In a recent report in the Knoxville News-Sentinel by reporter Frank Munger, the following observations where made concerning the Y-12 facility at Oak Ridge.

". . . some kinds words are due BWXT, the operator of the Y-12 nuclear weapons plant, as well as the Oak Ridge office of the National Nuclear Security Administration (the defense unit within DOE). An assessment team recently looked at the safety management system at Y-12 and gave good marks to the plant's contractor and federal managers at the site."

Additionally, Mr. Munger reports that:

"In a prepared statement, John Mitchell, the president and general manager of BWXT, called the review a major step forward and a recognition that Y-12 employees make safety the top priority. Indeed, there's little question that BWXT - a partnership of BWX Technologies and Bechtel National - emphasizes safety above all else. It's the first words in just about every company memo and missive. For all the criticism BWXT receives, the Oak Ridge contractor probably deserves some kudos for its attention to safety."

The Knox News-Sentinel article by Mr. Munger sums up by stating:

"Accidents are going to happen, of course, and no safety program can absolutely guarantee a mistake-free, accident-free environment. But Y-12 is a high-hazard facility and a storehouse for dangerous materials, and that means everything possible has to be done to minimize accidents and maximize protection of workers. It's nice to hear a little good news about safety for change."

See full text of the article at: http://www.knoxnews.com/kns/opinion_columnists/article/0,1406,KNS_364_897365,00.html.