2002 Joint safety Committee

ON JANUARY 2, 2002

PRELIMINARY SAFETY REPORT
Rev. 1.10.02

On January 2, 2002 employees reporting for work at the TEO bldg. located at the AA/AFW maintenance facility encountered large quantities of dust in all work areas and the residual smell of chemicals in the atmosphere. This incident began on the first day back from Christmas base closure, at approximately 7:00 am. The following facts will serve to outline the chain of events leading up to the event and the subsequent actions taken to resolve the issue as of 2:00pm Thursday, January 3, 2002.

• Contractors were employed to perform modifications to the fiberglass /resin ducting system in the TEO central clean area. The work was to be completed during the course of the Christmas base closure period. For various reasons the work was not completed prior to Wednesday, January 2, 2002 and was in progress when AA employees returned to work that morning. Employees encountered the following:

1. Large quantities of unidentifiable dust covering all work areas.

2. Contractors were mixing chemicals in open areas to create the resin applications. Chemicals in use were: Acetone, Dimethylaniline dma, cobalt 6% naphthenate and MEK

3. No protective screens had been installed to prevent spread of dust.

4. Proper ventilation was not available for the use of the above mentioned chemicals.

• Employees questioned the content of the surrounding dust and chemical odors, some complained of headaches, nausea, sore throats and bleeding noses, etc. The TWU local 567 office was notified of the conditions at approximately 7:15am that morning. Gary Peterson and Kent McCutchen left immediately to investigate the issue.

• At approximately 7:35am AA Safety and Health Representative Mark Wondolowski intervened, he immediately stopped the mixing of chemicals within the bldg. and subsequently the facility was shut down. Employees were allowed to leave with pay.

• Protective curtains were installed around the entire perimeter of the project area from floor to ceiling level. Building cleaners performed a majority of the clean-up work, although mechanics were asked to wipe down their respective work areas. Several notes:

1. This clean up began prior to receipt of the bulk sample results, content of material was unconfirmed at that point.

2. No vacuums were in use during process, all material was swept and/or wiped up. Accident/incident report forms were made available to employees to fill out; AA injury counselors were present to assist as needed. Some supervisors offered employees options to

3. Utilize ID if they believed the exposure created medical problems for them. Some employees reported to medical.

• Armstrong Forensic Laboratory was contacted to conduct air-sampling surveys of the area. The preliminary findings were made available to AA Management at approximately 5:00pm on Wednesday, January 2, 2002. The findings demonstrated that all levels were below the OSHA pel standards, i.e. within acceptable levels. Hard copies of the report were provided to the TWU and AA at approximately 1:00pm on Thursday January 3, 2002. Bulk samples were collected from the residual dust. Test results of the bulk samples indicated the dust content to be 30% fiberglass, 10% amorphous dust and dirt, and 60% unidentified dust having the morphology of gypsum.

• OSHA was notified Wednesday morning of the event as required, Mark Wondolowski relayed the AA action plan to them. OSHA compliance standards will require AA follow-up and final disclosure of all actions taken to remedy the issue.

• FAA was informed of the incident and the corresponding documentation was handled at the FAA office by Vince Sapero on Wednesday January 2.

• Meetings were held for 2nd shift at 3:30pm on January 2nd, the employees were told that there would be another meeting at 5:00pm to discuss the air survey results. Pat Stewart stated that they could leave the facility or stay upstairs until 5:00pm, but not to visit the other buildings. At 5:00pm the second meeting was held, the results of the survey were disclosed, but no hard copies would be available until Thursday.

• The Ft. Worth Fire Dept. HazMat team arrived at approximately 12:15pm on Thursday January 3rd to investigate the area for toxic hazards. Initially, they planned to monitor the atmosphere but later determined the equipment in use by Armstrong Forensic was much more sophisticated than their own and opted not to perform the tests. The team surveyed the entire project/work area with AA safety and the TWU safety reps present. It was determined by the Fire Dept. that the area posed no potential hazard and that appropriate actions were being taken.

• The certified results of Armstrong Forensics survey and bulk sample results were reviewed at 1:00pm, Friday January 4th by TWU safety rep and operational management. At 1:30pm an informational meeting was conducted for 1st shift TEO employees. Industrial Hygienists Tim Dunlevey was available to explain and/or answer questions regarding the sample/survey results. Another meeting followed at 3:30pm for 2nd shift.

