RICHLAND, Wash. - An EM Office of River Protection (ORP) tank farm worker was recently recognized for lifesaving actions in the face of tragedy.
Roger Chambers, an employee of ORP tank operations contractor Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS), had left the Hanford Site and was on his way home from work in November last year when a traffic accident involving pedestrians occurred.
Chambers, a chemical technician work leader at the Hanford Site’s 222-S Laboratory, was driving in the left lane and stopped his vehicle at a crosswalk on a busy four-lane road in Richland as two brothers, aged nine and 12, darted across the street. Another motorist passed Chambers on his right and hit both boys. Chambers reacted immediately.
“First, I told another motorist to call 911," Chambers said. “One boy wasn’t moving. I administered first aid to the older boy, who appeared to have a broken leg. Fortunately, paramedics were stationed nearby and arrived within minutes. They started caring for the younger boy while I comforted his brother."
Both boys were rushed to a local hospital. The younger boy was placed in intensive care with a brain injury and fractures of his skull, pelvis, collarbone, and ribs. His brother suffered fractures to his leg and back and injuries to his other leg. Both boys are still recuperating from their serious injuries.
“I just happened to be there when the accident happened," Chambers said. “My actions were a reaction to the situation. My training and experienced just kicked in."
WRPS President and Project Manager John Eschenberg awarded Chambers the WRPS President’s Lifesaving Award for his “outstanding commitment" to safety.
“Our employees are committed to look out, not only for their own safety, but for the safety of those around them," Eschenberg said. “Roger’s fast action demonstrates his dedication to safety and to our community."
Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy, Office of Environmental Management
