Corps employee honored for putting safety first

The Achievement Medal for Civilian Service was awarded to Dr. David Brancato, Louisville District subject matter expert risk assessor, Sept. 20 for his dedication to safety.

“Congratulations are in order to Dr. Brancato,” said Chris Karem, Louisville District environmental branch chief. “We are all lucky to have Dr. Brancato watching out for us.”

Brancato, who has worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers since 1994, performed safety inspections and provided the Environmental Engineering Branch with monthly safety topics to help educate his peers.

“The key is to empower employees to be safety officers,” Brancato said. “Accidents occur in the blink of an eye. You have to remain defensive, knowing where problems can occur on the job.”

Among the safety improvements implemented by Brancato was putting fans in the branch to help circulate air during evening hours and to remove dead air pockets. Brancato also initiated the use of bicarbonate to clear up a strong odor caused by leaking water from the fire sprinkler system. Bicarbonate, an over-the-counter product used to clean carpets, cleared up the odor within two days.

“Remember, nothing remains routine,” Brancato said. “Your fellow co-workers depend on your safety alertness. Be alert, know job-specific personal protective equipment, plan for emergencies, and always keep up with the industry standards related to job-specific activities.”