From mondaymemo@bnl.gov Tue Jul 17 10:21:28 2001 Date: Mon, 16 Jul 2001 10:53:38 -0400 From: Monday Memo To: BNL Labwide Broadcasts Subject: Monday Memo, Vol. 3, No. 14 **********MONDAY MEMO********** **********MONDAY MEMO********** - BNL's electronic newsletter - **********MONDAY MEMO********** July 16, 2001 IN THIS ISSUE: * Director's message * Brookhaven completes annual hazardous waste inspection * Brookhaven in Focus: Geothermal materials research at Brookhaven * Mini employee survey begins later this month/Final focus group report * Queries and comments *************** DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE - John Marburger Good morning. Michael Murtagh's unexpected death last week has left a huge void at the Laboratory. It will certainly be possible to find another physics chair, but we will never find another Mike. He cared passionately about science, and also about people, especially the people for whom he felt responsible as chairman. I learned to listen carefully when Mike complained (which he did sometimes) because it always signaled something that really needed attention. We met from time to time, just the two of us, to talk over how things were going at the Lab, and Mike never failed to offer his own assistance to make things better. I shall miss his utterly honest, direct manner, as well as his insights into how an organization that wants to do the best science should operate. It will take us all a long time to recover emotionally from the tragedy of his sudden departure. Mike's funeral was this morning at 10 a.m. at St. Mark's Church in Shoreham. During last week's meeting of the BSA Science and Technology Steering Committee, I talked with Charlie Balthay, currently chairman of the Yale physics department, about his long collaboration with Mike Murtagh, Nick Samios, Bob Palmer, and others on neutrino experiments at Brookhaven. This has become a hot field with the recent Sudbury Neutrino Observatory results that, together with earlier results from Japan's Super Kamiokande detector, resolved the long-standing puzzle of the missing electron-neutrinos from the sun. Now there is another puzzle, which is the amount of mismatch between normal matter and antimatter during the early moments of the universe. If it were not for violation of the symmetry called CP (charge conjugation and parity inversion) the mismatch would be zero, and the two kinds of matter would have annihilated completely, with nothing left over to form the likes of us. Unfortunately, the CP violation first observed in matter made of quarks at the Alternating Gradient Synchrotron by Val Fitch and Jim Cronin in the early 1960s is not large enough to account for all the matter we see around us. Another possible contributor to CP invariance could come from interactions involving leptonic matter (everything is made of quarks and leptons and their mutual forces.) But we cannot observe this effect with any current facility. So let's build one. At Brookhaven. During the past year, a study was performed under Satoshi Ozaki's direction as to whether a muon storage ring could be built on our site. The muons would decay to generate a strong beam of neutrinos that, with a proper detector at a remote site, could perhaps measure the lepton contribution to CP. The science payoff is important enough to justify construction of such a "neutrino factory," but much research remains to be done even to arrive at a rough cost estimate. I gave a "State of the Lab" talk to the Community Advisory Council last Thursday that included our plans for future accelerators, including major enhancements to RHIC and the NSLS, as well as the neutrino factory. I pointed out that using superconducting radiofrequency cavities in the accelerating sections of the neutrino factory would lead to a device that is small enough to fit on the Brookhaven site without destroying a big chunk of pine barrens. And it can be built entirely above the water table. I think the community expects us to continue to build big projects here, and will support them if we are honest and open about exactly what we are doing and why. We need to make everyone aware of our plans, even at the "vision" stage, to secure community support. Neutrino detection has been a specialty of the Chemistry department for a long time, but that was not one of the featured areas at the Lab's first Summer Sunday last week. Attendees seemed to get the biggest kick out of making "slime" at one of the exhibits set up in the Chemistry building lobby. Thanks to everyone who made this event such a success for the more than 1,000 visitors. Thanks are also in order for those who arranged yesterday's Biology open house, which competed with excellent weather but still drew more than 700 visitors to the site. I can't conclude this long message without a word about the budget. The good news is that the Senate markup includes substantial increases that will help our fiscal year 2002 budget. The bad news is that we have to tighten our belts in the overhead areas to make our G&A expenditures match the available revenue expected in the current year. More detail will be available in special announcements during the week. - John Marburger Laboratory Director *************** BROOKHAVEN COMPLETES ANNUAL HAZARDOUS WASTE INSPECTION - Kathy Carney During the month of June 2001, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) carried out its unannounced annual hazardous-waste inspection at Brookhaven. The NYSDEC inspector was on site for a total of five days during the period of June 6 to June 14. In addition