6000 Capital Assets and Operations Policies

6010 Use of State-owned Vehicles

Policy Number: 6010
Policy Name: Use of State-owned Vehicles
Responsibility of Maintenance: Director of Capital Assets and Operations

1. Policy Statement
   The Richard Bland College state-owned vehicle use policy mandates compliance with the Department of General Services state-owned vehicle policies.
2. Reason for Policy
   The purpose of this policy is to establish requirements and procedures for ground transportation.
3. Applicability of Policy
   This policy applies to the use of any use of College vehicles by employees of the institution for College business or College-related activities.
4. Related Documents
   DGS Office of Fleet Management Services Policies and Procedures Manual http://www.dgs.virginia.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=Wc0oOVxAxlA%3d&tabid=173
   Sustainability Plan Policy E.4
5. Contacts

6. Definitions
   College Business: Actions undertaken by College employees (including faculty and student employees) or volunteers acting within the scope of their employment or authorization. Examples of College business include running errands for a department, attending a meeting off campus, and advisory service trips (in accordance with RBC’s mission). Examples of travel that do not constitute College business include commuting to work or driving to voluntary social events hosted by the College.College-Related Activities: Those events, trips, and activities that are (1) organized by College faculty or staff and required or mandatory elements of the related course, activity, or program, which may include travel for academic research; (2) organized by a recognized student organization and formally approved by a College official; (3) field work as part of sponsored research; or (4) directly funded by the College.
7. Procedures
   Richard Bland College employees must send an email to vehicle@rbc.edu to schedule a vehicle unless a state vehicle has been assigned specifically to one individual person.Exception: Employees must obtain prior written approval from their immediate supervisor to keep a state vehicle parked in their assigned building parking lot.Pick Up and Return:
   1. Vehicles must be picked-up one day prior to use between the hours of 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. only.
   2. Vehicles will be fueled up with gas prior to use by the Facilities Department
   3. Only facilities personnel will have access to fuel pumps for ALL vehicles whether or not assigned to an individual.
   4. An inspection of all vehicles will be made before and after each use by the employee and facilities personnel to ensure the vehicle is returned in the same condition as when signed out.
   5. Vehicles will be signed out by the employee along with logging the beginning mileage and ending mileage after each use.
   6. Any warning lights or other signs of problems or concerns must be reported when returning the vehicle.
   7. Vehicles shall be clean of all trash when returned.

Policy History
Approved November 20, 2015
Updated January 11, 2017

6020 Maintenance and Repairs

Policy Number: 6020
Policy Name: Maintenance and Repairs
Responsibility for Maintenance: Director of Capital Assets and Operations

1. Policy Statement
   Except for extreme situations, all requests for maintenance or repairs to RBC- owned or controlled locations must be submitted by email to office.facilities@rbc.edu.The Department of Capital Assets and Operations (“Facilities”) will respond to work order requests in the order in which they are received (for non-emergencies). Once the work has been completed, an email will for forwarded to notify the requestor of completion of work. If parts need to be ordered for repairs, Facilities will notify requestor. Once parts are received, the work will be completed as soon as possible.The Director of Capital Assets and Operations has the authority and responsibility to alter maintenance or repair priorities when appropriate.
2. Reason for Policy
   This policy details the procedures for requesting maintenance or repairs of RBC-owned or controlled property.
3. Applicability of the Policy
   This policy applies to all RBC employees seeking maintenance or repairs of RBC owned or controlled property.
4. Related Documents
5. Contacts 

Policy History
Approved November 20, 2015
Updated January 11, 2017

6030 Use of College Facilities

Policy Number: 6030
Policy Name: Use of College Facilities
Responsible Office: Department of Capital Assets and Operations (NOTE: sections V. through XI. are shared responsibility with the Department of Security and Police)

Effective Date: February 26, 2018

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

1. Policy Statement 
   1. General Availability
      College facilities are designed and constructed primarily for College functions; therefore, College officials, administrative units, and groups have first priority for their use. Second priority is for College-related organizations. Third priority is for non-College-related organizations.  The use of buildings and grounds for commercial purposes without RBC consent and the payment of fees is prohibited.
   2. Fees
      See the Facilities Use Agreement and Fee Schedule.
   3. All events and activities must occur in compliance with applicable College policies and rules, such as those relating to alcohol, smoking, weapons, and parking.
2. Reason for Policy
   This purpose of this policy is to set priorities for facilities usage, define scheduling procedures, and establish the College policy for charges associated with scheduled events.
3. Applicability of the Policy
   This policy applies to the scheduling and conduct of events and activities on College property, including in College facilities. Examples of such events or activities include, but are not limited to, meetings and group activities of student organizations, facility rental for private events, and College activities other than scheduled courses and meetings of academic and administrative employees performing work duties.

