Publications Details

Waste minimization/pollution prevention at R&D facilities: A cradle-to-grave tracking and information system for Sandia National Laboratories

Gillenwater, M.W.

Critical information required for Environment, Safety, and Health (ES&H) protection can be acquired with a comprehensive cradle-to-grave tracking and information system. The cradle-to-grave concept makes two initial assumptions. First, it is more effective to gather information at the origination of a process or entry point of a material and maintain that information during the rest of its life-cycle than to collect data on an ad hoc basis. Second, the information needs of the various ES&H programs have many commonalties. A system which adheres to a methodology based upon these assumptions requires a significant technical and administrative commitment; however, this investment, will in the long-term, reduce the effort and duplication of ES&H programs, improve the efficiency of ES&H and line personnel, and increase the scope and accuracy of ES&H data. The cradle-to-grave system being developed at Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) is designed to provide useful information on materials, personnel, facilities, hazards, wastes, and processes to fulfill the mission of pollution prevention, risk management, industrial hygiene, emergency preparedness, air/water quality, and hazardous and radioactive waste management groups. SNL is currently linking system modules, which are at various stages of development and production, to realize a cradle-to-grave tracking and information system that is functional for a large research and development laboratory.