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COMMITMENT TO SAFETYFROM THE AREA VICE PRESIDENT

Safety-It’s personal

This issue of Western Area Update features stories about safety. I am

encouraged to see how many of our units and employees are taking safety seriously.

Many of you are “putting your safety glasses on,” walking your workroom �oors, looking for hazards and helping eliminate them. Identifying hazards and unsafe conditions for abatement is not a failure. Instead, it should be considered a cause for celebration because we have identi�ed an opportunity to make our work environment safer.

And the unit bulletin boards �lled with family pictures are visual reminders of “why we work safely.”

A safe environment is a productive place to work. The standards that protect our welfare also translate into ef�ciency and effectiveness.

A safe workplace is an engaged place to work. When we adopt a slogan for our unit and then work together to turn those words into reality, we become a team.

A safe unit is a considerate place to work. We don’t wait for a manager to �nd a problem, but as peers and friends, we protect each other.

Safety is not a number. It’s not a statistic. It’s not a goal.

Western Area Vice President Greg Graves

Summer 2016

Safety is a vital element in the performance of one’s duties throughout the day. Clicking a

seat belt, wearing appropriate gear for outdoor weather conditions and paying attention to the road while driving are just a few of the many activities where individuals must remain actively engaged to prevent accidents.

There’s a popular expression that safety is no accident. The same sentiment holds true for accidents that

happen when there is no safety. That’s why it’s important to remain

committed to working safely at all times to avoid dangerous and potentially life threatening situations.

In this edition of Western Area Update, you’ll hear from employees who have committed themselves to safe practices. Their stories serve as reminders why a commitment to safety is the best gift a person can give to oneself and loved ones.

Dedicated to safe practices

Grand Forks, ND, Post Office Building Equipment Mechanic Wayne May installs new light-emitting diode (LED) lights to cut electricity use, save money and improve safety.

continued on page 2

2 WESTERN AREA UPDATE ■ SUMMER 2016 WESTERN AREA UPDATE ■ SUMMER 2016 3

Task force puts the brakes on accidents

ALASKA

Concerned about the increasing number of driving and industrial accidents, Alaska District formed a

safety task force in 2014 with management and union working side by side.

The task force’s mission is to “Bring safety back to the forefront, one carrier, one manager and one station at a time.”

The four members of the task force are Fairbanks Postmaster Gina Hufman, Anchorage Russian Jack Station Manager Maurine Kavanaugh, Anchorage Eastchester Station Letter Carrier and Shop Steward Kim Roberts, and North Pole Branch Letter Carrier and Shop Steward Ron Goessel.

The �rst assignment for the task force was for Hufman and Roberts to visit each of the 24 carrier stations in the district. They began each visit with a stand-up talk to acquaint the carriers with the goals and objectives of the task force. They told the group that “Our goal is to help mentor, coach and educate each and every carrier to focus on safety,” Hufman explained.

Hufman and Roberts asked for comments from the carriers about their safety concerns in the of�ce and on the street.

“We used their input to provide us with a direction for us to take,” Roberts said.

“We spent a lot of time with the carriers at each unit,” Hufman added. “One of our goals was to simplify the entire safety process. We also used some of the principles of the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) program.

“City carrier assistants (CCAs) get a lot of our attention because they are new employees who are still learning the processes and procedures of the Postal Service,” Hufman said. “They also tend to have a higher percentage of accidents than regular carriers do. In some cases, we felt they needed additional training.”

The task force concentrated its efforts on observation of drivers, route maps, cleanliness of delivery vehicles, establishing safety coordinators, �rst aid kits, scanning points, safety bulletin boards and safety awards.

“In many cases, updating was a major factor with these issues,” Roberts said. “Route maps, bulletin boards and �rst aid kits were out of date. These are important components of a strong safety program.”

The task force meets monthly to plan additional activities and to get updated on the progress of the programs they have instituted. Another round of visitations to the 24 delivery units in the district is planned.

The Driver Safety Awards Program was re-established in the district. The program denotes the importance of recognizing employees who have accident-free records behind the wheel of a postal vehicle. The awards are presented by senior management at the carrier’s station.

The task force has studied the accident records for the district and found that the leading cause of vehicle accidents is “striking stationary objects.” The leading cause of industrial accidents is “slips, trips and falls.” They are increasing their emphasis on those issues.

Hufman proudly noted that since the formation of the safety task force, her Fairbanks of�ce has gone a year without a motor vehicle accident.

Alaska District Manager Ron Haberman is solidly behind the task force program. “Ron supports it 100 percent,” said Huffman. “And he has gotten the word out to the managers and supervisors to give it their full attention.”

The success of the task force prompted Haberman to give presentations on the program to fellow executives at Western Area management meetings in Minneapolis and Denver in an effort to replicate the best practice elsewhere.

The Postal Service will expand its use of alternative energy by installing solar panels on the

roof of the Los Angeles Processing and Distribution Center.

The installation will make the facility the largest building in the city generating electricity with solar panels.

