We had an experience this morning at the job site.
This morning at approximately 0700 hours, there was a peculiar smell in the air. Somebody had probably overfilled their fuel tank with diesel and it's now causing this heavy concentration of odor blowing into our canopy area, so I thought.
At first we assumed it was the front end loader since it was almost directly in front of us moving loads into the dump trucks. The project super called the subcontractor's lead equipment operator/supervisor to have him check the front end loader. A little bit later, the call came back that it wasn't the front end loader, but they did a check on all their heavy equipment on site. None were leaking fluids.
The subcon super came by the canopy and informed us that the smell is getting worse and coming from the other side of the building. So I went out to check, while the project super, and primary safety checked the building. As I walked over to 12th street, the odor was pretty strong and concentrated in that area. I walked back to the group of leaders, and the decision was made to call, Control. I informed the primary safety, that I felt dizzy and my throat felt constricted.
As I walked back to 12th street, the building was being emptied out, the workers in there were complaining of the strong odor inside the building. I crossed over the orange fence barrier and stopped a worker who was operating the jumping jack, and ordered him to evacuate to the gate. There was a backhoe operator still working. I signaled him to stop and evacuate. Most everyone were trying to cover the nose and mouths due to the concentration of the unknown gas odor. A lot of the workers were scrambling to get into vehicles to evacuate. At the canopy, I ordered 3 stragglers to move out. The project superintendent had already left to inform Control to what was going on. The primary safety had a left to lead the workers out to the gate. Being Rear End Charlie, I made sure that all the workers were gone from the job site, as I got into my truck and drove around the different gathering areas to insure that there was nobody left behind.
My eyes were tearing and I was gagging. Had to stop once to throw up on the road. As I got on the hardtop from the gravel road. I told myself, to hell with the speed limit and sped up to catch up with the convoy heading out. I was already dry heaving inside the truck. I turned my AC on high and closed the fresh air vent to recirculate the air. Finally, at the gate...Federal Fire was there with a SUV, an Engine, and an Ambulance. The project superintendent had to turn around to show FedFire where the job site was at. I drove through the gate, and parked next to the other subcontractor vehicles. As I exited the truck, I walked to the back to get some fresh air, and threw up the last of my breakfast. I got a bottle of water from the backseat, and gargled a couple of times to get that taste out of my mouth.
At the evacuation site, we learned that I wasn't the only one that was affected by the unknown odor. 2 or maybe 3 workers from one subcontractor complained of dizziness and nausea. Another subcontractor had 2 workers that complained of their throats tightening up or scratchy. A total of 6 workers were affected by that unknown gas odor.
About an hour later, the military officials declared the job site, clear. They assessed that the odor came from the front end loader that was leaking hydraulic fluid. The lead operator and I agreed that it wasn't the front end loader. That the military's assessment was wrong. Just to be safe, I ordered that the front end loader get checked out again.
Back at the job site, I drove up and parked close to the front end loader. The lead operator supervisor and operator assured me it wasn't the equipment. The hydraulic line broke as they parked the equipment just before we called for the evacuation. The Environmental Officer was still on site doing his assessment. I had walked around to the other side of the building to watch a crew off load CMU blocks. I could still smell that odor in the air. I walked to the other crew that was operating the jumping jack. As I got there, the backhoe operator informed me that the foreman from the other crew was trying to get my attention. When I walked back to the crew off loading the CMU blocks. I noticed that they were covering there nose and mouths again. Then I smelled the unknown odor again. Still strong, but not as concentrated as before the evacuation. I signaled the project superintendent to come over, and discussed the issue with the other foreman. We agreed that the odor was coming from C Avenue and blowing right into the job site since it was an open area.
Again, the project super informed our military liaisons about the situation, the Environmental officer left the site to talk with those higher in the chain of command.
I pray that this odor is not hazardous. We were told that the odor possibly came from a LPG container burst. I have this burning sensation around my eyelids and top of my lip. Also, my lungs hurt. I'm still here...so I must be okay. I'll head in to see my doctor tomorrow.
ESTA
Friday, April 4, 2014
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Invited to join a new business opportunity.
