DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1065/espr2001.11.099.2 - - - The DOE remediation program is the largest and most technically challenging cleanup in history. Given the complex and unprecedented nature of the task, it is certain that, without proper foresight, worker risk will be high. In addition, the innovative nature of many of the new technologies will pose challenges with regard to worker education and training. Thus, early consideration of the potential impact of new technologies on worker health and safety is a major need of the EM technology development program. Safety and health considerations should be factored into the technology development process as early as possible. Major focal points for technology safety improvement are the technology developer, who is in the best position to systematically identify and address safety hazards early in the development process, and the OST internal and external technical review process that occurs at major funding decision points. The earlier in the development process that potential hazards are identified and controlled, the greater the protection afforded to workers and the greater the cost savings for developers. The focus should be on elimination or substitution of hazardous processes associated with the technology rather than building barriers between workers and hazards. - - - Abbreviations: ASME: American Society of Mechanical Engineers; DOE: United States Department of Energy; EM: Environmental Management Program; EMAB: Environmental Management Advisory Board; IUOE: International Union Operating Engineers; OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration; OST: Office of Science and Technology; TSDS: Technology Safety Data Sheets. |