“The solar power generation system will allow the Postal Service to meet its daylight energy consumption needs while generating revenue from excess production that will be sent to the electric grid for use by others,” said Facilities VP Tom Samra.“This effort provides financial benefits to the Postal Service while helping the environment at the same time.”

Hecate Energy Central Avenue LLC, an alternative energy company, began the installation in July. The system will be composed of 31,000 solar panels on the P&DC’s rooftop and carport canopy. The program is part of USPS’s overall sustainability efforts to support the environment.

Solar panels like these will be installed at the Los Angeles Processing and Distribution Center in July.

Sunny side upMembers of the Alaska District Safety Task Force meet monthly. From left, Maurine Kavanaugh, Gina Hufman, Ron Goessel and Kim Roberts.

To me, safety is personal. It’s personal for me because I’ve seen lives permanently impacted. It’s personal for me because I’m a husband, father, a grandfather, a customer and a co-worker.

Working safe is not a choice - it’s a requirement.

Safety-It’s personalcontinued from page 1


Scottsdale employees focus on safety ARIZONA

What’s keeping Scottsdale Kachina Station employees

focused on safety? “Constant reminders that ‘safety depends on me,’” said Rural Carrier Adrienne Allocco.

A renewed focus on safety by employees and managers alike has resulted in a safer workplace and a major decrease in motor vehicle accidents — down from eight in 2015 to one this year. The station is home to 54 delivery routes.

“Every week, we have talks about safety,” Rural Carrier Patty Gardiner said. “We hear the same safety message every week — it’s important, you know? You really have to watch your environment. It’s basically really just about paying attention.”

Two displays added at the delivery unit this year help keep Kachina’s employees’ attention on the importance of safe work practices, said Customer Service Supervisor Don Fisher. One is a “kamishibai” board, part of the district’s “kaizen” project to improve performance in service and safety. The board displays whether safety talks, route observations and other safety-related tasks have been accomplished on a daily basis. For each day of the week, each task is represented by a two-sided card. The card’s green side is displayed if the task

is completed, the red side if not.Another sign has a lighted electronic counter that tallies the number of

days Kachina Station employees have gone without an accident, “because safety matters,” as the

sign reads.Rural Carrier Associate Chris

Aurelio is a member of the kaizen group and attends weekly meetings regarding safety. He explained in the kaizen program, originally conceived in Japan, you work from the ground up. Everybody’s involved in safety, so you �nd the problems and you pick the best solution.You revisit to make sure that solution worked, and then you keep working on it and working on it.”

“They’re doing a lot more street

observations, which makes people pay attention, which is what they’re supposed to do anyway,” Aurelio said of the reduction in vehicle accidents. “But bringing that to their attention makes them pay attention — I know that someone’s watching, so, I’ve really gotta be on my game.”

Also on the kamishibai board is a daily review of the facility by the safety captain, Custodian John Eid. Armed with a safety checklist, 17-year postal veteran Eid takes this work very seriously.

“We have certain topics that we talk with new employees about,” Eid said. “For the new people coming in here — it shows them that we care about their safety.”

Two displays added at the

Service Supervisor Don Fisher. One is a “kamishibai” board, part

is completed, the red side if not.Another sign has a lighted electronic counter that tallies the number of

days Kachina Station employees

“because safety matters,” as the sign reads.Rural Carrier Associate Chris

Aurelio is a member of the kaizen group

Celebrating diversity

The new Eid Greetings stamp made its debut June 10 in Dearborn, MI, recognizing the

two most important festivals — or eids — in the Islamic calendar — Eid al-Fitr, celebrated July 6, and Eid al-Adha, celebrated Sept. 12.

“The Postal Service considers it

a tremendous honor to celebrate the diversity of this great nation through our commemorative stamps,” said Detroit Postmaster Derron Bray, who dedicated the stamp at the Islamic Center of America in Dearborn, MI. “Ours is truly a world culture and our

stamps allow us to weave together the unique threads of our national tapestry,” Bray said.

According to the Pew Research Center, 3.3 million Americans are Muslims — about 1 percent of the U.S. population.

Scottsdale, AZ, Kachina Station Customer Services Manager Don Fisher, Rural Carriers Adrienne Allocco and Patty Gardiner, Rural Carrier Associate Chris Aurelio, and Custodian John Eid showcase their commitment to safety.


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CENTRAL PLAINS DAKOTAS

Mascots and slogans motivate and inspire millions. Colleges use them in athletics to unify

their teams and supporters. At the University of Alabama, the slogan “Roll Tide” and elephant mascot Big Al are legendary, as is the slogan “Go Big Red” and mascot Herbie Husker at the University of Nebraska.

Wanting its own rallying slogan and mascot to help remind employees to work safely, Central Plains District turned to its employees, encouraging them to participate in a contest that would

determine both a mascot and slogan. More than 40 entries were received.

Artwork created by Western, NE, Postal Support Employee Kandee Ramos, featuring an eagle wearing a hat, shorts and a satchel, was selected as the district safety mascot and given the nickname SAM, which stands for “safety always matters.”

