Today was a different day. I had the "opportunity" (used very loosely) to be an evaluator for a Radiological Protection Dynamic Learning Activity (RP-DLA).Lots of words for a simple activity, we have procedures to ensure we to not spread contamination at our nuclear power plant, and our workers need to practice good behaviors to ensure this is met. We have a similar activity for industrial safety.
The DLA is basically a series of tasks that need to be performed, and if they are not performed to requirements, you loose points. There are "circuit breakers" that if you get the activity wrong, you fail.
Being an evaluator is just a step above having to fire someone. As an evaluator, if they do not perform the circuit breaker activities properly, then you must fail them, and they need to re-perform the entire activity. If they fail again, then they need to go to their management for determination of the next steps (i.e., this is a performance issue).
Today, someone that I used to work with, missed a critical step. It was a terrible feeling, having to tell him that he "failed" the evaluation. He took it well, stayed around, and he re-mediated successfully.
There are four evaluators per week, with three classes per day (12 students per day). Today, we failed five on the first attempt, but luckily they all passed the remediation. Only four more days, I hope our success rate increases, because I do not like having to "fail" folks.
It makes for a long day, multiple sessions of watching people perform these activities. It is physically, and sometimes, emotionally taxing. Sounds a lot like every day life!
Is this the deal where one of the scenarios is an office setting and people have to evaluate the dangers? I know there's a lot more to it than that, but the office situation kind of cracks me up!
ReplyDeleteBeth
For the industrial safety scenario, office safety is one of the stations. We look at drawers left open, cords around desks, heaters under desks, and not using chairs and such as ladders.
ReplyDeleteKudos to you for not passing people a) because they are your friend (we have enough of that everywhere) b) not being open to bribery (again, enough of that goes on) c) holding people accountable ('nug said) d) all of the above
ReplyDelete:)
It is a difficult task to evaluate a fellow employee or team mate, but it has to be done. Been there, done that with the faculty at the school I worked in as the building's Reading Specialist. Some folks were OK with it, others did not like my walking in and evaluating their territory.
ReplyDeleteKaren
This is very interesting. I can't imagine the safety plans that take place there. And we thought we took it seriously at the envelope plant. lol. Our safety meeting was cancelled tomorrow morning b/c managers were busy doing other things. If that tells you anything. lol
ReplyDeleteSonya
I have a heater under my desk... but it's STAYING!!! Unless they turn off the air in that meat locker!! LOL!!! Glad you didn't have to permanently fail anyone so far.
ReplyDeleteJoann
I can imagine that was tough, evaluating friends. But kudos for you for doing what's right and not being swayed by things! Hey, you want to run for President by any chance? ;)
ReplyDeletePooh Hugs,
Linda
Ken:
ReplyDeleteI think it would be tough to evaluate friends, but it's better then a stranger. You did the right thing, and in place like that safety is the primary cocern. A couple years ago I read that Illinois had the most reactors, I think it was 11. I don't know if that is still true. I was wondering what your thoughts were, on the time frame that isotopes remain in the atmoshere? Thanks for becoming a follower. I hope you have better day at work tomorrow.
Thanks,
Wes
I don't think I would like being in your shoes for this activity either. Here's to hoping everyone continues to pass. I kind of hate that word fail, it's like telling someone they are a failure even if it is for a single task, and not a life issue. (hugs)Indigo
ReplyDeleteI've had to terminate employees who I considered to be good friends and it is not an easy thing to do. I just have to remind them (and me) that it isn't personal. It is still hard though.
ReplyDeleteI've had to terminate employees who I considered to be good friends and it is not an easy thing to do. I just have to remind them (and me) that it isn't personal. It is still hard though.
ReplyDeleteI've had to terminate employees who I considered to be good friends and it is not an easy thing to do. I just have to remind them (and me) that it isn't personal. It is still hard though.
ReplyDelete