1. Definitions

Event: An occurrence at a specific location for a designated period of time, involving a gathering of 10 or more people. This excludes routine academic events, training, and athletic activities sponsored by the college.

College-Affiliated Persons/Groups: Any individual or group, including currently enrolled students, faculty, staff, foundation, or college-recognized groups or clubs.

Non-Affiliated Persons/Groups: Any individual or group not consisting of currently enrolled students, faculty, staff, or college-recognized groups or clubs.

Campus Property: Any property owned, leased, or controlled by Richard Bland College. This includes, but is not limited to, residential dorms or housing, academic buildings, administrative buildings, support buildings, athletic facilities, roadways, sidewalks, parking lots, and green spaces (including the Pecan Grove and ponds).

1. Trespassing
2. False advertisements

1. Activities and Events

No individual or group shall cause, incite, or participate in conduct that is prohibited by local, state, or federal law that may or may not be otherwise covered in this section or other sections of this policy manual. To ensure that individuals and groups engaging in expressive activities do not interfere with the operation of the college, state or federal law, or the rights of others, the following provisions shall apply:

1. Events, persons, or their belongings must not block or unreasonably interfere with the free flow of vehicular, bicycle, or pedestrian traffic. The right of way on streets and sidewalks must be maintained.
2. Events, persons, or their belongings must not block or unreasonably interfere with ingress and egress to and from campus buildings.
3. Events, persons, or their belongings must not obstruct or attempt to force the cancellation of any event or activity sponsored by the college or authorized users of college facilities.
4. Persons must not engage in harassing, physically abusive, threatening, or intimidating behavior toward any individual.
5. Persons must comply with the directions of any college official acting in the performance of their duties.
6. Administrative activities, classes, or other scheduled events must not be
7. The use of sound equipment must be specified at the time of the event request on the event registration form. The use of such equipment must not unreasonably interfere with classes or other scheduled activities. See sections VI and VII below (Campus affiliated or non-campus affiliated).
8. When an invited speaker is the subject of protest, individuals may demonstrate and/or distribute leaflets outside the building where the speech is taking place. Those wishing to enter the building must do so as members of the audience, paying any applicable admission fees, and must give the speaker a respectful hearing. Obstructing, disrupting, or attempting by physical force to cancel or discontinue speech by any speaker or the observation of speech by any person intending to see or hear a speaker is prohibited and failure to adhere to this directive will result in removal from the premises.
9. All affiliated persons, student groups/organizations, and non-affiliated persons may engage in posting on College property in compliance with the following conditions; Exterior posting on College property is permitted on designated boards. Materials may not be placed on areas or surfaces not intended for posting including, but not limited to: trees, columns, lampposts, bollards, walls, trash receptacles, railings, construction fences, and bicycle racks. Also, flyers publicizing or advertising events must prominently display the event name; the sponsor’s name; contact information; and the date, time, and place of the event. Individuals are prohibited from removing/talking down a posting, unless they or a group they are associated with are responsible for the posting. If an individual believes that a posting violates this or other College policy, they should report the posting to an administrator of the specific building or to police@rbc.edu.
10. Only affiliated persons and student groups/organizations may engage in chalking on College property. Affiliated persons and student groups/organizations may engage in chalking in compliance with the following conditions: Chalk may be used on exposed (not below roofs or other overhangs) exterior concrete or asphalt sidewalks or walkways. Use of chalk on brick, slate, other stone surfaces, buildings, or other structures of any kind is strictly prohibited. Only non-permanent sidewalk chalk may be used. No paint, spray/adhesive chalks, markers, or inks are allowed. Defacing or intentionally erasing existing chalking is prohibited by anyone other than the person or organization who initiated the chalking display, except that College facility and maintenance personnel are allowed to clean and wash sidewalks and other outdoor areas at any time in the course of their usual and ordinary maintenance activities.
11. All applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including local ordinances regarding demonstrations on public streets, as well as all relevant college policies, must be observed and followed.

