplace violence
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Industrial espionage (intellectual properties)
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2. |
Describe the activities involved with maintaining physical security in these areas:
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Access and perimeter o Site Security Plan o Protecting access badges
o Transportation Workers Identification Credentials (TWIC)
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Operations (detecting unauthorized personnel)
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Communications (reporting suspicious activities) ï‚· Personnel (security)
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3. |
Describe the tasks associated with protecting electronic information through sound cyber security practices, including:
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Password protection
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Malicious software
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Proprietary information
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4. |
Describe the governmental regulations that address site security. |
Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Recognizing
Ergonomic
Hazards |
1. |
Name certain activities performed in the process industries and discuss the potential ergonomic hazards posed by these activities:
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Lifting and handling materials
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Working at heights
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Working in confined spaces
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Using repetitive motions
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2. |
Demonstrate proper lifting techniques. |
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3. |
Demonstrate proper ergonomics for repetitive motions. |
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4. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address ergonomic hazards. |
Recognizing
Environmental
Hazards |
1. 2. |
Explain the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulations that impact the process industries. Identify the various factors that can lead to leaks, spills and releases.
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Failed gasket
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Leaking flange
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Pump seal failure
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Tank rupture
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Overfilling tanks
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Incorrect materials of construction
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Improper operation of boilers or furnaces
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Not following SOP’s (Standard Operating Procedures)
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3. |
Describe the potential dangers of leaks, spills and releases in the environment and the community. |
Introduction to Hazard Controls |
1. |
Describe the three major types of hazard controls:
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Engineering
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Administrative
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
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2. |
Discuss why, when and how these controls are applied. |
Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Process Safety Management |
1. 2. |
Describe the purpose of Process Safety Management (PSM)
Identify the 14 elements of PSM
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Employee Participation
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Process Safety Information (PSI)
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Process Hazard Analysis (PHA)
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Operating Procedures
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Training
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Contractor Safety
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Pre-Startup Safety Review (PSSR)
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Mechanical Integrity
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Hot Work Program
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Management of Change (MOC)
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Incident Investigation
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Emergency Planning and Response
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Compliance Audits
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Trade Secrets
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3. |
Explain the difference between process and personal safety management. |
Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Engineering Controls: Alarms
and Indicator
Systems |
1. 2. |
Describe the role of alarms in providing a warning of conditions that can lead to emergencies, leaks, spills and releases, and discuss the dangers of improper responses or failures of alarms.
Identify various engineering controls, specifically alarm and indication systems, used by the process industries to minimize and/or eliminate threats to health, safety, and the environment.
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Fire Alarms and Detection Systems
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Toxic Gas Alarms and Detection Systems
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Process Alarms (high level, high pressure, deviation, etc.)
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Redundant Alarm and Shutdown Devices
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Automatic Shutdown Devices
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Interlocks
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3. |
Explain actions required by process technicians when alarms occur. |
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4. |
Explain the consequences of bypassing or ignoring process alarms |
Engineering
Controls: Process
Containment and
Process Upset
Controls |
1. |
Recognize various engineering controls, specifically process containment and control systems, used by the process industries to minimize and/or eliminate threats to health, safety, and the environment. ï‚· Dikes (secondary containment)
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2. |
Describe various engineering controls, specifically process upset control systems, used by the process industries to minimize and/or eliminate threats to health, safety, and the environment.
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Emergency shutdown systems
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Process safety valves (rupture discs, relief valves)
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Flares
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Interlocks
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Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Administrative Controls:
Programs and
Practices |
1. |
Describe and discuss various administrative controls, used by the process industries, to eliminate and/or minimize threats to safety, health, and environment.
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operating a noisy machine on the second or third shift when fewer people are exposed,
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shifting an employee to a less noisy job once a hazardous daily noise dose has been reached
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conducting turnarounds in spring rather than summer to reduce the potential for heat stress related illnesses
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2. |
Participate in safe work observations and provide feedback to co-workers on safe and potentially unsafe work practices. |
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3. |
Simulate a site safety inspection and/or audit to identify potential workplace hazards. |
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4. |
Describe general procedures for how to safely handle materials. |
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5. |
Discuss the impact of government regulations and industry organization guidelines. |
Audits,
Investigations, and Reporting |
1. |
Describe the auditing processes used in industry.