McCook, NE, Letter Carrier Chris Smith’s entry of “Make Safety a Priority” was chosen as the district safety slogan.

Banners featuring the winning slogan and mascot will be sent to all postal facilities in the District as a reminder to employees to work safely.

“I think that safety not only pertains to the caution and well-being of every

New mascot and slogan unify and inspire safety

postal worker, but also means projecting a con�dence that shows our customers that their mail is safe with us,” said Ramos. “If customers see us taking great care of ourselves, they know that we are taking great care with the things that they mail.”

According to Smith, safety is a 24/7 commitment that extends to the home where they also have a safety slogan.

”In our family, we stress putting safety �rst so that you will last,” said Smith.

Ramos, Smith and their families were invited to the district for a recognition

event and tour of the Central Plains District Of�ce. Both were presented certi�cates of appreciation and a banner, featuring their winning slogan and mascot, signed by district leadership and of�ce staff.

The district safety slogan and mascot are part of a Lean Six Sigma effort to engage employees in safety to help reduce accidents and keep employees healthy. Lean Six Sigma is a methodology that relies on a collaborative team effort to improve performance.

“A successful safety program takes a team effort in order to create a culture of workplace safety,” said District Safety Manager Brian Kohl.

New deal

The LiteBlue Employee Deals page has a new deal for employees. AARP is

offering discounted memberships to all Postal Service employees, regardless of age.

Employees can now receive 15 percent off all AARP membership terms (1, 3 and 5 years). Current members will also be able to use this offer to extend their current membership at the discounted rate.

AARP membership includes travel and dining discounts, financial products, newsletters and other publications.

Employees can go to LiteBlue liteblue.usps.gov/news/deals/welcome.htm for more information go to aarp.org.

EmployeeDEALS

Shining a brighter light on safety and efficiency

The principle known as the law of unintended consequences states that

the actions of people often have effects that weren’t anticipated. It implies that the additional impacts are negative, but that’s not always the case.

Lighting in the postal vehicle garage at the Grand Forks,

Posing with banners featuring the new Central Plains District safety mascot and slogan are (from left to right) Plant Safety Specialist John Morse, Safety Specialist Jeff Bowlin, McCook, NE, City Carrier Chris Smith (slogan winner), Safety Manager Brian Kohl, Western, NE, PSE Clerk Kandee Ramos (mascot winner) and Safety Specialist James Reall.

Shining a brighter light on safety


COLORADO WYOMING

DAKOTAS

Sara Hunt has worked just two years as a carrier, but she speaks like a life-long veteran of

postal safety.“It’s personal for me.

Coming home to my family is important. And that means I have to work safely,” she said.

Hunt serves as the safety captain at the Westminster, CO, Post Of�ce. She delivers safety talks to employees, walks with the Postmaster on daily workplace inspections, and receives Form 1767 Workplace Safety Notices from employees.

“They trust me because I’m one of them,” she said. “They are comfortable bringing up hazards because they know that we get them �xed.”

The “we” is Postmaster Linda Knight and the other managers at the of�ce.

“I can’t tell you what a difference

this has been having an employee as a captain,” said Knight. “Understandably, employees respond better to their peers. It gives credibility.”

“I am �nding through this process that we work better as a team,” said Knight.

“Linda and I work well together. She’s quick to help and give support,” said Hunt. “And when people see their needs and concerns addressed, it

builds trust and fosters our family relationship.”

Family at work is important at this of�ce. Retirements and birthdays are celebrated. New babies are cheered and family accomplishments shared.

A family safety board is prominent on the workroom �oor.

“My safety is important to my family,” says the placard on the bulletin board. Employees plaster photos of family members at play, school or in the military. The board serves as a visual reminder of who is waiting for employees at the end of the shift.

“We care about each other here,” said Hunt. “When we make safety personal, it’s less about a program and more about a postal family.”

We are protecting our familySAFETY CAPTAIN MAKES IT PERSONAL

Westminster, CO, Safety Captain Sara Hunt delivers the daily safety talk. “Around here, we are family and we need to care for each other.”

Grand Forks, ND, Post Office Mechanic Wayne May is on a lift used to install new safer and more efficient LED light fixtures in the vehicle garage.

ND, Post Of�ce was outdated and performed poorly. Whenever one of the high-pressure sodium lights burned out, it cost more than $100 in parts and labor to replace. Ef�ciency needed to improve. The old system had to go.

The solution was to install new light-emitting diode (LED) lights to cut electricity use and upkeep to save money. The new lights are maintenance free until replacement time after 20 years.

“Replacing the garage’s 30 light �xtures was phased in over three months’ time and will pay for themselves in less than 18 months,” said Maintenance Supervisor Ron Jensen. Projected 10-year savings are nearly $125,000.

“It’s a large initial outlay,” Jensen explained. “But if you can cover costs within two years, you’re picking up all those savings that can be used to address other needs.” The lighting

makeover is being expanded to the Post Of�ce itself as 92 lights there will be replaced with new LED �xtures as they burn out.