• On Monday January 7th ventilation problems at approximately 2:00pm caused the building to be evacuated once again. Contractors had turned off the exhaust fans, the environment became caustic and when they attempted to turn them back on they experienced mechanical problems. The fan vibrated and failed to operate properly. Armstrong Forensics lab was recalled to perform additional air sampling. It was estimated that the test results woild be available between 12:30 and 2:30 am Tuesday morning (Jan. 8th).

• Pat Stewart provided me with a copy of the preliminary sample results Tuesday morning. The results indicated that all chemicals surveyed were below the OSHA PEL (based on an 8 hr period of exposure). Chemicals in use at the time and their constituents were targeted for the survey. Sodium Hydroxide and Trichloroethylene levels were determined to be at approximately 1 mg/m3, ¸ the OSHA PEL based on an 8 hr time weighted avg. (TWA). The remaining chemicals tested were either below detectable levels or well below OSHA (PEL's) and ACGIH (TVL's). The OSHA "notification of an alleged hazard" report is posted on the Company board in the TEO building. Briefs provided by Armstrong Forensics explaining their survey findings are also posted.

• On Wednesday Company representatives formally responded to the OSHA hazard report. The Company is required to document all steps and precautions taken in response to the OSHA hazard allegation. Upon review of the facts OSHA determined that the proper actions had been taken. The final assessment should be posted on the Company bulletin board in the TEO building.

Fraternally, Mike Schwanz
TWU Safety and Health Rep
E-Board Local 567

Cc: Gary G. Peterson
Matt Lorenzi
Kent McCutchen
Judy Maranto

NITRIC ACID SPILL IN CENTRAL CLEAN TEO
INCIDENT REPORT
JANUARY 21, 2002

Facilities Maintenance HazMat team members were performing routine re-servicing maintenance on the nitric acid tank in the central clean area of the TEO bldg. when a corroded fill/drain valve on their vacuum trailer gave way releasing approximately 300 gallons of 50%+ diluted nitric acid onto the floor. Most of the liquid flowed into the containment area, some ran into an electrical floor trough. The incident occurred at approximately 4:00am Monday morning. Three other employees working in the building at the time were immediately notified of the accident. Additional actions taken were:

• Security was notified that a hazardous spill had occurred
• Additional HazMat members were called in to assist in the cleanup
• The Central Plant activated full building ventilation
• The spill area was neutralized with sodium bicarbonate and water
• All covers were removed from the electrical trough and was washed down
• Electricians are evaluating the condition of the exposed wiring and insulation

Submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Safety and Health Committee
TWU Local 567

CENTRAL CLEAN FIBERGLASS/CHEMICAL
BULK SAMPLE UPDATE
January 22, 2002

I spoke with Joe Smith, Regional Director of Analytical Services for RJ Lee Labs in Virginia today regarding bulk dust samples and filter samples taken from the central clean area of the TEO bldg. following the fiberglass/chemical incident on Jan. 2, 2002. I explained to him that we were soliciting a second opinion with regards to recent sample results provided by the Company acquired services of Armstrong Forensics.  Joe acknowledged our need and described the methods they use to determine bulk sample contents. The process is referred to as “Characterization by SEM”, (scanning electron microscopy). This is a much more accurate method of particle identification than the “Optical approach”. The manual method sorts out several hundred particles over a period of several hours. The computer controlled method sorts and identifies several thousand particles over a period of several hours. He suggested that the manual method would probably be adequate for our needs and at a lesser cost.

• Manual method cost is $250.00 per sample
  
• Computer method cost is $350.00 per sample

The analytical time frame for results is 7 to 10 days. Micrograph photos (digital images) will be provided with the results.I believe at least three samples should be submitted for analysis:

• The original bulk sample gathered and provided to me by Gary Peterson.
  
• A filter sample provided that was in use during the period prior to the incident through the 3rd of January. (From CNC equipment located adjacent to central clean area)
  
• A second filter sample provided that was in use during the period of Jan. 3 thru Jan.15, 2002. (Same as above)
  

Fraternally,
Michael Schwanz
E-Board TWU Local 567
Safety and Health Committee Chair

JOINT SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT
for
JANUARY 2002

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday January 9, 2002. The following items were discussed:

Open Items discussed:

Safety Glasses- The base wide policy has been approved by the JSC and submitted to the APC for final approval.

