Utility Safety Podcast by Incident Prevention Magazine

Utility Safety Podcast - Deep Dive into iP's Q&A Oct/Nov Issue written by Jim Vaughn, CUSP

Utility Safety Podcast - Deep Dive into iP's Q&A Oct/Nov Issue written by Jim Vaughn, CUSP

 

Read the article: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/october-november-2024-qa/

 

This conversation delves into Jim Vaughn’s article for iP Magazine.

 

The "October-November 2024 Q&A" article on Incident Prevention addresses critical safety concerns in the utility industry, focusing on the management of SF6 gas switches, OSHA regulations regarding hot-line clamps, and the handling of insulated elbows in pad-mounted transformers. The article provides practical guidance for utility professionals to enhance safety protocols and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Key Takeaways:

• SF6 Gas Switches: Due to environmental concerns, SF6 gas switches are being phased out. Leaking switches must be addressed promptly to avoid regulatory issues. An audit of existing breakers is recommended to develop a replacement program.

• OSHA Regulations on Hot-Line Clamps: OSHA does not explicitly prohibit the use of hot-line clamps to make or break loads, provided that employees are not exposed to hazards during the operation. Employers should ensure that devices used are designed to handle the current involved and that safety protocols are strictly followed.

• Handling Insulated Elbows: Insulated elbows in pad-mounted transformers are not considered safe to touch with bare hands, even when wearing rubber gloves. Manufacturers advise against handling energized elbows due to potential safety risks.

 #UtilitySafety #SF6GasSwitches #OSHACompliance #ElectricalSafety #IncidentPrevention

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

From Operations to Safety: Journey and Insights From Mike Starner, CUSP, Director of Outside Line Safety at NECA

Welcome to the Utility Safety Podcast, recorded live at the IP Utility Safety Conference! In this episode, host Nick, Creative & Marketing Director for UBM, sits down with Mike Starner, Executive Director of Outside Line Safety at NECA. Mike shares his unique journey from field operations to safety leadership, emphasizing the crucial intersection of safety and operations. Discover how evolving safety philosophies, mental health awareness, and frontline leadership can drive meaningful change in the utility industry. Key topics include safety management history, human and organizational performance, and the critical role of human connection in creating a safer work environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Mike Starner's path from hands-on operations to becoming a safety advocate
• How safety management philosophies have evolved over time
• The impact of human behavior and mental health on workplace safety
• The importance of frontline leaders actively engaging with their crews
• Practical steps and resources, like partnering with the 988 crisis helpline, to support worker well-being

#UtilitySafety #SafetyLeadership #MentalHealthAwareness #HumanPerformance #SafetyManagement #ConstructionSafety #UtilityConference #WorkplaceWellness #Leadership #SafetyCulture

 

Mike Starner is the Director of Outside Line Safety for the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). Mike is a Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP) and an OSHA Authorized Outreach Trainer. Mike has 29 years of operational and safety management experience in the electric utility field, including time with investor-owned utilities and electrical contractors before joining NECA.

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

Utility Safety In Depth: The 100th Monkey Effect and Human Connection in Safety - Doug Hill, CUSP & Bill Martin, CUSP

In this episode of Utility Safety In Depth, we delve into the fascinating concept of the 100th monkey effect and its implications for safety in the utility industry. Join us as we discuss how collective consciousness and human connection can drive significant improvements in safety culture and outcomes. We'll explore practical strategies to foster a more caring and supportive work environment, emphasizing the importance of communication, empathy, and mutual respect. Discover how embracing the power of human connection can lead to a safer and more resilient workforce.

Key Takeaways:

• The 100th Monkey Effect: How collective consciousness can influence individual behavior.
• The importance of human connection in safety culture.
• Practical strategies to foster a more caring and supportive work environment.
• The power of communication, empathy, and mutual respect.
• The role of leadership in creating a positive safety culture.

#utilitiesafety #safetyculture #humanconnection #100thmonkeyeffect #workplacewellbeing #safetyleadership #utilityindustry

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

 

Building a Culture of Safety - Insights from IUOTA Board Chair Mark Taylor, CUSP

In this episode of the Utility Safety Podcast, host Nick sits down with Mark Taylor, CUSP, and board chair of IUOTA. Mark shares his journey from working as an electrician in Calgary to becoming a safety leader in the utility industry. He reflects on the challenges of promoting safety culture in a dynamic workforce and how personal experiences, including the implementation of innovative safety programs, helped his teams achieve impressive results. Mark also discusses his tenure as IUOTA's chair and the importance of sharing safety knowledge to ensure everyone gets home safe.

