Why We’re Here Bright lights, big safety Boeing scientist has a laser-like focus on workplace safety By Terri Christofferson Denny Rossbach is a chief scientist for Boeing Test & Evaluation in Albuquerque, N.M., and an expert on laser technology. In this Frontiers series that profiles employees talking about their jobs, Rossbach explains why he’s also developed a passion for workplace safety. PHOTO: BOB FERGUSON/BOEING Lsections during final assembly and in precision-guided systems every day.I’ve also sought out training and seminars that enabled mework site, where we use potentially lethal high-energy laserasers can do wondrous things, and Boeing uses themfor applications such as helping align 777 fuselage and directed energy weapons. But since they can produce to create a custom electrical safety class, tailored specifically for tremendous energy, I know that this is not a place to take our site’s needs. The course, modified and certified by Boeing’s shortcuts in workplace safety. Hazardous Energy Process Management team with Environment, With 44 years’ experience in the design, development, Health and Safety, was approved for companywide use. I’m integration and test of electro-optical and high-power laser happy to see that my work is helping strengthen workplace systems, I’ve taken it upon myself to do what I can to help safety training at other Boeing sites. create a safer workplace. Everyone is trying to be more productive. But sometimes it Early in my career, I saw a co-worker get badly hurt by seems that people are trying to do what they think will be faster, a laser. I had to physically push him out of the beam to stop when they should focus on doing things safely yet efficiently. the burn. That incident really hit home for me and made me There are always opportunities to work more safely—we realize that workplace safety is something we shouldn’t just need to identify them and find solutions. I feel fortunate to take for granted. work in an environment where those actions are recognized and That interest in safety has inspired me to earn laser safety encouraged. And it’s gratifying to know that my contributions certification and led to membership on a cross-industry help people across Boeing work safely—so they can be committee that oversees laser safety standards. I’ve helped productive both at work and at home. n create a comprehensive safety process and culture at my terri.l.christofferson@boeing.com BOEING FRONTIERS / AUGUST 2012 9
Frontiers August 2012 Issue
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