PPE Assessment Project- Mark Wondolowski is continuing to evaluate the use of various work gloves in high injury risk areas. Follow-up will be forthcoming.

Flat carts need locks on wheels- This is a base wide issue, F/M Supervisor Carlos Greer committed to generate an FMSR to insure that all carts will be modified. Note: Carlos will be the F/M Company/JSC rep for 2002.

General Discussion:

Brief discussion and update on the Central Clean Fiberglass/Chemical incident in the TEO bldg. on Jan. 2, 2002. See general report at the TWU local 567 web site @ http://local567.twuatd.org/

NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE CLOSED OUT AT DECEMBER 2001 JSC MEETING

P.A. System in Hangar ö has been repaired and is functioning properly

Interior Shop Air Monitoring follow-up- Industrial Hygienists Tim Dunleavy and Safety Rep Mike Schwanz met with shop to explain sample results and field questions.

Hepatitis A shots- Are available to employees if requested.

Various alarm sounds- A video is available from training that describes what the various base alarms signify. These should be viewed at crew meetings. This issue arose as a result of a fuel spill last August in the hangar.

Medical Emergency Transportation- A copy of the "Code White" policy was provided to all JSC members for review. The policy provides a transportation guideline for security to follow in the event of a medical emergency.

Respectfully submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Executive Board Local 567
TWU Safety Committee Chairman

CENTRAL CLEAN BULK SAMPLE TEST RESULT

JANUARY 2, 2002 FIBERGLASS DUST INCIDENT

TEO AFW

Lab Report Dated February 19, 2002

Local 567 submitted bulk samples gathered from the central clean area following the fiberglass dust/chemical exposure incident on January 2nd to an independent testing lab in February. The samples were provided to R.J. Lee Labs in Virginia in an effort to confirm the accuracy of previous tests performed on site by Armstrong Forensics, i.e., a second opinion.

Particle characterization analysis by MSEM was conducted on each sample, while the analysis was not of a quantitative nature, it does provide an accurate assessment of the contents of each sample. The results were consistent with the findings of Armstrong Forensics. No unusual or extraordinary elements were discovered. The following items summarize the findings, the report itself is attached:

a) Optical examination- revealed "tan powder with an abundance of glass fibers...long bundles...resin-like material..." This describes the fiberglass content of the bulk sample.

b) MSEM analysis- The major constituent of the sample was carbon rich agglomerates with magnesium, silicon, calcium and titanium. The majority of which would have comprised the fiberglass content, the other items are consistent with elements expected to be found in a machine shop type of environment.

c) Figure 4- Glass fibers taken from the bulk sample indicated a moderate amount of silicon/aluminum and calcium-rich fibers. viewed @ 120x  100um range.(moderate is rated at 20 -40 % of the sample by number).

d) Filter samples- sample A ( used 12/01 - 1/3/02 period) revealed a major amount of carbon-rich material with varying amounts of Magnesium, silicon, calcium and titanium; minor amounts of stainless steel. Sample B (used 1/2/02 - 1/15/02 period) examination indicated light particle loading. (major = 40% +) (minor = 5-20%)

Fraternally,
Mike Schwanz
TWU Local567 Safety and Health Committee

Click Here - For full text .pdf version of R. J. Lee Report

JOINT SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT

For

FEBRUARY 2002

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday February 13, 2002 and discussed the following items:

Open Items discussed:

• Safety Glasses- Although we anticipated closing this item out last month, new information has been provided that must be reviewed at this months APC meeting prior to implementation.

• Fire alarm maintenance- Procedural manual describing notification and identification methods for facilities maintenance to use when fire alarm zones are disabled will be provided for JSC review. Carlos Greer will get the manual for next months meeting.

