Safety With Purpose Podcast

Ready to flip the traditional “safety silo” on its head?

Unlock unlimited CEUs in the Safeopedia Community and attend exclusive live events, like our community meetups, along with your pass to our annual online safety conference, Safety Connect where you can earn another 2+ CEUs! All for just $197 annually!Join the Movement ➡️ https://members.safeopedia.comJoin us for a lively session on the next episode of The Uncertainty of … with Zach Granzow discussing Measuring Safety Performance on Friday, March 21 2024 at 11am Eastern Daylight time.Is your organization aware that you may be “metric fixated”? As humans we like to impose regulations, standards, policies, compliance rules, best practices on our workforce. Then we measure everything we can despite receiving unintended negative consequences.✅Why do we have this inherent need to measure safety performance?✅What value are you getting from the safety metrics you are tracking?✅How can we adapt a performance system that enables safety, not danger, to emerge?

✅ Join the Safeopedia Community at https://members.safeopedia.comNavigating EHS in a Shifting Regulatory Landscape with Chip DuffieIn this episode of Safeonomics, we sit down with Chip Duffie to explore how political shifts impact environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations—and what that means for safety professionals.With the change of administration, EHS enforcement may face major changes. Will deregulation empower companies to take control of safety, or will it create new risks and uncertainties? Chip shares his insights on what businesses should expect, how safety professionals can stay ahead, and whether less enforcement makes EHS professionals more valuable or more expendable.We tackle big questions, including:

✅ Join the Safeopedia Community at https://members.safeopedia.comIn this episode of Hard Hats & Heart, we sit down with Andrea Hine, an accomplished safety and operations leader at Suncor, to explore how human-centered design is transforming the way new technologies are implemented in industrial settings.As Connected Worker Product Owner, Andrea plays a key role in ensuring that innovation isn't just about technology—but about people first. We discuss how Suncor actively involves frontline workers in the adoption process, strategies for overcoming resistance to change, and how feedback loops drive continuous improvement.Andrea also shares real-world examples of successful digital transformation initiatives, the biggest challenges in aligning tech with workforce needs, and what the future of connected work looks like in the energy sector.If you're interested in how thoughtful design and innovation can lead to safer, more efficient workplaces, this episode is for you!

Unlock unlimited CEUs in the Safeopedia Community and attend exclusive live events, like our community meetups, along with your pass to our annual online safety conference, Safety Connect where you can earn another 2+ CEUs! All for just $197 annually!Join the Movement ➡️ https://members.safeopedia.comThe Uncertainty of show for January 2025 will be on Safety in Law Enforcement. Instead of a live session, it's a podcast that Gary Wong recently recorded with Nancy Hess.Nancy and Gary are joined by Lou Hayes to talk about his law enforcement experiences in Metro Chicago and the uncertainties that police officers face in their line of duty.What parallels are there between enforcing criminal and civilian laws that define public safety and dealing with safety laws, regulations, standards that define worker safety?Do workers understand what situations safety rules must not be broken?Do they understand when rules may be bent because they sense danger may emerge if they don't adapt?Enjoy listening to: Adaptive Thinking and Leadership in Policing

✅ Join the Safeopedia Community at https://members.safeopedia.comHow does having a more community-connected safety professional bring more value to their organization? Hold onto your socks, folks, because we dive deep into the value of networking with one of the best in the industry: Tim Page-Bottorff! Whether you're an easy-going person who loves to connect with people or someone that takes time to warm up to a crowd, there are personal and professional benefits to getting connected with a community. Even more interesting is how those connections can lead to better job satisfaction and even transferrable leadership skills in your day-to-day work. It might be tough to put specific dollars and cents to the value of networking (we try!) but the intangible benefits eventually lead to tangible ones if you're willing to make the investment of your time. Ready to get started? Listen in as Tim shares some actionable steps to help you build your network and connect with a community of safety pros!

✅ Join the Safeopedia Community at https://members.safeopedia.comIn this episode, Sarah speaks with Marcin Nazaruk about the practical, scalable solutions he's created that helped to modernize safety and have made it available through various industry bodies, how he's chaired prominent industry groups, and how he's transformed corporate cultures with cutting-edge approaches. Since 2022, Marcin has helped companies to transform their safety practices through the lens of modern safety science operationalised for practical implementation at scale.Connect with Marcin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcinnazaruk

On this episode of Safeonomics, Scott and Gabe take a moment to reflect on an incredible Season II. They dive into the highlights from the season, revisiting conversations with the 12 inspiring guests who shared their unique perspectives and invaluable experiences. From innovative safety strategies to personal growth journeys, the season was filled with rich discussions that sparked thought-provoking insights and actionable advice.Scott and Gabe also explore some of the common themes that emerged throughout the interviews—such as building stronger safety communities, embracing new technologies, and redefining what leadership means in the safety profession.As they wrap up the season, they also look ahead to 2025, sharing their vision and focus for the podcast in the coming year. Whether you're a long-time listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode is the perfect way to cap off the season and get excited for what's next!

