FRSC1020 Basic Firefighter - Emergency Services Fundamentals

Course Description

This course provides the student with information on the applicable laws, policies, and standards that the Firefighter I course is designed, and how the course will be administered. This course provides the emergency responder with basic principles and functions of the Incident Command System. The course will provide the necessary knowledge and skills to operate within the ICS and their role within the ICS at the fire station, at a non-emergency scene, and at emergency scenes. It will provide also provide the emergency responder with knowledge on how to perform basic skills at emergency scenes that deal with infection control, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, basic first aid measures, and using an AED. Finally, it will provide the emergency responder skills and knowledge on how to recognize the presence of and the potential for a hazardous materials release, and how and who personnel should call. Upon completion of this course the student emergency responder candidate/recruit will have the basic skills and knowledge to be able to obtain a certificate of completion or become certified through the appropriate governing agency for the following: 1. Infection Control 2. CPR 3. First Aid 4. ICS-100 5. IS-700 6. State of Georgia - Hazardous Materials for First Responders Awareness Level This course meets the requirements NFPA 1001 Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications and all other state, local, and provincial occupational health and safety regulatory requirements.

Credit Hours

Prerequisites

None

Outcomes

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation AED

Perform the following procedures as defined by the American Heart Association. A. Describe the steps of CPR. a. When to start CPR b. When to give breaths, including with barrier devices c. When to check for a pulse d. How to give compressions at the proper depth and rate and with complete chest recoil e. When to use an AED B. Describe the signs and actions for severe airway obstruction in the responsive and unresponsive victim. C. Describe the links in the Chain of Survival, including the importance of a. Activating the appropriate emergency response system. b. Performing CPR c. Providing early defibrillation d. Ensuring the arrival of early advanced care by activating the appropriate emergency response system D. Describe the signs of 4 common life-threatening emergencies in adults a. Cardiac arrest b. Choking c. Stroke d. Heart attack

Demonstrate the following skills: A. Activating the emergency response system. B. Giving breaths for adult, child, and infant victims using. a. mouth-to mouth ventilation b. mouth-to-mask ventilation c. bag-mask ventilation C. Giving compressions for adult, child, and infant victims. a. Pushing hard and fast b. Allowing full chest recoil c. Minimizing interruptions in compressions D. Performing 1- and 2- rescuer CPR for adult, child, and infant victims. E. Using an AED for victims >1 year of age. F. Relieving choking in the responsive and unresponsive victim of any age.

Support NFPA 1001 Standard for Firefighter Professional Qualifications, 2008 Edition FFI References: 4.3

Fire Service Communication

Describe communication responsibilities of the firefighter.

Summarize necessary skills for fire service communications.

Describe basic communications equipment used in telecommunications centers.

Describe basic business telephone courtesies.

Explain how a firefighter should proceed when receiving emergency calls from the public.

Describe types of public alerting systems.

Discuss ways of alerting fire department personnel to emergencies.

Summarize guidelines for radio communications.

Describe information given in arrival and progress reports.

Discuss calls for additional resources and emergency radio traffic.

Discuss evacuation signals and personnel accountability reports.

Skills Objectives:Demonstrate how to transmit and receive messages via fire department radio.

Skills Objectives:Demonstrate how to operate and answer a fire station telephone.

Support GA Firefighter Standards & Training Skills - References: Receiving Emergency Calls by Phone CM-1; Receiving Business/Personal Calls CM-2; Operate Radio Equipment CM-3.

Support NFPA 1001 Standard for Firefighter Professional Qualifications, 2008 Edition - FFI References: 5.2; 5.2.1; 5.2.1(A); 5.2.1(B); 5.2.2; 5.2.2(A); 5.2.2(B); 5.2.3; 5.2.3(A); 5.2.3(B)

First Aid AED

List the following first aid steps for medical emergencies: A. Breathing problems B. Chest pain and heart attack C. Fainting D. Diabetes E. Stroke F. Seizures

List the following first aid steps for injury emergencies: A. Bleeding you can't see B. Mouth and tooth injuries C. Shock D. Bleeding you can’t see E. Broken bones, sprains, and bruises F. Burns and electrocution

List the following first aid steps for environmental emergencies: A. Bites and stings B. Temperature-related emergencies C. Poison emergencies

Tell what an AED does.

Tell when an AED might be used.

List the steps for using an AED.

Tell how to give CPR and use an AED.

