One-line summary: Launch's safety and security policies — physical safety, no-weapons rule, workplace-violence stance, electronic surveillance and privacy expectations, data security (1Password), restricted-access controls, cybersecurity & acceptable use, emergency procedures (fire, weather, medical, active threat — Run-Hide-Fight) with primary and alternate assembly points, COVID/health guidance for our remote team, and the pets/service-animals policy.

Safety & Security

General safety policy

The Company takes employee and client safety very seriously. Please report to your direct supervisor/manager any workplace conditions you believe may be unsafe.

Weapons policy

To ensure that the Company maintains a workplace safe and free of violence for everyone, the Company prohibits the possession or use of weapons at our office. The term "weapons" includes guns, knives, stun guns, or other items capable of harming others. Possession of a valid concealed weapons permit authorized by state officials is not an exemption under this policy. Employees in violation of this policy may be subject to discipline, including immediate termination.

Clients, visitors and vendors are also not permitted to bring weapons into the office and are notified of this policy via signage on our front door.

Workplace violence policy

The Company is committed to maintaining a workplace that is safe and free from violence. Threats of violence could be in the form of verbal abuse, physical gestures, or written notes. Any employee who threatens another employee or client is subject to termination and notification of proper authorities.

Electronic and video surveillance policy

The Company may utilize video and electronic surveillance systems to support workplace safety, security, and operational continuity. Employees should be aware of the following:

1. Workplace monitoring. When on Company premises, video surveillance may be in use in common areas, entrances, and other non-private locations to ensure safety and security. Electronic systems, such as computers, email, and phone communications, may be accessed by management and other approved staff when necessary to retrieve information for business purposes or to maintain operations.
2. No expectation of privacy. Employees should have no expectation of privacy while in common rooms in the Company premises, using Company equipment, or conducting Company business. This includes, but is not limited to, workstations, emails, internet activity, and phone communications.
3. Access to information. The Company may access electronic communications or files to retrieve information critical to business operations, especially when employees are unavailable or in cases of operational necessity.
4. Restricted access to surveillance data. Monitoring data is confidential and will only be accessed by authorized personnel as necessary for operational, security, or legal purposes. However, personal, private email accounts will never be accessed by the company, even if those accounts are accessed by the employee on a work device (such as a company-issued desktop or laptop).

By working for the Company, employees acknowledge and consent to the use of video and electronic surveillance for these purposes. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact HR at hr@launchindustries.biz.

Data security policy

To safeguard sensitive company and client information, employees are required to adhere to strict data security protocols:

1. Secure storage of credentials. All client credentials, passwords, and sensitive data must be stored in company-approved tools, such as 1Password. Storing this information in non-approved or unsecured locations is strictly prohibited.
2. Confidentiality. Employees must handle confidential information with the utmost care and must not disclose it to unauthorized individuals. Any suspected breach of data security must be reported immediately to HR at hr@launchindustries.biz.
3. Device security. Employees must ensure that all company-issued devices are password-protected and comply with company cybersecurity standards.

See §11 Confidentiality, Data Protection & Information Security and §12 Cybersecurity Policy for the full technical-safeguards detail.

Restricted access (key, alarm, and passwords) policy

All keys, keycards, alarm codes, safe codes, door codes, passwords, or any other access code issued to you must be kept strictly confidential and may not be shared with anyone, including other staff members, for any reason.

Cybersecurity and acceptable use policy

Launch is committed to protecting its digital assets and ensuring safe technology use. This policy outlines the responsibilities of employees in maintaining cybersecurity and using company technology appropriately.

Cybersecurity guidelines

• Employees must use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication where applicable.
• Confidential information must not be shared via unsecured channels (e.g., personal email or public Wi-Fi).
• Employees must report suspected phishing attempts, malware, or security breaches immediately.

Acceptable use guidelines

• Company technology must be used for work-related purposes only.
• Employees must not access or transmit inappropriate, illegal, or unauthorized content.

Non-compliance with this policy may result in disciplinary action and, in severe cases, legal consequences.

Emergency procedures

The safety and well-being of our employees, clients, and visitors are of the utmost importance. This policy outlines the procedures to follow in case of an emergency in our office. Most Launch employees work remotely; the in-office procedures below apply primarily to employees and visitors at Launch's Seattle office. Remote employees should follow their local emergency protocols (911, building / community emergency procedures).

Emergency exits

• The office has direct access to the outside. In the event of an emergency, all employees should use the nearest exit to evacuate the building quickly and safely.
• Emergency exits must remain clear and unobstructed at all times.

Evacuation procedures

In the event of an emergency requiring evacuation (e.g., fire, gas leak, or other immediate danger):

1. Stop all work immediately.
2. Proceed calmly to the nearest exit and leave the building.
3. Gather at the designated assembly point (see below).
4. Do not re-enter the building until it is declared safe by emergency personnel.

Assembly points

• Primary assembly point: the back parking lot.
• Alternate assembly point (if the primary is unsafe — e.g., due to fire location, smoke, or hazard in the parking lot): Dakota Place at the corner of California Ave SW and Dakota Place — northwest corner of the street, just north of the building.

Account for everyone at the assembly point. Notify HR or the on-site supervisor of any missing person so emergency responders can be informed.

