The Employee Safety Podcast

The safety and security team for the Atlanta Hawks is charged with protecting guests, fans, and employees for 40+ NBA games and more than 150 events per year at State Farm Arena.For the Hawks' Senior Director of Safety and Security, Emily Drexler, her team's comprehensive and continual training program is the key to providing a safe experience for all guests, inside and outside the arena.In this episode, Emily shares how her team:Works with organizations across Atlanta to share information and best practicesUtilizes a variety of structures and formats to continually train for any scenarioMitigates and prioritizes event-specific risks Streamlines communication for lockstep decision-makingThe Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

In the U.S. alone, 11 workers are injured or die from heat stress every single day. It also costs organizations an estimated $100 billion yearly in lost productivity. The good news is that heat illness is 100% preventable—with the right equipment and education. In this episode, Cam Mackey, CEO of the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) breaks down what organizations need to know about leveraging personal protective equipment (PPE) to mitigate the risks of heat-related illness and injuries for their employees. Listen in to learn:The dangers of heat stress and which workers are impacted by itTips on how and where to buy the right PPE for your employeesWhy it's important to invest in heat-mitigation PPE before temperatures riseFactors to consider when developing or revising your heat mitigation planThe Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

EHS Today is an industry-leading publication with a mission to help safety professionals do their jobs better. Their annual audience survey received more than 1,100 responses from EHS leaders in 2022, revealing the top three challenges they face in their roles today. Dave Blanchard, Editor in Chief of EHS Today, joins the show to deliver the results and break down how they could impact the future of the safety profession. Tune in to hear learn how EHS leaders:Navigate how to do more with lessManage employee well-beingEncourage employee engagementEarn leadership buy-inThe Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

Psychological safety has a measurable impact on organizations. When employees feel psychologically safe, they are eight times more likely to be engaged, three times more likely to be productive, and three and a half times more likely to be innovative. So, how do organizations measure the psychological safety of their workforce, and what is the safety leader's role in creating a culture of psychological safety?Dr. Rajni Walia is an organizational psychologist, consultant, and Vice President of DEKRA North America. Rajni joined the show to answer those questions and explain: How to evaluate psychological safety gaps Three factors of employee well-being that safety leaders can influenceTips to overcome reluctance to changeHow to turn transactional interactions into transformational conversationsThe Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

This episode is a highlight reel of some of our favorite moments from 11 interviews with safety and security experts in 2022. These experts share bite-sized emergency preparedness, workplace culture, and safety leadership advice that you can implement in your organization today.To hear more from the guests featured in this episode, check out their full recordings here:Jason Freeman, Six Flags Ron Derrick, WhataburgerJusten Noakes, H-E-BTracy Brower, The Secrets to Happiness at WorkJenn Lim, Delivering HappinessVanessa Mathews, Business Resilience Decoded PodcastChristopher Kenessey, AlertMediaBurke Brownfeld, ZoomBrian Searcy, Paratus GroupEric McNulty, Harvard UniversityRyan Long, McDonald'sThis episode of The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Katie Goan, Senior Producer at AlertMedia.You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

As 2023 approaches, trendlines indicate that threats are on the rise globally.The overlapping impacts of severe weather, economic uncertainty, geopolitical concerns, activism, and active shooter events are complex and difficult for any organization to navigate. According to AlertMedia's VP of Global Intelligence, Sara Pratley, the number one thing safety leaders can do to protect their organizations is stay informed.In this episode, Sara unpacks:The most impactful crisis events of 2022 and what we learnedData and insights on the top threat concerns for 2023How to prioritize and prepare for likely threatsHow timely intelligence supports business continuity, operations, and safetyThe Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce hosts 2,600+ events a year, where a revolving door of global VIPs presents unique security challenges. Vice President of Security, Jerry Marshall leans on his extensive experience in protective and investigative service—from the Air Force to Secret Service—to protect the Chamber, its personnel, and its guests.In this episode, you'll hear how Jerry's pride and appreciation for his country ignite his passion to serve and protect.Listen to learn:Jerry's experience serving on the President's counter assault team during 9/11Why the Chamber provides its security team with intelligence and investigative trainingHow security collaborates with the IT team to assess and investigate cyber threatsSteps businesses can take to strengthen bonds with law enforcementThe Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