Skill Objectives:Demonstrate how to open the airway of an unresponsive victim.

Skill Objectives:Establish if a victim is breathing.

Skill Objectives:Perform first aid actions for a victim who is choking and can't speak or make a sound (severe choking).

Skill Objectives:Demonstrate how to use an epinephrine pen for a bad allergic reaction.

Skill Objectives:Perform first aid for shock.

Skill Objectives:Demonstrate how to stop bleeding with a dressing.

Skill Objectives:Demonstrate use of an AED for victims 1 year of age and older.

Support GA Firefighter Standards & Training Skills References - Primary Survey EM-1; Controlling Bleeding EM-2; Treatment for Shock EM-3.

Support NFPA 1001 Standard for Firefighter Professional Qualifications, 2008 Edition FFI - -References 4.3.

Hazardous Materials First Responder Awareness

Distinguish between hazardous materials incidents and other emergencies. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(4); ODP Awareness I.a.]

Select facts about training requirements for Awareness-Level first responders. [NFPA 472, 4.1.1.1, 4.1.1.2; ODP Awareness III.d.]

Select facts about the primary responsibilities of the Awareness-Level first responder at a hazardous materials incident. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(1)]

Select facts about the four main U.S. agencies involved in the regulation of hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.1.2.1, 4.4.1(2)]

Select facts about the basic concepts of hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1 (4) and 4.4.1(3)(c); ODP Awareness I.e.]

List potential ignition sources at a hazardous materials scene. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(3)(b)]

List potential ignition sources in explosive atmospheres. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(3)(b)]

List National Fire Academy (NFA) categories of hazardous materials hazards. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(3), 4.4.1 (3)(c)]

List NFPA categories of hazardous materials hazards. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(3)(c)]

Distinguish between routes of entry for human exposure to hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(3)(d)]

Select facts about hazardous materials hazards. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(3)(c)]

List the seven primary clues to the presence of hazardous materials.

Evaluate questions about the purposes of pre-incident surveys.

Evaluate questions about provisions required in every local emergency response plan (LERP). [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(1)]

List examples of commercial occupancies that are probable locations for significant quantities of hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(5)]

List examples of hazardous materials likely to be found at private occupancies. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(5)]

List examples of locations likely to have a high incidence of hazardous materials incidents. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(5)]

Evaluate questions about bulk and nonbulk packaging. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(6)]

Identify atmospheric/nonpressure containers used to store hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(6)]

Identify low-pressure storage tanks and pressure vessels used to store hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(6)]

Identify typical rail tank cars used to store hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(6)]

Identify typical cargo tank trucks used to store hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(6)]

Recall the UN/DOT hazard classes. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(2)]

Evaluate questions about UN commodity identification numbers. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(7)(a), 4.2.2(2)]

Recall the five characteristics/parts of a DOT placard.

List general types of containers on which DOT placards may be found. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(9)]

Match DOT placard colors to their hazards. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(2)]

Identify DOT symbols. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(2)]

Select facts about UN/DOT hazard classes and divisions. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(2), 4.2.1(3), 4.2.1(9)]

Recall the primary hazard characteristics associated with each of the UN/DOT hazard class materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(3)]

Evaluate questions about markings and colors used to indicate the presence of hazardous materials (other than those used by DOT). [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(7)(f)]

Select facts about the NFPA 704 system. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(7)(b), 4.2.1(8)]

Select facts about hazard communications labels and markings. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(7)(d), 4.2.1(9)]

Identify hazard communication symbols. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(9)]

Select facts about U.S. military fire division symbols. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(7)(c)]

Select facts about U.S. military hazardous chemical markings. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(7)(c)]

List information included on a pipeline marker. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(7)(e)]

Select facts about U.S. pipeline color codes and pipe markings. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(7)(e)]

Assess scenarios to detect the presence of hazardous materials.

List written sources for obtaining the names of hazardous materials in fixed facilities. [NFPA 472, 4.2.2(3)]

List written sources for obtaining the names of hazardous materials at transportation incidents.

Select from a list information required on shipping papers. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(10)(c)]

Name the entries on shipping papers that indicate the presence of hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(10)(c)]

Select facts about shipping paper identification. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(10)(d)(e)(f)(g)]

State where to find a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(10)(a)]

Select facts about basic information that must be included on a U.S. MSDS. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(10)(b)]

Select from a list the entries on an MSDS that indicate the presence of hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(10)(b)]

Select facts about the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG). [NFPA 472, 4.2.3, 4.4.1(4)(a)(b)(c), 4.4.1(5), 4.4.1(10); ODP Awareness I. c., I. d.]