Last night, I received a call to participate in a spontaneous meeting. I was informed that I would be very interested in the agenda. Putting away my laptop, I got ready and left the house to see what was going on. It took awhile to get there...almost 30 minutes. Making a stop at the village gas station was a must...Or I won't be able to get home.
Upon arriving, and walking up to the table situated in the front yard, I recognized two former co-workers. It's been a long time since I've seen these two guys. We greeted each other, then I greeted the host, and sat down. After the catching up and how to do's, they finally broached the reason why I was asked to attend their special meeting.
This is not the first time, that I have been invited to join in a new business venture. I don't think it will be the last either. However, after listening to the three speak and the goals they want to accomplish, and hearing the possible mission statement. I realized that these three are serious about this new adventure. It wasn't just talk. Also the idea of bringing me in early and not later showed their sincerity on having me on board as part of the team.
Ideas of potential offices and facilities were laid out on the table. One was agreed upon for now. The build on this new company will be slow going since all of us worked full-time positions. Another meeting was planned for, within a month.
I'm flattered and humbled to be part of a new company on Guahan.
ESTA
Upon arriving, and walking up to the table situated in the front yard, I recognized two former co-workers. It's been a long time since I've seen these two guys. We greeted each other, then I greeted the host, and sat down. After the catching up and how to do's, they finally broached the reason why I was asked to attend their special meeting.
This is not the first time, that I have been invited to join in a new business venture. I don't think it will be the last either. However, after listening to the three speak and the goals they want to accomplish, and hearing the possible mission statement. I realized that these three are serious about this new adventure. It wasn't just talk. Also the idea of bringing me in early and not later showed their sincerity on having me on board as part of the team.
Ideas of potential offices and facilities were laid out on the table. One was agreed upon for now. The build on this new company will be slow going since all of us worked full-time positions. Another meeting was planned for, within a month.
I'm flattered and humbled to be part of a new company on Guahan.
ESTA
Monday, February 10, 2014
Opportunities
It's been a month since I've returned to the island. I was surprised that a Project Superintendent and one of the SSHO's resigned from the company. While I was on vacation. I was on my way out too. But was asked by a colleague to reconsider and stay. So I did. I don't know if that was the right decision.
So here I am, still here.
I'm still an Adjunct Instructor with Guam Community College again, for the Spring Semester. Last semester, I opted to teach one regular class for the Spring Semester. Just last week I was chosen to teach another class, a cohort special. Both are Industrial Safety Courses in Construction. I'm working with the Department Chairperson to revamp the Safety Program. It's going to be a busy week for the next 5 weeks being on a full load.
I was even asked to join a company as their Corporate Safety. I'm flattered and humbled that they would even consider me. I'm waiting for their official letter.
I've also joined Nerium International last October 2013. It took about a month to get my products. As soon as the packaged arrived, I took a before picture, tried out a bottle every evening and some morning, and waited. Now I just have to devote more time to work this new venture.
ESTA
Keep Smiling
So here I am, still here.
I'm still an Adjunct Instructor with Guam Community College again, for the Spring Semester. Last semester, I opted to teach one regular class for the Spring Semester. Just last week I was chosen to teach another class, a cohort special. Both are Industrial Safety Courses in Construction. I'm working with the Department Chairperson to revamp the Safety Program. It's going to be a busy week for the next 5 weeks being on a full load.
I was even asked to join a company as their Corporate Safety. I'm flattered and humbled that they would even consider me. I'm waiting for their official letter.
I've also joined Nerium International last October 2013. It took about a month to get my products. As soon as the packaged arrived, I took a before picture, tried out a bottle every evening and some morning, and waited. Now I just have to devote more time to work this new venture.
ESTA
Keep Smiling
Sunday, January 5, 2014
Vacation Update: Two Days and a Flyout.
My vacation with the family is coming to an end. I'll be flying out on Tuesday heading back to Guahan. I really don't want to leave. But I know I have too. I had so much fun with Rhoda and our kids, Larraine and Frenz.