Not as anticipated, but at least as important, are safety bene�ts that have come with the change. Jensen noted when lights are changed far less often, that reduces employees’ exposure to potential electrical shock hazards. It also means less time working on ladders and in awkward positions.

The garage is now brighter all the time, which assists employees loading, moving and parking vehicles. It’s also safer for pedestrians. The improvement is particularly noticeable in the winter, as the old lights became noticeably dimmer when temperatures turned frigid.

“We now have a facility that is safer, uses less electricity and costs less to operate,” said Postmaster Travis Larson. “It’s really a win all-around.”


MID-AMERICA

Kansas City, MO, Longview Station employees enthusiastically display their commitment to safety.

All-in for safety

“Always pay attention”SAFE DRIVER OFFERS TIPS TO DRIVE ACCIDENT-FREE

When it comes to safety, employees at the Kansas City, MO, Longview Station are

eager to demonstrate their enthusiasm. That’s because each team member makes a daily commitment to making safe practices a core value.

The safety pledge includes a number of individual components that, when combined, form a strong basis to ensure that everyone goes home safe and sound at the end of the day. These include:

n Demonstrate a commitment to providing a safe work environment for my employees.

n Participate in day-to-day safety activities.

n Take the necessary action to prevent accidents.

n Provide safety training and educate my employees.

n Investigate all accidents to determine root cause.

n Encourage the reporting of hazards and act to address them.

n Actively participate in joint safety and health committees.

n Fully participate in the Counsel At Risk Employees program.

n Encourage participation in safety activities at all levels.

n Never walk by an unsafe practice or hazard and say or do nothing.

Each member of the Longview team not only takes this pledge individually

each day, they also demonstrate that commitment to safety together during daily safety talks. Longview Customer Services Manager Valaere Summers reiterates the importance of safety not only on the job, but off the job as well.

“I want to make sure everyone stays safe whether they’re on or off the clock,” said Summers. “The safety of each and every employee is very important to me, and I pledge to do everything I can to help everyone stay accident free.”

In addition to the safety pledge, the Longview team also developed their own slogan to emphasize the importance of safety:

“All in for working safely. Are you in?”

Driving safely every day isn’t an easy accomplishment. With many hazards on the road and

the potential for distraction, it takes constant vigilance to avoid an accident. When the opportunity to cheer the successes of a fellow co-worker at the Brook�eld, MO, Post Of�ce presented itself, employees jumped at the chance.

Rural Carrier Russell Blume received a National Safety Council 25-year expert driver award and lapel pin for accident-free driving. In addition to hearty congratulations from colleagues, Mid-America Safety Manager Kevin DeVore, Human Resources Manager Vicki Wilkins, and Acting Post Of�ce Operations Manager Angie Bye joined Blume to cheer his extraordinary dedication to safety.

“I always pay attention,” said Blume when asked about the secrets of his success. “I have had some near miss

accidents in my years of driving. You always have to look out for the other driver and pay attention.”

Mid-America Safety Manager Kevin DeVore, Human Resources Manager Vicki Wilkins, Brookfield, MO, Rural Carrier Russell Blume and Acting Post Office Operations Manager Angie Bye.


MID-AMERICA NEVADA-SIERRA

Bigger, better, safer

“Carriers both new and old like them. Everyone likes the fact that we are modernizing.”

Las Vegas Driving Safety Instructor Lionel Graham is excited when he talks about the ProMaster cargo vehicles. The vans are slowly replacing the Windstars and Sidelanders that have served park and loop, business and apartment routes for more than a decade.

The vehicles boast 460 cubic feet of cargo capacity, a huge upgrade over the minivan. They are much more responsive to the evolving mail patterns that have seen parcels jump from 3 billion in 2008 to more than 4.5 billion nationwide last year.

But for Graham, he sees safety.“You have a place for your mail.

Carriers don’t have to stack mail up on the passenger seat or to the ceiling like in other vehicles. That has to pay off,” he said.

But carriers can’t just jump in the vehicles and start driving. Drivers must complete 3.5 hours of classroom and street training.

“They’re a whole different animal,” said Graham. “First of all, they are 17-feet long and 9-feet tall. That height poses hazards in overhangs, carports and complexes that we are used to just driving into without thinking.”

Graham also notes the acceleration.

“LLVs are slow off the line and the top speed is minimal. These vehicles are much quieter, smoother, and faster,” he said. “So it’s easier to go fast. That’s something we aren’t used to.”

One of the best safety features is a backup camera.

“They are great for seeing hazards,” said Graham. “Just like mirrors, they are a tool. But you still need to look and that means getting out. Nothing replaces the image through your eyes and your brain.”

The front-wheel drive vehicles boast six-speed automatic transmissions, V-6 engines, anti-lock brakes and a 36-foot turning diameter.

They are carrier friendly, with 260-degree rear-door openings and a separate side door. The cargo compartment is tall enough for most carriers to be able to stand upright.

Las Vegas Carrier Jaywanda Terry has been carrying for 12 years. She likes the vehicle, but recognizes that it’s going to take some adjustment.

