WR-ALC Safety Office Enhances Readiness Through Proactive Measures
Photo By Joseph Mather |
John Smith, 559th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Voluntary Protection Program safety......read moreread more
Photo By Joseph Mather | John Smith, 559th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Voluntary Protection Program safety representative, gathers metal clippings from an off-the-shelf battery powered sheet metal cutter, called a nibbler, at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, April 29, 2026. This tool was submitted to VPP for formal validation and verification to cut metal, which enhances maintenance safety and streamlines manufacturing workflows by reducing noise and collecting clippings directly into a bag to eliminate dust and debris. (U.S. Air Force photo by Joseph Mather) see less
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WR-ALC Safety Office Enhances Readiness Through Proactive Measures
The Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex Safety Office enhances readiness and worker safety by encouraging employees to identify and mitigate workplace hazards through the Voluntary Protection Program.
Johnathan McWhorter, 559th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron sheet metal mechanic, introduced an off-the-shelf battery powered sheet metal cutter, called a nibbler, to improve safety during maintenance operations.
According to McWhorter, the nibbler is a compact, brushless tool that provides clean cuts on 10-gauge steel and up to ¼-inch aluminum.
“By replacing traditional abrasive cutting wheels, the nibbler eliminates hazardous airborne particulates,” he said. “This removes the need for heavy protective gear like respirators and Tyvek suits and prevents work area quarantines.”
Danielle Finch, the WR-ALC Voluntary Protection Program Manager, stated that VPP is an Occupational Safety and Health Administration program supported by Air Force Materiel Command. The complex’s safety office manages the program, using it as a framework advocated by the Department of War to integrate safety into daily operations. VPP principles are practiced across all participating groups to reduce risk and lost time.
“Achieving OSHA’s VPP approval signifies a deep commitment to workplace safety and health that goes beyond basic compliance, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and employee involvement," Finch said.
Combined with the implementation of VPP, the Safety Office uses the Air Force Safety Management System, built on four pillars: policy and leadership, risk management, assurance, and promotion and education. Additionally, the Environmental, Safety and Occupational Health Council provides a governance structure for senior leadership to drive compliance and risk reduction.
“Ultimately, these combined efforts directly support the mission," Finch said. "By ensuring the worker has a safe environment, increasing touch time by reducing incidents and damages, mitigating hazards, and increasing awareness, we satisfy our customers and we support the warfighter."