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Safety
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Housekeeping
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Permits
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2. |
Describe incident and reporting requirements for:
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Spills
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Releases
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Injuries
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Near misses
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Process upsets
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Security breaches
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Work Permitting Systems |
1. |
Describe the function and purpose of permitting systems found in local plants.
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Work permit
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Hot work permit
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Entry (enclosed and confined space)
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Special (high voltage, excavation, etc.)
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2. |
Given a scenario, conduct a job safety analysis (JSA) and complete a safe work permit to ensure the work environment is safe prior to beginning a job. |
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3. |
Demonstrate the use of locks, tags (lockout/tag-out), and blinds to isolate a piece of equipment such as a pump (including all primary and secondary energy sources). |
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4. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address permitting. |
Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Personal
Protective
Equipment and
First Aid |
1. 2. |
Describe basic first aid procedures and responses.
Discuss the function and purpose of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the process industries: ï‚· Respiratory protection
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Eye protection
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Hearing protection
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Head protection
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Hand protection
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Foot protection
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Skin protection
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3. |
Describe the levels of protection and how to select the proper PPE.
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Level A - To be selected when the greatest level of skin, respiratory, and eye protection is required.
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Level B - The highest level of respiratory protection is necessary but a lesser level of skin protection is needed.
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Level C - The concentration(s) and type(s) of airborne substance(s) is known and the criteria for using air purifying respirators are met.
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Level D - A work uniform affording minimal protection: used for nuisance contamination only.
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4. |
Explain the use, care and inspection of personal protective equipment (PPE). |
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5. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address medical and first aid responses and PPE:
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OSHA 1910 Subpart K: Medical and First Aid
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OSHA 1910.132 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
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OSHA 1910.133 PPE: Eye and Face Protection
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OSHA 1910.134 PPE: Respiratory Protection
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OSHA 1910.138 PPE: Hand Protection
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Topic Name |
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Objectives |
Monitoring Equipment |
1. |
Explain the function and purpose of testing equipment found in local plants:
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LEL/O2 meters
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Gas detection equipment
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Personal monitoring devices (exposure, radiation, noise) ï‚· Detector tubes
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2. |
Describe the use of an LEL/O2 meter to test a confined space prior to entry. |
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3. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address usage and permitting of monitoring equipment. |
Fire, Rescue, and
Emergency
Response |
1. |
Describe the function and purpose of the Emergency Response Team (ERT), typically found in the process industries, when responding to the following:
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Fires (different types)
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Spills
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Rescue / retrieval
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Escape
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Chemical exposure
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Gas release
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2. |
Describe or demonstrate the correct use of a safety shower and eyewash station. |
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3. |
Demonstrate the proper selection and use of fire extinguishers. |
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4. |
Given a scenario, participate in a tabletop drill in preparation for response to a fire, release, or spill for the following roles:
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Awareness level (operator)
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First Responder (ERT)
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5. |
Describe governmental regulations and industry guidelines that address fire protection and emergency response. |
Course Topical Outline
Week of |
Day |
Topic |
8/25 |
M-F |
Introduction To Process Tech 1302. Afternoon Safety Health and Environmental |
9/01 |
M-F |
Introduction To Process Tech 1302. Afternoon Safety Health and Environmental |
9/8 |
M-F |
Introduction To Process Tech 1302. Afternoon Safety Health and Environmental |
9/15 |
M-F |
Introduction To Process Tech 1302. Afternoon Safety Health and Environmental. 9/17 Start Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech 1 Equipment 1410 |
9/22 |
M-F |
Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech I Equipment 1410 |
9/29 |
M-F |
Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech I Equipment 1410 |
10-6 |
M-F |
Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech I Equipment 1410 |
10/13 |
M-F |
Process Instrumentation 1432, Afternoon Process Tech I Equipment 1410, 10/15 Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314. |
10/20 |
M-F |
Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314. |
10/27 |
M-F |
Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314. |
11/03 |
M-F |
Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314. |
11/10 |
M-F |
Process Tech II Systems 2420, Afternoon Principles of Quality 2314. |
11/17 |
M-F |
Process Troubleshooting 2446, afternoon Process Tech III 2438. |
11/24 |
M-F |
Process Troubleshooting 2446, afternoon Process Tech III 2438. |
12-01 |
M-F |
Process Troubleshooting 2446, afternoon Process Tech III 2438. |
12-08 |
M-F |
Process Troubleshooting 2446, afternoon Process Tech III 2438. |
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Last Class Day; Review for Final Exam |
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LSCO Graduation |
Major Assignments Schedule
Class will include 4 tests, four Labs.
