2024 - 2025 AIST Foundation Steel Intern Scholarships - Don B. Daily Safety
Aidan J. Powell
My family history with the steel industry originally led me to intern at Finkl Steel in Chicago, Ill., USA. Since starting at Finkl, I have significantly increased my safety knowledge and gained essential skills that will benefit me throughout my career.
In my second year at Finkl Steel, I worked on a variety of projects that allowed me to gain experience in various areas of safety. One primary project involved reevaluating confined spaces to ensure no new hazards were introduced to the space. Particularly, I spent time identifying potential atmospheric hazards and understanding where ventilation would be needed. Overall, this project allowed me to experience the more specific side of safety and how to go about quantifying potential hazards.
Another significant project I completed was updating the plant’s emergency action plans. Through this project, I collaborated with engineers, supervisors, and maintenance staff to analyze potential emergencies and develop comprehensive procedures for each type. We specifically focused on critical energy sources that would need to be shut off in case of emergency. Through this project, I gained a deeper appreciation for the collaboration required to enhance safety standards.
In addition to these projects, I completed numerous other tasks. For example, I analyzed incident trends and developed safety talks based on recent incidents. I analyzed specific job tasks to ensure all hazards associated with specific tasks were mitigated. Finally, I performed department audits to document issues and ensure they were resolved.
Overall, this internship has significantly enhanced my understanding of safety. I gained firsthand experience in recognizing how safety measures can impact daily operations, even if the effects are not immediately visible. I am grateful to both Finkl Steel and AIST for providing me with this opportunity to enhance my skills and grow professionally. This experience has equipped me with knowledge and insights that few possess, allowing me to approach the upcoming academic year with a unique perspective. I am eager to continue working with AIST and Finkl Steel in the future.