We’re thrilled to highlight some outstanding contributions from our November iQuestion winners that showcase innovation, safety, and environmental stewardship. Read on to learn about these inspiring initiatives.
Grand Prize: Richard Kent Bailey – TRAILBLAZERS
Richard Kent Bailey identified a significant safety and environmental concern with using gasoline-powered air compressors for groundwater sampling. These units posed dangers with fuel handling, heavy lifting, and the emission of VOCs, which could compromise sample data. Kent ingeniously replaced these with a truck battery-operated 12-volt compressor, eliminating these risks, reducing noise pollution, and ensuring more accurate sampling.
LSIT Winner: Richard Johnson, – WILE-E
Richard Johnson, known as Tic, tackled the problem of concrete blowback during manhole filling. He introduced a simple yet effective solution: using a portable battery-powered fan at ground level to direct blowback away from employees. This innovative approach significantly enhanced worker safety by reducing exposure to concrete, earning him an LSIT award for his WILE-E ingenuity.
LSIT Winner: Ashley Faidley – GROUNDHOGS
Ashley Faidley demonstrated exceptional diligence when noticing her cubicle’s battery disposal receptacle was full. Her proactive questioning led to coordinating with the facility manager and waste management for proper hazardous material disposal. Ashley’s vigilance prevented potential improper waste disposal, showcasing her commitment to environmental responsibility and earning her an LSIT award as a true GROUNDHOG in safeguarding our planet.
LSIT Winner: Gage Hamby, Sam Larue, Vanessa Turpin, Randy Claxton – OSPREY
This team, dubbed OSPREY, exemplified critical thinking and adherence to safety protocols. Tasked with disposing of pumps, they performed a crucial pre-disposal check. Their diligence revealed that the pumps still contained residual fuel and unremoved batteries. By pausing the process, they averted potential improper waste disposal of hazardous materials. Their keen observation and responsible actions ensured compliance and environmental protection, earning them an LSIT award.