Ongoing Projects:

PPE assessment project-This is an ongoing project, as improved safety equipment/gear becomes available the committee will be informed by Mark Wondolowski. The following list will identify areas of concern and will be updated as items are assessed:

1) Hand protection- Research improved protective gloves in the component Mntc shops. Improved designs should offer cut protection as well as comfort. >STATUS: In progress

2) Hearing protection

3) Eye protection

4) Chemical exposure protection 4) Improved designs for fall protection

Shop chemical inventory lists - Chemical inventory lists will be filled out that identify specific chemicals used and stored in each shop. Once all lists have been compiled, information relative to those chemicals will be posted in the appropriate shops.

New business:

• Fall protection build line TEO- Fall protection is needed on the build line where workers stand on equipment over 6 foot in height. Engineering is looking into design options.

• Hangar clear lines- Keep clear lines are needed in pedestrian areas of the hangar.

• Spill containment pallets- May be needed in paint and fiberglass for 55 gallon storage drums stored in fire cabinet. This issue is being researched.

• Audit process/Fac. Maint. work orders- Charlie Lee is working with Greg Lee to improve documentation/administration process utilized to generate F/M trouble call work orders. The goal is to expedite response time, especially with regards to safety related issues.

General Discussion:

• The concrete floor damaged by recent chemical spill in the TEO central clean will be re-sealed. Carlos Greer requested we review the process prior to installation. It was determined that the project should be accomplished over the weekend due to potential chemical fumes.

• Mark Wondolowski  reviewed the OSHA recordable injuries for January 2002. There were a total 85 reported, 53 of those were related to fiberglass dust following the TEO central clean incident on 2-2-02.

Respectfully submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Executive Board Local 567
Safety and Health Committee Chair

JOINT SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT

For

MARCH 2002

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday March 13, 2002. No items were closed out, which is very disappointing news considering JSC progress in recent months on many other issues and previous management commitments to close out some of our current agenda items. The TWU side of the committee will aggressively pursue closure on all old business items. The following outline summarizes issues discussed:

 Open Items Discussed (old business):

Safety Glasses- Base wide policy for guests and contractors

Status: Prior commitment by APC to close this issue out is past due.  Will insist on closure.

Fire Alarm maintenance- Need a procedural manual provided to JSC.

Status: Management has committed repeatedly to close this out. The timeliness regarding closure of this item is dismal.

Locks for flat cart wheels- Resolution of this item has been passed around the management circle like a hot potato since December 2001. Last month management committed to issue a Fac. Maint. FMSR and to distribute the modification cost equally across the base. The carts would then be taken to bldg. 6 for repairs. This monthâs update indicates the FMSR will be issued upon call in to Michelle Thompkins; Greg Lee in the hangar, tower 4, will do the repair.

Status: There is no consistent remedy agreed to on this item. It is a base wide concern and clarification will be forthcoming before this issue is closed out.

Hangar clear lines- This item was brought up last month and has not been completed yet. An FMSR must be submitted.

 Ongoing Projects:

PPE assessments- Mark Wondolowski received 24 more pairs of protective gloves to distribute in high-risk areas for employee assessment and feedback.

Shop chemical inventory lists- Mark is getting good response from shops on chemical inventory forms.

 New Business:

Facilities help- An FMSR has been issued to stencil F/M trouble call numbers in various areas.

Lav shop- Has requested a chemical disposal drum for exposed rags. Carlos will handle this.

Respectfully submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Executive Board TWU Local 567
Safety and Health Committee

JOINT SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT  

For 

APRIL 2002

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday April 10, 2002. The following issues were discussed:

Open Items Discussed (old business):

Hangar clear lines- This issue should have been closed out this month, but it appears that there may be some "confusion" regarding the nature of the work to be performed as requested by the committee. Vince Sapero and Mike Schwanz will clarify the directive with the appropriate supervisors.

Ongoing Projects update:

PPE assessments- Are still in progress.

Shop chemical inventory lists- Mark Wondolowski has acquired a "master" chemical list for AFW. This list describes all chemicals and related information that are currently in use at the base and will be beneficial as individual shop inventory lists are developed.

Closed Items:

Safety Glasses- No base wide policy will be implemented. Persons performing the work will be required to wear safety glasses as needed. The machine process area of the TEO may later be designated as a "Safety Glasses Required area". Safety Glasses requirements applicable to AA employees will also be enforced for guests and contractors etc.

Locks for flat cart wheels- The paint shop is directing all carts to Facilities Maintenance for modifications. The work is going smoothly, therefore this item is closed out.