Join us for a lively session on the next episode of The Uncertainty of … with Heather Kahle discussing Wayfinding Direction: HOP Principles on Friday, November 15 2024 at 11am ET, 4pm GMT.If safety improvements aren't yielding the results that you want, don't “try harder” but “change the narrative” and head in a different direction.Why do HOP Principles help to “change the narrative”?What are the 5 HOP Principles?How do HOP Principles ground our safety improvements and give us a sense of wayfinding direction?Join our Monthly HOP Connections “What Works” Call (last Wednesday of the month) 12-1 PM PSTSign Up for a 5-Week HOP Webinar Series in JanuaryDive into how HOP shifts language and conversations, supports JHSC practices, improves safety processes such as incident investigations, and transforms safety inspections and metrics in your workplace. The 5-week webinar series in January covers the core of HOP with fresh insights and practical takeaways each week.Ascent GroupHeather@Ascent-Group.ca

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 10 am PT / 1 pm EThttps://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regis...Presented by the Cal/OSHA Team in Conn Maciel Carey's national OSHA Practice GroupThe state of California's Division of Occupational Safety and Health, better known as Cal/OSHA, is perhaps the most aggressive and enforcement-heavy approved state OSH Program in the nation. California employers face a host of requirements that other employers around the country do not. Likewise, the Cal/OSHA inspection and appeal process creates several unique landmines for California employers.Join us for our annual review of all things Cal/OSHA.Participants in this webinar will learn about:New Cal/OSHA regulationsCalifornia legislation impacting workplace safety and healthSignificant Cal/OSH Standards Board decisionAnd more

On this episode of Safeonomics, we explore the benefits of organization for the safety professional with Sarah Bogner. Sarah details her practical strategies, expert insights and real world examples that she has developed to help her streamline her work and enhance her effectiveness in her workplace. In addition, she explains how a high level of organization can actually help the safety professional move their agenda forward, whether that's getting buy-in from frontline workers or helping upper management understand the value of the work so as to get additional resources. Whether you're a seasoned safety professional or someone just starting in the field, this is a great episode to get some ideas on how to find the organization methods that will work best for you!Paper Planner Resources:*Four binding options, most brands below have at least two choices available:Spiral: Portable & most available, good for leftiesBound: book-like. Portable and looks good. Streamlined look.Ring: flexible to add/remove pages. Bulkier and hard for leftiesDisc: flexible to add/remove pages, but need a special punch. Portable and can customize to any size (Sarah's favorite)*Some great brands, but not all inclusive: Day designer, blue sky, franklin planner, clever fox, ink and volt, cloth and paper, get to work book, happy planner*If you want to see daily/weekly/monthly all at once: Laurel Denise*If you want lots of layouts to choose from: Plum Paper*If you want to map out goals and reflect: Passion Planner, Full Focus Planner*If you want to customize EVERYTHING: Agendio

Recorded live at Safety Connect 2024, this special episode of Safeonomics brings together a powerhouse panel of safety podcast hosts! Joining Gabe Encarnacion and Scott Cuthbert and our special guests, Sarah Ballini-Ross from Hard Hats & Hart, Gary Wong from The Uncertainty of..., and Allison Short from The Illusion of Safety.In this exciting mash-up, we dive into our personal podcast journeys, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned, and valuable tips for anyone thinking about launching their own podcast. From finding your voice to connecting with your audience, this episode is packed with advice from seasoned podcasters who are passionate about safety and storytelling.Whether you're a podcast lover, industry pro, or just curious about the process, this episode offers a fun and insightful look into what it takes to create meaningful conversations through the power of podcasting.Tune in and get inspired to start your own podcast journey!

Join the Safeopedia Community at https://members.safeopedia.comFollow the Yellow Brick RoadOn this episode of Safeonomics, Gabe and Scott sit down with the incredible Dorothy Riviere to dive into her fascinating and diverse career journey!