1. Event Request and Facility Usage by College Affiliated Persons/Groups

Students, employees, and college-affiliated groups or organizations must submit event requests to Campus Engagement using the Campus Engagement Event Request Form, available at https://richardblandcollege.formstack.com/forms/campus_event_registration_2024_2025 Requests must be submitted at least 30 days before the event date in order to ensure that enough staff are available to assist in event set up and/or for security purposes (including having to hire temporary staff to assist). Late submissions may be denied. The Event Request Form must include the following information:

1. Event organizer
2. Organizer contact information (email & phone number)
3. Event category
4. Proposed event date and time
5. Proposed event location preference
6. Name of event
7. Goals or learning outcome of event
8. Description of event
9. Estimated number of attendees
10. Outside support needs, such as technology, catering, facilities, Communications, security
11. Procurement needs.

The event request will be reviewed by the designated event coordinator, who will verify the needs with the event organizer to ensure all relevant information is understood. The event coordinator will then present the event request to the event team, which includes representatives from student engagement, police and security, and facilities. This team will evaluate the activity, campus property usage, support requests from various departments, as well as the setup and recovery of the event.

If necessary, a safety and security assessment may be conducted to address any safety concerns. This may include, but is not limited to:

1. Adjusting the event location, time, or date
2. Determining the need for additional police/security support
3. Implementing security checkpoints or access restrictions
4. Limiting vehicular access
5. Establishing safety zones around the venue
6. Once approved, the event will be added to the College Event Calendar.

• All events must have an institution-affiliated sponsor. The sponsor must have someone onsite or immediately available throughout the event.

Please see additional requirements in VIII below

• Event Request and/or Building Use from Non-Affiliated College Persons/Groups

Non-affiliated groups or individuals wishing to host an event on campus property or rent college facilities/buildings must submit a Facility Rentals Form, available at https://www.rbc.edu/facility-rentals/ . This site provides Facility Request Forms for various purposes, including wedding venues, athletic events, facility use, and summer camps. The Events Manager is responsible for collecting and managing all information related to external event requests on campus.

The Facility Rentals Form must be submitted at least 60 days before the event date in order to ensure that enough staff are available to assist in event set up and/or for security purposes (including having to hire temporary staff to assist). Late submissions may be denied. The form must include the following information:

1. Event organizer and/or organization
2. Organizer contact information (email & phone number)
3. Event category
4. Purpose of event
5. Proposed event date and time
6. Proposed facility, building, or area that event will occur

The Events Manager will review all request and gather further information, as needed, which may include but not limited to:

1. Clarification on event purpose
2. Estimated number of attendees
3. Outside support needs, such as technology, catering, facilities, communications, security
4. Procurement needs
5. If alcohol is present at event (ABC license needs)
6. Proof of insurance, as needed

The Events Manager will collaborate with the Business & Operations Manager and the Chief of Police to review the event and ensure it does not conflict with other scheduled college activities.

The Director of Campus Safety & Police will assess each request to determine if any safety precautions or police/security presence is required. This assessment may include, but is not limited to:

1. Number of anticipated attendees at the event.
2. Any significant effect on the college safety & security
3. Any significant effect on college services
4. Type of attendees or speakers, such as political figures, famous individuals, or controversial figures
5. Type of event, such as concert or dance
6. If alcohol is present during event
7. If cash or money will be exchanged, such as selling goods or ticket sales

After the approval process, the Events Manager will discuss any identified issues or necessary changes with the event organizer, including any limitations on event activities or facility usage. Once final approval is granted, the Events Manager will issue a Facilities Use Agreement for the event, which the organizer must sign. The Events Manager will also be responsible for collecting any applicable fees and obtaining any required certificates of insurance.

