On July 13, 2016, Zbigniew “Ziggy” Zych (FMS) received a Gold Spot Award for taking a leadership role in Argonne’s positive safety culture. He identified a machine-guarding hazard that had the potential to cause significant injury and he took efforts to correct the issue right away.
Ziggy noticed that a metal guard on a saw had become damaged — a blade had cut through it during regular operation. Guards are installed on machinery as a safety measure designed to protect people’s bodies. The damaged metal guard left the saw blade exposed; Ziggy identified this as a hazard that could potentially cause major injury.
Because of Ziggy’s situational awareness and care for fellow employees, this catch may have prevented a variety of injuries from occurring, particularly those that could permanently affect fingers and hands.
Ziggy is known throughout our laboratory community not only for his skill and craftsmanship, but also for his safety-first approach to everyday activities.
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 xink form 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.
Additional information about the Spot Award program is available on Inside Argonne.