Experts predict the 2022-2023 winter season will feature above-average temperatures for the third year in a row.But as AlertMedia's Senior Meteorologist Jason Moreland explains, that doesn't mean we're in for a winter without incident. The forecast includes a high likelihood of significant winter weather events as well as a wide range of downstream impacts that organizations and their employees should prepare for.In this episode, Jason breaks down:The surprising effect of warmer temperatures on winter weather eventsHow weaknesses in the polar vortex impact North AmericaHow the third consecutive La Niña will affect the 22-23 winter seasonTips for assessing and mitigating winter weather threatsHow to plan ahead for secondary impacts of winter weatherThe Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

Strong safety cultures are achieved and sustained when workplace safety is everyone's responsibility. Building equitable and diverse teams within an organization is no different—it's all hands on deck.Vanessa Mathews, Founder & Chief Resilience Officer of Asfalis Advisors, works with safety and security leaders to go beyond guns, gates, and guards to ensure that all people feel included and protected at work. Through her blueprint, she motivates leadership to be culture change agents for their teams and companies.In this episode, Vanessa breaks down her roadmap for improving diversity, equity, and inclusion to create belonging cultures and equitable teams. Mentioned in this episode:DEI trends to be aware of in the workplaceVanessa's blueprint for high-performing teamsThe book Vanessa considers her “business bible,” Traction by Gino Wickman[Podcast] Business Resilience Decoded With Vanessa Mathews The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

H-E-B provides food, prescriptions, and fuel for more than half of the state of Texas. For this top-rated grocer, keeping stores open is critical to disaster response and recovery in each community it serves. Staying on the front lines of disaster relief with mobile kitchens, food banks, and supporting local charity organizations, H-E-B maintains a “last to close, first to open” policy so Texans can get the supplies they need to recover faster. Director of Emergency Preparedness Justen Noakes unpacks how H-E-B rises to the challenges of today's threat landscape to better support its partners, customers, and communities. Tune in to hear how Justen and his team: Navigate rollercoaster supply chain challenges Utilize modern threat intelligence solutions to protect their people Prepare employees to respond to disasters at work and at home Develop strategies for upleveling their emergency preparedness program The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

More than 200,000 transitioning service members depart the military each year. For veterans and military spouses, finding civilian employment that suits their skills and abilities can be a daunting task. This Veterans Day, we're spotlighting the amazing work of Hiring Our Heroes, a nonprofit arm of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce that connects the military community with companies—creating economic opportunity and a strong, diversified workforce nationwide. Through hiring events, fellowships, and digital programs, Senior Director of Programs and Events, Crystal Cochran, helps the military community transition to the civilian workforce. Listen to learn: The unique skillsets veterans and military spouses can bring to their roles Why it's good business to hire military community members Tips for veterans and military spouses on translating skills and developing a network How organizations can get involved with Hiring Our Heroes  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ will be an event like no other. With 500,000 fans and 32 teams descending on Qatar's capital, Doha, it will be the most compact World Cup in history. For Director of Safety, Security, and Access, Helmut Spahn, success is built not on individual performance, but on teamwork. Through careful collaboration between FIFA and Qatari leaders, professionals, and citizens, Helmut has laid the groundwork for a safe and secure Cup and a festive atmosphere for all.  In this episode, Helmut unpacks: His culturally aware approach to safety and security  How this Cup's security challenges compare to past years Qatar-wide training for everyone from venue officials to taxi drivers When to stick to the formula versus think out of the box   The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

Situational awareness is the ability to analyze, identify, and take action to prevent bad things from happening. While commonly associated with active shooter scenarios, situational awareness empowers employees to recognize and respond to all kinds of threats that organizations face today — from cyber-attacks to the warning signs of suicide. It's a skill that simultaneously pays dividends in organizational safety and develops exceptional interpersonal skills in your employees.  As Founder and President of Paratus Group, Retired Colonel Brian Searcy coaches organizations of all sizes and industries through a program uniquely crafted to improve safety and security through situational awareness. Brian joins the show this week to explain: The key to developing habits, behaviors, and mindsets of situational awareness The critical skills needed to become situationally aware  How to recognize and respond to warning signs in the workplace How to ensure situational awareness resonates with all employees The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