• Additional Event Requirements for Affiliated and Non-Affiliated Individuals or Groups

• No structures (including tents) are allowed without permission. The bringing, leaving, or dumping of furniture, mattresses, or other large household items, defined as anything that cannot be reasonably carried on the person or reasonably used for personal purposes, is also prohibited unless prior written permission has been given by the Department of Campus Security and Police.
• Constructing shelters/tens and camping or sleeping outside on university-owned or operated properties is prohibited unless pre-approved in writing by the Department of Campus Security and Police.
• All permitted structures, signs, and litter resulting from the activity/event must be removed from the area at the end of the event.
• Use of security outside school police department is prohibited.
• By submitting the required event registration, the reserving person and associated persons and/or group agree to comply with federal, state, local laws, College facility use rules, and applicable policies in the Student Handbook (if a student-related event),
• Persons shall comply with the directions of any College official acting in the performance of his/her duties.

1. Event Termination

Events, whether organized by campus-affiliated persons/groups or non-affiliated individuals/groups, may be terminated for reasons including, but not limited to:

1. Violation of state or federal law
2. Violation of College policy
3. Violation of terms set in the facilities Use Agreement
4. Damage to property
5. Imminent or threats to safety & property (to include weather related events)
6. Disruption or obstruction of the administrative and/or educational environment

1. Related Documents
   Facilities Use Agreement and Fee Schedule https://richardblandcollege.formstack.com/forms/campus_event_registration_2024_2025
2. Contacts 

6. Procedures
   See Facilities Use Agreement.

Policy History
Approved February 26, 2018

6040 Smoking Policy

Policy Number: 6040
Policy Name: Smoking Policy
Responsibility for Maintenance: Director of Capital Assets and Operations

1. Policy Statement
   Richard Bland College will adhere to state laws and policies that ban smoking in public higher education facilities and state vehicles, and establish limitations on outdoor smoking. Faculty, staff, student, and visitor smokers are required to comply with all policies and procedures relating to smoking found herein and in the RBC Student Handbook. Anyone inviting a smoker onto campus must advise the visitor regarding the smoking policies.Interpretation of this policy is at the full discretion of the College President, campus safety officials, and the Director of Capital Assets and Operations.
2. Reason for Policy
   Richard Bland College is committed to providing a safe, healthful, and pleasant learning and working environment for RBC students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The purpose of this policy is to address the use of all tobacco products and electronic cigarettes and to ensure compliance with the Virginia Indoor Clean Air Act (VICAA), Virginia Executive Order 41 (2006), and the associated guidance issued by the Virginia Secretary of Administration, by providing a healthy and safe environment for faculty, staff, students, and visitors and to preserve the right of choice regarding smoking.
   
3. Applicability of the Policy
   This policy applies to
   1. All College facilities.
   2. All vehicles owned, leased, or rented by the College.
   3. All other property owned, leased, or controlled by the College, such as the campus grounds, sidewalks, malls, etc; and
   4. All members of the campus community as well as contractors and visitors, and other College agents.
4. Related Documents
   Virginia Indoor Clean Air Act (§§15.2-2820—15.2-2833)
   Virginia Executive Order (EO) 41 Banning Smoking in State Offices and Vehicles
   Department of General Services (Guidance on Executive Order 41)
   Student Handbook
5. Contacts

6. Definitions
   Smoking:
   The carrying or holding of any lighted pipe, cigar, cigarette, of any kind, or other lighted smoking equipment of any kind or the lighting or inhaling or exhaling of smoke from a pipe, cigar, or cigarette of any kind. The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigs), also known as vaping, shall follow the same policies as the use of all tobacco products and shall, under this policy, be included in the definition of “smoking.”
   College Facilities: All buildings owned, rented, or leased by the college including residence halls, leased housing, and student activity buildings.
7. General Prohibitions 
   The College seeks to promote the health of the college community through the following regulations pertaining to smoking.
   1. Smoking is prohibited in all buildings, facilities, and enclosed structures owned, leased, or rented by the College. Smoking is prohibited in all College owned, leased, or rented vehicles.
   2. Smoking is prohibited in all College owned, leased, or rented vehicles.
   3. Smoking within 25 feet of a campus building is prohibited.
   4. Smokers are required to dispose of their smoking material waste and shall not litter on state-owned property with smoking material waste.
   5. Smoking locations must not impede traffic flow in or out of buildings and shall be in a location where smoke cannot drift into office, classrooms, or living spaces.
   6. The sale or promotional distribution of tobacco products on campus is prohibited.
   7. Smoking is prohibited in outdoor areas during University events or activities scheduled in those outdoor areas, including but not limited to bleachers or row seating at Commencement or athletic events.
   8. The College offices may designate outdoor areas as smoking areas, with the approval of the President and the Director of Capital Assets and Operations.