List the three methods for determining the ERG page for a hazardous material. [NFPA 472, 4.2.3(1)]

State the two general types of hazards found on each Guide page. [NFPA 472, 4.2.3(2)]

Explain the difference between small and large spills as defined in the ERG’s table of initial isolation and protective action distances. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(8)]

Explain the difference between initial isolation distances and protective action distances. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(7), 4.4.1(9)(a, b)]

Describe the limitations of using the senses to determine the presence or absence of hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(12)]

List examples of equipment that may indicate the presence of hazardous materials at facilities.

List examples of visible physical actions or chemical reactions that may indicate the presence of hazardous materials. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(11)]

List difficulties encountered in determining the specific names of hazardous materials in both facilities and transportation. [NFPA 472, 4.2.2(1)]

Skills Objectives:Demonstrate how to interpret representative shipping papers. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(10)]

Skills objectives:Demonstrate how to interpret a material safety data sheet (MSDS). [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(10)]

Skills Objective:Demonstrate how to find hazard information in the current edition of the ERG. [NFPA 472, 4.2.3; ODP Awareness I.c, I.d]

Skills Objectives:Use the ERG to identify hazardous material(s) by name, UN/NA identification number, or placard type. [NFPA 472, 4.2.3]

Skills Objectives:Use the ERG to determine the emergency actions, PPE, and initial isolation and protective distances that should be taken for given hazardous materials incidents. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(4)(a,b,c)]

Evaluate questions about incident management elements.

Recall the advantages of an incident management system. [ODP Awareness V.b., VI. c.]

Distinguish between functions of the model Incident Management System.

Select facts about predetermined procedures. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(1); ODP Awareness III. d., III. e.]

Select facts about procedures and guidelines for using communications equipment correctly. [ODP Awareness, VI. a., VI. c., VI. d.]

Select facts about isolation. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1, 4.4.1(3), 4.4.1(6)(a), 4.4.1 (11); ODP Awareness V.a., V.d.]

Distinguish between the initial isolation distance, initial isolation zone, and protective action zone. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(7)]

Select facts about the process for establishing the initial isolation distance. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(7)]

Select facts about hazard control zones.

Explain the Awareness-Level first responders’ role in notification. [NFPA 472, 4.4.2]

List Awareness-Level rescue actions. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(3)(a); ODP Awareness, III. c., V. d.]

Evaluate questions about protective actions. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1]

Select facts about evacuation. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(6)(b)]

Evaluate questions about sheltering in place. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(6)(c)]

Select facts about personal protective equipment (PPE). [ODP Awareness III.b.]

List typical components of structural fire-fighting protective clothing. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(5)(b)]

List limitations of structural fire-fighting protective clothing. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(5)(b)]

Recall when structural fire-fighting protective clothing can be worn at hazardous materials incidents. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(5)(b)]

Select facts about chemical-protective clothing. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(5)(d)]

List components of a positive-pressure SCBA. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(5)(c)]

Distinguish between advantages and disadvantages of positive-pressure SCBA. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(5)(c)]

Evaluate questions about the Level D ensemble. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(5)(a)]

Select facts about PPE care and inspection. [ODP Awareness III.b.]

List types of personal protective equipment.

Select facts about terrorism and goals of terrorist operations. [ODP Awareness VI.b.]

List potential terrorist targets. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(13); ODP Awareness II.d.]

List categories of terrorist incidents. [ODP Awareness II.a., II.b., II.c., II.e., III.a.]

Define a weapon of mass destruction.

Select facts about biological terrorism. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(16)]

Distinguish between a chemical and a biological incident. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(14)]

Select facts about chemical terrorism. [NFPA 472, 4.2.1(15)]

Evaluate questions about considerations at terrorist or criminal incidents. [ODP Awareness III.f., IV.a., VI.b.]

State actions that Awareness-Level first responders must take when criminal or terrorist activity is suspected. [NFPA 472, 4.4.1(12)]

Select facts about evidence preservation at crime scenes. [ODP Awareness IV.a, IV.b., IV.c, IV.d., V.c, V.e.]

ICS-100 Introduction to Incident Command System

Describe the purpose of the course.

Identify three purpose of the Incident Command System

Identify requirements to use ICS.

