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Special nuclear material de-inventory efforts were substantial in 2008. Sandia was the first DOE site to move all security-sensitive material off-site, and it did so in significantly less time than the timeframe set by DOE. The first phase of the de-inventory project was completed in February 2008. This allowed Sandia to aggressively remove remaining items and close the Nuclear Material Storage Facility by the end of September 2008. (1300, 10200, 4200, 4300, 2900) NW
Lead-containing ceramics are used in ferroelectric weapon power supplies and in commercial applications. The lead greatly increases Sandia’s costs to prevent worker exposure and for waste disposal. Lead-free alternatives previously have not achieved the required performance. A new production-scalable process has been developed to manufacture ceramics with highly oriented microstructures that dramatically enhance the electrical properties of some lead-free compositions, making them a viable alternative for selected applications. This reduces risk to workers and the environment while affording substantial cost savings. (2400, 1800, 1100) NW
The Livermore Chamber of Commerce selected Sandia/California as the recipient of its inaugural Environmental Spirit Award. The award recognizes Sandia’s environmental programs and ongoing commitment to protecting the environment, wildlife, and numerous species on the 400-acre site. Gary Shamber, manager of the site’s Environmental Management Department, accepted the award during the chamber’s annual community awards gala on Feb. 2, 2008. In his acceptance speech, Gary emphasized the growing importance of environmental stewardship by individuals, companies, and communities. (8500) IES
The success of Phase I of the special nuclear material de-inventory and the resulting change in security posture allowed Sandia to redeploy equipment, materials, and nonpermanent upgrades to several protective force, physical security, and technical security organizations throughout the DOE complex. Redeployed protective force equipment included weapons, breaching equipment, night vision equipment and scopes, armored vehicles, and ammunition. Physical and technical security equipment included an X-ray machine, metal detectors, camera towers, and microwave sensors, among other items. (4200) NW
On May 12, 2008, the Oracle Explosive Inventory System (EIS) was released to production. The Oracle EIS replaces a legacy system that was outdated in technology and process requirements. The Oracle EIS simplified and automated 21 processes and provides multiple data analysis tools and reports. The successful completion of the development project met an Office of Inspector General (OIG) finding and resulted from collaboration among Safety Engineering Dept. 4122, Oracle E-Business Suite System Dept. 9542, and the Sandia Explosive Safety Committee. (4100, 9500) IES
Among the internal independent audits performed by Sandia, two were particularly noteworthy for helping improve the safety of Sandians, contractors, and visitors. The pedestrian and traffic safety audit led to a decision to plan a renovation of the Bldg. 825 parking lot to improve drainage and walking safety for everyone using the lot to reduce slips, trips, and falls. The Saturn and HERMES audit led to the improvement of lighting in two large particle accelerators for the protection of workers at the facility. (12800, 1300, 6060, 4800) NW, ER&N