   
   VI. Enforcement
   Non-compliance should be reported to the facility’s building coordinator. In instances where there is no designated building coordinator, non-compliance should be reported to the Director of Capital Assets and Operations.No person shall smoke in any prohibited area on or in campus facilities of vehicles.  Any person who is notified and continues to smoke in such area or place after having been asked to refrain from smoking shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $25 for each incident.In addition to the enforcement mechanism set forth in VICAA, cases involving students who have violated the Policy will be handled through the Student Disciplinary Policy detailed in the RBC Student Handbook.VII. Related Laws, Policies, and Guidance Documents
   Virginia Indoor Clean Air Act (Virginia Code §§15.2-2820—15.2-2833)
   Virginia Executive Order 41 – Banning Smoking in State Offices and Vehicles
   Department of General Services Guidance for Executive Order 41: Smoking Ban in State Offices and Vehicles
   RBC Student Handbook
   Use of College Facilities Policy

    

   Policy History
   Approved November 20, 2015
   Updated January 11, 2017
   Revised July 1, 2020

6050 Sustainability Plan

Policy Number: 6050
Policy Name: Sustainability Plan
Responsibility for Maintenance: Director of Capital Assets and Operations

1. Policy Statement
   Richard Bland College supports the integration of sustainability throughout campus operations. Members of the campus community are expected to follow the guidelines established in this policy for operating the College in a sustainable manner in order to meet the goals of the Presidents’ Climate Commitment. The College will work to promote (A) Sustainable Purchasing, (B) Green Cleaning, (C) Sustainable Transportation, (D) Solid Waste Management and Recycling, (E) Green Building, (F) Energy Conservation, and (G) Sustainable Landscaping.
2. Reason for Policy
   The purpose of this policy is to support operational efficiency and sustainable practices throughout the operations of Richard Bland College.
3. Applicability of the Policy
   This policy applies to all facilities and grounds at Richard Bland College and College-affiliated organizations, to all employees and students, and to all campus departments. Sections of this policy may apply to particular individuals and departments as outlined below.
4. Contacts