Final Exam Date
September 15, 2025 - 8:00 AM
Through September 15, 2025 - 10:00 AM
COURSE POLICIES
Academic Honesty
Faculty who suspect violation of academic honesty, cheating, plagiarism, collusion, or abuse of resource materials may assign an academic penalty.
Incidents of academic dishonesty are a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. An academic appeal process is afforded to students who desire to dispute a grade or any decision that affects the student's ability to complete and earn a grade for the course provided it is not related to a violation outlined in the LSCO Student Code of Conduct, including academic dishonesty.
Electronic Communication
LSCO students are required to use either their LSCO Blackboard account or their LSCO email account (Office 365 / Microsoft Outlook) for all electronic communication. In order to ensure the privacy and identity of the student communicating via electronic methods, LSCO faculty will direct students to use their LSCO email accounts rather than personal accounts. If a student has trouble accessing their LSCO email account, they should contact the LSCO Help Desk at (409) 882-3033 or helpdesk@lsco.edu.
Attendance Requirements
Federal regulations require students who receive financial aid to have begun "attending" and participate substantially in each course for which they are enrolled on or before the official census reporting date outlined on the LSCO Academic Calendar. Students documented as "not attending" a course upon the census date are assumed (for financial aid purposes) to have not begun attendance for that course, negatively affecting their financial aid eligibility and disbursement.
Attendance in an ONLINE course is verified by substantial participation in the course on or before the census date published in the LSCO Academic Calendar. Substantial participation in this online course is defined as logging in and completing/participating in at least one requirement of the course. Note: Simply logging in to your online course does not constitute attendance.
Hybrid classes are a mix of face-to-face and online environments. Students will be expected to attend a certain number of classes as required by the instructor. (Include the policy on absences and tardiness.) In addition to classroom attendance, your weekly active participation in the online component (Blackboard and/or homework software) will be considered and expected.
Attendance: Attendance and tardiness for each class will be recorded. Students are expected to attend regularly. Excessive absenteeism will result in a reduction of the “Class work” portion of the final grade.
Absences: With an absence, Labs and Exams Grades will have a ZERO Grades recorded in the Grade Book until the missed Lab or missed exam is made up. If the exam is not made up by the next Exam date, the grade will remain a ZERO Grade. Any Lab that is missed will require the student to complete an additional assignment for a make up grade
Make-up Work Policy
All make up work must be completed within the following week after work was initially assigned.
Classroom Etiquette
Classroom Etiquette
Attire and Equipment Guidelines
Attire
While participating in technical programs, students are required to be dressed and equipped according to industry standards. Specific requirements will be outlined in the syllabus for each class. At a minimum, at all times while on campus, students should be dressed according to the following guidelines:
Closed toe shoes or boots
Covers entire foot
Soles should offer adequate protection
Work Pants
Full length jeans or other durable material. Properly fitted (not excessively baggy) Worn at the waist (no sagging)
Work Shirt
Collared with Buttons Polo or Work Shirt
Tshirt with finished collar, no graphics, slogans, etc. (LSCO graphics are
allowed)
Safety
When operating HOT 3 unit, students will be required to wear the following safety equipment:
Eye protection
Hard hat
Hearing protection
Work gloves
***The LSCO technical programs faculty and staff are committed to ensuring that every student is able to realize his or her potential without financial constraints placing anyone at a disadvantage. Any student who is unable to obtain the appropriate attire or equipment may communicate their need to the instructor or program director with confidence that shared information will be kept confidential.