New Business:

Fall  Protection TEO build lines- Temporary modifications are being designed by Pat Martin. The engine stands will be modified to accommodate the fall protection support. Improved supports will be later designed and attached to the building structure.

Steam line safety concerns central clean areas- An open discussion regarding steam coils in the central clean vats was discussed. This issue was introduced as a result of a grievance filed by Facilities maintenance plumbers. Vince Sapero and Mike Schwanz will investigate the issue.

AA Occupational Safety Magazine- We reviewed the new American Airlines occupational safety magazine. The publication will provide photos and stories relating to airline safety incidents. It will also include various informational articles such as:  security updates, injury incident reports and a personal health section written by Dr. David Mckenas. The magazine will produced quarterly.

Respectfully submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
TWU Local 567 Safety and Health Committee

Industrial Hygienist Tim Dunlevy will be conducting comprehensive air sampling surveys in the Interior shop of the hangar on Monday, April 29. He intends to duplicate the same testing on Tuesday, April 30 in the downstairs Interior shop location. The tests will consist of eight (8) monitoring points located throughout the shop targeting eight chemicals used in various production processes. Two dust collection points will be established to collect airborne dusts for evaluation and one general atmospheric monitor will be setup to monitor ambient temperature, humidity and carbon monoxide levels in the shop.

The chemicals targeted for quantitative analysis are: Acetone, n-Heptane, Isopropyl Alcohol, Methyl Ethyl ketone (MEK), Naptha (VM&P), Stoddard Solvent, Toluene and Xylene.

Test results will be provided and posted upon receipt.

Fraternally,
Mike Schwanz
Safety and Health Committee Chair.
Executive Board TWU Local 567

NEW VENTILATION SYSTEM
for
THE INTERIOR SHOP

May 7, 2002

On Friday May 3, 2002 I met with Dave Campbell to discuss ongoing safety and health concerns regarding the lack of adequate ventilation systems in the Interior shop. A variety of chemicals are used in production processes and chemical irritation complaints have been steadily increasing. Although to date, OSHA PEL's have been satisfactory, individuals with chemical sensitivities have experienced a number of side effects due to over exposures created by lack of ventilation. It was agreed that a ventilation system would improve the quality of work life and help to alleviate the problems caused by chemical odors and other atmospheric contaminants. Mr. Campbell reiterated his agreement to have the new ventilation system installed in our monthly E-Board/ AA Management meeting Friday morning, May 3rd.

In the interim period prior to ventilation installation I encourage all concerned employees to utilize full-face respirators in their respective work areas. Permanent issue respirators are available upon request to your supervisor.

Fraternally,
Mike Schwanz
E-Board TWU Local 567
Safety and Health Committee

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday May 8, 2002. The following issues were discussed:

Closed Items:

Cut resistant gloves- Hy-Flex CR 11-500 cut resistant gloves are now available. These gloves are composed of stretch kevlar with a nitrile foam coating; sizes 6 thru 10, CPN #âs are 4128441 thru 4128446 respectively.

Open Items discussed (old business):

Hangar clear lines- Keep Clear lines are currently being paint in pedestrian walkways on the 1st and 2nd floor of the hangar between stairways and the main aisles. This issue should be ready for closure next month.

Fall Protection TEO build lines- Pat Martin is drawing up a prototype but no current update is available from Pat at this time, Vince Sapero will contact Pat and forward the updated data to the committee.

Steam line safety concerns central clean- Tommy Blevins has committed to train all plumbers on proper servicing of the tanks in the 01,03,06 and central clean areas to alleviate some of the concerns. Other concerns, including coil specifications and max steam temperature are being reviewed. Target for closure of this item is next month.

New Business:

New Ventilation system in Interior Shop- Committee was informed that Dave Campbell committed to install new ventilation system in the Interior shop, hangar.

A/C cleaners training- Cleaners will be given 16 hours of training on various safety related issues including fall protection.

Medical response cart- This item had been sidelined after Sept. 11th but will be reopened and investigated. Pat Stewart will follow up on this.

Pedestrian aisle TEO- An engineering cart blocking pedestrian traffic in the west TEO area near the bathrooms has been relocated. Pedestrian keep clear stripes will be painted in the area of concern.