Key Takeaways:

1. Adapting Safety Practices for New Generations: Mark highlights the evolving nature of safety practices and the need to adjust communication styles to cater to younger workers who learn and respond differently.
2. Cultural Shift in Safety: His team’s success in reducing workplace injuries stemmed from fostering a culture of genuine care and engagement, shifting from a command-control model to a more collaborative one.
3. Importance of Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Mark emphasizes how sharing safety practices across utilities, particularly through IUOTA, has led to the adoption of innovative ideas without duplicating efforts.
4. Challenges of Safety Leadership: Mark's personal stories of safety failures and successes offer valuable lessons, particularly the importance of verifying safety conditions and the role of supervisors in knowing and supporting their teams.

Check out the IUOTA Conference - Conference Link

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

#UtilitySafety #SafetyCulture #IUOTA #WorkplaceSafety #LeadershipInSafety #SafetyFirst

Utility Safety Podcast - Beyond the Checklist - A New Model for Workplace Safety - Bill Martin, CUSP

Beyond the Checklist - A New Model for Workplace Safety - Bill Martin, CUSP - critiques the current approach to workplace safety, where simply completing required safety activities like meetings and events often leads to minimal change. The text advocates for a new model where knowledge is actively applied, and feedback loops are created to assess the effectiveness of safety tactics. The speaker stresses that true improvement requires engaging the workforce in decision-making, testing new ideas, and fostering follow-through. Management-driven safety initiatives are often disconnected from real-world application, and the workforce must value and test new strategies for sustainable change.

Key Takeaways

1. Knowledge vs. Application: New safety information is meaningless unless there is a plan to implement it.
2. The Importance of Synchrony: Teams need to be aligned, much like in nature and sports, to successfully apply safety strategies.
3. Management-Driven Initiatives: Most safety programs are management-focused, but a worker-centered approach is necessary.
4. New Safety Models: Instead of "checking the box," organizations need to involve workers in testing and evaluating safety measures.
5. Feedback Loops: Continuous feedback from workers can ensure the practical implementation of safety tactics.
6. Fostering Engagement: A model that incorporates workforce feedback and values is crucial for long-term improvement.

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

#WorkplaceSafety #SafetyCulture #EmployeeEngagement #SafetyTraining #KnowledgeApplication #NewSafetyModel #WorkforceFeedback #SafetyInnovation #CheckTheBox #ContinuousImprovement

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

 

Voice of Experience - Surviving the Storm: Lessons from the Field with Danny Raines, CUSP

In this episode of The Voice of Experience, Danny Raines, CUSP, shares his invaluable insights from decades of storm work as a lineman and utility safety expert. From the devastation of Hurricane Katrina to modern-day storm recovery challenges, Danny takes us through the physical and mental toll of responding to natural disasters. He explains the dangers of backfeeds, the rise of alternative energy sources, and the importance of verifying safety before restoring power. Learn from his firsthand stories, safety lessons, and how the landscape of utility work has evolved over the years. Whether you're in the utility industry or just curious about storm response, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge from one of the most respected professionals in the field.

Key Takeaways:

1. The dangers of storm work: Power restoration involves more than meets the eye, especially with evolving technology like solar panels and generators creating backfeed hazards.
2. Mental and physical challenges: Long hours, dangerous conditions, and the emotional impact of storm recovery can lead to severe fatigue and stress.
3. Importance of testing and verifying: Danny stresses the importance of safety procedures, especially when dealing with energized systems after a storm.
4. Stories from the field: Real-life experiences from Hurricane Katrina and other storms demonstrate the unpredictable nature of storm recovery.
5. Utility evolution: Changes in technology, regulations, and community expectations are reshaping the utility industry’s response to natural disasters.

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

 

The Voice of Experience with Danny Raines podcast is produced by the same team that publishes Incident Prevention. It delivers insights based on Danny's regular column in the magazine, also called the Voice of Experience. To listen to more episodes of this podcast, as well as other podcasts we produce, visit https://incident-prevention.com/podcasts. You can reach Danny at rainesafety@gmail.com

Purchase Danny's Book on Amazon - https://a.co/d/556LDvz

#UtilitySafety #StormWork #HurricaneKatrina #LinemanLife #BackfeedDangers #MentalHealthMatters #TestAndVerify #PowerRestoration #StormRecovery #AlternativeEnergy #UtilityIndustry #SafetyFirst #DannyRaines #CUSP #ElectricGrid #DisasterResponse

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

Special Edition - Are you attending the premier Utility Safety Conference? iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - Dallas, Tx - Oct. 22-24, 2024

Join us for an insightful podcast episode as we dive into the details of the upcoming iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo, happening in Dallas, Texas, from October 22-24. In this episode, we’ll discuss the conference’s robust educational lineup, featuring top industry experts, hands-on exhibits with 90+ vendors, and invaluable networking opportunities. From pre-conference workshops to a fun welcome reception at a unique venue, this event promises to enhance your safety expertise and connect you with peers who face the same challenges. Don't miss out on earning CUSP points and engaging with key leaders in the field!

