On December 1, 2016, Dan Berkland and Damon Simpson (FMS) received Gold Spot Awards for their initiative in suggesting and installing safety control methods in a hazardous working environment.
Building 363 is home to a welding shop where material is fused and assembled using a tool that emits intense ultra-violet (UV) radiation, in a process known as arc welding. Without proper eye protection, exposure to the UV radiation can cause burns to the outer layer of the eye, resulting in pain, redness, tearing and in some cases, blindness. These symptoms are known as photokeratitis, or more commonly, “arc eye.”
In an effort to prevent co-workers from being exposed to the welding arc hazard, Damon and Dan suggested installing blue tinted plastic partitioning strips at the doorway into the welding area that would sufficiently block the harmful UV radiation from viewers on the opposite side. By installing the tinted strips, not only was the hazard essentially eliminated for passersby, it also provides an aesthetically clean look.
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.