Respectfully submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Executive Board TWU Local 567
Safety and Health Committee Chair

JOINT SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT
For
JUNE 2002

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday June 12, 2002. The following issues were discussed:

Closed Items:

Hangar clear lines- Keep Clear lines have been painted on both the first and second floor areas of the hangar pedestrian areas between the stairs and the main aisles per Charlie Lee.

Steam line safety concerns central clean- Carlos Greer provided a response letter to JSC concerns regarding: Maximum steam pressure; general steam coil info; temperature probe depth; and procedural aspects related to filling the chemical tanks. A copy of the letter is available upon response.

Medical emergency response cart- The cart has been ordered by Ronnie Skinner. The cart will expedite medical response times to all areas on the base in the event of emergency, currently medical must share a vehicle with security.

Pedestrian walkway in TEO- The walkway outside of the bathroom area near Tool and Die has been painted.

Work in progress:

Fall Protection TEO build lines- Facilities Maintenance welders are working on structural components of the new system. I.E. Mike Alvey is assisting Pat Martin in overseeing this project.

Chemical inventory sheets- This is a basewide project, once completed Personnel Protective Equipment evaluations for the respective areas will be performed. Mark Wondolowski is working on this project.

New Ventilation system in Interior Shop- Industrial Engineers are coordinating and working on this project, no completion date has been given yet.

Open Items discussed (old business):

Fire Alarm maintenance procedures policy- This is an old and previously visited issue, which should have been closed out months ago. Our patience is beginning to wear very thin on this one and I expect to see closure on it by next months meeting.

A/C cleaners training- Mark Wondolowski is working on this. Dr. Fisher met with the committee and discussed back belts/braces.

New Business:

New safety box knife- Mark Wondolowski has ask Component Maintenance shops to try out the new safety knife and determine if injuries can be decreased by itâs use.

New safety coverall- A new moisture/tear resistant coverall will be tested by Central Clean, A/C Cleaners and Paint & Fiberglass shops. Research is also being conducted for improved fuel tank entry static and moisture protective clothing.

Emergency Response Team at AFW- We are in the process of establishing a First Response Team at AFW like is currently in place at TUL. It will be comprised of volunteers, emergency response training will be provided. More information will be forthcoming.

Submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Executive Board TWU Local 567
Safety and Health Committee Chair

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday July 10, 2002. The following issues were discussed:

Closed Items:

A/C cleaners training- 3 four hour classes were setup to assist in procedures and techniques that may reduce injuries.

Fire Alarm maintenance procedures policy- A written policy has been provided to the JSC by facilities maintenance.

Window installed in Paint & Fiberglass shop door ö The window has been installed per R. skinner, F/M supervisor.

Battery explosion Bay 3 PCA room- New batteries that do not require maintenance have replaced the old ones. A new PM has also been implemented to insure future inspections.

Work in progress:

Fall Protection TEO build lines- see JSC June 2002

Chemical inventory sheets- see JSC June 2002

New Ventilation system in Interior Shop- see JSC June 2002

Open Items discussed (old business):

Quick reference cards ö 500 plastic badge-hanger type of cards have been ordered and will be distributed by request. The cards will contain safety related numbers and information. More cards will be ordered on an ãas neededä basis.

Emergency response team Organizational aspects of the team are being worked on. Detailed budgetary projections will be submitted to Dave Campbell and his staff for review and final approval.

New Business:

Fire Alarm tests ö Pat Stewart has requested that Facilities Maintenance look into performing routine F/A tests on the weekends. Carlos Greer will report back on this.

Stock clerk back and shoulder injuries ö Due to an increase in injuries Stores has requested Mark Wondolowski give a move-smart update class.

Respectfully submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Executive Board TWU Local 567
Safety and Health Committee Chair

JOINT SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT
For
AUGUST 2002

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday August 14, 2002. The following issues were discussed:

Closed Items:

Quick reference cards – Update, 2000 plastic badge-hanger type of cards have been ordered and 1000 stickers have also been approved and ordered. The cards and stickers will contain safety related numbers and information. More cards will be ordered on an “as needed” basis.

Work in Progress:

Fall Protection TEO build lines- The prototype has been built by F/M welders and is installed. It is currently being tested and evaluated to determine what other modifications may be required.