When you operate “cities within cities,” public safety is the top priority. For Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, that means every employee at its 27 theme parks has an important role to play, whether they are on the safety team or not. Over the last 38 years, Jason Freeman, Corporate VP of Operations, Public Safety, Maintenance & Engineering, has overseen the growth of these "cities” from the ground up. Today, he takes a municipal approach to protecting them — complete with fire, EMS, and police services — to ensure a safe and seamless guest experience.  In this episode, Jason breaks down: Fostering a guest-centric approach to security  Choosing technology solutions that enhance the guest experience Training employees in tactical communication and de-escalation  Messaging that creates a feeling of safety before guests step foot in the parks Using peer organizations to network and learn from colleagues  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

For McDonald's, the intelligence function serves as a trusted advisor and business partner to the organization. What started as a one-person executive protection team has grown into a fully integrated department of hybrid expertise backed by enthusiastic executive support. How did it happen? Former military turned private sector intelligence champion Ryan Long saw the business opportunity in a robust intelligence and protection function. Now as Head of Global Intelligence and Protection for McDonald's, Ryan built success on a foundation of internal relationships and alignment. In this episode, Ryan breaks down: How to tailor intelligence for decision-makers to gain buy-in How to build internal credibility and identify champions for your initiatives Tips for transitioning from the public to the private sector The future of the intelligence profession and associations like AIRIP   The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

Before the formation of the National Fire Protection Association, city streets were littered with sawdust, buildings were constructed with dry wood, and fire escapes did not exist. Today, the NFPA's codes and standards protect people and property from fire destruction, and its research and education campaigns have reduced fire risk, injuries, and losses for more than a century. On the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week, Technical Services Engineer, Brian O'Connor, joins the show to discuss how organizations can take advantage of decades of fire research and resources. In this episode, Brian shares how to: Fine-tune your organization's fire prevention education Avoid common fire prevention pitfalls Form committees that secure buy-in for fire safety Model the NFPA's standards development process  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player. 

By looking through the customer lens, businesses can build better products, provide better service, and embody the values of the organizations they serve. So why don't more providers live up to customers' expectations?  To celebrate the 100th episode of the show, we invited Christopher Kenessey, CEO of AlertMedia, to discuss his approach to customer-centric leadership. For Christopher, it's about listening to customers' challenges and becoming an active part of the solution.  Listen to the episode to learn: How to create more value for the people and companies you serve The importance of improving the customer experience at each touchpoint Why today's threat landscape is transforming the roles of EHS leaders How your customers can be partners in your success (and vice versa) The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

How does a small team of business resiliency professionals oversee three iconic nameplates, 850 locations, and 90,000 employees? For Erica Reed, it's through streamlining communication. In her role as Business Resiliency Analyst at Macy's, she and her team are responsible for crisis management, communication, 24/7/365 situational awareness, and business continuity planning.  In this episode, Erica gives great advice on how to: Work cross-functionally with other departments Resolve gaps and failures in communication Orchestrate enterprise training and exercise programs Structure business resiliency for a large enterprise organization The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

Mental health crisis services must be operational 24/7/365 to support communities, even during an emergency or severe weather event. Without effective communication, continuity of care can be compromised. For Integral Care, the authority on local mental health and developmental disabilities in Austin, Texas, communication is the key to protecting employees and keeping vital programs up and running, no matter what. In this episode, Teresa Williams, Director of Clinical Services, and David West, Associate Director of Integrated Systems of Care at Integral Care, share:  The benefits of adopting a plain language system for emergency response  Why communication should be a continuous area of improvement How Integral Care supports staff through a Workforce Quality and Satisfaction Committee  The importance of building employee competence and confidence through trainings   The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

Zoom describes its workplace culture in two words: Delivering Happiness. Burke Brownfeld, Manager of Physical Security, Operations Awareness, and Partnerships at Zoom, discovered a simple and effective method of delivering happiness—apply empathy in every business interaction. In this episode, Burke shares how he strengthened his working relationships and the security function at Zoom by leading with empathy and why he believes it should be at the core of every security professional's approach to leadership. Listen to our conversation with Burke to hear about: Tips for being a more empathetic leader How to focus on the process, not the outcome, to create more positive workplace interactions Lessons learned on how to explain and implement procedural changes effectively Why corporate security should evolve beyond the traditional “guns, guards, and gates” approach The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.