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 1 pm ET / 10 am PThttps://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regis...Presented by Rachel L. Conn, Andrea O. Chavez, Ashley D. Mitchell, Darius Rohani-Shukla, and Samuel S. RoseThe latest phenomenon in artificial intelligence (“AI”), generative AI such as ChatGPT, has changed the world as we know it. While some fear AI will replace workers and others praise its efficiency and productivity, there is no doubt that AI could be the largest technological advancement since the invention of the computer.Now, companies are starting to wrestle with how to handle the use of AI in the workplace. In fact, it is possible that your company is already using AI in ways that you might not have considered or be aware of. For Human Resources, generative AI can produce strong benefits including helping to create job descriptions, draft model interview questions, or assist managers in preparing performance evaluations. But with every benefit, there comes risk and limitations, including discrimination, confidentiality, and reliability concerns.Participants in this webinar will learn about:Protecting confidential and trade secret informationThe Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (“EEOC's”) Artificial Intelligence and Algorithmic Fairness InitiativeState and local laws regulating the use of AIBest practices on the use of AI in the workplace

On last month's show we introduced wayfinding as the process of orienting oneself and navigating from one place to another. In this show we will take a closer look at navigating safety improvement change.Why do people unknowingly start by “nailing a screw with a hammer”?What are the different roles that a mechanic and a gardener play?How can you answer two key wayfinding questions: Are we on the right route? Are we there yet?Additional Resources: • Meet the Author with Brent Sutton, Gl... • Meet the Author with Brent Sutton, J... • Meet the Author with Bob Edwards • The Uncertainty of … Wayfinding throu...

In a new episode of Hard Hats and Hearts, Scott and Sarah sit down with Amy Rosa, Founder and CEO of The Safety Rack, to discuss the critical issue of PPE for women. Amy shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind The Safety Rack, a company focused on ensuring women have access to properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE).The lack of PPE designed for women is a significant challenge in occupational safety. Statistics show that ill-fitting gear can reduce safety and increase risk of injury. According to a study by the British Safety Industry Federation, over 60% of women in male-dominated fields report that their PPE does not fit properly, impacting both their safety and performance. Amy also discusses the company's #MyBodyMyPPE campaign, which gives women the platform to share their stories and raise awareness about the need for better PPE solutions. By incorporating human-centered design, The Safety Rack focuses on highlighting PPE that not only fits properly but also enhances comfort and performance. Amy emphasizes that safety is not one-size-fits-all, and proper equipment is key to reducing injuries in hazardous work environments. Tune in to this informative episode to learn more about how The Safety Rack is making strides in the industry and advocating for greater PPE equity. The conversation highlights the importance of inclusive safety gear and offers insights into how we can create safer, more equitable workplaces for all.

On last month's show we talked about Humans as storytellers in the Safety Age of Cognitive Complexity. This month we'll continue this theme in terms of wayfinding.Wayfinding is the process of orienting oneself and navigating from one place to another. Essential wayfinding tools are maps and a compass. Examples of compass direction is a safety improvement initiative target or on a grander scale, a safety vision destination.Why is a resilient wayfinding process needed to navigate through the uncertainties of unknown unknowns, unknowables, unimaginables?What maps do you have to not only minimize risk but also to seize opportunities as they emerge?How can we use maps generated by storytellers for wayfinding?

Breaking Down Barriers: The Business Case for Safety ConnectIn this episode of Safeonomics, Gabe sits down with Scott and Jamie to dive into the challenges that safety professionals face when trying to earn valuable CEUs and connect with their peers. We discuss what new attendees can expect, how this virtual event saves time and money, and the topics and themes covered at this year's conference. Plus, Scott and Jamie highlight the exciting lineup of new and returning speakers, and why the content is not just educational but also actionable. They'll also reflect on the rewarding experience of hosting the event and share some heartfelt testimonials from previous attendees. Don't miss this homegrown episode of Safeonomics.

In this episode of Safeonomics, Gabe and I had the incredible opportunity to chat with one of the industry's top leaders, Dr. Megan Tranter. She's held global EHS roles at powerhouse companies like Amazon, PepsiCo, Novartis, and Netflix, and her journey is nothing short of inspiring. Dr. Tranter opened up about the invaluable lessons she's learned as she's climbed the ranks, offering insights that any safety professional would benefit from. We also got a sneak peek into her exciting new venture, "Design Your Brilliant Future," a groundbreaking program for safety leaders looking to level up their careers and make a real impact. This conversation is packed with wisdom, and we can't wait for you to dive in!Connect with Megan on LinkeIn: / dr-megan-tranter-94860311

