The Safe Conduct of Research

Brookhaven Science Associates and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Brookhaven Site Office are working together with Lab management and staff to ensure that Brookhaven is known as a lab that fosters a safe working environment, and is known for its operational excellence. These are key themes for all of us to remember and put into practice. If we don’t, our science and technology vision — being the leading U.S. DOE multi-program laboratory with recognized impact on national science needs — will be impossible to attain.

By its very nature, research often moves us into unknown arenas, constantly pushing the boundaries of our experience. It is work typically carried out by those with deep curiosity and natural skepticism, and capable of intense focus. On the cusp of a discovery, sometimes matters that seem ancillary to the research itself can be forgotten. That is when mundane tasks can present significant risk to those who are distracted.

It is imperative that we all keep the safe conduct of research in the forefront as we perform our work. Otherwise, we take the chance that an injury might mitigate the importance of potentially positive research outcomes.

Today, great science increasingly requires complex and powerful equipment, materials that pose substantial risk if mishandled, specialized operations, and teams of researchers supported by very capable technicians and tradespeople. Because of the increased complexity, teamwork is one of the keys to success, and an essential part of this is a shared code of conduct.

And that’s what this publication is about.

The Brookhaven Lab Safe Conduct of Research was produced through a collaborative effort between Brookhaven and other Battelle-affiliated laboratories but is focused on our mission, our methods, our culture, and our needs. Its purpose is to codify the principles and practices that we believe ensure Brookhaven Lab’s science is performed without unneces­sary risk and operational disruptions.

In short, the principles outlined here form the underpinnings of a strong safety culture here at the Lab. They apply to scientists at all stages of their careers as well as to the multitude of staff whose contributions are vital to accomplish our research goals.