Fire emergencies

If a fire is detected:

1. Activate the fire alarm (if applicable).
2. Call 911 to report the fire.
3. Follow the evacuation procedures outlined above.

Small fires may be extinguished using the office fire extinguisher, but only if it is safe to do so. Do not attempt to extinguish a fire if it poses a personal risk.

Severe weather

In the event of severe weather (e.g., tornado, hurricane, or thunderstorm):

1. Seek shelter in an interior room or hallway away from windows and doors.
2. Monitor weather updates via phone or radio.
3. Do not leave the office until the severe weather has passed and it is safe to do so.

Medical emergencies

If someone is injured or experiences a medical emergency:

1. Call 911 immediately.
2. Provide first aid or CPR if trained to do so.
3. Stay with the individual until emergency responders arrive.

Active threats

In the event of an active threat (e.g., intruder or violent incident):

1. Follow the Run-Hide-Fight protocol:
   • Run: If it is safe, exit the building immediately and call 911.
   • Hide: If evacuation is not possible, lock or barricade yourself in a secure room, silence phones, and remain quiet.
   • Fight: As a last resort, if confronted by the threat, use any available items to defend yourself.
2. Follow instructions from law enforcement when they arrive.

Communication

• In all emergencies, notify HR (hr@launchindustries.biz) or the designated point of contact as soon as it is safe to do so.
• Keep your phone on and accessible for updates from emergency personnel or Company leadership.

Emergency contact information

• Post emergency numbers (e.g., 911, local fire department, and building management) in a visible location in the office.
• Ensure employees know how to contact their supervisor or the designated emergency coordinator.

For remote employees

Launch does not require remote employees to adopt company-mandated emergency procedures in their personal home or coworking environment, but we encourage you to:

• Have a personal / household emergency plan.
• Know your local emergency numbers and shelter locations.
• Notify HR if a community-wide emergency (e.g., wildfire evacuation, hurricane, earthquake) is affecting your ability to work safely. We will work with you on flexible arrangements.

COVID-19 and other health policies

As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of health and safety in the workplace, it is essential to remain informed about our policies regarding COVID-19 and other health-related matters. This article outlines our current guidelines and recommendations to ensure the well-being of all employees, particularly as many of us work from home.

General health guidelines

1. Stay informed. Employees are encouraged to stay updated on the latest health guidelines from reputable sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health authorities. These organizations provide valuable information on managing health risks associated with COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.
2. Vaccination. We strongly recommend that all employees receive the COVID-19 vaccine and stay current with booster shots as recommended by health authorities. Vaccination is a critical tool in reducing the spread of the virus and protecting both individual and community health.
3. Symptom monitoring. Employees should monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any symptoms, please stay home and consult a healthcare provider.
4. Isolation and return to work. If you test positive for COVID-19, you should stay home and isolate until your symptoms improve and you are fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. Upon returning to work, wearing a high-quality mask for five days in shared indoor spaces is recommended.

Policies for other illnesses

In addition to our COVID-19 guidelines, we recognize the importance of addressing other health concerns that may affect our employees. The following policies apply to other illnesses:

1. Sick leave. Employees are encouraged to take sick leave when experiencing symptoms of any illness that may affect their ability to work effectively. This includes, but is not limited to, flu, colds, and other contagious diseases. Please see the Paid Sick and Safe Time policy in §7 Time Off.
2. Health monitoring. Employees should remain vigilant about their health and report any illness that could pose a risk to others in the workplace. This includes notifying supervisors if you are feeling unwell or have been diagnosed with a contagious illness.
3. Return to work protocol. Similar to COVID-19, employees should consult with a healthcare provider before returning to work after any illness. A general guideline is to remain at home until you are symptom-free for at least 24 hours without the use of medication.
4. Mental health support. We acknowledge that various illnesses can impact mental health. Employees are encouraged to utilize available mental health resources, including counseling services and employee assistance programs.

Remote work considerations

Given that most of our employees work from home, we have adapted our policies to support a safe and productive remote work environment:

• Flexible work arrangements. Employees are encouraged to maintain a flexible work schedule that accommodates their health needs and personal circumstances. Communication with supervisors about any challenges is essential.
• Workplace safety. For those who may need to visit the office for essential tasks, please adhere to safety protocols, including wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and following any posted health guidelines.

Our commitment to employee health and safety remains a top priority. By following these guidelines and staying informed, we can collectively contribute to a safer work environment, whether at home or in the office. Thank you for your cooperation and dedication to maintaining a healthy workplace.

Pets & service animals policy

This policy outlines the guidelines regarding pets and service animals in our office environment. While pets are not prohibited, employees are encouraged to have a conversation with their supervisor before bringing a pet to the office. This discussion will help ensure that the presence of a pet is suitable for the work environment and does not cause any issues for other employees.

Employees who require a service animal for assistance due to a disability may bring their service animal to work, provided they notify their supervisor in advance. Service animals must be well-trained and not disrupt the workplace. Employees with service animals are responsible for their care, including cleaning up after them and ensuring they do not cause disturbances. The company will maintain confidentiality regarding any employee's disability related to the service animal. This policy aims to create a safe and comfortable work environment while accommodating those who require assistance from service animals.

If you notice any outdated information or typos, or need clarification on any policies, please email hr@launchindustries.biz.