Addressing Employee Complaints: Retaliation and Whistleblower Complaints with the EEOC, OSHA, and MSHAPresented by Kara M. Maciel, Lindsay A. DiSalvo, Nicholas W. Scala, and Mark IshuOver the past several years, employers have seen a significant uptick in retaliation claims filed by employees and investigated by federal agencies. For example, in 2010, only approx. 30% of all charges filed with the EEOC included a retaliation claim, but that number shot up to over 50% in FY 2022. Similarly, the number of total whistleblower complaints filed with OSHA increased significantly in FY 2023, with the vast majority of those complaints – about 71% - filed under Sec. 11(c) of the OSH Act (retaliation based on protected safety acts). The whistleblower complaints filed under Section 105 of the Mine Safety and Health Act have also been on the rise and MSHA is particularly aggressive in its approach to the investigation of these claims, often seeking temporary reinstatement of the complainant for the duration of the investigation, and litigation, if the complainant was terminatedWhen a retaliation or whistleblower complaint is received, employers have a chance to explain why the complaint should be dismissed. However, each Agency handles the investigation and analysis of the evidence differently – using varying processes and burdens of proof to determine whether and how the retaliation complaint should proceed. The strategy and response provided by the employer will depend on the type of complaint and the agency investigating it, but it is generally an opportunity for the employer to provide the information necessary for the agency to conclude its investigation and ultimately close the case file. The responses can, however, create a written record of admissions that the agency could use against the employer. Thus, employers should be strategic in their approach to a whistleblower investigation and the information shared at that early stage.Participants in this webinar will learn:Applicable federal whistleblower and anti-retaliation lawsThe varying processes used by the EEOC, OSHA, and MSHA to evaluate whistleblower and retaliation claimsStrategies employers can use to effectively respond to retaliation complaintsProactive measures employers can take to avoid employee complaints

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 1 pm ET / 10 am PT

Today I speak with Chris Williams Executive Director of VPPPA about their upcoming Safety+ conference and the amazing activities they have planned for their 40th anniversary celebrations! The Safety+ Symposium is the only EHS&S event that provides the tools and resources you need to bring your safety and health programs beyond compliance to excellence. With attendees ranging from frontline workers to C-Suite executives, our community offers the unique opportunity to see safety from all angles and better understand its role in the modern workplace. Designed with continuous improvement at its core, the Safety+ Symposium enables workers from all industries, at all levels, to better themselves as well as their workplace.Looking for More Information? Contact us at conference@vpppa.org or 703-761-1146. https://safety.vpppa.org/

We're back on another episode of Safeonomics, the podcast where we explore the intersection of business and workplace safety and highlight professionals who are making a difference in the safety field. In this episode, we sit down with Brandy Katterhagen, a highly accomplished safety professional with credentials that include an MPH, CSP, ASP, CIEE, and COEE. Brandy has an inspiring story about how she got into the safety industry, navigated her career advancements, and even launched her own consulting company.Brandy shares valuable insights on balancing a full-time job while pursuing entrepreneurial dreams, the challenges she faced in her career development, and the strategies she employed to overcome them. Whether you're an aspiring safety professional, a seasoned expert, or someone looking to take the leap into entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.So, sit back, relax, and join us as we chat with Brandy. Let's dive in!

A behind the scenes listen as Safety on the Edge founders, Corrie Pitzer and Malcolm Staves reveal how the idea began, why it's so important, and their secrets to success! Safety on the Edge: Pioneering the Future of Safety PracticesAll the info

Join us on "Hard Hats and Hearts" as we welcome Riley Schoenborn from the National Safety Council. As a leader at the MSD Solutions Lab, Riley has spearheaded the Safety Innovation Challenge, focusing on mitigating risks associated with Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) in the workplace.In this episode, Riley will delve into the workings and achievements of the MSD Solutions Lab's Safety Innovation Challenge, explaining how it has spurred cutting-edge solutions in workplace safety. We'll explore the challenge's impact on industry practices, discuss the innovative technologies that have emerged, and consider future developments for the initiative.Additionally, we will provide a detailed look into the upcoming NSC Congress in Orlando, emphasizing the new features and key highlights of this year's event, including an expanded focus on safety technology innovations that attendees can anticipate. Riley will also discuss the TechHub Marketplace. This online directory plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between technology providers and tech buyers, facilitating the adoption of advanced safety technologies across industries.Tune in to gain Riley's expert insights on the convergence of technology, health, and safety, and discover how the Safety Innovation Challenge is shaping the future of occupational health. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about leveraging innovation to create safer work environments.