to inspecting all Resource Conservation & Recovery Act (RCRA) permitted storage areas and records at the Waste Management Division complex, a total of nineteen 90-day accumulation areas, more than one hundred satellite accumulation areas (SAA), and several Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) accumulation areas within the Laboratory were included, making this a very comprehensive hazardous-waste inspection. Late last week, BNL received a Notice of Violation (NOV), dated July 2, 2001, for two minor administrative deficiencies, one of which was corrected immediately. The nature of the violations involves the proper marking of containers. No penalties were assessed against the Laboratory for this NOV. This unannounced inspection by the NYSDEC represents one of the most in-depth inspections of BNL's waste-management activities ever carried out by the State. Within each SAA, 90-day accumulation area, CERCLA waste accumulation area, and RCRA storage area are at least 12 regulatory compliance requirements (points of compliance); bringing the total points of compliance that are subject to inspection to well over 2,000. To come out of such a rigorous inspection with only two minor deficiencies demonstrates the Laboratory's commitment to sound waste management practices and environmental protection. During the close-out meeting with NYSDEC, the lead inspector commented that everyone he spoke with during the inspection understood the requirements and his or her role in the waste management cycle, which he classified as "highly unusual" for an organization of this size. I am extremely proud of how much improvement the Laboratory has made in the management of its hazardous wastes. Those deserving the greatest amount of credit for making these improvements possible include the Environment, Safety & Health Coordinators, 90-Day Area Managers, Building Managers, Environmental Compliance Representatives, and Waste Management staff; but most of all, all the scientists and staff that generate and manage hazardous waste in the course of their work. - Kathy Carney Waste Management Division Manager For more information on Waste Management programs and initiatives, go to http://www.bnl.gov/wmd/ on the web. *************** BROOKHAVEN IN FOCUS: GEOTHERMAL MATERIALS RESEARCH AT BROOKHAVEN - Marita Berndt Geothermal energy refers to heat produced within the earth. High- and moderate-temperature hydrothermal reservoirs can be used to produce electricity, and in the U.S. alone, geothermal energy currently supplies the electricity needs of 1.5 million homes. Low- to moderate-temperature geothermal heat can also be used directly for a wide variety of applications, including space heating, aquaculture, and greenhouses. Another rapidly growing use of geothermal energy is heating and cooling of buildings using geothermal heat pumps. These systems are highly efficient and can be used in any geographic location, including on Long Island. In the Energy Resources Division at Brookhaven, we conduct research on durable, cost-effective materials for use in geothermal energy applications. Our program, which includes extensive collaboration with the geothermal industry, focuses on materials-related problems. In one recent project we investigated how to prevent microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) of concrete in geothermal cooling towers. MIC of concrete is typically induced by bacteria that produce acids and cause degradation of concrete. Treating cooling water with biocides in geothermal power plants cannot always control the problem. We examined the resistance of different surface-applied protective coatings and mortars to sulphur-oxidizing bacteria. The influence of concrete mix design and supplementary cementing materials on resistance to MIC has also been investigated in order to determine how degradation can be mitigated in future cooling tower structures. Two types of supplementary cementing materials were used. The first of these was silica fume, a byproduct from the manufacture of silicon or ferrosilicon alloys. Silica fume is an amorphous silica powder that reacts with calcium hydroxide produced during the hydration of cement to form calcium silicates that have cement-like properties. Thus, silica fume can be used as a partial replacement for cement. Concrete that contains silica fume has enhanced durability due to changes in microstructure and reduced porosity. The other supplementary cementing material tested was ground granulated blast furnace slag. This is a byproduct from iron making and consists of calcium silicates and aluminosilicates. In our program, we tested specimens of regular concrete, concrete mixes with supplementary materials, and coated concrete in the laboratory, exposing them to sulfur-producing bacteria. The same specimens were also field-tested for eight months at a geothermal power plant in Indonesia, where extensive problems of microbiologically influenced corrosion had been encountered. The specimens of regular concrete underwent severe degradation. Partial replacement of cement with 10 percent silica fume significantly improved the resistance to MIC. Blast furnace slag was beneficial, but not as effective as silica fume. All the epoxy-coated specimens remained intact, with no loss of bond strength to the concrete substrate. The calcium aluminate mortars also showed minimal degradation. Based on our findings, the geothermal industry can now repair existing problems and prevent future degradation of concrete due to MIC. Current research activities in the geothermal