Safety leaders often receive a myriad of technical training for their roles, but one crucial aspect— how to lead people through a crisis — can be overlooked. The National Preparedness Leadership Initiative (NPLI) at Harvard University strives to change that by offering a crisis leadership training program that prepares safety and security leaders.  To honor National Preparedness Month in September, we are showcasing the incredible work of the NPLI by interviewing Eric McNulty, Associate Director, about what it takes to excel at crisis leadership. Eric is also the author of numerous books and articles on the topic and has spent more than 20 years teaching graduate level courses at Harvard, M.I.T., and other major institutions.  Listen to the episode to learn how safety leaders can: Avoid common mistakes and pitfalls in emergency preparedness  Use data to drive decisions, set goals, and measure success Prevent secondary crises from developing after an emergency Get buy-in and “lead up” with executive leadership The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

Many organizations recognize the need for “always on” security, but few know how to achieve or sustain it. Grant Hayes, Owner of Childers, Hayes and Richards, has more than 20 years' experience in physical security, from protecting U.S. Presidents as a Secret Service Agent to leading security operations at major organizations like BP and Magnolia.  In this episode, Grant shares the basic building blocks of launching a SOC and provides actionable advice on how to uplevel your security program. Listen in to learn: The benefits of a modern SOC Expected costs Common roles and responsibilities of SOC personnel How to fully integrate a security team into your organization Tips on choosing the right vendors and contractors  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast on your favorite podcast player.

Workplace safety has evolved dramatically since 1847. When Tribune Publishing first opened its doors, regulatory agencies like OSHA and the EPA did not exist and safety policies were implemented reactively. 175 years later, Tribune has created a robust, sustainable safety culture that protects thousands of dispersed, contract, and on-site workers from a myriad of potential threats. So how did Tribune achieve this staying power? By embracing change, remaining agile, and applying adaptive safety. In this episode, guest host Sara Pratley sits down with Jerry Glotzer, Corporate Manager of EHS, Security, Workers Compensation, Emergency Preparedness, and Risk Management for Tribune Publishing. For Jerry, the key to protecting employees is staying flexible and keeping a thumb on the pulse of emerging risks. Listen in to learn about: How to assess hazard vulnerability by region How to modify safety plans and policies for risk Tailored training for journalists in high-risk areas Why adaptive leadership and safety go hand-in-hand Risks that should be top of mind for safety leaders  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.

A “good-on-paper” security program isn't enough to reduce risk and protect employees in today's threat landscape. It takes a visionary leader to scale a siloed corporate security function into a robust, successful company-wide program. Andrew “Drew” Schrader, Head of Corporate Security at Panasonic North America, knows this all too well. He joined the company to help build strategic partnerships and secure stakeholder buy-in on security initiatives that protect Panasonic's more than 250,000 employees. Drew joins the show to share how his background in law enforcement and non-traditional skillset contributed to Panasonic's transformative security evolution. Listen to our conversation to learn how to: Approach security improvement like Panasonic Secure buy-in for new security initiatives Align safety goals with company goals Bring the private and public sectors together to share information The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.

To achieve business resilience, organizations must be prepared for any emergency that comes their way. For Liberty Mutual, that means building preparedness plans that include three primary components: Crisis management, emergency response, and business recovery. Ashley Goosman, Risk Manager of Business Continuity & Crisis Management Specialist at Liberty Mutual, has helped managers and employees worldwide prepare for and respond to business interruptions for the past 10 years. She joins the show to share lessons learned that can help other organizations build strong resilience programs. Ashley explains: How Liberty Mutual has streamlined its operational structure to improve crisis decision-making and business continuity When and why the company has pivoted or modified resilience strategies Guidance on how to measure the success of your resilience program Suggestions for building community engagement within the risk and resilience industry The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.

In today's heightened threat landscape, organizations have a greater need for innovative threat monitoring and identification tools to protect their people and business. But who are the people working behind the scenes to ensure these tools are surfacing fast, accurate, and relevant information to those who rely on it to keep employees out of harm's way? At AlertMedia, it's the Global Threat Intelligence Team—a group of experienced in-house analysts, meteorologists, and researchers who work around the clock to monitor thousands of data sources, filter out noise, and deliver timely, accurate information about critical events occurring around the world. Kathan Fish, Lead Global Intelligence Analyst at AlertMedia, joins guest host Sara Pratley to demystify the role of a threat intelligence analyst and discuss what it's like to help more than 3,000 customers save lives and minimize loss. Kathan explains: The day-to-day roles and responsibilities of a threat intelligence analyst The tools and processes the Global Threat Intelligence team uses to determine credible threats How analysts provide clarity and context directly to customers in developing emergencies Why the increasing volume and availability of information continually challenges analysts to adapt how they gather information The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.

