At Axil, we recently faced a very unusual challenge at a large manufacturing site. During routine waste management, our on-site team member, Chris Freeman, made an unexpected discovery—rifle ammunition mixed in with general waste.
This alarming find could have easily escalated into a serious safety concern, but Chris’s swift, level-headed response ensured the situation was safely handled.
Thanks to Chris’s professionalism and quick thinking, any potential risk was quickly mitigated, a great example of the standard of excellence we strive for at Axil.
Chris Freeman: A Professional Beyond the Job
Chris is more than just a waste management professional. Outside of work, he’s an avid paddleboarder and a dedicated volunteer with the WAG Retired Police Dog Trust, a charity supporting retired police dogs. His calm and responsible nature, developed through years of service both in his job and volunteer work, shone during this incident.
Discovering the ammunition, Chris secured it, ensuring safety, and immediately followed protocol by notifying internal teams and the police. His swift actions effectively mitigated any potential risk to the site and its employees.
The Investigation: Uncovering the Facts
The investigation revealed that the ammunition was deactivated and accidentally discarded by someone on site who had kept it in their toolkit. While this could have been a serious issue, the fact that the rounds were deactivated was a relief. The police were notified but had minimal involvement. We’ve identified the individual responsible, and we’re addressing the matter internally.
Lessons Learned: Handling Unusual Waste
This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and proper handling when dealing with unexpected waste. Even though the ammunition was deactivated, every unusual find requires careful attention. We’ll use this case to improve our training on managing and disposing of unusual materials.
A Final Note of Thanks
A huge thank you to Chris for his outstanding handling of the situation. His calm, professional approach turned a potentially dangerous scenario into a manageable one. A great example of the high standards we strive for at Axil, something we are very proud of.