It's hard to believe that I'm actually leaving again. But I will be back soon. Do you think Easter break is too soon?! I'll be back with my goddaughter, Arissa. We'll both be in Cagayan De Oro for dental work during her Spring Break. I have a major tooth extraction that needs to happen during that time frame.
Anyway, it was great to be back with the family. I had a lot of rest and relaxation that my doctor on Guahan wanted me to have. Ate lots of vegetables and fruits here, helping to lower the sugar level in my system. Rhoda was in charge of my medical care while I'm in town.
Rhoda's family, my in-laws, came in a couple of hours after I arrived in Cagayan De Oro. They took a private van from Butuan City. It was great to see all of them. We all celebrated Christmas together. I especially enjoyed all the nephews and nieces playing loudly together in our small yard. Some of the elder boys got to have fun browsing the internet while they were here. Something they have very limited access to, while in the province. We had our noche buena and all the kids got to play games and open their gifts. Unfortunately, they didn't stay long and left a couple of days later due to previous commitments in Butuan City.
My sister-in-law, Rizza, and niece, Chenchen, stayed another week with us. Rhoda's family and best friend, El el, adopted each other. So Rhoda now has another elder sister. Family is family, whether born to you or chosen. So El and her family are now our family as well. We sort of helped a little with El el's house blessing. We also celebrated El el's husband, Joffrey's return to the Philippines and his birthday, that same night.
New Year's Eve was not disappointing. We had fireworks going off in all sides of the house. The city was lit up with fireworks. That was awesome! Watching the look and excitement coming from my son, Fren fren and his sisters, Larraine and Chenchen, faces was priceless. We did have some of our own fire works that we lit up. But nothing compared to the neighbors that went beyond and gave us a spectacular light show through midnight.
Rhoda and I have decided on some major issues in our lives. We went ahead and answered a couple of proposals from courting companies requesting that I join their safety department. We'll see in a couple of days or a week after I get back, If I am still with the company or if I jumped.
ESTA
KEEP SMILING :)
It's hard to believe that I'm actually leaving again. But I will be back soon. Do you think Easter break is too soon?! I'll be back with my goddaughter, Arissa. We'll both be in Cagayan De Oro for dental work during her Spring Break. I have a major tooth extraction that needs to happen during that time frame.
Anyway, it was great to be back with the family. I had a lot of rest and relaxation that my doctor on Guahan wanted me to have. Ate lots of vegetables and fruits here, helping to lower the sugar level in my system. Rhoda was in charge of my medical care while I'm in town.
Rhoda's family, my in-laws, came in a couple of hours after I arrived in Cagayan De Oro. They took a private van from Butuan City. It was great to see all of them. We all celebrated Christmas together. I especially enjoyed all the nephews and nieces playing loudly together in our small yard. Some of the elder boys got to have fun browsing the internet while they were here. Something they have very limited access to, while in the province. We had our noche buena and all the kids got to play games and open their gifts. Unfortunately, they didn't stay long and left a couple of days later due to previous commitments in Butuan City.
My sister-in-law, Rizza, and niece, Chenchen, stayed another week with us. Rhoda's family and best friend, El el, adopted each other. So Rhoda now has another elder sister. Family is family, whether born to you or chosen. So El and her family are now our family as well. We sort of helped a little with El el's house blessing. We also celebrated El el's husband, Joffrey's return to the Philippines and his birthday, that same night.
New Year's Eve was not disappointing. We had fireworks going off in all sides of the house. The city was lit up with fireworks. That was awesome! Watching the look and excitement coming from my son, Fren fren and his sisters, Larraine and Chenchen, faces was priceless. We did have some of our own fire works that we lit up. But nothing compared to the neighbors that went beyond and gave us a spectacular light show through midnight.
Rhoda and I have decided on some major issues in our lives. We went ahead and answered a couple of proposals from courting companies requesting that I join their safety department. We'll see in a couple of days or a week after I get back, If I am still with the company or if I jumped.
ESTA
KEEP SMILING :)
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
2014 Goalsetting
It's that time of year again. Reviewing last year's goals and setting goals for 2014. Looking back the last year, 2013, I accomplished so many goals. Amazing what Jesus can do when you put Him first, especially putting Him first in my life.