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 1 pm ET / 10 am PT

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below Monday, August 5, 2024, at 1 pm ET / 10 am PT

In today's episode, we talk with Patrick Robinson about his remarkable 40+ year journey from a Journeyman Insulator to a Safety Professional, and ultimately to President of Contractor Management Ltd. and CQ Network Inc.Are you struggling to achieve consistently great outcomes with your contractors? Or are you aspiring to become a leader within your organization? Join us as Patrick shares his invaluable insights, lessons learned, and the opportunities to shape the future of contractor management. Don't miss this chance to gain wisdom from a seasoned expert in the field!

In this episode, we sit down with Eric Fishman, the Chief Strategy Officer at Aware360, to explore the importance of human-centered design and the philosophy of valuing employees first, customers second, and shareholders third. With over 15 years of experience in delivering safety and emergency response solutions worldwide, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to empathy and people-centered approaches.Eric shares his insights on how prioritizing people's safety and understanding customer needs can drive business results and create meaningful engagement. Join us as we delve into Eric's strategies for scalable growth and his vision for a business model that puts people at the forefront.

Join us for a lively session on the next episode of The Uncertainty of … with Rosa Carrillo discussing The OHS Profession: Leave or Stay? on Friday, July 19 2024 at 11am ET, 4pm GMT.On last month's show we talked about the message some employers are giving employees: “If they don't like it, then go elsewhere.” This month we'll discuss the employees' perspective - should I stay or leave?Our conversation will be grounded on Rosa's latest book: OHS Voices from the Resistance. The book helps the people who work in OHS to not only feel heard and seen but to also see themselves and each other in a different light. We view humans not as cogs in a machine, not as hazards to be controlled but as storytellers sharing their lived experiences.Why is the underground resistance phenomenon in the OHS ranks happening?What systemic conditions are forcing OHS professionals to think about leaving?How might the uncertainty to stay or leave be navigated with an “Affordance map”?

Welcome to another insightful episode of Safeonomics Season 2! Our hosts, Scott Cuthbert, Co-Founder of Safeopedia, and Gabe Encarnacion, president of BBL Safety, dive deep into the world of mental health in the construction industry with the esteemed Leslee Montgomery, famously known as "Leslee is Awesome."Leslee shares her journey from a junior CSO to a professional counselor, emphasizing the importance of mental health support on job sites. The discussion highlights how addressing mental health can improve employees' lives, job performance, and overall workplace safety. Practical strategies for safety professionals to build rapport and trust with workers are discussed, including engaging in non-safety conversations and being genuinely present.Key takeaways include tips on what to look for on job sites to gauge the mental well-being of workers and how to address potential issues effectively. The episode also covers insights on how management can support mental health initiatives and recognize their long-term benefits on productivity and safety.Highlights include Leslee's approach to building camaraderie on job sites and the importance of understanding and addressing workers' mental health for better job performance. Practical advice for safety professionals to support their teams' mental well-being, as well as real-world examples and success stories from Leslee's experience in the construction industry, are shared.Don't miss Leslee's tips on building trust and rapport with workers, identifying and addressing signs of mental health issues on job sites, and the role of management in supporting mental health initiatives.Additional resources mentioned include Mental Health First Aid training and free mental health resources, with links provided in the description. You can also connect with Leslee Montgomery on LinkedIn for more insights and support.

As humans we are good at imposing regulations, standards, policies, compliance rules, best practices which leads to Certainty. In this show we explore another region of the real world, one that isn't certain, consistent, predictable. If you have experienced confusion, dilemmas, paradoxes, you know what it feels like.

In this episode of Hard Hats and Hearts, we sit down with Andrei M. Feraru, the Founder and Managing Director of Feraru Dynamics Ltd. Andrei, a trailblazer in the field of workplace health and safety, has revolutionized the approach to combating Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) with his innovative HAV-Sentry glove. A mechanical engineer with a rich background in vibration technology, Andrei's contributions include holding a patent in Hand Arm Vibration Measuring Technology and serving as a committee member of the British Standards Institution for vibration exposure standards.Today, we delve into Andrei's entrepreneurial journey, exploring the creation and development of the HAV-Sentry glove. We discuss the critical role of collaboration with other organizations, the transformative impact of user feedback, and how these elements drive the acceptance and effectiveness of new safety technologies. Andrei shares insights into how regulations in the UK have supported—or challenged—innovative approaches like his, emphasizing the importance of a human-centered innovation approach in designing technology that not only protects workers but also fits seamlessly into their daily routines.Join us as we uncover the stories behind Andrei's multiple awards for innovation and learn how the HAV-Sentry is setting new standards in the industry, making workplaces safer and more compliant one glove at a time.

