[labnetwork] After Hours Policies - permitting more flexibility

[Luciani, Vincent (Fed)]

Hello Michael,

It is always interesting to see what others are doing and this is always an interesting topic.  Here at CNST our policies are pretty much in alignment with the “best practices” that are being described;  buddy system, CCTV cameras buddy matchmaking etc.  We do allow 24/7 use of our external microscopy labs that pose little risk.  However, we have recently been discussing options to permit more 24/7 flexibility in a safe and cost effective manner.  So, I’ll as the group:

Has anyone found a technology solution they like?  We have discussed the “I have fallen and can’t get up” type monitors; CCTV surveillance; phone apps that detect falls etc.  At a minimum we am pondering a system where there are 3 categories of activities:
1) Activities where no buddy system is needed.  For example:  operating a SEM or an AFM.
2) Activities that require an electronic buddy at a minimum:  For example: Operating a sputter system or RIE system.
3) Activities that must have a nearby buddy.:  Anything that requires manual handling of dangerous liquids.

Maybe someone has a better solution?  If so I would love to hear about it.

Best,
Vince


Vincent K. Luciani
NanoFab Manager
Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology<http://www.cnst.nist.gov/>
National Institute of Standards and Technology
100 Bureau Drive, MS 6201
Gaithersburg, MD 20899-6200 USA
+1-301-975-2886






From: labnetwork-bounces at mtl.mit.edu [mailto:labnetwork-bounces at mtl.mit.edu] On Behalf Of Michael Hume
Sent: Thursday, September 29, 2016 3:31 PM
To: labnetwork at mtl.mit.edu
Subject: [labnetwork] After Hours Policies - Wet Processing

Dear Colleagues,

We are in the process of re-evaluating our after-hours policies, specifically in regards to wet chemical processing (eg. HF/BOE/KOH/TMAH/Piranha cleaning). Historically, we have not allowed these processes after hours, primarily due to safety concerns. That said, as demand within our facility grows, and the competence of our user base increases, the question has been raised as to why these processes can't be performed within a framework of proper procedures to ensure user safety (eg. buddy system, etc..)

I am interested in the general approach of other facilities. Does anyone allow these processes? Does anyone forbid them? In either case what is the general reasoning for your decision? If you do allow them, what sort of protocols or policies do you have in place to provide a safe working environment?

Any feedback you may have is much appreciated!

Regards,

--

Michael Hume

Operations Manager

University of Alberta - nanoFAB

W1-060 ECERF Building

9107 - 116 Street

Edmonton, Alberta

Canada T6G 2V4
www.nanofab.ualberta.ca<http://www.nanofab.ualberta.ca/> Ph: 587-879-1519
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