In August 2018, Arthur “Art” Vik (EOF) received a Gold Spot Award for mitigating a hazard by effectively planning and verifying a safe solution.
During a routine lifting and rigging operation, Vik observed a new research facility addition that had created an obstruction that was not identified in the original lift plan. Understanding the risk involved with conducting unplanned work, Vik initiated a work pause on the activity and contacted safety and engineering support. While maintaining regular contact with the lab supervisor and project leads, Vik was able to engineer a solution and have it verified by the licensed structural engineer.
Thanks to Vik’s safety-minded actions, the lift was successfully completed without incidents.
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.