In response to rising temperatures and concern for vulnerable workers, OSHA recently implemented a National Emphasis Program (NEP) to protect employees from heat-related hazards and illnesses in the workplace. Understandably, many organizations have questions about how they will be impacted by the program and how to comply with the new guidance.  Courtney Malveaux, Co-Leader of the Workplace Safety and Health Practice Group at Jackson Lewis, is the feat ured guest for the second episode of our two-part series on extreme heat. Courtney is a former labor commissioner and currently represents employers in regulatory issues and OSHA citations, so we invited him to the show to break down everything you need to know about OSHA's new NEP. Courtney explains: Why the NEP includes protections for both indoor and outdoor workers How to develop heat safety plans that comply with OSHA's guidance Tips on what to expect from an OSHA visit The surprising industries and workplace environments under new heat safety scrutiny Why proactive relationship building with OSHA can build trust and communication  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Extreme heat is a growing threat, nationally and globally. With temperatures rising— especially in traditionally cooler regions—it's crucial that organizations understand how extreme heat impacts their people, facilities, and business. In part one of our two-part series on extreme heat, Paul Yura, Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the National Weather Service, shares significant heat trends throughout the U.S. and how organizations can prepare their people and property. Listen to our conversation with Paul to learn about: How extreme heat can affect both indoor and outdoor employees The impacts of extreme heat on infrastructure Early and immediate symptoms of heat-related illnesses Actionable tips to ensure employee safety during heat waves Why organizations should develop and implement extreme heat plans and trainings The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia . You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

A new research study revealed that 2.8 million workplace accidents and injuries occur in the United States' private industry each year. One of the best ways to prevent and control occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities is to “design out” or minimize hazards and risks. This concept is known as Prevention Through Design. Mike Taubitz, Senior Advisor at FDRsafety, joins us this week to explain how applying the Prevention Through Design program can help organizations identify risks and embed hazard prevention into their safety culture. Listen to our conversation with Mike to hear about: Why you should incorporate Prevention Through Design early in the design process and continue it throughout the lifecycle of materials and processes How lean thinking can work in conjunction with Prevention Through Design to prevent or even eliminate hazards Why there is no such thing as zero risk in the workplace The importance of implementing task-based risk assessments that include frontline workers and safety managers    The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

How can military and journalist training benefit an organization's safety and security programs? By applying the same universal safety principles to improve risk management and situational awareness in the workplace. Tim Crockett, Founder and Senior Consultant at Flying Frog Consultants, is a veteran of the British Special Forces and spent his life and career in and out of war zones. His training has helped journalists survive unbelievable news gathering missions around the world. Tim joins our guest host Sara Pratley to share his core safety principles that can be applied to any organization to keep their people and business safe and secure. Listen to our conversation with Tim to hear about: The concept of “The Three As”—Awareness, Anticipation, and Avoidance Why there is no such thing as a risk-free work environment How regular training gives organizations an edge Risk mitigation for traveling workers The importance of empowering employees with competence and confidence   The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe, affecting thousands of lives and properties each year. For organizations located in areas threatened by wildfires, or that have remote workers located in those areas, it's vital to have a wildfire preparedness plan to protect people and minimize impact. Jason Moreland, Senior Meteorologist at AlertMedia, joins us for part two of our 2022 Weather Series to discuss everything organizations need to know to prepare for wildfires. In this episode, Jason explains: How increased wildfire frequency and severity threatens national fire response resources A long-term forecast of how wildfires will continue to affect the United States How the impacts of wildfires can extend far away from the actual fire line The concept of “Ready, Set, Go” and other approaches to wildfire preparation that can minimize risk   The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Whataburger is a household name and a staple of communities across the country. With 860 quick-service restaurants in 14 states and more than 50,000 employees to protect, safety is a top priority for the beloved burger chain 24/7. Ron Derrick, Corporate Senior Emergency Manager, leads Whataburger's robust command center and is responsible for all escalated incidents at the restaurants, learning centers, and corporate offices. His passion for emergency management was inspired by his 30-year career in fire and EMS, and he incorporates that passion into Whataburger's preparedness and response plans to help mitigate issues before they happen. In this episode, Ron describes: How Whataburger's contact center serves as a “911” for all locations to ask questions or report disruptions The structure of Whataburger's command center that triages any escalated incidents Why an effective communication matrix expedites crisis response and recovery The importance of continuously monitoring and identifying threats to stay ahead of potential emergencies How Whataburger supports their local communities after natural disasters The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

