Editor's Note: Laboratory Director G. Peter Nanos has stated on more than one occasion that he will review a return to a modified work schedule at such time that he feels it is appropriate and if such a schedule is a sound business decision, is cost-efficient and meets operational requirements.

Aug. 31, 2004

Suspended 9/80 work schedule

I concur with [Laboratory Director Nanos'] reasoning in suspending the 9/80 work schedule: "...in order to maintain accountability, ensure that all hands are focused on working safely, securely and in compliance with all applicable rules and regulations, and demonstrate our determination to operate efficiently..."

That said, I sincerely hope the suspension of 9/80 is meant to be only temporary, pending successful resolution of safety and security issues and a complete resumption of all Laboratory activities.

Considering the low state of morale at the Laboratory prior to the recent security and safety incidents, and the additional stress created by these incidents on our current daily lives, the permanent suspension of this valued privilege will only erode morale more deeply in our hard-working and dedicated staff. It is my belief that dedicated, hard workers make up more than 99 percent of Lab staff, and we would feel punished for something for which we were not responsible nor had control of.

--John Bremer