January 2019 – July 2022
Maria Nappi is a recent arrival, heading up the Lab’s Environment, Health and Safety Division. Nappi had the typical moving trials when starting a new job; sticker shock at housing prices, navigating the area, and getting to know her team. But her real challenge was doing this during a pandemic. https://sites.google.com/lbl.gov/weareberkeleylab/supporting-science/maria-nappi
With Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) expiring at the end of the year, and continuing challenges posed by the pandemic, leave donations are needed more than ever. Read more about how employees can aid fellow Lab colleagues most affected by the pandemic. https://ehs.lbl.gov/2020/11/30/calling-for-donations-of-vacation-time-to-help-colleagues-impacted-by-covid-19/
This Thanksgiving will be different, but it can still be fun and full of (virtual) connections. Check out these creative tips to use for this year’s celebration from your Lab colleagues. https://stratcomm-elements.lbl.gov/2020/11/23/creative-virtual-thanksgiving-tips/
The Lab is participating in a trial of an app that uses location technology to notify a person if they have been near someone who tests positive for COVID-19. Participation is voluntary and no personal data will be shared. IT’s Adam Stone explores more behind this new approach to fighting COVID-19. https://stratcomm-elements.lbl.gov/2020/11/19/adam-stone-on-the-california-covid-19-notification-trial/
This has been a year of many challenges. While our community has demonstrated resilience, it is a skill set that can always use some nurturing. Nurture your resilience skills through tools, articles, and videos compiled from across the UC system. Let’s stay stronger together. https://diversity.lbl.gov/2020/11/10/wellness-resources-from-uc-helping-our-community-stay-strong/
Check out the first in a series of ATAP photo stories that chronicle “Labs in the Time of COVID: A Day in the Life.” This installment features the Berkeley Lab Laser Accelerator Center (BELLA) and illustrates their efforts to combine safety and productivity while working on-site at the Lab. https://atap.lbl.gov/labs-in-the-time-of-covid/
With the level of anxiety across the nation very high, people may prefer to talk to a mental health professional about their concerns. You can contact the Employee Assistance Program for a confidential referral to a counselor in the community. https://uhs.berkeley.edu/bewellatwork/employee-assistance
With additional researchers at the Lab, more equipment is needing vendor service or repair. Due to increased demand for Qualified Electrical Worker (QEW) support, prepare a Subcontractor Job Hazards Analysis forms at least two weeks in advance to ensure QEW support can be scheduled on time. https://ehs.lbl.gov/2020/10/29/plan-ahead-for-qew-support-when-using-the-sjha-system/
When moving equipment, secure the load. It’s the best practice, even for short distances. In September, a file cabinet slipped off a hand truck and struck a subcontractor’s foot and leg, resulting in a recordable injury. A standard safety maxim is “anticipate to prevent” potential injuries. https://ehs.lbl.gov/resource/documents/occupational-safety/monthly-accident-statistics/
Health Services will continue to offer flu shots for employees who are working at a Lab site. Call 510-486-6266 for more information. https://ehs.lbl.gov/2020/09/09/2020-lbnl-flu-clinics/