2021 was the deadliest year on record for gun violence, and 2022 could easily surpass it. In light of recent tragic shooting events and millions of employees going back to the office, it's important for organizations to re-evaluate their workplace violence preparedness and response plans to ensure the safety of their people. Proper preparedness and training can mean the difference between life and death in an active shooter situation. In this episode, Bill Flynn, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at The Power of Preparedness, talks us through how organizations can assess workplace risks to create or improve a violence preparedness program. Bill shares: Why “checking the box” on workplace violence preparedness is no longer acceptable How full employee participation and executive buy-in is crucial for an effective preparedness plan The importance of building muscle memory through active shooter training Why probability, vulnerability, and potential consequence evaluations are necessary for accurate risk assessments  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

The CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) believes that organizations should look beyond traditional safety programs to create healthier, more fulfilling work environments for their people. Today's guest, Dr. Casey Chosewood, is a Senior Medical Officer and the Director of the CDC's NIOSH Total Worker Health Program. The program seeks to improve the overall health and well-being of employees by shaping the policies, programs, and practices organizations incorporate into their safety cultures. Since June is National Safety Month, we invited Casey to join us to explain Total Worker Health and why the needs of workers should be front and center at every organization. Listen to our conversation to hear about: How organizations can adopt the Total Worker Health Program to keep employees safe at work and empowered in their overall health How prioritizing employee well-being can benefit the bottom line Why workplace flexibility is key to a happier, more engaged, and fulfilled workforce Why total worker health is good for companies, communities, and the economy as a whole   The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia . You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Hundreds of ransomware attacks occur every single day that threaten organizational security. As the world integrates technology into more aspects of daily life, there has been a continuous rise in cyber crimes. Corey White, Co-founder & CEO at Cyavatar, has more than 25 years of experience crafting security strategies and leading teams across various industries, such as government, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. He understands that as technology evolves, so must every organization's approach to cybersecurity. Listen to our conversation with Corey to hear about: Why organizations are experiencing an increase in sophisticated hacks The role remote workers play in a company's cyber hygiene The biggest mistakes organizations make with their cybersecurity programs Tips and best practices for cyber-attack preparation and response What the future of cybersecurity looks like for businesses  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

When disaster strikes, thousands of American Red Cross employees and volunteers work tirelessly to provide immediate aid and assist in recovery. However, the Red Cross must ensure the safety of their own team before they can help others. Jennifer Pipa, VP of Disaster Programs at American Red Cross, oversees the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of disaster services programs, including preparedness, response, and recovery. In this episode, Jennifer offers her expert advice on how emergency managers can improve their organization's preparedness programs to better protect their people. Jennifer discusses: Why major disasters are now a chronic issue How to use situational awareness to pivot and adapt response plans The importance of monitoring and identifying threats to proactively prepare and inform impacted individuals Tips for communicating effectively with your team and continuously improving that process How organizations can support their local communities and American Red Cross chapters before and after a disaster  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing directly on our website. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Jason Moreland, Senior Meteorologist at AlertMedia, fills in for Peter this week to break down the 2022 hurricane season forecast. From what to expect to how to prepare, Jason offers his expert advice to help organizations save time, minimize impact, and protect their people, no matter where they work. In this episode, Jason explains: Detailed forecast predictions and how they compare to past seasons Tips for safeguarding critical infrastructure and employees Recommended resources to stay informed of storm updates      The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by following The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or subscribing directly on our website. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Austin Pets Alive! is not your average animal rescue organization. It has multiple locations, hundreds of employees and volunteers, and has saved nearly 100,000 animals over the last decade.  But the organization has a number of safety and security challenges to overcome, like workplace hazards in an older building, dispersed workers and pets, severe weather, and location-based security concerns. Stephanie Bilbro, Director of Lifesaving Operations at Austin Pets Alive!, and her team have created unique solutions to these challenges that any organization can learn from and apply.  Stephanie describes many of these solutions in today's episode, as well as: Why two-way communication is crucial in an emergency  The importance of involving frontline employees in preparedness planning and after-action reports  Creating adaptive protocols versus fixed protocols Working with partners and third-party organizations to conquer logistical challenges   The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