2014 is a new slate. Starting fresh again, and setting up new goals. This year, it will be different from last year. Last year, I only had goals set for myself while being in Guam. This year, after talking to Rhoda, not only are we setting goals for me and our interests in Guam. We're adding in Butuan City and Cagayan De Oro to the list. I'm looking forward to the challenge.
Some have asked me what goals do I usually set for myself. I have always used the following categories:
You can break down the above topics to sub-topics to further define your goal settings with each main topic. You just have to remember goal setting is flexible and done at your own pace. Should you have someone to keep you accountable. Yes, you should. I do. Normally, I ask a close friend to keep me in check. Or, you can ask a mentor.
I used to post my goals on my blogs a couple of years ago. I have stopped doing that the last two years. A mentor expressed that goal setting is private. It's for me to know and whoever I've chosen to keep me accountable. Opening up my goals to the public, especially to those who want to see me fail. Actually, sets me up for failure or harassment from my distractors. And since, I've stopped openly posting my goals. I have not received any discouragements from anyone.
So I'm going to get busy writing up my new goals for 2014.
Laters.
Keep Smiling :)
2014 is a new slate. Starting fresh again, and setting up new goals. This year, it will be different from last year. Last year, I only had goals set for myself while being in Guam. This year, after talking to Rhoda, not only are we setting goals for me and our interests in Guam. We're adding in Butuan City and Cagayan De Oro to the list. I'm looking forward to the challenge.
Some have asked me what goals do I usually set for myself. I have always used the following categories:
- Spiritual
- Family
- Career
- Education
- Hobby/Skill
You can break down the above topics to sub-topics to further define your goal settings with each main topic. You just have to remember goal setting is flexible and done at your own pace. Should you have someone to keep you accountable. Yes, you should. I do. Normally, I ask a close friend to keep me in check. Or, you can ask a mentor.
I used to post my goals on my blogs a couple of years ago. I have stopped doing that the last two years. A mentor expressed that goal setting is private. It's for me to know and whoever I've chosen to keep me accountable. Opening up my goals to the public, especially to those who want to see me fail. Actually, sets me up for failure or harassment from my distractors. And since, I've stopped openly posting my goals. I have not received any discouragements from anyone.
So I'm going to get busy writing up my new goals for 2014.
Laters.
Keep Smiling :)
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Made it home, for Christmas...and New Years! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Home is where you hang your hat. In my case, I have multiple homes. There is the one in Guahan where I live, work, and ranch. Then my home in Cagayan De Oro with Rhoda and our two beautiful children, Larraine and Frenz.
The flights from Guam to Manila and Manila to Cagayan De Oro were without event; Normal flight, great PAL service, as always. It was my layover in Manila that was an adventure. I arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2. Caught the Inter Terminal Transit to Terminal 3 for my connecting flight. However, I had to wait more than 12+ hours to get on that connecting flight.
To keep me busy I explored Terminal 3. It's a new terminal, 3 stories tall, lots of escalators, restaurants, really clean toilet facilities. I had dinner at Shakey's located on the third floor. The five piece chicken dinner with mojo's was good. The root beer tower was great. It's been awhile since I've had real root beer. Yes, I downed that whole tower of root beer. Then it was off to Seattle's Best Coffee for some really good chiller coffee. While I was there, I took advantage of their WIFI service. Now if you ever do go there. Make sure you sit on the tables along the wall. You'll be able to use their outlets to recharge your phone or laptops while enjoying their drinks or food.
Then it was off to the Japanese Spa. I took the package deal: full body massage, rest, and shower. I've only had a couple of body massages in my time. But going through this body massage was really different. As soon as I stripped down to my undies and laid on the table face down. I had the sudden urge to pass gas. It was hard mental and physical work keeping that gas in, while going through deep penetrating massage on my lower back, buttocks, and legs. The masseuse was telling me to relax because I was so tense. Of course, I was tense. I was holding back to prevent any leakage of personal methane gas to pass. I did not want to just let it go. My back blast area was not clear. The young lady was in the line of fire. But as soon as she left the small room to get more oil. I let it RIIIIPPPP! I was hoping for a silencer. But what passed scared even me, it was really loud like something exploded. The other masseuse in the next room asked, "Sir, excuse me, Po. Are you okay"? I replied, "I'm now relaxed".
