Submitted by Steve Winicker
LAST WEEKENDS SHOP ACTIVITY
Work continues on the 765. This week we Stretched out the water hose and put water in the tender. After getting about 10,000 gallons water in the tank water started running in the pit. Investigation found two small holes in the stoker gear box space. We will be further investigating these areas to see what the best fix for the problem will be.
Work also continued on the Wabash caboose. The plan is to wrap up that project next week. We will see if that lofty goal can be met.
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES
If indeed the Wabash caboose is finished, I intend to shift back to work on the 765. I believe we can start making some firebrick, do some cleaning and give some attention to areas we can make improvements on.
SAFETY SENSE
Safety does not come naturally–it requires you to constantly ask questions and educate yourself in addition to knowing and following all Society safety rules.
Your attitude and behavior will ultimately determine how safe you and your fellow workers are.
- Help with safety training and safety meetings.
- Suggest safer work practices and procedures.
- Know your role in an emergency.
- Take responsibility for housekeeping.
- Read the labels on chemical containers.
- Think about your back and fellow workers.
- ALWAYS WEAR YOUR PPE, No Ifs, ANDs or BUTTs
An additional note regarding face masks. The N95 face masks have been long utilized in the Shop when performing tasks that generate a dusty atmosphere. Frequently the N95 masks with a discharge relief valve have been utilized and for some they may be the preferred choice since breathing with that type of mask is less labored. This type of N95 mask is fine for industrial applications but is NOT suitable and should not be used for prevention of spreading the COVID virus. The reason is that the exhaled air is unfiltered and if the wearer is COVID positive that person is spreading the virus. It should be noted the Medical Community is finding, as a result of contact tracing, that approximately 57% of COVID cases are the result of contact with an asymptomatic individual. Only N95 or KN95 (Chinese standards) should be worn if one opts to wear a ’95’ mask. The disposable white and blue masks are suitable and in good supply. Mask wearing is most likely to the norm for quite some time.
Following the required Society and COVID safety rules and requirements is not a pain but not following them will most likely cause you and others pain or worse.
Remember to practice Safe Six
SAFETY IS JOB 1
SAFETY FIRST ALWAYS