5. Definitions
   Construction and Demolition Debris: This includes waste and recyclables generated from construction and from the renovation, demolition, or deconstruction of preexisting structures. It does not include land-clearing debris, such as soil, vegetation, and rocks.Green Building Principles: The efficient management of energy and water resources, management of material resources and waste, protection of environmental quality, protection of occupant health and indoor environmental quality, reinforcement of natural systems, and integrating the design approach.Green Cleaning: Green cleaning is the use of cleaning products and practices that have less harmful environmental and health impacts than conventional products and practices.Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED): A third-party green building certification program administered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).Presidents’ Climate Commitment: The American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment is a pledge made by presidents of campuses throughout the country to reduce and eventually eliminate greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy use, commuting, air travel, and other sources.
6. Procedures
   1. Sustainable Purchasing
      1. This section applies to all departmental purchases made by Richard Bland College.
      2. Sustainable Purchasing Guidelines: Richard Bland College will strive to purchase products that promote sustainability. Preference will be given for products that are reused or contain recycled content; are durable, repairable, or recyclable; have low toxicity; have minimal packaging; come from local sources; have environmentally and socially responsible production processes; and are energy efficient. Preference will be given for working with local businesses and historically underrepresented businesses whenever possible.
      3. Paper: Office paper for printing and copying must contain 30% minimum recycled content paper whenever possible.
      4. Electronic Equipment and Appliances: Electronic equipment and appliances must be Energy Star labeled for equipment that is eligible for an Energy Star label. Electronic equipment should also meet the standard for Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) Silver or Gold rating whenever possible.
   2. Green Cleaning
      1. This section applies to all facilities and all staff.
      2. Preference for Green Cleaning Products: Richard Bland College shall implement sustainable cleaning procedures and sustainable cleaning purchasing practices whenever possible. Preference will be given to purchasing cleaning products that meet Green Seal, EcoLogo, or the Environmental Protection Agency’s Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. The Department of Capital Assets and Operations must track cleaning product purchases to indicate whether products meet these criteria.
      3. Green Cleaning Training: All custodial staff will be trained on green cleaning procedures and the relevant contents of the Sustainability Policy. The training will include information on how to use cleaning products and cleaning equipment, proper cleaning procedures (including application and disposal), and the environmental and health issues associated with cleaning products and equipment.
   3. Sustainable Transportation
      1. This section applies to all employees and departments at Richard Bland College.
      2. Idling Reduction: No vehicle on campus may idle for more than 5 consecutive minutes. Each driver will be responsible for ensuring that the vehicle he or she is operating does not idle unnecessarily. Vehicles should be turned off when parked and should not be restarted until loading or unloading is complete and the vehicle is ready to depart.
      3. Vehicle Operation: College employees should drive College-owned vehicles in a manner that maximizes fuel efficiency by observing speed limits, minimizing idling, and minimizing rapid acceleration and braking.
      4. Minimize Vehicle Miles Traveled: Alternate meeting methods, such as conference calls, or other technology, should be used when feasible to reduce the number of driving trips. Meetings should be held at centralized locations, when possible, to reduce distances traveled. Where applicable and reasonable, employees should use alternative modes of transportation, such as public transit, walking, biking, and carpooling. In general, travel routes should be planned to optimize efficiency. When feasible, trips should be chained together to reduce required travel time and distance.
      5. Maximize Efficiency Through Maintenance: Regularly scheduled preventive and other maintenance shall be performed promptly on all fleet items to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize emissions.
      6. Optimize Fleet Size: Vehicles that are used infrequently should be considered for removal from the fleet. Vehicle share agreements among departments, community car-share programs, or vehicle lease contracts should be explored to reduce the number of fleet vehicles needed.
   4. Vehicle Purchasing:
      1. Departments should identify the most fuel-efficient vehicles with maximum emission reduction available that meet the department’s operational needs whenever possible.
      2. Vehicles of a smaller class size and vehicles such as neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) and bicycles should be considered to achieve increased miles per gallon and lower emissions.
      3. Preference will be given to purchasing electric, hybrid or alternative/renewable-fueled vehicles and equipment when (A) they meet the operational needs of the Department, (B) their fuels and relevant parts are available or could easily be made available, and (C) they show a reduction in or equivalent emissions or life-cycle per-mile costs (including maintenance), when compared with similar gas or diesel vehicles.
      4. “Clean” fuels (such as electricity, biodiesel, compressed natural gas, ethanol, and others) shall be used when feasible.
      5. All passenger vehicles acquired will be selected based on minimum greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and maximum fuel efficiency. Vehicles that achieve a combined 30 mpg or greater will be given preference.
      6. Work trucks, cargo vans, and special purpose and emergency response vehicles and equipment shall be purchased or leased to comply with the requirements of this policy whenever possible.
      7. The most fuel efficient vehicles that will meet departmental needs shall be purchased whenever possible.
      8. Sustainable Campus Transportation: Richard Bland College will encourage employees, students, and visitors to utilize alternative transportation options in order to reduce commuting emissions. Educational programs, incentives, and infrastructure improvements will be explored in order to promote alternative transportation such as walking, biking, public transportation, carpooling, and alternative fueled vehicles.
   5. Solid Waste Management and Recycling
      1. This section applies to all campus facilities and all students and employees at Richard Bland College.
      2. The entire campus community is expected to actively participate in Richard Bland College’s recycling program and waste reduction efforts through source reduction, reuse of materials, and recycling. This includes following the provisions of Richard Bland County’s mandatory recycling law.
      3. Source Reduction: All members of the college community are responsible for implementing operational practices that prevent waste from being produced whenever possible. Examples include printing reports and documents on both sides of paper; reducing the number of documents printed when possible; using email rather than printed correspondence; and using products that are reusable, refillable, repairable, non-toxic, and recyclable. Items requiring the least possible packaging should be purchased when practical. Every effort should be made to prevent excess or unneeded materials from being purchased. All members of the campus community should identify additional waste reduction opportunities within their units.