Flying into the new airport at Cagayan De Oro was new for me. I had a window seat, so I was able to see he scenery as it passed. The runway didn't have the potholes that the old terminal had. The new terminal is situated on a plateau along the coastline. Really nice modern facility.
After I got my bags, I exited the departure area. Who do I spot standing on the rails of the barrier as I came out the door. My favorite daughter! She saw me, caught my smile and ran to the other side to fetch me. What a sight for sore eyes?! As I waited along the side walk, Larraine went to let her mom and her Tita El know that I'm waiting along the sidewalk. A few minutes later, Boboi opened the door of the vehicle and jumped down to greet me. Rhoda was in my arms after a long year, not seeing each other. My family was back together for this vacation season.
This was the first time I met El, Rhoda's best friend. She volunteered to pick me up a the airport with Rhoda, Larraine, and Frenfren. We had breakfast in Opal at a nice seaside restaurant over the water. Fellowshipping, getting to know El, and listening to her and Rhoda's conversation.
Later at home, Rhoda and I spent some quality time together. While the kids were outside playing. I watched as she went through the pasalubong I brought from Guam. Later, that evening we greeted Rhoda's family who traveled all the way from Butuan to celebrate Christmas with us. It was awesome to hear all the children having fun and enjoying each other's company.
After breakfast, I took time to watch the kids outside eating the mixed nuts that I brought. The look from their eyes as they enjoyed each different mixed nut is priceless. Well, we're getting ready for the Noche Buena tonight. Lots of food to cook, Songs to sing, and celebrating the birthday of our Lord Jesus.
MERRY CHRISTMAS, from my family to yours!
Keep Smiling
The flights from Guam to Manila and Manila to Cagayan De Oro were without event; Normal flight, great PAL service, as always. It was my layover in Manila that was an adventure. I arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2. Caught the Inter Terminal Transit to Terminal 3 for my connecting flight. However, I had to wait more than 12+ hours to get on that connecting flight.
To keep me busy I explored Terminal 3. It's a new terminal, 3 stories tall, lots of escalators, restaurants, really clean toilet facilities. I had dinner at Shakey's located on the third floor. The five piece chicken dinner with mojo's was good. The root beer tower was great. It's been awhile since I've had real root beer. Yes, I downed that whole tower of root beer. Then it was off to Seattle's Best Coffee for some really good chiller coffee. While I was there, I took advantage of their WIFI service. Now if you ever do go there. Make sure you sit on the tables along the wall. You'll be able to use their outlets to recharge your phone or laptops while enjoying their drinks or food.
Then it was off to the Japanese Spa. I took the package deal: full body massage, rest, and shower. I've only had a couple of body massages in my time. But going through this body massage was really different. As soon as I stripped down to my undies and laid on the table face down. I had the sudden urge to pass gas. It was hard mental and physical work keeping that gas in, while going through deep penetrating massage on my lower back, buttocks, and legs. The masseuse was telling me to relax because I was so tense. Of course, I was tense. I was holding back to prevent any leakage of personal methane gas to pass. I did not want to just let it go. My back blast area was not clear. The young lady was in the line of fire. But as soon as she left the small room to get more oil. I let it RIIIIPPPP! I was hoping for a silencer. But what passed scared even me, it was really loud like something exploded. The other masseuse in the next room asked, "Sir, excuse me, Po. Are you okay"? I replied, "I'm now relaxed".
Flying into the new airport at Cagayan De Oro was new for me. I had a window seat, so I was able to see he scenery as it passed. The runway didn't have the potholes that the old terminal had. The new terminal is situated on a plateau along the coastline. Really nice modern facility.
