[DOE Employee's Claim for Hazardous Duty Pay]

A Department of Energy (DOE) employee claimed a hazardous duty pay differential, contending that questionable containers and ear protection devices did not effectively safeguard his exposure to hazardous materials and high noise levels. GAO held that DOE: (1) developed adequate safeguards to prevent potential exposure to hazardous materials and excessive noise levels; and (2) properly considered the position's risks and discomforts and the nature of the work assigned in determining the position's grade and classification. Accordingly, the claim was denied.