ASOS Interim Procedures) It is the intent of the NWS Management to maintain the existing surface observing equipment at sites where surface observations are taken by NWS staff to the extent necessitated by operational weather program requirements. 2) In the event that local field office. procedures are developed governing the monitoring, augmentation, supplementation, or back-up of ASOS observations, the consultation procedures outlined in Article 8, Section 3 of the collective bargaining agreement shall apply prior to implementation. 3) In the event that the monitoring, augmentation, supplementation, or back-up of ASOS observations becomes significantly time-consuming so as to conflict with the performance of other operational priority duties, the employee is expected to exercise his/her judgment in determining which of the duties takes precedence, with the highest priority placed on public safety. Except for employee negligence, liability is assumed by the Government. 4) The NWS will develop a statement(s) describing of the ASOS monitoring, augmentation, supplementation, or back-up activity which will be included in the applicable performance plans of NWS employees charged with performing those activities. This activity statement shall be provided to the NWSEO no later than August 1, 1993. This will be followed by the accomplishment of any activities required by Article 8 of the collective bargaining agreement. 5) As in all operational field office situations which require the call-back or call-in of additional staff to accomplish operational shift activities, the bargaining unit shift leader is likewise authorized to assess the need for and to call in necessary added shift staff, subject to local office guidelines.
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