LSCO Department of Industrial Systems
Electronic Devices Guidelines
Electronic Devices
Students may not use a cellular telephone in the classroom or lab area at any
time for any reason. A student who accesses telephone during class will be asked to leave the class for the remainder of the day and counted absent. See section on absences for further information.
Students may access electronic textbooks on lap top computer, requirements will
apply, no accessing email programs or videos!
A student who is unable to go ninety minutes without accessing an electronic device
is not a good potential fit for the type of work for which we are training. Repeat infractions of the electronic devices guidelines will result in removal from the program and career counseling to choose a more appropriate career path.
Attendance Guidelines
Attendance
In order to prepare students for successful transition into the workforce, the LSCO Technical Programs will maintain high standards for attendance and punctuality.
·To be counted present, a student will be present at his or her work area, prepared for work, and dressed in the appropriate attire, at the appropriate time.
·To be counted present, a student must have notebook (for taking notes, hand out materials) pen and pencil and class textbook. Notebooks will be reviewed periodically during the semester and points will be given to student. Failure to have all this material will result in loss of attendance points for the day.
·While enrolled in the LSCO technical programs, students are responsible for attending class on all days that LSCO holds class.
·Student holidays and activities at individual high school campuses do not excuse students from college classes. If a student has a schedule conflict, arrangements must be agreed upon in writing prior to the first day of
class and signed by the associate dean.
·School related absences must be communicated in advance, in writing, by the school coordinator, confirmed, and approved by the program director.
·Students are expected to be present and on time for class and remain until dismissed.
·Test Day students will be required to remain in class for entire class period. Each scheduled class day is required for hours of completion.
·If a student is removed from class for any reason, the student will be counted absent.
Extenuating Circumstances
The competencies taught in the LSCO technical programs are critical to the safety and productivity of our local workforce. Due to the nature of the environment for which we are training workers, it is imperative that each student receiving credit for a course be proficient in each competency.
Students are encouraged to review LSCO Technical Program Attire and equipment guidelines with parents.
Probation
Students who accumulate excessive absences during a sixteen-week course will be placed on probationary status and may have the option of completing a project to regain credit for the course.
Questions or Concerns
For questions and concerns, please make an appointment with the program director
Exam Policy
Students are responsible to report on exam week. Make up tests will follow LSCO procedures.
Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Students should use AI technology responsibly and ethically. This includes refraining from using AI to engage in harmful or unethical activities, such as generating false information, spreading misinformation, or engaging in malicious behaviors. The use of AI should align with the principles of academic integrity, honesty, and respect for others. Students are responsible for adhering to LSCO's Academic Honesty policy found in the Student Handbook. LSCO's full AI policy can be found at
AI Policy | Lamar State College Orange (lsco.edu)
Expected Time Requirement for this Course
For every hour in class (or unit of credit) taught in a 16-week session, students should expect to spend at least two to three hours per week studying and completing assignments. Example: For a 3-credit hour class taught in a 16-week session, students should prepare to allocate approximately 6 to 9 hours per week outside of class studying and completing assignments. For a 3-credit hour taught in a 10-week summer session, students should prepare to allocate approximately 10 to 15 hours per week outside of class studying and completing assignments. For a 3-credit hour taught in an 8-week session, students should prepare to allocate approximately 12 to 18 hours per week outside of class studying and completing assignments. For a 3-credit hour taught in a 5-week summer session, students should prepare to allocate approximately 20 to 29 hours per week outside of class studying and completing assignments.
Grading and Evaluation Method
Instructor Response Time
The instructor will respond to emails within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays. On weekends and holidays, the instructor will respond to emails from students within 24 hours of the first business day following the weekend or holiday.
Participation Requirements
Weekly participation and engagement in the courses are critical for student success. Assignments should be completed by the due date. Students should also refer to the instructor's attendance policy for additional information. (See LSCO Student Handbook, Class Attendance.)
Review of Test Grades
If the student has an issue with his/her grade, the instructor must be contacted no later than three (3) days after receiving the grade.
Student's Responsibility
This syllabus contains information, policies, and procedures for a specific course. By enrolling, the student agrees to read, understand, and abide by the rules, policies, regulations, and ethical standards of Lamar State College Orange as those contained in the current LSCO Catalog and schedule of classes.