program include well cements, corrosion protective coatings and non-destructive testing. - Marita Berndt Energy Resources Division *************** MINI-EMPLOYEE SURVEY BEGINS LATER THIS MONTH/ FINAL FOCUS GROUP REPORT - Lorraine Merdon From July 23 to August 3, Brookhaven employees will have the opportunity to participate in an Employee Perspective Mini Survey. The survey, which will measure employees' perspectives compared to the 1998 survey, will be completed online via the Internet. Paper surveys will be available for employees who do not have easy access to computers. As publicly accessible computers are now available to many organizations that previously had none, we expect the number of paper responses to be minimal and encourage employees to respond using the Internet. To ensure anonymity and confidentiality, we are again working with International Survey Research (ISR), an independent consulting firm, to conduct the survey. The survey site is being hosted on a secure ISR server. On July 23, an all-employee e-mail will provide a link to the survey site. Look for additional information in the July 20 issue of The Bulletin. *** The Employee Involvement Focus Group raised several issues dealing with performance evaluations, information exchange, awards, and training. The group concluded that having a single source of evaluations (an employee's immediate supervisor) was unfair and an impediment to positive change. In response to this observation, a Performance Appraisal Quality Review Board was established. It evaluated the appraisal process and assessed the consistency of the application of the compensation program's principles. Following this assessment, in FY 2000 a leadership goal was developed to strengthen the Performance Appraisal & Goal Planning Process. Over the past two years, as part of the appraisal process, Level 1, 2, & 3 managers have been required to participate in 360-degree evaluations. These evaluations include participation by supervisors, peers, direct reports and customers. Based on the feedback, managers are required to develop an action plan for improvement. The Focus Group also recommended: - A mechanism for employees to exchange ideas and information and express general concerns. The group recommended an Employee Advocacy Representative Program (EAR). At the same time, the Diversity Focus Group was developing the Brookhaven Advocacy Council (BAC), which is a forum for employees, visitors, and guests to bring their concerns and issues to a committee to review and investigate them for action. Since the basic intentions of the committees were similar, the EAR deferred to the BAC. - An enhanced system of awards. The Brookhaven Awards' Program was revised, and now includes the Science and Technology Award, the Engineering Award, the Brookhaven Award, Spotlight Awards for exceptional performance, and a Perfect Attendance Award. - Expanded management skills for supervisors. The Supervisory Training Curriculum was expanded to include Interpersonal Communication Skills, Managing Conflict, Team Building, and Facilitation Skills. - Programs to encourage workplace courtesy and respect and to improve employee morale. Employee volunteers are working together to celebrate various ethnic groups and cultures through music, dance, displays, and programs. You can read the unabridged versions of all of the responses to the Focus Group Recommendations at http://www.bnl.gov/personnel/empsurvey/2001/2001_intro.htm - Lorraine Merdon Diversity Office Manager *************** QUERIES AND COMMENTS Monday Memo recently received the following anonymous question on flexible scheduling at Brookhaven: Can flextime be made an official Laboratory-wide policy at BNL so that it is available to all BNL employees? Presently, it appears that flextime is available only to employees in particular departments and divisions based on the discretion of individual management. Some management have accepted it, while others still feel uncomfortable with it since it is not an official Lab policy and there are no established "ground rules" for implementing it. Also, there has been no official endorsement of it by Lab management. While it is clear that not everyone can be offered this (i.e., support needed for safe running of operating experimental facilities), there are numerous examples throughout the Lab that demonstrate that it can work within the Lab system (i.e., environmental services, hazardous waste, etc.). Recent articles in the press have reported that many companies and industries have found this concept to be a workable one that has not adversely impacted business and has resulted in increased worker morale. In addition, several of BNL's federal-sponsoring agencies (i.e., the Nuclear Regulatory Commission) have used flextime successfully for years. With the current energy situation (DOE mandating energy conservation at its facilities, high gas prices, environmental concerns in our area over air pollution caused by vehicle use), it appears that this is one step that can be taken at BNL to help conserve resources, be environmentally friendly, reduce vehicle traffic, and benefit employees. - anonymous *** Response from Susan Foster, Employee Relations Manager: The approach that BNL encourages supervisors to take when a request is made for a schedule adjustment is to evaluate their operational requirements and creatively attempt to accommodate the employee whenever possible. If flexibility in scheduling can be attained, while meeting the business needs of the organization, a win-win is accomplished for all