Join us for an engaging episode as we sit down with Jonathan Smith, the dynamic founder and CEO of J Smith Safety. Discover how Jonathan seamlessly balances his dual roles as a Director of Environmental Health and Safety at a meat processing plant and as an international safety consultant. In this episode, Jonathan shares invaluable insights on building a safety culture, the importance of community, and the unique challenges and rewards of consulting. Whether you're considering starting your own consultancy or looking to enhance your safety practices, Jonathan's experiences and advice are sure to inspire. Don't miss out on this informative and motivating conversation!https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathansmithii/

Join Gary Wong & Scott Cuthbert to discuss: When does it make sense to buy an "off the shelf" product? When should your approach be a multi-vendor "best of breed" approach?

In this episode of "Hard Hats and Hearts," we sit down with Gabe Encarnacion, a seasoned financial analyst who shifted towards a more human-centered approach in business management. Once a staunchly analytical professional focused on the bottom line, Gabe's perspective transformed dramatically after a personal experience that hit close to home—his father's layoff. Through his journey, we explore how businesses can intertwine empathy with tough decisions, particularly during layoffs and significant organizational changes.We delve deep into the often overlooked human side of business, discussing the importance of communication. Gabe also sheds light on the innovative front of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), advocating for inclusivity and the need for PPE designed specifically for women and other underserved groups.Gabe also shares his insights on maintaining productivity and positivity in the workplace by prioritizing the human element. He provides tangible strategies and real-life examples where human-centered approaches have led to beneficial outcomes for both companies and their employees.

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below Wednesday May 22, 2024, at 10 am PT / 1 pm EThttps://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regis...Cal/OSHA Mid-Year UpdatePresented by the Cal/OSHA Team in Conn Maciel Carey's national OSHA Practice GroupAs we near the half-way mark through 2024, join us as we take stock of what has happened at Cal/OSHA in the first few months of the year. We'll cover new developments and agency priorities for the remainder of 2024 and beyond.Participants in this webinar will learn about:✅ Cal/OSHA rulemaking and enforcement goals as we move toward the second half of the year.✅ As employers come into compliance with SB 553 ahead of the July 1, 2024 deadline to implement an effective workplace violence prevention plan and comply with related workplace violence prevention requirements, how has Cal/OSHA weighed in on the new legislation and advanced its own rulemaking efforts on workplace violence for general industry.✅ How can employers navigate requirements regarding heat illness prevention as an indoor heat illness rule comes to fruition.✅ Other updates and predictions following the Cal/OSHA Advisory Committee's March meeting.

Managers, Take Note: Your Workers Are Your Greatest Asset!Sounds great but it's much more difficult to put into practice than it sounds. In this first Safeopedia Podcast Mashup, Gabe and Scott talk with Sarah Ballini-Ross, host of the podcast "Hard Hats and Heart" about how investing in people, especially in the areas of safety and wellbeing, makes great business sense. It's actually possible to care for the people who work in the organization AND achieve business goals; you don't have to give up one for the other. Listen in for some great thoughts and ideas from Sarah about how you can actually treat workers with care and kindness in a way that shows that they're genuinely the organization's greatest asset!

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at 10 am PT / 1 pm EThttps://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regis...Tips and Strategies for Preventing and Responding to Workplace Violence IncidentsPresented by Kara M. Maciel, Rachel L. Conn, and Daniel C. DeaconWorkplace violence has been a focus for both the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) for several years, as it continues to be one of the leading causes of occupational injuries in the country every year. While OSHA has no specific standard for workplace violence, the OSH Act's General Duty Clause requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized serious hazards, and OSHA has instituted enforcement actions under its General Duty Clause after incidents of workplace violence. OSHA has also initiated a rulemaking to address workplace violence in specific industries.California has taken the lead in implementing the first workplace violence rule in the country for general industry, requiring nearly all California employers (unless they fall under one of the limited exemptions) to establish, implement, and maintain an “effective” written workplace violence prevention plan, investigate every incident workplace violence (broadly defined), create and maintain violent incident logs, conduct annual employee and supervisor training, and abide by additional recordkeeping requirements. This general industry rule follows the Cal/OSHA regulation on Workplace Violence Prevention in Health Care.The EEOC has also prioritized ways to effectively prevent and address workplace violence, particularly in the form of workplace harassment. And outside of OSHA and the EEOC, employers can also be held liable for workplace violence through other claims such as negligent hiring and supervision.Participants in this webinar will learn about:- What constitutes workplace violence- EEOC and OSHA enforcement priorities related to workplace violence- Legal risks associated with workplace violence- Updates on federal OSHA workplace violence rulemaking- California's New Workplace Violence law- Best practices for workplace violence prevention- Tips for responding to a workplace violence incident in your work