Syllabus Content
The instructor reserves the right to make changes to this syllabus if deemed necessary. All changes will be provided to the students orally or in writing before the implementation of the change.
Textbook and Required Materials Access
Every student MUST have access to the required textbooks by the second week of class. The student will be responsible for all assignments given. Failure to have a text may result in being dropped from the class. Failure to follow instructions (written or oral) will result in penalties.
STUDENT SUPPORT RESOURCES
Mental Health Resources
TimelyCare is a virtual health and well-being platform that is available 24/7 for all non-dual credit enrolled LSCO students. There is no cost to eligible students for this service. TimelyCare’s providers offer emotional support, mental health counseling, health coaching, psychiatry, and basic needs support. Non-Dual Credit students enrolled in classes can log in to the TimelyCare website or app available at
timelycare.com/LSCO.
Advocacy Information
Any student who faces challenges securing their food or housing and believes this may affect their performance in the course is encouraged to contact the advising office for guidance on how to identify possible resources. Please notify the instructor of your circumstance if you are comfortable doing so.
Equal Opportunity to Educational Programs
Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is an equal opportunity educational institution and does not discriminate against any person regardless of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status, in admissions, educational programs, student activities or employment. For further information about this policy, contact the Accessibility Coordinator at (409) 882-3393.
Title IX of the Education Amendments
LSCO prohibits discrimination, including sexual harassment and retaliation, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. Any student who believes that he or she has experienced prohibited conduct or believes that another student has experienced prohibited conduct should immediately report the alleged acts to the Title IX Coordinator, Rebecca Gentry, at
Rebecca.Gentry@lsco.edu.
Blackboard Resources
LSCO students will access Blackboard through the MyGator portal. Login credentials will use the following format: username@my.lsco.edu and Password. For help in identifying your Username/Password, visit
https://www2.lsco.edu/sspr/.
Blackboard student resource videos and help-sites are available at
https://www.lsco.edu/distanceed/blackboard-student.asp.
Career Coach
Lamar State College Orange provides career advising services to all students and alumni through Career Coach, an online career planning tool. Career Coach assists students through all phases of developing, initiating, and implementing career plans.
Information regarding employment opportunities and career options are provided along with access to live local job postings. Full-time and part-time employment opportunities, as well as internships, are available through Career Coach. Visit
https://www.lsco.edu/advising/career-planning.asp for more details on how to use LSCO's Career Coach to plan for and learn more about your future career.
Gator Assistance Services
Lamar State College Orange provides currently enrolled technical students support for daycare costs as well as other services.
Visit
https://www.lsco.edu/advising/gator-assistance.asp for details on assistance services.
OASIS (formerly) Gator Success Center
Students are encouraged to make an appointment or walk in to receive tutoring, support services, or access to an open computer lab. Face-to-face and online supplemental instruction sessions are available to help students through any LSCO course. Reach out to
learning.center@lsco.edu for more information on how students can receive academic support.
Library Services
Students are encouraged to visit library.lsco.edu to find the library's current operating hours, access the catalog to locate print materials, and access GatorSearch to explore the vast electronic collection. The library provides over 77 electronic database collections that include eBooks, newspapers, magazines, academic journals, and streaming video. The physical library contains a specialized collection of research materials specifically chosen to support the degrees and courses offered. Additionally, Students with research questions or questions about library services are encouraged visit the library in person, call 409-882-3352, access the chat on the library webpage, or to email their question to
lscolibrary@lsco.edu.
Student with Disabilities
Under the Texas State System, Lamar State College Orange complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, pertaining to the provision of reasonable academic adjustments/auxiliary aids for students with disability. We strive to provide reasonable academic adjustments/auxiliary aids to students who request and require them.
Students who believe they have a disability requiring an academic adjustment/auxiliary aid are encouraged to contact the Accessibility Coordinator at (409) 882-3393 or visit the Advising Office. Students are encouraged to apply before the start of the semester when at all possible. The Accommodation Request Form and details regarding the appropriate documentation needed can be found here:
https://www.lsco.edu/advising/disability.asp. Once approved, the signed accommodation form provided by the Special Populations Advisor must be submitted to the instructor at least two business days in advance of need.