“It will take some time getting used to driving it,” she said. “But it will be a good thing.”

“I think it’s a nice change. It’s going to bene�t us well with

the package growth,” said Terry. “The side door will be very handy while I’m delivering to my CBUs.”

As for safety, she really likes the rear-view camera and audible warning that kicks on when the vehicle is in reverse.

Driver Safety Instructor Eric Gustafson shows Letter Carrier Jaywanda Terry the backup camera on the new ProMaster vehicle.

n ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROLElectronic Stability Control (ESC) is a sophisticated system that optimizes vehicle stability and helps maintain directional control under adverse conditions. ESC includes capabilities such as Trailer Sway Control and All-Speed Traction Control.

n ADVANCED AIRBAG SYSTEMStandard on the new cargo vehicle is an airbag system with six airbags designed to help protect the driver and passengers in the event of an accident.

n FOUR-WHEEL DISC ANTI-LOCK BRAKESThe new cargo vehicle is equipped with thicker brake pads from one of the world’s foremost developers of high-performance brake systems, for long-term durability.

n INCREASED DRIVER VISIBILITYWith a short front-end, raised driver’s seat and enormous windshield, the driver has a high vantage point and clear visibility to see the road ahead.

New vehicle features


June 2, the Postal Service released a special stamp collection celebrating the 100th

anniversary of the National Park Service.

The National Parks stamp sheet features 16 different stamps, each depicting a special view of a national park, plant, animal, artwork, or structure found in or associated with a national park. In addition to the of�cial unveiling at the World Stamp

Show in New York, 14 �rst-day-of-issue ceremonies took place across the United States, including seven in Western Area.

Events were held at Bandelier National Monument, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Grand Canyon National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and Yellowstone National Park.

Celebrating 100 years of National Parks

Bandelier National Monument.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Grand Canyon National Park.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Bandelier National Monument.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE


Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Yellowstone National Park.Yellowstone National Park.

Mount Rainier National Park.

Mount Rainier National Park.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE


Carrier’s CPR knowledge saves a lifeHAWKEYE

While delivering a package along his route on a Sunday afternoon,

Clinton, IA, City Carrier Assistant Brandon Spencer heard a startling sound. Two girls screamed desperately for help from a nearby home. Spencer rushed to the scene. He found a man lying in a heap on the driveway.

The two girls looked to Spencer for help in saving their father and he immediately jumped into action. He contacted emergency personnel to alert them to the situation, then dropped to the ground and performed cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on the man to keep him alive until medical responders could arrive.

According to the American Heart Association, “If you see a teen or adult suddenly collapse, call 9-1-1

and push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the beat of the classic disco song ‘Stayin’ Alive.’ CPR can more than double a person’s chances of survival, and ‘Stayin’ Alive’ has the right beat for hands-only CPR.”

Spencer’s actions followed instructions prescribed by the American Heart Association to save the man’s life.

Hawkeye District Manager Jim Herrmann showed his appreciation for Spencer’s actions by presenting him with a hero award.

“Brandon’s dedication to his customers is something we’re all proud of. I’m glad to have him on our team,” said Herrmann.

To learn more about CPR, go to the American Heart Association site, heart.org.

Clinton, IA, City Carrier Assistant Brandon Spencer with Hawkeye District Manager Jim Herrmann.

Ready for the big oneNEVADA-SIERRA

The Postal Service is planning ahead for worst-case

scenarios. Preparation for natural and man-made disasters fuses nightmarish scenarios with calm, intensive planning.

When Nevada-Sierra personnel gathered recently, they were given an improbable situation — a 6.9 magnitude earthquake centered in Boulder City, NV. But that didn’t stop the focused reaction by the Emergency Response Team.

The team separated into two groups — plant and district personnel. Each group focused on what responses and tasks would be most necessary ten minutes after the quake. They then broke down follow up responses into Day One, Day Four, and Day Eight tasks.

Acting National Preparedness Specialist Nancy Rodriquez runs these scenarios to help operational leaders think about their response before an event occurs — leading to better planning and smarter reactions.

“The key is our preparedness,” said Rodriquez. “Whether it’s earthquakes

— or anything else — this kind of training translates into all kinds of responses.”

According to Rodriquez, the scenario is not nearly as important as the reaction.

The priorities for the Postal Service are people, property, and product.

“We need to be able to respond automatically, and those priorities guide us,” she said.

Emergency preparation is important in personal lives as well.

“Everyone needs to think about emergency

preparedness,” she stated. “What would you do if faced with a disaster? Bad things can happen anywhere, anytime. For example, many Western states faced �ooding and wild�res in recent years, both of which required emergency response at work and at home.”

Delivery and Customer Service Programs Manager Victor Leon and Operations Programs Support Manager Scott Cohn plot out postal operations in the event of a catastrophic event.