Describe the basic features of the ICS: A. Common Terminology B. Modular Organization C. Management by Objectives D. Reliance on an Incident Action Plan E. Chain of Command F. Unity of Command G. Unified Command H. Manageable Span of Control I. Pre-designated incident locations and facilities J. Resource management K. Information and intelligence management L. Integrated communications M. Transfer of Command N. Accountability O. Mobilization

Describe the role and function of the Incident Commander.

Describe the role and function of the Command Staff.

Describe the role and the function of the following: A. Operations Section B. Planning Section C. Logistics Section D. Finance/Administration Section

Describe the six basic ICS facilities.

Identify facilities that may be located together.

Identify facility map symbols.

Describe common mobilization responsibilities.

Describe common responsibilities at an incident.

List individual accountability responsibilities.

Describe common demobilization responsibilities.

Provide documentation of successful completion of on-line FEMA testing for IS-100.

Incident Command System

Describe the characteristics of the incident command system.

Explain the organization of the incident command system.

Skills Objectives:Perform within an assigned role within the incident command system.

Skills Objectives:Implement and coordinate an incident command system until command is transferred.

Skills Objectives:Demonstrate transfer of command within an incident command system.

Infection Control

Describe the principles of infection control and Universal Precaution for blood and bodily fluids as prescribed for public safety workers by the Center for Disease Control

Discuss the importance of body substance isolation.

Describe the components of personal protective equipment.

Discuss diseases of concern.

Describe laws that relate to infection control.

Explain the importance of immunizations.

Describe areas or situations as to where a firefighter could come in contact with potentially infectious substances.

Describe the method for donning and doffing patient gloves.

Describe the use, decontamination, disinfection, and disposal of personal protective equipment.

Demonstrate the proper donning, doffing, and disposal of gloves.

Demonstrate the proper cleaning and disinfection techniques to contaminated equipment.

IS-700 National Incident Management System NIMS An Introduction

Describe the key concepts and principles underlying NIMS.

Identify the benefits of using NIMS as a national response model.

Identify the benefits of using ICS as the national response model.

Identify the organizational structure of ICS.

Identify five major management functions.

Describe the purpose of unique position titles in ICS.

Explain the roles and responsibilities of the Command and General Staff.

Determine when it is appropriate to institute an Area Command.

Describe the functions and purpose of Multiagency Coordination Systems.

Describe the Public Information Systems required by NIMS.

Identify ways in which NIMS affects how their jurisdictions prepare for incidents and events.

Describe how NIMS affects the way resources are managed before, during, and after an incident.

Describe ways that NIMS supports communications, information management, and supporting technology.

Provide documentation of successful completion of on-line FEMA testing for IS-700.

Required Textbooks/Materials

TBA

Institutional Mission

Atlanta Technical College, a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, provides lifelong educational opportunities and experiences through academic and innovative career preparation, service learning, and multiple program delivery modalities that lead to technical certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees and make student development and success possible in a competitive global economy

Required Technology

Participation in online courses requires reliable technology that meets current Blackboard Ultra and Respondus LockDown Browser standards.

A desktop or laptop computer running a supported operating system is required: Windows 10 or 11, macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, or Chrome OS. Tablets and smartphones may be used to check announcements or view content; however, these devices are not reliable for completing assignments, quizzes, or exams, and some tools may not function as expected. Chromebooks may allow basic access but do not support all features or proctored testing tools.

The latest version of Google Chrome is the recommended browser for Blackboard Ultra. Browsers should be kept up to date, with cookies and pop-ups enabled for full functionality.

A stable broadband internet connection (DSL or cable recommended) is required. A wired connection is strongly advised during tests or video conferencing sessions to prevent interruptions.

Recommended software includes Microsoft 365 (available to ATC students at no cost), Adobe Acrobat Reader for viewing PDF files, and up-to-date audio and video drivers for multimedia use. Systems should maintain current antivirus protection and regular updates to ensure compatibility and security.

For best performance, browsers should be cleared of cached data regularly, and Blackboard’s Browser Checker (available on the Blackboard login page) should be used to verify system compatibility.

Blackboard

Once you have access to Blackboard you will be enrolled in the Student Learning Community Organization (SLC). The SLC offers Blackboard training and other valuable college resources.

