Seismic anchoring of furnishings and equipment is required to prevent them from blocking exit passages or toppling and crushing someone during an earthquake. For anchoring, equipment must be bolted to structural elements, such as studs in walls, or secured to concrete with approved anchors. If it appears the contents of shelves or cabinets could fall during an earthquake, they must be secured by doors or other restraining mechanisms, such as 3/4-inch-tall lips at the front of shelves, or elastic cords on bookshelves. The first stop for seismic safety information is Chapter 23 of PUB-3000, Berkeley Lab’s Health and Safety Manual. Or contact your Division Safety Coordinator or Division Liaison.
Go to OurSafety for more on the Lab's safety efforts.
Special Event: Holiday Craft Fair is Thursday, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Receiving a gift that is hand-made is always special, and this Thursday from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria, staff can purchase any number of hand-made items at the Lab’s annual Craft Fair. Selections include art, food, clothing, books and more. While the main dining area will be closed, limited seating will still be available for those dining in the cafeteria.
Holiday Shutdown: Help the Lab Save Energy During Break This year’s holiday shutdown will start at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 23, and continue through Thursday, Jan 1. The shutdown offers significant opportunities for saving energy. Before leaving for the break, staff are asked to set back thermostats and turn off nonessential lighting and equipment. Those who will be here during the shutdown should be aware that a minimum work force will be on hand to continue essential functions, such as safety, mail, and plant operations. More>
Benefits: Get Tips on Stress Relief at Dec. 15 WorkshopThe Lab’s HR Benefits Department invites all employees to attend a free workshop entitled “Tips for Stress Relief” on Monday, Dec. 15, from 2 to 3 p.m. in Building 54-Perseverance Hall. The workshop is provided by UC Berkeley’s Care Services and will explore some of the core aspects of stress and skills to actively manage stress.
Health: Stay Germ-Free During National Hand Washing WeekThe Lab’s Health Care Facilitator reminds employees that this week is “National Hand Washing Week.” According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, “hand washing is the single most important means of preventing the spread of infection.” It can stem all kinds of diseases, from the common cold to hepatitis A, meningitis, and infectious diarrhea. Frequent hand washing destroys germs picked up from other people or from contaminated surfaces. More>
Special Event: Cal Forestry Club Sells Christmas Trees Through FridayThe Cal Forestry Club is hosting its annual Christmas tree sale, offering understory trees from private Sierra Nevada forestland that members cut down themselves. The sale runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today through Friday on the south side of Mulford Hall. Cost is $6 per foot. Proceeds benefit club activities and outreach. Call 684-6276 for more information.