This year, the fire and safety specialist position at Ramapo received a makeover. The greatest change was switching the role from part- to full-time.
According to Fire Marshal and EMS Coordinator Evan Kutzin, this role is a part of the Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). By expanding the position’s hours, the specialist is able to take a more “hands-on’” approach.
“[The fire and safety specialist] position is responsible for conducting inspections and investigations in regards to compliance with established fire, life safety, and environmental protection codes, standards, and practices,” said Kutzin over email. He added that there are additional responsibilities covered by this position, such as campus safety training, responding to emergencies and being a liaison between the college and first responders.
Kutzin stated this role may be largely unseen by students and the local community, but the fire and safety specialist performs an important part on campus through a “technical role with a focus on compliance.”
The fire and safety specialist also is responsible for environmental safety programs and compliance, notably those related to stormwater requirements and air quality permits. Kutzin believes the changes made to this role will improve the wellbeing and safety of the campus as a whole and reduce Ramapo’s overall environmental impact.
Kutzin noted this position was previously a part-time administrative position that focused on documenting fire-safety deficiencies and routine fire extinguisher inspections.
Ramapo alum Samuel Antoshak was hired over the summer to fill the fire and safety specialist role. “I was interested in the position because it gave me an opportunity to give back to my Ramapo community,” stated Antoshak. “I now have a chance to help students in need and make the campus safer for the whole community.”
He reflected on his experience with EHS during his time as a student. “Whenever I had an issue, the health and safety services on campus were always there when needed,” he said.
Antoshak cited some specific goals for Ramapo, stating his largest is “an increase in safety awareness programs.”
“It’s harder to reach students about fire safety practices and procedures, so new channels are needed to reach our audience,” he stated.
Antoshak stated some additional parts of this role include ensuring campus community safety from hazardous conditions and protecting Ramapo’s local ecosystem and physical property.
Kutzin stated this role may be largely unseen by students and the local community, but the fire and safety specialist performs an important part on campus through a “technical role with a focus on compliance.”
Antoshak encourages any students or staff with concerns regarding environmental health and safety or fire safety to reach out to him via his Ramapo email at santosha@ramapo.edu.
“Never hesitate to contact EHS with questions or concerns. If you think you have an emergency, contact Public Safety right away and we will respond to investigate and assist,” he stated.
jgray11@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of Ramapo College of New Jersey