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Once a decade

Once a decade, an American city experiences a burst of philatelic excitement as

dealers, collectors and the general public from around the world gather to celebrate the world of stamps. This summer marked the 11th World Stamp Show. It was held in New York City’s Javits Center and

drew more than 250,000 visitors. In addition to USPS, exhibitors included more than 50 postal service agencies from around the world. Eight new sheets of USPS stamps made their debut at the World Stamp Show, Including Repeal of the Stamp Act, 1776, Views of Our Planets, National Parks and others.

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Driving down motor vehicle accidents

The Postal Service made the strategic decision in 2007 to adopt established Lean Six Sigma (LSS)

principles to improve products, services and processes.

Continuous improvement identi�es and addresses the root cause of process deviations rather than �xing symptoms.

Northland District motor vehicle

accidents (MVAs) had risen nearly 10 percent over the previous year, in spite of a relatively mild, dry winter. Nearly a quarter of those accidents were from the Minneapolis Post Of�ce.

MVAs are costly. Repairs, lost work time, tort liability and administrative costs add up quickly. “More importantly, there is a human cost, too. When motor vehicle accidents occur, people get hurt,” said Northland District Safety Manager Donna Koch. “The safety of our employees and the public we serve needs to be our highest priority.”

Koch and Labor Relations Manager Cathie Clausen were tasked to lead the team working to reduce MVAs. LSS teams dive deep into data to

identify best opportunities for improvement. Then they discuss and work with local management and craft to develop tactics — speci�c action items — to implement.

They found nearly 30 percent of Minneapolis’ MVAs emanated from either the Main Post Of�ce or the Lost Lake Branch.

The two units couldn’t seem less alike.

Lost Lake features mainly curb delivery in outer ring suburbs. Main is located in the heart of downtown, where congestion, a surge in bicycle traf�c and seemingly endless construction make driving a special challenge.

But there were common issues. More than half of the accidents involved employees with fewer than two years of service. That’s not unusual. A recent study by the Toronto-based Institute for Work and Health found that workers have three times the risk for lost-time injuries during their �rst three months on the job.

Part of the problem may be lack of familiarity with territory. As a result, the team recommended that new employees be assigned to the same of�ce (as much as practical) during their probationary period.

Striking stationary objects is another common issue, with improper adjustment of mirrors a likely contributing factor. So mirror adjustment stations have been recommended for both sites.

The stations are 7 x 17 foot areas with painted lines and numbered squares. Drivers pull their vehicle into the station to check and adjust all mirrors on the vehicle. When mirrors are in proper adjustment, the driver can see the three corners, the front and rear bumpers and the right and left sides of their vehicle.

NORTHLAND

Proper preparation helps newer drivers avoid moving vehicle accidents that can occur in areas such as this heavy construction zone.

Check the tags

The Postal Service reminds employees of the differences between the tags for Political

Campaign Mail and Election Mail.Red Tag 57, for Political Campaign

Mail, may be used on campaign mailings by registered political candidates and organizations engaging in issue advocacy or voter mobilization.

Green Tag 191, for domestic and international ballots, may only be used to identify ballot mail addressed for domestic or international delivery.

To make sure this mail is promptly processed and delivered on time,

employees should follow these tips:■ Look for mail containers identified

with Tag 57 or Tag 191 and handle them properly.

■ Use Tag 191 to identify ballot mail only. Absentee ballot mail should be expedited through processing operations due to time sensitive delivery requirements.

■ Use Tag 57 to properly identify and document mail using the political mail log and process according to usual criteria and guidelines.

■ If this mail isn’t identified with a tag, attach the appropriate tag before processing. Report problems with

Political Campaign Mail or absentee ballot mail to your supervisor.

The Postal Service has redesigned a Blue site (blue.usps.gov/marketing/electionsmail/welcome.htm) that provides employees with guidelines and information for handling Election Mail and Political Campaign Mail.


Employees in Portland District recently made a determined commitment to make safety not just a priority,

but a core value. To emphasize the need for a focused approach to safety, Portland Postmaster Shawneen Betha and Portland District Safety Specialist Abbey Winterbower created safety teams with clerk and carrier representatives from all 26 Portland city stations.

Safety team representatives were chosen based on their demonstration of safe work practices, leadership at their stations, performance as on-the-job instructors (OJIs), and the recommendation of union representatives. Members of the new safety teams routinely train new employees, give weekly safety talks, and participate in local safety and health committee monthly meetings. They’re also empowered to abate workplace hazards when they detect them and correct at-risk behaviors to promote a work place where all employees go home in the same condition in which they came into work.

“I’ve seen a coming together between craft and management to get safety out to all who work for the Post Of�ce,” said

Portland Rose City Park Station City Carrier Jessica Ball. “Especially in Collections, management has been nothing but supportive of the OJIs implementing and promoting safety in our unit.”

After their �rst meetings with employees, safety teams quickly discovered that the biggest employee concern was the lack of time given to train new employees. Further discussion of the matter with OJIs resulted in the realization that inadequate time has

been committed to the process of training new hires. Trainers wanted additional time to work with new employees on the understanding of potential hazards and how to work safely to avoid injury.