Students with questions about the accommodations they receive in class should contact their instructor or the Accessibility Coordinator.
Upswing 24/7 FREE Tutoring Services
Lamar State College Orange provides currently enrolled students with access to online tutoring through a partnership with Upswing, an online tutoring platform. Tutors are available 24/7 online in almost every subject.
Visit
https://www.lsco.edu/tutoring/online-tutoring.asp for details on how to log-in to the FREE services.
INSTITUTIONAL POLICIES
Campus Closure
In the event of an emergency campus closure in excess of three class days, Lamar State College Orange's classes will continue via the use of Blackboard. In such an instance, the college website, www.lsco.edu, will have information concerning the event and anticipated re-opening plans.
Civility
Please be considerate of other classmates' feelings, ethnic background, cultural differences, situations, and level of maturity. Students will be asked to leave the course if disruptive or inappropriate behavior is exhibited in any of the course requirements. If your instructor feels that you have not contributed appropriately to course requirements, your final course grade may be reduced accordingly.
The instructor reserves the right to manage a positive learning environment and will not tolerate inappropriate conduct in the course. Rude correspondence (discourteous or impolite, especially in a deliberate way) in e-mails, telephone calls, in person, or comments made to other class members, the instructor, or the office staff.
Contingency Plans
Students should develop a backup plan should their computer system or their Internet provider fail. Computer or internet connectivity issues are not valid excuses for missing a deadline. The College provides many opportunities for using computer equipment, as do many public libraries. Refer to the LSCO website for operational hours of the Library and Success Center.
Credit Transfer
Students should check in advance with the institution to which they plan to transfer credit to confirm transferability. Refer to the LSCO Catalog for details on how to handle and resolve transfer disputes with public institutions of higher education in Texas.
Criminal Background Policy
LSCO awards some certificates and degrees in which a criminal history MAY disqualify candidates from becoming licensed, certified, and/or employed upon degree/certificate completion. Students with a criminal background enrolling in courses leading to a degree/certificate in Court Reporting, Criminal Justice, Cosmetology, Emergency Medical Technology, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Vocational Nursing (VN), Registered Nursing (RN), Pharmacy Technician, Real Estate, or Teacher Preparation program are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to discuss the certification and/or licensing regulations of the program with the program director listed in order to learn more about the current guidelines related to criminal history as well as the right of individuals to request a criminal history evaluation letter.
Drops and Withdrawals
Never attending or ceasing to attend classes DOES NOT constitute a drop or withdrawal. You remain registered until you request a drop from the instructor. Failure to act in a timely manner will result in an "F" grade for the course. It is the student's responsibility to follow up with the LSCO advising office to ensure that all drops/withdrawals are processed as desired.
Grade of "Incomplete"
The grade of "I" may be given when any requirement of the course, including the final examination, is not completed. Students seeking an incomplete should have completed at least 75% of the course requirements and be passing the course at the time of the request. Arrangements to complete deficiencies in a course should be made in advance of the end of the semester with the instructor. The instructor will process the Incomplete form online, and a confirmation will be sent to the student's LSCO email.
Incomplete work must be finished during the next long semester. If not, the Office of Admission and Records must change the "I" grade to the grade of "F." The course must then be repeated if credit is desired. An "I" grade also automatically becomes an "F" if the student registers for the course prior to removing the deficiencies and receiving a grade change. The instructor may record the grade of "F" for a student who is absent from the final examination and is not passing the course.
Grade Appeals (Complaints Related to Earned Grades)
Grade determination and awarding of grades in a course are the responsibility of the instructor and should be calculated according to college policy, procedures, and written details provided in the course
syllabus. NOTE: Final grades are available to students within 48 hours of the instructor posting the grade in Banner. Students may view final grades by logging into MyGator and then accessing Gator Self-Service.
An academic appeal process is afforded to students who desire to dispute a grade or any decision that affects the student's ability to complete and earn a grade for the course provided it is not related to a violation outlined in the LSCO Student Code of Conduct. If an informal conference with the faculty member regarding an academic complaint fails to reach the outcome requested by the student, the student may initiate the formal process outlined below. Even after initiating the formal complaint process, students are encouraged to seek informal resolution of their concerns. A student whose concerns are resolved may withdraw a formal complaint at any time.
