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Guidance for safe, respectful workplace holiday decorations

To celebrate the winter holiday season safely and consistent with Penn State Health and the College of Medicine’s commitment to a respectful and inclusive environment, the Departments of Diversity and Safety have provided guidelines for workplace holiday decorations:

  1. All decorations should be of non-combustible material.
  2. Flammable decorations, such as baled or loose straw, dry corn stalks, natural trees, or similar materials, are prohibited.
  3. Decorations and related objects in corridors/exits, corridor doors, on exit signs, or on any fire detection or protection device, such as smoke detectors, heat detectors, and sprinkler heads, are prohibited.
  4. Vision panels (windows) in doors shall not be covered or otherwise obstruct the ability to clearly see what is on the opposite side of the door.
  5. Do not hang any decorations from the ceiling.
  6. Artificial trees should be selected carefully, as plastic and metallic trees can burn. If used, select the type clearly marked as made of slow-burning materials.
  7. Aluminum trees should be lit by indirect lighting as these trees may be a shock hazard if lighting strings are used.
  8. Do not use extension cords to light trees.
  9. Turn off all trees and other decorative lighting when leaving the area for the day.
  10. When displaying holiday decorations, be sensitive to the observances and views of others since there are many traditions, including Christmas, that occur during the winter holiday season. Consider displaying religiously neutral decorations or being inclusive of multiple celebrations in open areas where others, particularly patients, may be impacted.

If you have questions about the safety information, please contact the Department of Safety at 717-531-7297.  Questions about diversity and inclusion can be directed to the Penn State Health Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at 717-531-1012.

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