Ready to Respond: What it takes to prevent

Official Statements

• Air University Public Affairs, November 13: “MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. — Preventing mishaps before they hinder operations is central to how the 42d Air Base Wing Safety Office supports mission readiness at Maxwell Air Force Base. The team identifies potential hazards and reduces risks through routine inspections, workplace assessments and training. This not only protects Airmen, but the resources and infrastructure essential to the wing's mission as well.”

• Air University Public Affairs, November 13: “The wing safety office is here to support the wing and Air Force mission by protecting base personnel, ensuring safety principles and risk management are infused in all aspects of planning, preparation, and execution of job tasks and the mission,” said Mark Garner, 42d ABW deputy director of safety and occupational safety manager.”

• Air University Public Affairs, November 13: “Whether evaluating airfield operations, conducting supervisor safety training, or assessing installation traffic patterns, 42d ABW safety personnel take a proactive approach to identifying hazards before they result in mishaps. By addressing potential risks early, the team helps prevent injuries, protect critical infrastructure and minimize disruptions to daily operations. Throughout November, the safety team is scheduled to conduct its annual inspection of the Maxwell Medical Group while providing training for safety management officers and unit safety representatives.”

• Air University Public Affairs, November 13: “The MMG annual inspection focuses on identifying potential workplace hazards, to include trip hazards, electrical issues and improper chemical storage. For Staff Sgt. John Norris, 42d ABW occupational safety technician, these inspections are essential to ensuring facilities, equipment and work areas meet safety requirements and standards for both the Air Force and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.”

• Air University Public Affairs, November 13: “The medical group has a confined space program, laser program, hazardous materials, and bloodborne pathogens,” Norris said. “These programs all fall under the umbrella of federally mandated programs that we are required to inspect.” Beyond identifying existing hazards, the Safety Office emphasizes prevention through training. Safety management officers and unit safety representatives receive guidance on their responsibilities and the requirements for managing safety programs within their respective units. This training equips personnel with the knowledge to recognize hazards, address safety concerns and incorporate risk management into their daily responsibilities.”

• Air University Public Affairs, November 13: “The office also participates in the installation's Work Order Review Board, reviewing proposed work orders alongside the Fire Department, 42d Operational Medical Readiness Squadron and 42d Civil Engineering Squadron. During these reviews, the team evaluates proposed maintenance and facility improvements for potential safety concerns and provides recommendations when necessary to prevent new hazards from being introduced into the workplace.”

• Air University Public Affairs, November 13: “In addition to inspections, training and work order reviews, the Safety Office provides wing leadership with information to preserve combat capability and protect critical infrastructure. The team also conducts seasonal safety campaigns to raise awareness of off-duty hazards and reinforce personal accountability, extending the importance of mishap prevention beyond the workplace and throughout the installation community.”

• Air University Public Affairs, November 13: “Through inspections, training and proactive risk management, the 42d ABW Safety Office makes prevention an essential part of daily operations. By equipping Airmen with the knowledge to manage risk, the team helps sustain the operational readiness required to accomplish the Air Force mission.”