Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department Conflict Resolution Policy - General Order 11-17

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions from the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Conflict Resolution Policy (General Order 11-17).

Affinity Group

A group of members linked by a common interest, identity, or goal.

Climate Assessment

The process where a neutral fact-finder gathers information related to a supervisor-directed inquiry.

EEO Personnel

Includes the EEO Officer, EEO Liaisons, and other Department members designated by the EEO Officer or Fire Chief.

Mediation

A voluntary, informal, confidential, structured discussion to resolve issues/complaints, with participants including a complainant, targeted member, respondent, supervisor, current/former/prospective members, and a neutral, third-party mediator.

Member

Any person affiliated with the Department, including career (sworn/civilian) and volunteers.

Mediator

A mediator registered with or appointed by the EEO Officer and authorized to conduct mediations under General Order 11-06 and the EEO Policy.

Supervisor

A member with authority over another member, including directing daily tasks, performance, discipline, or awards.

EEO Officer

Officer who develops/maintains the Department’s EEO and conflict resolution programs and provides training.

EEO Liaison

A volunteer who assists the EEO Officer in processing claims and may receive EEO complaints; may be lead liaison.

Lead EEO Liaison

An EEO Liaison designated to act as lead, with investigation experience and broader responsibilities as requested.

Harassing conduct

Moderate-to-severe conduct that may be investigated under the EEO Policy; serious incidents must be reported promptly.

Discrimination

Unfair treatment based on protected characteristics, processed under the EEO Policy.

40-hour mediation certification program

Certification for mediators from a reputable provider approved by the EEO Officer; allows solo mediation by an EEO Liaison.

Investigator certification

Certification enabling an EEO Liaison to handle formal complaint processing, from an approved program.

Solo mediator

An EEO Liaison who can mediate on their own after completing the 40-hour certification.

Co-mediation

A dispute mediated by an EEO Liaison together with a certified mediator when not all parties are certified.

Maryland Standards of Conduct for Mediators

State standards guiding mediator ethics and conduct used as guidance during mediation.

Maryland Mediator Confidentiality Act

Maryland law governing confidentiality of mediator communications and records.

Agreement to Mediate

Written agreement outlining process, confidentiality, and settlement terms; subject to review and approval before finalization.

Mediation confidentiality

Confidential nature of mediation; records destroyed after process; only signed settlement may be retained; no recording.