[labnetwork] Buddy System Synopsis

[Mark M Crain]

Hi Everyone

I am sure it has come as no surprise that there were a range of answers
regarding the implementation of the *buddy system*.  Of the
respondents, it seems that the buddy system is used mostly to address
requirements of the cleanroom users defined as Student, Staff
Researcher, or External User.  There was no real discussion of a buddy
system required for those who are maintenance staff.  Some respondents
use interlocks to prevent unauthorized use of equipment and others
depend on the honor system.  In our facility the wet benches are really
the most dangerous tools we have, so I would be interested in knowing
how those can be interlocked. 

Here are the composite answers to the "solitary users" conditions we
are considering  

1)	Staff cleaning the floors, stock wafers, organize in dry bays
Alone
 	      (Answer: Requires no buddy according to all respondents
who addressed the issue.) 
2)	Using tools like profilometers, ellipsometers, or wire bonder
Alone  
                      (Answer:  Requires no buddy by a majority of
respondents.)
3)	sputtering and evaporation systems  
                      (Answer:  Needs a buddy by most respondents.)
4)	Can staff walk through chemical storage areas alone?  
                      (Answer:  No buddy required by majority of
respondents.)
5)	What is your schools *buddy system* policy for individual
researchers labs?  
                       (Answer:  No Reply,  I am guessing that most
schools have not gotten to the point of addressing this policy.)
7)	Do cameras and a TGM system count as a buddy?  
                     (Answer: Of course not!)

Based on the results, we plan to implement a solitary user policy so
that profilometers, ellipsometers, microscope, and probe stations can be
used alone.  Staff should be allowed to clean non wet bench areas alone,
take inventory, stock non hazardous items, and inspect areas without a
buddy.  Maintenance and tool hook up will require a buddy.  

Thank You all for the comments and insight.

Best Regards,

Mark