Select this link to review the Bb Technical Support Guide

Attendance

The educational programs at Atlanta Technical College reflect those requirements and standards that are necessary for future successful employment in business and industry. Employers expect their employees to be present and to be on time for work each and every day. Likewise, Atlanta Technical College expects each student to be present and to be on time each and every day for all classes. Absences prevent students from receiving full course benefits, disrupt orderly course progress, and diminish the quality of group interaction in class. The college considers both tardiness and early departure from class as forms of absenteeism.

Instructors have both the right and the responsibility to develop reasonable attendance expectations appropriate to the type, level, delivery method, and frequency of class meetings for their courses; communicate the expectations to students clearly via their syllabi addenda; and apply the consequences of failing to meet the expectations fairly and consistently to all enrolled students.

Instructors are responsible for determining whether work missed may be made up, and any make-up work allowed is scheduled at the discretion of instructors. Procedures for make-up work are detailed in syllabi addenda.

Documented absences for military duty, observed religious holidays, judicial proceedings in response to a subpoena, summons for jury duty, or other court-ordered process which requires the attendance of the student at the judicial proceeding are excused. Students absent from class for any reason are still responsible for all work missed. Students should enroll only in those classes that they can reasonably expect to attend on a regular basis.

Students who stop attending classes without officially withdrawing from class risk earning a final grade of F. If a student does not officially withdraw the instructor may issue a final grade of F and the last date of attendance, which will be last day that the student attended class or participated in an academically related activity.

In the event of severe weather or other emergencies, students are expected to continue participating in learning activities via Blackboard, @student.atlantatech.edu email account, or other modality.

Failure to attend class the first week may result in students being turned in as no-shows. See No-Show Policy for further information.

Course Withdrawal

WITHDRAWAL POLICY

The sole responsibility to officially withdraw from any class(es) or the College lies with the student. The effective date of withdrawal is the date the student notifies the college of the withdrawal.
Students have the privilege of dropping a course during the first three instructional days of each semester, through their BANNERWEB account, without the drop becoming a part of your permanent academic record and without it affecting your financial aid.

Please remember, any amount charged against student financial aid (PELL/Scholarships...etc.) in the bookstore will be owed back to the College.

The following criteria has been established for students who elect to withdraw after the third day of classes:

Beginning the fourth day of the term and through 60% of the term, students can withdraw from classes via their BANNERWEB account. Students who elect to withdraw during this period will receive a grade of “W” on the official academic record and will not receive a refund of applicable tuition and fees.
After the “W” (or 60%) through the end of the term (last day of class), students can withdraw from classes via their BANNERWEB account. Students who elect to withdraw during this period will receive a grade of “F” on the official academic record and will not receive a refund of applicable tuition and fees.
Students are prohibited from withdrawing from any class(es) during final exam week.

Students who choose to not withdraw from classes will be classified as abandoning the course. Abandoning a course instead of following official withdrawal procedures may result in a failing grade assigned by the instructor and financial aid adjustments to the student’s account, if applicable.

HARDSHIP WITHDRAWAL

The intent of a “Hardship Withdrawal” is to remove the negative effect of absences that are beyond the control of the student - if those absences affected the student’s ability to withdraw by the deadline or occurred after the posted withdrawal deadline.
The hardship withdrawal submission period opens after the W (or 60%) posted date. A hardship withdrawal, if approved, is defined as a withdrawal after the 60% deadline. A student may petition for a hardship withdrawal by submitting the “Hardship Withdraw Request Form” from the Office of the Registrar. Hardship withdrawals MUST be requested no later than the end of the following semester for which the withdrawal is requested.
• (e.g.- to submit a request for a Spring Semester course, the Office of the Registrar must receive the request no later than the last day of the Summer Semester).
Examples of a reason to submit a hardship withdrawal includes, but is not limited to, hospitalization of the student, death in the immediate family, or military duty. A request must include verifying documentation of the extenuating circumstances.
If a hardship withdrawal is requested/granted, it will include all classes for the given term. Only one hardship withdrawal is allowed per student while enrolled at ATC. The final decision as decided by the Office of Academic & Student Affairs regarding the hardship withdrawal is final and not subject to appeal.

Grading Scale

Grades are issued at the end of each semester. A grade of "C" or better is required for most programs in all classes for graduation. However, there are some programs that may require a “B” or better; therefore, it is recommended that students consult with their specific program advisor.