involved. There are several organizations on site currently utilizing flexible schedules whereby employees identify their preferred working hours, and management, keeping in mind the need for coverage during core hours of operation, allows employees to shift their hours to accommodate their lifestyle requirements. Additionally, there are a number of divisions utilizing a compressed workweek, whereby an employee works additional hours each day in order to have a shortened workweek. While telecommuting does occur at BNL, it is a less frequent option and is usually limited to a specified period of time to enable an employee increased flexibility while responding to a crisis of limited duration. Part-time schedules have enabled employees to attend to family issues, transition into retirement or just plain work less. Part-time requests are frequently approved with an established period of time identified to allow the manager the opportunity to evaluate the impact the part time status has on the business operation. Should business needs change, managers must reserve the right to alter, with reasonable notice, the schedules of their staff. It would not be practical to have a one-size-fits-all standard, due to the diversity of operations at Brookhaven. While some positions may readily accommodate flexibility in staffing, other positions, either due to facility operations or personnel interface requirements, do not. The writer does seem to be aware of instances where employees are dissatisfied with responses for requests for flexibility. I suggest that these employees contact me on Ext. 2888 to schedule a meeting to discuss their individual issues in an attempt to arrive at a satisfactory conclusion. - S. Foster *** Monday Memo recently received the following anonymous response to an article on Brookhaven's participation in a LIPA energy conservation program: This inquiry is in response to the BROOKHAVEN WORKS WITH LIPA TO EASE LONG ISLAND POWER CRUNCH. I know that the president has requested that all government facilities in California reduce energy use due to the problems the state is currently experiencing with its electrical power supplies. The article states that the Laboratory is one of the largest consumers of energy on Long Island and therefore, isn't it imperative that everyone reduce electricity use as much as possible on a daily basis? I am often at the Lab after normal working hours and witness many office lights and computer monitors left on overnight, consuming energy needlessly. I'm sure that the Laboratory's energy use could be reduced if the employee's put their minds to it. Maybe an incentive could be given to the dept./div./directorate that reduces its energy by the greatest amount or percentage over a certain time period, such as a month, taking into account vital energy needs. - anonymous *** Response from Mike Bebon, Assistant Director for Facilities & Operations: BNL's participation in the LIPA program is just the most recent of numerous efforts we have taken to reduce energy use and cost. We have had an aggressive, and highly successful, energy-conservation program for more than 25 years. In fact, our energy use (BTUs per square foot) for our buildings now is 26 percent below what it was in 1985, and less than half of what it was prior to the initiation of our energy-conservation effort in 1974. To date, we have spent more than $45 million on energy conservation projects, and are continually looking for additional ways to reduce energy use. However, as the writer indicates, there is room for improvement. Reduction of unnecessary energy use is not only important for the environment, it is also important to keep operating costs at a minimum. Furthermore, DOE has set very aggressive energy-reduction goals for all of its facilities. Attainment of these goals will not be possible unless we get participation from all areas of the Laboratory. In fact, our Energy Management group is planning to send a series of reminders on this subject during the critical summer period. Regarding offering an incentive for energy reduction, we are very supportive of this type of approach. And, as indicated in the Monday Memo article referenced above, we will be redistributing any incentives received from LIPA to those departments and facilities that reduced their energy use during the curtailment periods. We agree with the writer's comments and we will evaluate some form of additional incentive program for the "best performers." We will also continue to keep everyone informed about our power issues and to encourage conservation. Everyone has some control over the Lab's energy use, whether it is the heat, lights, or air conditioning in the workplace, minimizing their use of Lab vehicles, decisions to factor energy conservation into an engineering design, or any number of other actions. The impact of everyone being conservation-minded can have an important impact on the Laboratory and Long Island. Every watt counts! - M. Bebon *** Letters and e-mails from Lab employees responding to articles in the Monday Memo, dealing with other issues at the Laboratory, or suggesting future topics are encouraged. Submit them to Monday Memo, Bldg. 134, or e-mail them to mondaymemo@bnl.gov. Please specify whether you would like your name published. *************** The Monday Memo is published on alternate Mondays throughout the year, except for holidays. Previous issues of the Monday Memo can be accessed on the World Wide Web at http://www.bnl.gov/bnlweb/pubaf/memo/mondaymemo.html Editor: Peter Genzer Copy Editor: Karen McNulty-Walsh