After I got my bags, I exited the departure area. Who do I spot standing on the rails of the barrier as I came out the door. My favorite daughter! She saw me, caught my smile and ran to the other side to fetch me. What a sight for sore eyes?! As I waited along the side walk, Larraine went to let her mom and her Tita El know that I'm waiting along the sidewalk. A few minutes later, Boboi opened the door of the vehicle and jumped down to greet me. Rhoda was in my arms after a long year, not seeing each other. My family was back together for this vacation season.
This was the first time I met El, Rhoda's best friend. She volunteered to pick me up a the airport with Rhoda, Larraine, and Frenfren. We had breakfast in Opal at a nice seaside restaurant over the water. Fellowshipping, getting to know El, and listening to her and Rhoda's conversation.
Later at home, Rhoda and I spent some quality time together. While the kids were outside playing. I watched as she went through the pasalubong I brought from Guam. Later, that evening we greeted Rhoda's family who traveled all the way from Butuan to celebrate Christmas with us. It was awesome to hear all the children having fun and enjoying each other's company.
After breakfast, I took time to watch the kids outside eating the mixed nuts that I brought. The look from their eyes as they enjoyed each different mixed nut is priceless. Well, we're getting ready for the Noche Buena tonight. Lots of food to cook, Songs to sing, and celebrating the birthday of our Lord Jesus.
MERRY CHRISTMAS, from my family to yours!
Keep Smiling
Sunday, December 15, 2013
Need more time for Me.
I'm looking forward to getting off the island for a couple of weeks to spend time with Rhoda and our kids. It's been too long. I'm seriously thinking of making some changes in relation to careers. Rhoda and I will have to sit down and discuss the future opportunities that are before us. Should we stay or should we go???
I've been looking over a lot of my goals for this year. I accomplished a lot. Some goals are just better than others. For the others, I'll have to commitment better to make those goals successful. I'm really glad for much of the accomplishments.
One thing I've relearned is not to overwhelm myself with opportunities. There are times, when I have to say no. I understand they need help for one reason or another. But I cannot keep jumping and putting out fires. Their emergency does not constitute an emergency on my part. I have other obligations to fulfill first. The biggest and foremost is ME.
The last four months was a challenge. I believed I could do it. But two weeks into my new work schedule, I realized that I'm no spring chicken any more. I'm a 120 pounds over my former military physique. I do not run marathons anymore. I'm no longer in the 300 club. I no longer run 4 or 5 minute miles. The last time, I timed a mile was 45 minutes. And that was walking. I have to remind myself that I'm in my mid 40's. People in my age group are grandparents. Okay, so I started my family late. Sue me.
So I am glad the semester is over! No more 3 evening class schedules over the week and my own clientele's training requirements. It was an honor to teach many of my students. I hope they take what they were taught in the classroom and apply it in the field. But being a Site Safety, I know not many of the students will be able to apply that knowledge nor share it. Their companies push production more than safety.
ESTA
KEEP SMILING :)
I've been looking over a lot of my goals for this year. I accomplished a lot. Some goals are just better than others. For the others, I'll have to commitment better to make those goals successful. I'm really glad for much of the accomplishments.
One thing I've relearned is not to overwhelm myself with opportunities. There are times, when I have to say no. I understand they need help for one reason or another. But I cannot keep jumping and putting out fires. Their emergency does not constitute an emergency on my part. I have other obligations to fulfill first. The biggest and foremost is ME.
The last four months was a challenge. I believed I could do it. But two weeks into my new work schedule, I realized that I'm no spring chicken any more. I'm a 120 pounds over my former military physique. I do not run marathons anymore. I'm no longer in the 300 club. I no longer run 4 or 5 minute miles. The last time, I timed a mile was 45 minutes. And that was walking. I have to remind myself that I'm in my mid 40's. People in my age group are grandparents. Okay, so I started my family late. Sue me.
So I am glad the semester is over! No more 3 evening class schedules over the week and my own clientele's training requirements. It was an honor to teach many of my students. I hope they take what they were taught in the classroom and apply it in the field. But being a Site Safety, I know not many of the students will be able to apply that knowledge nor share it. Their companies push production more than safety.
ESTA
KEEP SMILING :)
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