“Having the OJIs work together

with management in getting the safety message out to the carriers has increased awareness and conversation about safety among all USPS employees,” said Portland Piedmont Station City Carrier Michael Turnham.

In response to the safety analysis, new employee training time with OJIs has increased from three days to up to 10 days depending on the type of training involved. This has improved not only new employee retention and safety, it also inspired employees to volunteer to become on-the-job instructors.

“I’m very fortunate to be part of this wonderful team,” said Portland West Slope Branch City Carrier Shawn Bunkers.

“It really gives us all a chance to speak out and bring everyone’s feedback together and see some big improvements in everyone’s outlook on safety.”

Overall, safety team commitment to improving the workplace has increased

employee engagement at stations throughout the Portland area. This renewed motivation to be a part of the safety solution has encouraged employees to volunteer to become members of the local safety and health committees, become actively involved in weekly safety talks, perform safety skits, redesign local safety bulletin boards and make insect repellant kits.

“Over the last months, I have seen a deeper understanding of our need for safety,” said Portland Oak Grove Branch City Carrier Morgan West. “At my station I have had carriers inform me about hazards on their route and even give solutions on how to �x them.”

Safety teams are currently wrapping up a safety video production titled In the Moment which incorporates service, scanning and safety as well as a heavy focus on the many distractions employees encounter throughout the day. They also have additional projects in the works including making vehicle accident kits with �rst aid supplies, creating safety vests, and putting together job safety analysis (JSA) books.

“Our Portland city OJIs are committed to reducing accidents and educating employees on how to work safely,” said Betha.

Team effort inspires safety collaborationPORTLAND

On the job instructors represent each Portland city station.

Lead retail associates from Portland stations.


Why I work safelySALT LAKE CITY

“Why do you work safely?” This question was recently posed to the employees

at the Salt Lake City Auxiliary Service Facility (ASF). They were asked to post their responses in the form of photos on a bulletin board near the time clocks.

It wasn’t long before photos of cherished family members, pets, favorite vacation spots, and even cars were posted — all very personal, and all reminders of why employees work safely.

Acting Lead Clerk Joelene Marosok proudly pointed to two photos on the board of family members near and dear to her.

“When I began my career with the USPS in 1983, my working safely affected myself and my co-workers,” said Marosok. “Now 32 years later I have �ve children, two daughter in laws and two beautiful granddaughters. All of them are my number one reason why I work safely.”

Marosok is one of 400 ASF employees who sort 300,000 to

350,000 packages a day. Working safely has proven to be a challenge. So far this year, ASF employees have had �ve more accidents than the same period last year.

ASF Manager Shaun Steck says the idea for the safety board came from a

conference call with Western Area Vice President Greg Graves.

“I met with my staff and discussed the idea of putting up a board to get our employees engaged with safety,” said Steck. “It started with one of our ‘huddle boards’ and now we have made it a permanent �xture and had it mounted to the wall between our time clocks.”

The board has also changed the narrative of accident reviews.

“Senior Plant Manager Laura Hubrich and I meet with employees and discuss the accident they had and what we all can do better to avoid any such accident from happening again,”

said Steck. “Since installing the board, the slogan ‘Why I Work Safely’ is brought up in our meetings and we ask that the employee bring in a picture and place it on the board. This has had a positive impact on some of our safety reviews, as within days a new picture has been put up.”

Distribution Operations Supervisor Annalee Ellis has a photo of her two young

daughters on the board, however, that’s not the only photo that inspires her to work safely.

“The safety board is a great way to see our families and our co-worker’s families smiling at us as we clock in; a nice reminder that safety doesn’t affect just me, but everyone around me,” she said.

Salt Lake City Auxiliary Service Facility Acting Lead Clerk Joelene Marosok points to the reasons she works safely — her family.

New hazmat policy

Spills can and do happen, but when a spill such as oil, acid,

vehicle fuel or diesel fuel is involved the incident takes on a greater significance. And what if the spill should leak onto the grass or down a storm drain, affecting the environment? In the unlikely

event you are faced with such a spill, leak, or overflow you need to

know what actions to take. In the event of a release

of a hazardous or regulated substance into the environment,

immediately report the spill to your site installation head (Postmaster, Plant Manager, Supervisor). According to the type of spill or release

pills can and do happen,

significance. And what if the spill should leak onto the grass

event you are faced with such a spill, leak, or overflow you need to

know what actions to take.

of a hazardous or regulated substance into the environment,

immediately report the spill to your site installation head (Postmaster,

they in turn will take appropriate action which includes completing and submitting PS Form 8187, Hazardous and Regulated Substance Release Notification (revised April 2016). Do not attempt to clean up even the smallest spills.

More detailed information is available at blue.usps.gov/cpim/ftp/policy/cso/cso041316.pdf.


As First-Class letter mail volume continues to decline, it becomes increasingly important for the

Postal Service to provide a high-level of service to business customers shipping parcels.

Seattle is part of a national pilot program establishing Sales Retention Of�ces where associates work to assist mailers with their shipping needs. Seattle is one of three of�ces in the country principally devoted to assisting Nordstrom. The other two of�ces are in St. Petersburg, Florida and Chicago.

