WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- In a galaxy not so far away, safety was the word of the day.
The AFRL Materials and Manufacturing Directorate highlighted safety as a top priority on January 26, 2017, taking time out to observe the organization’s annual Safety Down Day. Star Wars was this year's theme, and the message was all about using the "Safety Force" to stay protected at work.
The directorate sets aside an entire work day every year to encourage personnel to attend safety briefings, review safety materials, visit vendors, and inspect and clean workspaces. .
Maj. James Enderby, Acting Engineering Services and Support Branch Chief and event emcee, discussed the directorate’s most frequent safety-related findings and how to avoid creating hazardous situations in the work environment.
The famous astromech droid R2-D2, built and operated by local illustrator and product designer Chris Reiff, served as the co-presenter on topics such as active shooter, continuity of operations, fire safety, hot plate safety, and fume hood safety and evaluation.
Special guest speaker Garth Musgrove, fire inspector for the Wright-Patterson Fire Department, talked to the crowd about the safe and effective use of fire extinguishers as well as when and under what circumstances to fight fires in the workplace.
A wide variety of vendors, including the fire department, equipment vendors, and base health and advocacy services were on hand all day to talk to directorate personnel, demonstrate tools and equipment, do health screenings, hand out information, and answer questions.
“As we go about our normal workdays, it can be easy to overlook the basic guidelines that make our work environment a safe and healthy one,” said Enderby. “Safety Down Day is an opportunity to refresh each other on the importance of being mindful of our own wellbeing as well that of our coworkers.”