Grades	Numerical Equivalent	Grade Points
A	90-100	4
B	80-89	3
C	70-79	2
D	60-69	1
F	0-59	0

Other grades allowed by Atlanta Technical College include:

EX	Exempted by Examination	Not Computed
W	Withdrew	Not Computed (Only Given Before 60% Deadline)
TR	Transfer Credit	Not Computed (Displayed as TRA, TRB, or TRC – See Below)
AU	Audited	Not Computed
S	Satisfactory	Not Computed
U	Unsatisfactory	Not Computed
I	Incomplete*	Not Computed

*Course Requirements for removal of an incomplete must be satisfactorily completed prior to the following semester’s mid-term date.

I Indicates that student has an "incomplete" but has satisfactorily completed a substantial portion of the course work. For NON-ACADEMIC reasons beyond their control, the student has not been able to complete some specific part or amount of the work required. An "I" must be satisfactorily changed to a letter grade by the midpoint of the next semester, or it will be changed to the grade of "F" by the Office of Enrollment Services. Students must get approval from the instructor prior to the end of the semester to be eligible for an "I" grade. No credit is given and no grade points are calculated.

IP Indicates that a course continues beyond the end of the semester. An “IP” must be satisfactorily changed to a letter grade by the midpoint of the next semester, or it will be changed to the grade of “F” by the Office of Enrollment Services. No Credit is given and no grade points are calculated.

W Students who withdraw before the 60% point of the semester receive a grade of “W” Withdrew. No credit is given and no grade points are calculated.

EXE Indicates that a student has exempted a course through examination or through the articulated Tech Prep programs. Credit is given but grade points are not calculated. Instructors must submit an Exemption Form to the Office of Enrollment Services to report an exemption.

EXP Indicates the student has been awarded transfer credit though essential learning/prior learning assessment

TR Indicates that a student has been awarded transfer credit from AP. CLEP or IB examinations.

TRA, TRB, TRC Indicates that a student has been awarded transfer credit from another institution. Credit is given but no grade points are calculated. If a student earns credit for a course taken at Atlanta Technical College for which transfer credit has been awarded, then the transfer credit will be deleted from the student's record.

TRM Indicates that a student has been awarded transfer credit from their military experience.

AC Indicates articulated credit earned by students as a part of formal articulation agreements.

AU Indicates an audited course. No grade is given, no credit hours are earned and grade points are not calculated. Auditing a course must be initiated during the registration process. Approval for an audit cannot be granted after participation in classroom instruction. Instructors must submit an Audit Form to the Office of Enrollment Services to report an audit. Audited classes are not eligible for financial aid.

Z indicates students whose academic performance was affected by the COVID-19 global pandemic. A grade of Z is the functional equivalent of a grade of W; the course in which a student received a Z grade does factor into total credit hours attempted for financial aid calculations but does not affect overall GPA.

Student Handbook

All policies and procedures are listed in the Student Handbook, including procedures for filing a grievance. Select this link to review the Student Handbook .

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is expected at all times. Any student found to have engaged in academic misconduct such as cheating, plagiarism, or collusion is subject to disciplinary sanctions as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct detailed in the ATC Catalog and Student Handbook.

Essential Workplace Skills

A Workplace Essential Skills grade will be given each semester for specified courses. The Workplace Essential Skills grade will not affect the academic grade point average (GPA) of a student; that is, Workplace Essential Skills grades remain separate from academic grades. Workplace Essential Skills grades will be reported each semester.

The Workplace Essential Skills program is designed to evaluate and encourage good work habits that ensure job retention and career advancement.

Employability skills refer to the basic academic, interpersonal, reasoning, problem solving skills, and Workplace Essential Skills that, when transferred to the occupational settings, facilitate job acquisition, retention, and advancement.

The Essential Workplace Skills:

1. Leadership
2. Communication
3. Organization
4. Productivity
5. Teamwork
6. Professionalism
7. Resourcefulness

Students of core and program courses will receive a Workplace Essential Skills grade. Instructors will give Workplace Essential Skills assignments throughout the semester. Workplace Essential Skills grades are optional for developmental courses and for grades of W, WF, or WP. Workplace Essential Skills grades will not be used for grades of AC, AU, EX, I, IP, or TR.

