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Safety Leadership Award 2026
Turning a routine laboratory task into an opportunity for innovation, a Perth-based Geochemistry team introduced a vacuum-assisted cleaning system that delivers measurable health, safety and operational benefits.
2026 Safety Leadership Award winner
A simple innovation delivering a safer environment
Recognising an opportunity to improve an everyday task, our Geochemistry team in Perth developed a vacuum-assisted cleaning system that’s setting a new benchmark in safety excellence.
This initiative, which earned the team the 2026 Safety Leadership Award, was developed for preparing and cleaning LM2 pulveriser bowls, replacing the traditional use of pressurised air and brushes. By capturing dust at the source, the system enables bowls to be cleaned with significantly reduced airborne particles and only minimal use of the air gun.
The team designed an in-line vacuum system connected to a hose and brush, creating a more controlled cleaning process while reducing routine cleaning demands.
Geochemistry Laboratory Manager in Wangara, Perth, Jason Gill said the project demonstrated how small changes to everyday tasks can deliver meaningful results.
"The strength of this initiative is its simplicity," Jason said.
"By capturing dust at the source, the team developed a low-cost engineering control that improves the working environment while supporting operational efficiency."
With only a modest investment required, the solution demonstrates a highly effective and cost-efficient system with clear health, safety and operational benefits.
With LM2 pulverisers used across Geochemistry laboratories globally, and its straightforward design, modest cost and easy implementation, the system offers a scalable solution to enhance workplace safety across ALS laboratory environments.