New Ventilation system in Interior Shop- The system is installed in the level one shop and the installation process has begun in the primary shop area on the second level of the hangar. Several questions have been submitted regarding the design and operation of this system. The location of the exhaust ducts and their elevation is being reviewed and modifications may be necessary. The automation required to insure proper balance between exhaust and supply air is also under question. Currently the automation required to maintain proper balance to insure stable room temperature is not operable. Employees have also requested a means of “local control” of the ventilation system such as an “on-off” switch in the production area. 

Open Items discussed (old business):

Central Clean  protective/moisture resistant coveralls- New styles are being evaluated and recommendations will be made when Vince Sapero returns next month.

New Business:

Traffic in parking lots- Traffic conditions are becoming more hazardous in the employee parking lots and Safety is evaluating those concerns.

Radio communication- Need to use radios when working the flaps on aircraft. This issue has arisen in the past and is currently being reported as a problem on bay 3.

Central Clean vapors- A recent power outage shut off the exhaust system in the central clean area. The safety rep in that area would like the JSC to consider some kind of detector to sense air quality and a communication mechanism to notify them if evacuation is necessary. Carlos Greer will investigate making lids for the chemical tanks. Mark Wondolowski will contact an IE for further evaluations of the area.

Fire Alarm bay 5- Last week after a fire alarm went off security did not look for heat sensitive areas or investigate elevators to insure that no one was trapped inside. They just stood around and waited for the alarms to cease.

Pigeon Droppings- Complaints have been submitted regarding pigeon dropping in the TEO/Test Cell area and in parts of the hangar, the catwalk areas of the hangar are especially filthy. Updates/status reports on this issue will be forthcoming.

Respectfully submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Executive Board TWU Local 567
Safety and Health Committee Chair

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday, September 11, 2002. The following issues were discussed:

Closed Items:

Safety Knives-  Specialty knives designed to prevent worker injuries have been tested by various Component Maintenance groups and Base Supply. Some of the designs were well received and will be utilized; others were rejected by the test groups. Evaluations of other knives will be considered as an ongoing process as each group/area determines what design is best suited to it's needs.

Parking in cafeteria corridor area in Structures bldg.- The area is clearly marked (keep clear lines), and tends to only be a problem at lunch time. This item will be deferred to the  local area Structures safety circle for evaluation.

Radio use while working flaps in hangar- Complaints were submitted last month regarding failure to use radios on Bay 3 while working flaps. Radios are available and should be used as a standard procedure. The PA system in the hangar has also been revamped per previously related JSC discussions on related issues and can be used to supplement the use of radios. Richard Beeny will follow-up on this item and insure compliance with radio usage.

Work in Progress:

Traffic in Parking Lots- Hazardous driving and conditions in the parking lots, and dangerous cross traffic is being encountered as employees exit the property onto Eagle Parkway. These concerns will be further discussed at this months APC meeting, Holly Blake has been asked to report her findings at that time. We anticipate some form of JSC resolution on this issue by next month. 

Quick reference cards (safety related numbers and info)- This item has been temporarily reopened. Last month it was reported as closed out, but the company working on our order went out of business. An alternate source is being investigated by Mark Wondolowski.

Open Items discussed (old business):

Central Clean- Within several weeks air sampling will be conducted in the Central Clean area with the ventilation (Scrubbers) turned off. This will be conducted during weekend hours and will determine "worse case" scenario of chemical exposure in the event of ventilation failure. Safety procedures will then be developed based on this data. Evacuation warning alarms will also be interlocked with the ventilation system to notify personnel in the event of system failure. Other procedural changes will be jointly reviewed and discussed.

Pigeon droppings- Complaints regarding pigeon droppings, especially in the TEO/Test Cell area were discussed last month. Carlos Greer reported this month that "Members" (janitorial and cleaning) contractors wash the ramp areas down weekly. The areas of concern in the hangar catwalk areas are cleaned annually. I believe the hangar area is past due and requested that a cleaning be scheduled, the other areas of concern on the ramp look as though they have been cleaned.