To help us start the conversation, we invited Dr. Tracy Brower, Sociologist and Author, to explain the sociology of work — the scientific study of how people affect their work and how their work affects them back. It is an important topic for employers to understand because it can impact the psychological safety and mental health of employees, as well as the company's reputation and bottom line.  Tracy's research shows that when an organization fully grasps the sociology of work, its employees are happier, healthier, and more productive, and the business grows and thrives.  We discuss: The significant data and research (i.e., real science!) that demonstrate how work can impact employees' mental health and happiness Why prioritizing employee well-being is a business imperative Actionable advice for creating a psychologically safe work environment How leadership can help employees avoid burnout  Why employees at every stage of life appreciate a reimagined safety culture   Visit www.tracybrower.com for more resources on the sociology of work, mental health in the workplace, and psychologically safe work environments. The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Today's hybrid landscape has altered the traditional employee–manager relationship. Leaders can no longer rely on in-person interactions to know how their employees are feeling and performing in their roles. How are great safety leaders adapting to ensure a physically and psychologically safe work environment for their people? Michael Teape, Owner and Lead Training Consultant at Teape Training International, explains:  The most important skills a safety leader should develop to effectively lead a hybrid workforce Why emotional intelligence and empathy can be more important than strategy and processes when managing employees Applying the SCARF model to stimulate meaningful conversations with your direct reports How over communicating can help you identify and support employee needs   The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Maintaining workplace safety is a challenge in its own right, but at the Dallas Zoo, wildlife adds an extra layer of complexity. What does it take to keep workers, guests, animals, and the 106-acre park safe and secure while still providing the fun, memorable experience the Dallas Zoo promises? Diana Worden, Director of Safety & Security at the Dallas Zoo explains:   The unique challenges of keeping visitors, employees, volunteers, and animals safe year-round How the zoo embraces a positive safety culture with buy-in at every level of the organization The importance of regular safety training that is fun and engaging Why maintaining positive relationships with emergency services and outside agencies are crucial to support safety and security initiatives The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

As The Great Resignation continues, investing in your employees and their happiness is more important than ever. Jenn Lim, Co-Founder, CEO, and Chief Happiness Officer at Delivering Happiness, believes that companies should build a workplace culture where employees can experience meaningful happiness, feel psychologically safe, and personally align with the company's core values. When organizations double down on their people, it comes back to them financially. In this episode, we discuss: How Jenn and Tony Hsieh (the late CEO of Zappos) created the framework for Delivering Happiness Why workplace happiness leads to better employee retention and more profitable business The importance of adaptive intelligence within a leadership team Why aligning purpose with profit is a competitive advantage and differentiator for organizations      The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Workplace safety is more important than ever, yet employees' perceptions and opinions are often missing from the conversation. To help change that, AlertMedia surveyed a wide range of American workers to uncover how safe employees actually feel at work and if their employers' efforts to protect them were meeting their expectations. AlertMedia used the findings of this survey to create its inaugural State of Employee Safety Report. Danielle Sherman, VP of Communications at Material, the research firm behind the survey, joins the show to discuss how the results can help organizations improve the safety and wellbeing of their employees. We discuss: Which emergencies and disasters employees are most concerned about experiencing in the workplace How prepared employees are to respond to those emergencies If employers' safety communications are meeting employee expectations What employers can do to help their people feel safer at work        For more insights and findings, download the full 2022 State of Employee Safety Report. The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

The healthcare industry has been under constant pressure since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Lori Price, Emergency Management Coordinator at Memorial Health System, has witnessed firsth and the challenges that healthcare facilities have faced over the past two years, from how to maintain daily patient care during a pandemic to crisis situations like cyber attacks and severe weather. In this episode, Lori shares how Memorial Health System has responded to these challenges, and how the organization is improving emergency management processes for the future. We discuss: The benefits of an all-hazards approach to emergency management How Memorial Health System responded to a recent cyber attack The importance of regular, varied safety training and drills How changes to human behavior can decrease the likelihood of disasters     The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