Approved Workplace Essential Skills Grades

3 = Exceeds Expectations

2 = Meets Expectations

1 = Needs Improvement

0 = Unacceptable

Bookstore

Most books and supplies are available at the college bookstore. Books may be purchased there or rented at a reduced rate: Atlanta Tech Bookstore

Learning Resources

The student is expected and encouraged to use the school library which is located on the main campus in building G. The library has media equipment for faculty and staff use for instructional purposes. There are over 130 computers, a multimedia room equipped with audio and audiovisual resources, and printing, copying, faxing, and scanning services. Seating is available throughout the library along with study carrels, six study rooms for reserve, one conference room and a Digital Classroom used for class instruction. Atlanta Technical College's library operating hours are Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Students may use the library located at Atlanta Metropolitan State College, or any other library within their access, to gather further information about the topic under discussion in class, or about any topic of interest to the student. If a particular resource cannot be obtained at the ATC Library, a student may use the Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service to locate the item(s). This service borrows books, articles and other resources from other libraries within the region. The ILL form may be accessed via the webpage under the Library’s home page. Students are also expected and encouraged to use available Internet resources, as well as relevant periodicals, books, and electronic resources. Most course textbooks may be checked out for a two-hour, in-house library use only.

Tutorial Support

Tutorial support is available by each instructor during designated office hours. Remediation/tutorial support may be teacher or student initiated depending on the student’s progress. Several programs of study offer services through peer counselors and mentors. Atlanta Technical College also offers math, English, reading, and study skills tutorials through the Academic Success Center. Located in room 2118, the Academic Success Center provides an open study area, face-to-face tutorial, Internet access, and various tutorial computer software. Students may also find out how to access our 24/7 online tutorial programs by visiting the Academic Success Center. The Academic Success Center’s operating hours are Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.; Friday, 9:00a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Financial Aid

The Financial Aid office is located in the Dennard Building, Room 125, and the phone number is 404.225.4716. Financial Aid information, resources, and specialists are located on our Atlanta Tech website: Financial Aid.

For information about tuition & fees, refunds and payment plans visit The Office of Student Accounts.

Non-Discrimination Policy

As set forth in its student catalog, Atlanta Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, veteran status, or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). For further information regarding these laws (Title VI and IX) contact the College's Title IX, Section 504 Coordinator in the Student Support Services office in the Academic Building, Suite C1109.

For more information about Title VI and Title IX, contact the College’s Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator in the Student Support Services Office, Academic Building, Suite C1109.

American with Disabilities Act

Atlanta Technical College strives to provide equal access to education for all students. Students with a documented disability are eligible to receive reasonable academic adjustments and auxiliary aids in the classroom and/or for testing at Atlanta Technical College once the appropriate documentation of the disability has been submitted to the Director of Student Services.

To request reasonable accommodations upon enrollment (Section 504/ADA), please contact the Resource Accommodation Specialist located in the Student Support Services office at Atlanta Technical College, Academic and Student Affairs Division, Academic Building, Suite C1109.

Special Populations

Special Populations services are available to meet the needs of qualifying students. Services include but are not limited to workshops and training on educational, employability, and life skills; institutional and community resources and referrals; and resource fairs. Special populations include:

Single Parents - Individual with custody of a minor child or children.
Single Pregnant Women.
Displaced Homemakers - Adults who have been dependent on the income of a family member and no longer supported by that income, have been performing unpaid labor in the home and as a result have diminished marketable skills, and have difficulty securing employment.
Economically Disadvantaged - Any student who is a Pell Grant recipient, or is receiving federal assistance such as Food Stamps and/or Medicaid.
Individuals with other barriers to educational achievement, including individuals with limited English proficiency.

Please complete the Special Populations form State Enrollment System Information Form if you would like more information on the types of services available and if you qualify.

The Atlanta Technical College Resource Accommodation Specialist is located in the Student Support Services office in the Academic and Student Affairs Division, Academic Building, Suite C1109.

Warranty

Curriculum standards have been developed with direct involvement of business and industry. These standards serve as the industry-validated specifications for each occupational program. The TCSG guarantee to every one of our students is this: If one of our graduates educated under a standard program or his/her employer finds that the graduate is deficient in one or more competencies as defined in the standards, the technical college will retrain the employee at no instructional cost to the employee or the employer. This guarantee is in effect for a period of two years after graduation.

Accreditation

Atlanta Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Atlanta Technical College may also offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Atlanta Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Continuation of Instruction Plan

All classes at Atlanta Technical College use the Blackboard Learning Management System which allows for the continuation of classes even if the school is closed due to inclement weather or any other reason. In the event of school closure, continue to work on your class through Blackboard and be sure to check your Blackboard course and student email for class information from your instructor.