Wing facility managers learn joint base standards
MCCHORD FIELD, Wash. --
Improperly stored hazardous waste material and failing to recycle were the two most common findings in a recent Joint Base Lewis-McChord environmental assessment of 446th Airlift Wing units.
Hazardous waste found to be improperly stored consisted mostly of common cleaning materials and even lighting fluid used for grills. While many units do recycle, it was less than 100 percent, which is the JBLM standard.
The 446th Civil Engineer Squadron scored well and passed the assessment. The rest of the wing's units have some work to do to be in compliance with the DOD and JBLM environmental standards.
"It's really a matter of education," said Maj. Gene Ballou, 446th Airlift Wing safety officer. "We need to get all our facility managers to the training and learn the different requirements we need to meet now that we're under the joint base standards, not just Air Force standards."
Facility managers generally have no problem keeping an eye on their facilities during the week. It's after the influx of Reservists on a drill weekend when they have to be alert to problems.
"Many of our traditional Reservists are not aware of the compliance requirements. For instance, disposing of batteries in special containers," said Ballou. "Or not leaving lighter fluid out after a burger burn. We have to learn the different ways, the different process for handling environmental issues."
Ballou believes now that the wing's many facility managers are receiving the proper training, the wing should do well on its next assessment.
"Just remember, recycle everything you can and put that lighter fluid away after having a barbecue!" said Ballou.
Hazardous waste found to be improperly stored consisted mostly of common cleaning materials and even lighting fluid used for grills. While many units do recycle, it was less than 100 percent, which is the JBLM standard.
The 446th Civil Engineer Squadron scored well and passed the assessment. The rest of the wing's units have some work to do to be in compliance with the DOD and JBLM environmental standards.
"It's really a matter of education," said Maj. Gene Ballou, 446th Airlift Wing safety officer. "We need to get all our facility managers to the training and learn the different requirements we need to meet now that we're under the joint base standards, not just Air Force standards."
Facility managers generally have no problem keeping an eye on their facilities during the week. It's after the influx of Reservists on a drill weekend when they have to be alert to problems.
"Many of our traditional Reservists are not aware of the compliance requirements. For instance, disposing of batteries in special containers," said Ballou. "Or not leaving lighter fluid out after a burger burn. We have to learn the different ways, the different process for handling environmental issues."
Ballou believes now that the wing's many facility managers are receiving the proper training, the wing should do well on its next assessment.
"Just remember, recycle everything you can and put that lighter fluid away after having a barbecue!" said Ballou.