Don Kellogg is the supervisor at the Seattle Retention Center which is located in the former Everett Processing & Distribution Facility (P&DF). He has a staff of 18 employees, each of whom is on the limited or light duty list.

“They are glad for the opportunity to do productive, worthwhile work while unable to perform their regular duties because of injuries,” Kellogg noted. “Some of them are here for just a short-term. They return to their regular job once their injury is healed. Others may never be able to return to their regular position because of the nature of their injury.

“Much of our work in the Retention Center is serving as a ‘go between’ Nordstrom and the Postal Service,” Kellogg added. “Nordstrom, of course, is widely known for their outstanding customer service and satisfaction. Our people work with Nordstrom agents. Typically, our representative gets a call from a Nordstrom customer agent because

a customer has made a mistake with their order. They have given an incorrect ZIP Code or they forgot that the addressee had recently moved. We are able to assist through package tracking and package re-direct.”

Kellogg says the program has been

very successful and Nordstrom is very pleased with the Postal Service’s cooperation and assistance. Nordstrom has been given an exclusive toll-free number and a designated email account to reach USPS agents.

Kelvin Jackson is the manager of customer relations at USPS Headquarters and oversees the Retention Center operations.

“While this is a new pilot service, the Retention Of�ce has already seen great success from the initial launch,” he explained. “We have been working closely with other parts of our organization such as delivery and retail operations to determine the best

ways to support the retailer and its customers.”

Those agents that aren’t assigned to the Nordstrom account in Seattle spend much of their day contacting small business customers who ship parcels through the Postal Service.

“They are there to assist the customer in getting the best possible level of service,” Kellogg said. “They ask the customer if they would be willing to participate in a survey. The responses to the survey give us feedback on how we’re doing in serving that customer. It identi�es problems they might be having or areas in which we can do more for the customer.

“The survey can be done over the telephone or, if they prefer, we give them an email address so they can respond later. The information we receive is very helpful,” Kellogg noted. “Not only are we there to assist the customer, we also want to see them use the

Postal Service even more.”Kelvin Jackson adds, “The Support

Center pilot is strictly exploratory at this time and is not yet ready for expansion to other strategic or managed accounts. However, the USPS sales leadership team recognizes the need for this type of additional account support and will continue to build on the success and lessons learned from the pilot.”

As Kellogg sees it, “We want to continue to be the shipper of choice for these customers, as well as adding others. I think it’s working real well so far and will be a long-term bene�t to the Postal Service.”

Pilot program boosts customer serviceSEATTLE

The Seattle Retention Center is located in the former Everett P&DC. Members of the sales retention team, from left, Lonny Jones, Bonnie McLaury, Paul Fry, Earl Bricker, Supervisor Don Kellogg and Susan Baunach.

PRESORTEDFirst-Class MailPostage & Fees PaidUSPSPermit No G-10

Breast Cancer Research champion retires

Since 2008, Carl Junction, MO, Postmaster Sharon Clark has been one of the

most vocal advocates in the Postal Service for the sale of Breast Cancer Research (BCR) semi-postal stamps. As a breast cancer survivor herself, this quest was a personal one for Clark.

“It became really important to me to do something and not just sit back and say, ‘I survived’ and that was it,” she said.

Her efforts have allowed her of�ce to be among the top sellers of BCR stamps in the nation. On June 3, Clark retired from the Postal Service after more than 40 years of service.

“I just want to stop for a little bit and smell the roses,” Clark said when announcing her retirement. Former Carl Junction, MO, Postmaster Sharon Clark.

The Western Area Update is published quarterly by the Western Area Corporate Communications Center. Send all correspondence to the address above.

Vice President Area Operations, Western Area Greg Graves

Manager Corporate Communications John Friess

Editor Rod [email protected]

National EditorGregrick Frey

Art DirectorStephen Bloodsworth

Production SpecialistMaciej Zajac

Graphic Designer Christopher Holmes

This publication provides notice of USPS trademarks by capitalizing their initial letters and by referring readers to the trademark lists at http://lawdept.usps.gov/ClientServ/Trademark/ tmlist.cfm. USPS registered marks include United States Postal Service, Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, Click-N-Ship and Parcel Post. Unregistered marks include Postal Service, Post Office, USPS Tracking and Signature Confirmation.

The USPS eagle symbol and logotype also are registered trademarks of the United States Postal Service. All rights reserved.

For more information visit usps.com.

Western Area Update © 2016 United States Postal Service

USPS National Employee Emergency Hotline.Is your facility operating?Call 888-363-7462.

Moving? If you have access to the postal intranet, Blue, or a Personnel Center kiosk, you can change your address by clicking on Employee Self Service. If you don’t have access to these options, request a Form 1216, Employees’ Current Mailing Address, from your supervisor. All districts should send Form 1216 to HRSSC Compensation/Bene�ts, PO Box 970400, Greensboro, NC 27497-0400.

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