A strong safety culture relies on staying alert, speaking up, and always maintaining a questioning attitude. This September, several team members demonstrated outstanding commitment to keeping our workplace secure, compliant, and environmentally sound. Please join us in congratulating our September iQuestion winners for their proactive thinking and decisive actions!
Environmental stewardship in action
Summer Casison | BOBCATS: While inspecting work grounds, Summer spotted an oil spill left behind where a landscaping subcontractor had parked. Rather than walking past it, she immediately escalated the issue through the proper management channels. Environmental services, facility managers, and the subcontractor coordinated quickly to remediate and clean the site. Summer’s sharp eye and swift intervention prevented environmental contamination and ensured proper cleanup protocol was followed.
Looking out for PPE expiration
Andrian Hamby | GROUNDHOGS: PPE protects us only when it’s functioning as designed—and that means minding expiration dates! During a routine housekeeping pass, Andrian identified an unattended hardhat left by a previous worker. Checking the manufacturer date, Andrian discovered it had surpassed the 5-year expiration threshold (note: suspensions must be replaced annually). Recognizing that an unsuspecting colleague might pick it up, Andrian promptly discarded it. Thanks to Andrian, our team received a timely reminder that PPE effectiveness deteriorates over time, regardless of visual condition.
Sharp eye on waste compliance
Jamie Martin | RADCATS: Sorting radiological waste demands meticulous attention to detail. While segmenting contents from a radiological waste bag, Jamie spotted a metal pipe that appeared acceptable at first glance—until closer inspection revealed brass connection fittings attached to the end. Because brass is strictly non-compliant in this waste stream, Jamie’s catch prevented a significant non-conformance event.
Preventing dropped object hazards
Isom Cox | USTAND: Gravity never takes a day off. Isom identified unmonitored floor penetrations that posed a direct hazard to anyone working below due to potential falling tools and debris. Taking immediate ownership of the hazard, Isom notified Safety and supervision to have the openings properly covered and secured. His foresight helped eliminate a potential head injury before it could happen.
Continuous procedure improvement
Jason Phillips | WILE-E: A questioning attitude applies to our paperwork and processes just as much as field conditions. While reviewing Form #3500 (Vehicle/Construction Equipment Spotter Safety Checklist), Jason noticed conflicting language stating the checklist should remain with the equipment rather than with the spotter. Recognizing the practical workflow and standard practice, Jason brought the discrepancy to the Heavy Equipment Program Manager. As a direct result, the form is being officially revised.