      4. Reuse of Materials: All members of the college community are responsible for reusing products whenever possible. Examples include obtaining office furniture from the College department of central stores; sharing office supplies when feasible; and using mugs, dishes, glasses, and reusable flatware rather than disposable paper and plastic ware. All members of the campus community should identify additional reuse opportunities within their units.
      5. Recycling: All members of the college community are responsible for separating identified recyclable materials and placing them in appropriate recycling containers. Recyclable materials include all items listed by the Richard Bland County Resource Recovery Agency such as office paper, mixed paper, newspapers, magazines, catalogues, craft paper, corrugated cardboard, paperboard, glass, metal, plastics, and beverage cartons. Additional ongoing consumables, such as toner cartridges, will be recycled to the maximum extent possible. Batteries and mercury containing light bulbs will be recycled to the maximum extent possible. Durable goods will be recycled, donated, or otherwise diverted from disposal to the maximum extent possible.
      6. Composting Food Waste: Pre-consumer food waste from dining services will be collected for composting using the appropriate containers. Dining services staff is responsible for separating food waste and placing it into the appropriate containers. Additional opportunities for composting will be explored in order to further reduce food waste entering the waste stream.
      7. Implementation: The Department of Capital Assets and Operations is responsible for providing recycling bins throughout campus to facilitate recycling; managing the collection of recyclables including training custodial and grounds staff regarding proper recycling collection; and tracking recycling and trash volume. The Department of Capital Assets and Operations is also responsible for identifying additional opportunities to reduce waste and implementing programs and practices to reduce waste. The Department of Capital Assets and Operations is responsible for educating campus community members about recycling and waste reduction through signage, events, and other methods. The Department of Capital Assets and Operations, with guidance from the Director of Sustainability, is responsible for coordinating periodic waste stream audits to determine waste diversion rates.
   6. Green Building
      1. This section applies to all facilities at Richard Bland College and College-affiliated organizations.
      2. Achieve LEED Silver Certification for Building Construction and Renovations: All new construction of buildings must meet LEED silver standards. All major renovations of buildings over 5,000 square feet must meet LEED silver standards when reasonably practicable.
      3. Utilize Energy Efficient Equipment: For new construction and building renovations, all appliances, heating and/or air conditioning equipment, or other systems that use energy shall be Energy Star qualified, if Energy Star equipment is available. When equipment needs to be replaced in existing buildings due to maintenance, Energy Star qualified equipment shall be used, if Energy Star equipment is available. The Department of Capital Assets and Operations will identify and implement additional energy efficiency improvements and other sustainability measures throughout campus facilities.
      4. Monitor Building Energy Consumption: All new and existing buildings shall monitor ongoing energy use with the EPA Building Portfolio Manager or equivalent energy monitoring software. This will allow the College to monitor energy usage, identify potential energy saving opportunities, and benchmark buildings against similar buildings throughout the country.
      5. Divert Construction and Demolition Debris from Disposal: At least 50% of waste tonnage from construction, demolition, and renovation projects shall be diverted from disposal whenever possible. The Department of Capital Assets and Operations should work with contractors and waste haulers to ensure construction and demolition debris is recycled whenever possible.
      6. Implementation: Project managers will ensure that the strategies specified in the Sustainability Policy are communicated to design and construction firms in the bidding process. Project managers will consider the green building competency of the firms in determining the contractors to hire. Project managers will ensure that the project specifications incorporate the strategies outlined in the Sustainability Policy and that the strategies are implemented throughout each project. Project managers and building maintenance personnel will ensure that energy efficient equipment, such as Energy Star qualified products, is utilized for new construction, renovations, and routine equipment replacement.
   7. Energy Conservation
      1. This section applies to all facilities at Richard Bland College and all employees.
      2. Temperature Set Points:
         1. Indoor temperature settings in all spaces during occupied periods will be:
            1. heated to a target temperature of 68° F during the winter; and
            2. cooled to a target temperature of 74° F in centrally air conditioned spaces during the summer.
         2. These will be set by the Department of Capital Assets and Operations in centrally controlled systems. Occupants who control their own thermostats are required to adhere to these settings.
         3. Temperatures may fluctuate within the building around these set points and every effort will be made to stay within 2° F of this range.
      3. Supplemental electric heaters shall only be issued in the case of long-term system malfunctions and as authorized and provided by the Department of Capital Assets and Operations.
      4. No other use of electric heaters is allowed and unauthorized heaters will be removed.
      5. Building Occupant Responsibilities: Individuals are expected to conserve energy wherever possible in their departments in order to save college resources and minimize greenhouse gas emissions. Individuals should:
         1. Turn off lights when exiting rooms that are no longer occupied.
         2. Turn off office equipment (including monitors, task lights, personal computers, and other equipment where possible) when leaving a workspace for more than 30 minutes and at the end of the day.
         3. Set computer power management settings so that computer monitors turn off and CPU enters hibernate or standby mode after extended periods of time.
         4. Enable power management features on laser printers and copiers and power them down whenever possible, particularly on evenings and weekends.
         5. Utilize Energy Star equipment whenever possible.
         6. The Department of Capital Assets and Operations shall identify and implement additional energy conservation opportunities throughout campus facilities.
   8. Sustainable Landscaping
      1. This section applies to all campus grounds and the Department of Capital Assets and Operations.
      2. Sustainable Landscaping Guidelines: Richard Bland College shall manage campus grounds and landscaping in a sustainable manner, shall implement the Sustainable Landscape Master Plan to the fullest extent possible, shall utilize the Environmental Protection Agency’s four-tiered approached to Integrated Pest Management for all campus grounds whenever possible, and shall utilize native plants for landscaping on campus whenever possible.

