Central Shops tackled a project in Building 308 that involved the successful fabrication and installation of more than 120 feet of piping.
Simpson, a highly skilled fabricator and welder, led and supervised the installation, and quickly noticed that the previously drafted assembly procedure did not consider two critical safety aspects. The first was that per American Society of Mechanical Engineers code, a minimum of two threads must extend beyond the bolted nut. The second and related consideration, is that a highly recommended practice is to install vertical bolts with the head facing downward. This installation approach — with the nut positioned on top of the flange — not only facilitates inspection and verification that two threads extend past the nut, but also allows quick and easy identification for loosened and/or dropped bolts.
Thanks to Damon’s oversight and guidance, the project procedure for bolted flange assembly will be updated to reflect these new considerations that are important for safe and reliable assembly.
Spot Awards give employees “on-the-spot” recognition for positive safety or quality assurance initiative. The Spot Award program offers three award levels: gold ($100), silver ($50) and bronze ($25).
If you see an employee exhibiting behavior that warrants positive recognition (e.g., safe behavior or process improvements), you can nominate that individual for a Spot Award by submitting Spot Award (ANL-758).
The form will be routed to the individual’s supervisor and division for approval. Observers may award employees from their own division or from other divisions. The cost of the award is charged to the recipient’s division.
Additional information about the Spot Award program is available on Inside Argonne.
By Andrea Manning (BIS)