Join us for a thought-provoking session on the next episode of The Uncertainty of show with James Burnell discussing Safety Culture Improvement: engineered or emergent?As humans we are experts at developing engineering solutions which provide a level of Certainty. A popular belief is that Management can envision an ideal safety culture. We can then engineer this desired culture in the same way we design and build a robust machine.In this show we explore another region of the real world that is Uncertain and Unpredictable. For context we will look at the Aviation Industry from a Robustness and Resilience perspective.Questions we will address:Why does the Blunt end of the Safety Spear (regulators, elected officials) prefer a robust approach to improve a resilient safety culture?What if there was a different view of safety culture - not one that can be engineered but one that emerges naturally from systemic changes?How might using sense-making methods and tools be ‘faster, better, cheaper' to improve safety culture?

In this episode of Safeonomics, hosts Scott and Gabe are joined by the inspiring Allison Short, diving into an engaging conversation about career development, mentorship, and community in the safety profession. Here's what to expect:Allison's Journey: Discover how Allison's unique path led her to a fulfilling career in safety, highlighting the value of embracing one's background and interests.Career Development Tips: Gain insights into practical advice for advancing in the safety field, including the importance of networking, continuous learning, and finding mentors.The Power of Community: Learn about the significance of building a supportive community within the safety profession and how it can enhance your career and personal growth.Mentorship and Growth: Explore how mentorship, both formal and informal, plays a crucial role in career development, and hear Allison's personal experiences with mentors who have shaped her journey.Embracing Challenges: Allison shares how to navigate the challenges and uncertainties within the safety profession with resilience and a positive outlook.Key Takeaways:Practical tips for career advancement in safety.The importance of community and networking.Insights into mentorship and its impact on professional growth.Strategies for dealing with challenges in the safety field.This episode offers valuable lessons for safety professionals at all stages of their careers, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and personal growth. Join us for an insightful and motivating discussion with Allison Short.

Step into the world of practical innovation with "Hard Hats and Heart," where we unpack the essence of human-centered design.In our first episode, we welcome Beau Sitzmann, Founder and CEO of Evolutionary Tools Inc, who has transformed his personal challenges in the field into an innovative solution, BACK UP™. Beau's inspiring story highlights the transformative power of empathetic innovation, revealing how a deep dive into the user experience can lead to pioneering solutions that truly resonate with workers. Tune in to discover how Beau's journey through the stages of problem identification, research, and prototyping led to the development of wearable tools designed with the user's well-being in mind Listen to "Hard Hats and Heart" for an insightful conversation on how dedication, ingenuity, and a human-centered mindset are building a safer and more efficient industry.

As humans we are good at imposing regulations, standards, policies, compliance rules, best practices which enable Certainty to emerge. In this show we explore another region of the real world, one that isn't stable, consistent, predictable. If you have experienced confusion, dilemmas, paradoxes, you know what it feels like. One hypothesis to achieve sustainability is by allocating resources (people process, technology) into environmental, social, and governance factors.Questions we will address:Why have ESG considerations become politicalized?What can you do to reconcile certain upfront costs and long-term uncertain gains?How can a company avoid being accused of greenwashing and thus eroding trust in sustainability efforts?

In the latest episode of "Safeonomics," listen in on our conversation with our special guest Alison Hemmings, Career Coach Extraordinaire were Alison offers practical and insightful guidance tailored specifically for safety professionals aiming to secure their dream job.