Policy History
Approved November 20, 2015
Updated January 11, 2017
Updated July 1, 2020

6060 Tents and Camping

Policy Number: 6060
Policy Name: Tents and Camping
Responsible Office: Department of Capital Assets and Operations

Effective Date: August 23, 2024

Last Updated: Initial

1. Policy Statement 
   1. Constructing or occupying tents on College-owned or operated properties is prohibited unless approved in advance by the College. Tents shall include any structure, enclosure, or shelter with or without sidewalls or drops that is constructed of canvas or pliable material supported in any manner except by the contents it protects.
   2. Tent approval requests should specify the time, location, and duration for which the approval is sought.
   3. All approved tents require a College-affiliated sponsor who agrees to be responsible for ensuring that all College rules are followed, including compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances. A contractual agreement for hosting an event between a College entity and an external individual, group, or organization is considered a form of sponsorship for the purpose of this Policy. Such contract will require a responsible individual to be on site to ensure compliance with all public laws and College rules.
   4. Approved tents must be removed at the end of the day and will not be permitted between the hours of 12 a.m. and 6 a.m.
   5. Approved tents must comply with College requirements to avoid disrupting or obstructing College functions, including impeding pedestrian or vehicular traffic, blocking ingress/egress, creating unsanitary conditions, limitations on amplified sound, or other specified disruptive activity. Any tents or other structures must also comply with safety requirements imposed by federal, state, and local law.  If the actual use of the tents or other structures is in violation of any of these requirements, the approval is revoked.
   6. The construction or occupation of camping tents is prohibited. “Camping Tent” means any collapsible tent or structure, typically having as its basic components a flexible material supported by a framework, designed, intended, or used as temporary shelter while camping or on recreational outdoor outings.  Camping Tents may include tents known as “pup tents,” “dome tents,” “cabin tents,” “hiker tents,” and “backpacking tents.”  A Camping Tent does not include a tent with all sides entirely open and where there is an unobstructed view into such tent from the outside at all angles.
   7. Camping on College property is prohibited. Camping shall include : the act of using any part of the campus for living accommodation purposes, such as establishment of temporary or permanent living quarters, sleeping outdoors overnight, making preparations for overnight sleeping (including the laying down of bedding), storing personal belongings, using any tent, shelter, or similar structure regardless of size for sleeping, sleeping in, on or under parked vehicles, or setting up temporary or permanent sleeping areas outdoors or in structures not designated for human occupancy. Camping does not include the use of College real property that has been wholly or partially designated as sleeping areas or the use of temporary hammocks used in recreation or studying activities outside during non-overnight hours.
2. Reason for Policy
   This purpose of this policy is to establish the College policy for the use of tents.
3. Applicability of the Policy
   This policy applies to any individual, group, or organization, regardless of their affiliation with the College. With the exception of the prohibition on camping tents, camping, and compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations, this policy does not apply to the College itself or tents erected for College use.
4. Related Documents
   Facilities Use Agreement and Fee Schedule
5. Contacts 

1. Procedures
   See Facilities Use Agreement.