Refer to the current catalog or for details on the formal grade appeal process.
Institutional Educational Goals
Lamar State College Orange has identified seven educational goals to specify the knowledge and skills that students should gain from completing academic and technical programs with the College. These goals are:
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Critical thinking (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to demonstrate creative thinking, innovation, inquiry, analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of information.
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Communication (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to effectively develop, interpret and express of ideas through written, oral and visual communication.
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Empirical and quantitative skills (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to manipulate and analyze numerical data or observable facts and create informed conclusions.
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Teamwork (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to consider different points of view and to work effectively with others to support a shared purpose or goal.
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Social responsibility (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to recognize and acquire a sense of intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility, and the ability to engage effectively in regional, national and global communities.
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Personal responsibility (General Education, Technical) - Students will be able to connect choices, actions, and consequences to ethical decision-making.
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Professional competency (Technical) - Students will be able to recognize or demonstrate skills and that depict professional values and employability. If the career has licensure or certification requirements, students may prepare for the licensure and certification in a capstone course and sit for the licensure or certificate at the end of the program.
MyGator and Log-In Credentials
Current students will access many LSCO applications through the MyGator portal. Login credentials will use the following format: username@my.lsco.edu/Password. For help in identifying your username/Password, visit
https://www2.lsco.edu/sspr/.
It is a violation of College policy, state laws, and federal laws for anyone to gain or help others gain unauthorized access to MyGator or any LSCO application or service. All accounts shall be for use by a single individual - the person for whom the account was approved or assigned. This includes Blackboard accounts as well as any application within MyGator. Sharing or loaning accounts is strictly prohibited, can be construed as a form of cheating, and violates College policy, state laws, and federal laws.
Policies and Procedures
LSCO adheres to the policies and procedures established in the Texas Education Code, Texas State University System Rules and Regulations, LSCO Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual, LSCO Faculty Handbook, and LSCO Catalog.
Prohibited Items in the Classroom
No food or tobacco (including smokeless) products are allowed in the classroom. Only students enrolled in the course are allowed in the classroom, except by special instructor permission. It is inappropriate for minor children to be on campus due to the potential liability to the College, the risk of harm to the children, and decreased employee productivity due to distractions and disruptions.
Student Complaints (excluding Safety, Harassment, or Title IX)
Student-Staff and Student-Instructor Complaint Process excluding Safety, Harassment, or Title IX
LSCO believes that all matters involving a staff member (non-instructor) OR an instructor are best resolved directly with the employee. Should it not be resolved at that level, access and complete the
Student Complaint Intake form within five (5) business days from the date of the offense. The
Student Complaint Intake Form can be found in any of these locations:
- LSCO Website (Current Students)
- LSCO Catalog (Student Services, Complaints)
- MyGator Card
- Blackboard (Student Resources, Student Services, Student Resources)
After a student completes the
Student Complaint Intake Form, they will be contacted by an LSCO employee unrelated to the offense and provided guidance on how to proceed with the Complaint process.
Refer to the LSCO Catalog (Student Services,
Complaints) for details on the complaint process.
Student Complaints (involving Safety, Harassment, or Title IX)
Student-Staff and Student-Instructor Complaint Process involving Safety, Harassment, or Title IX:
Students who have experienced a safety, harassment, or title IX event should access and complete the Title IX/Clery: Anonymous Reporting Form found in any of these locations:
- LSCO Website (Sexual Misconduct & Title IX)
- LSCO Catalog (Student Services, Complaints)
- MyGator Card
- Blackboard (Student Resources, Student Services, Student Resources)
After a student completes the intake form, they will be contacted by an LSCO employee and provided guidance on how to proceed.
Refer to the LSCO Catalog (Student Services,
Complaints) for details on the complaint process.
Student Privacy
The privacy of all students, including Distance Education students, is protected through strict adherence to the rules of the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act. LSCO's statement regarding the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act can be found in LSCO's Catalog. Additional information regarding privacy for Distance Education students can be found in the Distance Education Handbook.