A Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) intern is gaining invaluable experience in the layout, assembly, and testing of containment huts and glove bags at the Savannah River Site’s (SRS) Containment Fabrication Facility (CFF) this summer.

Brooks Jenison, a Radiological Operations Support Center intern, is a sophomore Business Administration student at the University of South Carolina Aiken. He is currently focused on the fabrication of dip sample bags for H Tank Farm and glove bags for the Savannah River Tritium Enterprise (SRTE) during Pressure Safety Valve (PSV) replacements.

The CFF team specializes in designing and assembling unique containment huts and glove bags not only for SRS but also for other government-owned contract facilities. Containment huts are work tents that prevent hazardous contamination from spreading outside the enclosure, minimizing cleanup operations and keeping the environment safe. Glove bags are smaller, flexible enclosures that allow work through sealed sleeves and gloves, preventing direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Dip sample bags are used to safely collect and transport liquid samples from the tank for analysis.

"Our team stands as the final defense between our workers and potential hazards, ensuring their safety," said James Barnes, SRNS Radiological Operations Support Center Manager. "Brooks brings an eagerness to learn that we truly value on this team. He is gaining firsthand experience in planning and executing work scope in the containment business to keep our workforce safe."

“My goal this summer is to learn and soak up as much knowledge as I can, whether it’s operating machinery in the CFF or conducting facility walk-downs,” said Jenison. “I’ve been exposed to machines and tools that I’ve never been able to use before. Learning how to maintain and create effective and safe environments has been a highlight of my internship experience.”

To complete a containment project, a CFF planner conducts a walk-down of the proposed area where the enclosure is needed. The design is then reviewed by RADCON Engineering and various subject matter experts. Once approved, the drawings go to the shop floor, where craftspeople mark, cut, punch, and seal laminated vinyl, nylon, and poly fabrics into their final shapes. The CFF uses component sealers employing radiofrequency technology, which uses powerful voltage to alter the material’s molecular structure for adhesion. Finished containments undergo pressure testing to ensure there are no holes, leaks, or malfunctions.

“Safety is a constant priority,” continued Jenison, who emphasized the daily safety briefings, hazard tips, and good catches. “Not only do I get to learn, but I also contribute to site-wide safety by creating huts or glove bags that will protect field workers and the environment from hazardous materials. It is an incredible feeling.”

Lee Schifer, SRNS Senior Vice President, Infrastructure Modernization and Sustainment and Deputy Nuclear Operations Officer, said, “We should strive to give our interns exciting and meaningful work that directly relates to their coursework and future careers. Thanks to the exceptional efforts of his leadership team, Brooks has this opportunity at the CFF, where he learns about the business of safe containments through hands-on experience both in the shop and in the field.”

The SRNS Internship Program serves as a crucial pipeline and knowledge transfer tool, offering students like Brooks practical work experience to seamlessly transition from their educational programs to full-time employment. This year, nearly 175 interns joined the program to develop critical skills and industry knowledge.

“We are creating a well-trained talent pool ready to meet our growing mission demands but also ensuring the continuity and advancement of essential knowledge within each organization,” said Felicia Hartzog, SRNS Internship Program Coordinator. “Through mentorship, training, and practical experience, SRNS is bridging the gap between academic learning and professional application, creating a robust foundation for future growth and innovation.”

Barnes added, “Despite being a business major, Brooks exemplifies how interns can transcend their major and use this experience as a pivotal stepping stone. Whether he becomes a buyer or estimator for SRNS in the future, this experience is equipping him with critical background knowledge about containments, which he may apply in diverse ways.”

In FY24, the CFF and the Respiratory Equipment Facility played a critical role in supporting vital Department of Energy missions at SRS by assembling and inspecting 7,000 plastic suits for SRTE's CY25 Outage, with an annual average of 3,000 suits produced, each meticulously tested to ensure safety and effectiveness in hazardous environments. The CFF team will continue to be an essential resource at SRS, committed to keeping each worker safe in demanding conditions.

"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed getting to know so many people in the field and learning from their work experiences. I hope to transition into full-time employment at SRS, where I can apply these lessons in my future career,” Jenison said.