Other points of Interest:

The Emergency Response Team- Funding for the establishment of an "Emergency Response Team" has been approved by Dave Campbell. The program can now begin to move forward. Kip Richard and Vince Sapero are spearheading the effort and volunteers will be solicited and trained as part of this "first responder" team. The establishment of this team will greatly enhance our ability at AFW to respond quickly in emergency situations requiring medical assistance during the interim period following an accident and the arrival of an ambulance, doctor or nurse.

Slide Shop- On August 23rd I submitted a request to AA Safety to have an Industrial Hygienist investigate shop personnel concerns regarding mold being found on slides they service and maintain, specifically to "...collect samples of the mold and provide us with test results upon conclusion." 

New Ventilation system in Interior Shop- The contractors have installed the new ventilation system in the Interior Shop but the project is not yet complete. Facilities Maintenance will install the control interlocks and provide system automation to insure the proper balance required to maintain room temperature and sustain proper ventilation. Facilities Maintenance will also lower the exhaust ducts to provide better ventilation in the respective work areas.

Respectfully submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Executive Board TWU Local 567
Health and Safety Committee Chair

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JOINT SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT
For
OCTOBER 2002

The Joint Safety Committee convened on Wednesday, October 9, 2002. The following issues were discussed:

Closed items:

Stop signs in parking lots- Have been relocated to insure greater pedestrian safety at crosswalks.

Catwalks in hangar- The catwalk areas will be cleaned out during Christmas base closure per Carlos Greer, provided no work is occurring in the areas directly below the catwalk areas being cleaned.

Work in progress:

Traffic in parking lots and base exits- Holly Blake has committed to have city traffic engineer revisit the areas of concern and evaluate options with Mark Wondolowski. These areas are especially dangerous at shift change times and several accidents have occurred.

Emergency Response Team (ERT)- Volunteers will soon be solicited for the ERT. Volunteers will be trained and certified as first responders per the Texas Emergency Care (ECA) certification. The ERT will serve to help bridge the gap in the event of medical emergencies, injuries and accidents at AFW. This assistance should help to eliminate past incidents and inconsistencies with regards to proper treatment and transportation of injured employees. AA Medical will continue to respond to all medical emergencies when nursing staff is available. Medical response will be further aided by the use of the medical department’s new Medical Response Cart provided through prior efforts of the Joint Safety Committee. ECA certification information and state liability law documentation has been provided to the JSC; for more information on certification or liability related issues contact Kip Richard @ 4-1159.  Note: Informational postings along with Q&A’s will be available soon.

Fall protection test cell & trent build line- Prototype installed in test cell will not work out, engineer Mike Alvey is in the process of redesigning the system; Trent line – the JSC has requested an update from Scott Butler, is the system working properly? Are employees using the equipment?

Other points of interest:

Machine shop barriers – Metal-framed plastic barriers have been installed in the machine process area to keep pedestrians out of the staging areas. In a recent visit from the Ft. Worth Fire Marshall, the Fire Marshall expressed concerns about the barrier locations. Mark Wondolowski will meet with the Marshall on October 15th to evaluate those concerns and determine an appropriate configuration.

New items discussed:

04 Case and Vane shop- Concerns regarding metal residue left on parts after certain machine processes have been completed is under investigation. It is primarily a procedural issue, where and how is the best place to remove residual dust prior to maintenance on the parts? Currently the parts are blown off by air pressure in the open shop areas. Technicians from Darby have stated that the cleaning is performed in clean rooms due to potential hazards contained in the metal spray dust. Pat Stewart has committed to resolve this issue; I have also discussed this concern with Nathan Cage, he has  committed to assist in the resolution of this issue.

AED in C.U.P. and IWWTP- Defibrillators are needed in the Central Plant and Industrial Waste Treatment locations. Both locations are relatively remote and need AED’s available. Also the AED located in the lobby of the TEO bldg. is unavailable due to repairs. Carlos Greer will follow-up on these issues.

Needle disposal- An employee was recently injured by a needle protruding from a trash bag in the seat shop. Follow-up investigation indicated needles were not being disposed of properly. Carlos Greer will provide the proper containers for needle disposal. Mike Schwanz and Mark Wondolowski will provide a procedural policy proposal to the appropriate management personnel in an effort to avoid future needle related injuries.

Respectfully submitted by,
Mike Schwanz
Executive Board TWU Local 567
Safety and Health Committee Chairman

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