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 10 am PT / 1 pm EThttps://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/2016989374514/WN_XDH4vEQlRB-10JW9ndFdLQ#/registrationTop Cal/OSHA ViolationsPresented by the Cal/OSHA Team in Conn Maciel Carey's national OSHA Practice GroupWhile Cal/OSHA's regulations must be at least as effective as federal OSHA regulations, Cal/OSHA can and certainly does have regulations unique to the Golden State. Employers looking to improve their workplace safety and health program and better manage the risks of agency enforcement can gain helpful insight by reviewing Cal/OSHA's most frequently cited regulations.Participants in this webinar will learn about:• Cal/OSHA's most frequently cited regulations• An overview of industry-specific regulations cited most often• Regulations unique to Cal/OSHA and how that impacts agency action during inspections

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below (Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 1 pm ET / 10 am PT)https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regis...OSHA Recordkeeping, E-Recordkeeping, and Reporting UpdatePresented by Eric J. Conn, Lindsay A. DiSalvo, Valerie Butera, and Ashley MitchellLast summer, OSHA finalized an amended E-Recordkeeping Rule, which expands the data many employers are required to submit to OSHA every year. We are also at a moment in OSHA's history when the agency is clearly staffing up and ramping up inspections and enforcement generally, and with respect to injury and illness recordkeeping specifically. For example, OSHA has just introduced a new enforcement policy to allow for instance-by-instance citations for recordkeeping violations. With data submissions to OSHA under the new E-Recordkeeping Rule due now, and with the new enforcement risks around recordkeeping, accurate OSHA injury and illness recordkeeping and reporting is more critical now than ever before.This webinar will take a deep dive into the top 10 reasons it is critical to get recordkeeping and reporting right, with tips and strategies for how to do so. Participants in this webinar will learn:• Why it is more important than ever to get recordkeeping right• New requirements of the E-Recordkeeping Rule• Enforcement efforts and policies related to injury and illness recordkeeping• Common recordkeeping errors

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below (Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at 9:30 am PT / 12:30 pm ET)https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/6217037041731/WN_ymVkP4G5RHKM8bS21PnYTA#/registrationPreparing for California's Indoor Heat RegulationPresented by Rachel L. Conn, Megan S. Shaked, and Andrea O. ChavezAlthough temperatures have cooled down in California, the status of California's Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Regulation has heated up. California's Heat Illness Prevention in Outdoor Places (8 CCR 3395) has been in place since 2005. However, in one of the first of its kind standards in the country, California is preparing to adopt a similar Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Regulation. While various revisions to the draft standard have been circulating for the past year, the current draft is likely in its final form. It is also expected that the Cal/OSHA Standards Board will vote on the regulation at its March 2024 meeting and the final regulation will be effective this summer. Since both outdoor and indoor heat illness hazards have been covered by a special emphasis program from Cal/OSHA for several years, the new Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Regulation is expected to continue to be a high enforcement area for Cal/OSHA. Accordingly, now is the time for California employers to familiarize themselves with the regulation and begin to prepare for compliance.Participants in this webinar will learn about:• The requirements of the Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Regulation• Landmines awaiting employers as they move into compliance with the new regulation• Strategies for developing a compliant Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Plan• The intersection between the Indoor and Outdoor Heat Illness Prevention Standards and how to integrate both

Register for the upcoming LIVE webinar below (Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 1 pm ET / 10 am PT)https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/8017031690570/WN_DM1OcZikQ7uuUzLif9tj0Q#/registrationOSHA's 2023 in Review and 2024 ForecastPresented by the Partners in Conn Maciel Carey's national OSHA Practice GroupAs we approach a Presidential Election that will determine the shape of OSHA enforcement and rulemaking for years to come, it is time to look back and take stock of what we learned from and about OSHA during another very eventful year. More importantly, it is once again time to look ahead and discuss what employers should expect from OSHA during Year 4 of the Biden/Harris Administration. In this webinar, the Partners in Conn Maciel Carey's national OSHA Practice Group will review OSHA enforcement data and trends, important policy changes at OSHA (e.g., expanding the Severe Violator Enforcement Program and per instance citation authority), and major rulemaking developments (e.g., finalizing E-Recordkeeping, and advancing Heat Illness and the Worker Walkaround Representative rulemaking). We will also discuss the top OSHA issues employers should monitor and prepare for in the New Year.Participants in this webinar will learn about:1. 2023 OSHA enforcement data and important case decisions2. New enforcement polices and enforcement special emphasis programs3. Rulemaking priorities and predictions4. OSHA policy issues to monitor in the run up to the Presidential Election

Today we take a deep dive exploring a real life case study on how and why to make the business case for implementing an improvement or enhancement to a work process or procedure to better protect worker health and safety.

What Employers Need to Know About OSHA and Combustible DustTo mitigate the risk of potentially catastrophic incidents and avoid citations from OSHA and/or recommendations from the CSB, employers with dusts that may be combustible are well-advised to proactively address any associated hazards they may have in their facilities.Participants in this webinar will learn:- Background on the hazard- CSB findings and investigations- OSHA's Combustible Dust NEP- Applicable NFPA standards- Employer best practice tips