HR teams seek to empower employees with the tools and resources they need to be successful at their jobs while ensuring their safety and well-being. Saad Qureshi, Human Resources Manager at Campbell Soup Company, believes that a one-size-fits-all approach to human resources is not effective. Instead, HR professionals should involve employees in the conversation to learn what works and what doesn't. In this episode, Saad shares the tactics Campbell's uses to improve culture and enhance employee engagement. We discuss: The evolving responsibilities of HR leaders Tactics for improving employee engagement How a focus on employee safety boosts retention The importance of mental health resources for HR professionals   The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Emergency preparedness shouldn't be viewed as an expense. It's an investment in your ability to provide your customers with goods and services no matter what happens—and ultimately, that ability will lead to the growth of your business. Al Berman, President of DRI Foundation, explains how organizations can experience the ROI of emergency preparedness through real money and hard savings. We discuss: Tips for talking to executives about the business impacts of preparedness The importance of reviewing your insurance coverage to make sure it benefits your organization Moving past a fear-based approach to business continuity to focus on competitive advantages How to measure the effectiveness of your preparedness program           Email Al Berman at aberman@drii.org. The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld , SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Many organizations don't realize that building safety codes were designed to ensure human survival and nothing more. They don't guarantee that your building will be operable or even occupiable after a disaster. To support business continuity, a building needs to go beyond that minimum safety standard. In this episode, Tracy Kijewski-Correa, Structural Engineer and Associate Professor at the University of Notre Dame, explains the steps that organizations should take to enhance building safety and maintain operations following a disaster. We discuss: Why the loss of life and property is often preventable Setting safety goals to thrive, not just survive The competitive advantage of exceeding minimum safety codes How organizations can help create market demand for safer construction    Mentioned during the podcast: StEER Network The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.   You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

A great safety leader possesses more than just business continuity, security, and risk mitigation skills. To be a well-rounded leader, individuals must also develop soft skills and a holistic mindset to help keep their employees and business safe. In this episode, Rick Kelly, Senior Vice President of Global Safety, Security, and Business Continuity at Chubb, explains why emotional intelligence is an important aspect of effective leadership and how he prepares the next generation of safety leaders for success. We discuss: Rick's approach to cultivating leadership in a multi-generational workforce The skills and experience Rick looks for when hiring future leaders Why incorporating servant leadership helps reinforce Chubb's safety culture Advice for professionals looking to pursue a career in safety or security  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Journalists face increasing risks today. From civil unrest and military coups to stalking and online harassment, responding to and reporting on events can come with a lot of danger. That's why Ian Phillips, Vice President of International News for The Associated Press, was tasked with launching a new initiative focused on the safety, security, and mental well-being of journalists. In this episode, guest host Sara Pratley speaks with I an about his new role and his advice for ensuring the safety of any traveling, dispersed, or lone workers. We discuss: The evolution of journalist safety The need for risk analysis when traveling to hotspots The benefits of partnering with industry peers on safety AP's initiatives to support employee mental health  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Many protests and demonstrations are planned in advance, but civil unrest often occurs spontaneously, creating unique challenges for organizations nearby. In these situations, safety professionals have little time to identify potential threats and ensure employee safety. However, there are response and mitigation strategies that every organization can put in place to protect their people, maintain business continuity, and stay informed during fluid situations. Suzanne Bernier, President at SB Crisis Consulting, explains how both organizations and individuals can prepare and respond. We discuss: Unique challenges associated with protests and civil unrest Mitigation and response strategies to protect your business and people The importance of having a crisis communication plan and a skilled spokesperson Safety tips to consider when attending a mass gathering  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia.  You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here.  Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.

The safety of traveling employees starts with establishing a clear corporate travel policy that incorporates risk management and cross-organizational teams. Brian Cooke, Corporate Security Manager of International Security Operations at Marathon Petroleum, joins the show to explain how organizations can build a comprehensive travel safety program that protects traveling and dispersed workers, no matter where they are. We discuss: The excess of threats that could impact traveling workers How to educate employees about travel risks The start-to-finish process of mitigating risks for traveling employees A simple methodology for developing travel risk profiles for each traveler  Mentioned during the podcast: ISO 31030  The Employee Safety Podcast is hosted by Peter Steinfeld, SVP of Safety Solutions at AlertMedia. You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to The Employee Safety Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here.   Listening on a desktop and can't see the links? Just search for The Employee Safety Podcast in your favorite podcast player.