Environmental Health and Safety Comments in Listening Session with Bruce

Came from corporate background. This is a great place to work.   Safety is not the first thing we think about and we are working to turn that around.  Eg: while precautions about asbestos are taken, may not  take into consideration the heat and air safety impact of covering windows in summer.

We have to be careful about ensuring that contractors control indoor air quality, especially in renovations of occupied buildings.  Contract specs are important, as is enforcement.   Our project managers have to protect WWU, not the contractors. 

Culture of university – for the most part, front line supervisors are concerned with safety of employees.   But there is no consistent training to ensure that it is uniform. 

We have implemented an Enterprise Risk Management program in BFA.  It would be good to implement it institution-wide.   ERM is a holistic approach – to address whatever prevents you from achieving objectives. 

We are hoping to accomplish making the EHS mission part of the university culture.

Residence hall fire sprinklers project is proceeding….slowly but surely.  It is an important project.  

Enjoy job and helping people manage hazardous waste and electronic waste responsibly.   We’re working on best practices.  WWU employees are conscious of the need, but with new people coming all the time, education is a constant process.  As long as we stay on top of it, we will make progress.  

Radioactive material disposal program is small.  EHS has to be aware of incoming products/materials.  

We  have to stay active in lobbying, etc, to ensure that regulations are helpful and not burdensome. 

Occasionally in minor projects like turning an office into a lab – and outlets or lab safety equipment aren’t included.   In residences – students oft have too much electrical equipment.  Offices also sometimes have too much plugged into an outlet.

Our alumni group needs to be stronger.  

Parking is an issue for all constituencies.  

As someone who walks to work, am not impressed with the complainers about parking.  We have a lot of good alternatives to SOV.   The transportation group under leadership of Carol Berry, is very good.

We’ve noticed that lots of students ride bikes without helmets. 

We are making progress on revising policy (2003) on international travel.   Softer encouragements vs requirements are problematic.   Insurances are costly.   Need people to have emergency plan, code of conduct, financial guidance, etc.   Some departments very good.  Some still learning.   Lots of free lancers. 

The staff in EHS are very good. 

(7)

Link to summary document prepared by EHS