 

⚡️ Saddle Up for Safety at the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo! ⚡️

 

The wait is over—the agenda is now LIVE on our website! 🗓️
See what sessions you are going to attend: https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

Register Today:https://utilitysafetyconference.com/register/

Don’t miss out! Earn #CUSP Points for attending sessions and elevate your safety expertise.

Join us in Dallas, Texas, at the Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel & Convention Center on Oct 22 - 24th for an electrifying 3 days of:

• Insightful Discussions
• Powerful Connections
• Pre-Conference Workshop: Preventing SIFs with Above the Line Work Planning & Execution led by David McPeak, CSP, CHST, CIT, CUSP, CSSM
• A Fun Welcome Reception
• Inspirational Keynote
• Huge expo hall with 95+ Exhibitors And much more!

Check out the full agenda now and start planning your experience!

#UtilitySafetyConference #UtilitySafety #Safety #Lineworkers #Lineman #Linemen #Utilities

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

 

Special Series - Influencing Safety Pt. 9 - Beyond the Buzzwords - Creating a Culture of Safety

Are you tired of hearing the same safety jargon without seeing real change? Join Bill Martin, President and CEO of think Tank Project, LLC, and Kate Wade, Editor of Incident Prevention magazine, as they dive deep into the root causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. Discover how to move beyond motivation and empty slogans to create a truly safe and connected work environment.

Key Takeaways from this podcast:

• Importance of Synchronization: The way forward in safety management involves creating a synchronized workforce where everyone is connected on a deeper level. Synchronization allows for better communication and understanding, reducing the chances of injuries and accidents.

• Action Over Motivation: Motivational speeches and slogans alone are insufficient to bring about real change in workplace safety. There needs to be actionable steps that translate motivation into tangible improvements on the ground.

• Understanding Human Behavior: The podcast emphasizes that much of human behavior is automatic, driven by the brain’s need to conserve energy. Safety programs should account for this by focusing on changing automatic behaviors rather than expecting constant vigilance.

• The Role of Leadership: Effective leadership is about asking the right questions and involving workers in safety decisions. Leaders should model the behavior they want to see and create environments that encourage participation and ownership of safety practices.

• Continuous Learning and Experimentation: The podcast suggests that safety improvements should be approached as ongoing experiments, where teams try out new ideas, evaluate their effectiveness, and adjust accordingly.

• Dealing with Resistance: Resistance to change is natural, especially in large organizations with many layers. The podcast highlights the importance of addressing this resistance by aligning everyone around common goals and encouraging openness to new ideas.

• Mental and Emotional Health: Addressing mental health issues, such as addiction and depression, is crucial for creating a safe work environment. A connected and supportive team can help identify and mitigate these risks.

• Practical Applications: The podcast concludes with a call to action—what small, tangible change can be implemented on Monday to make the workplace safer? It’s about translating ideas into real-world actions that have a measurable impact.

#safetyculture #workplaceinjury #safetymanagement #safetyleadership #industrialaccidents #safetytraining #safetytips #safetypodcast #accidentprevention #riskmanagement

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

Supporting Safety Professionals: A Conversation with Scott Francis, Technical Sales Manager, Westex: a Milliken Brand

Welcome to Incident Prevention's Utility Safety Podcast, hosted by Kate Wade, editor of Incident Prevention magazine. In this episode, Kate sits down with Scott Francis, the technical sales manager for Westex: a Milliken brand renowned for pioneering protective textiles since 1941. Scott brings decades of experience in the safety industry, especially in the flame-resistant and arc-rated clothing markets.

During this insightful discussion, Scott shares his expertise on the latest advancements in flame-resistant and arc-rated apparel, the importance of live demonstrations, and how Westex is leading the way in educating safety professionals. He also touches on the challenges of balancing cost and safety standards, and the critical role of comfort in ensuring protective clothing is worn consistently.

Whether you're a safety manager looking to enhance your PPE program or simply interested in the latest trends in utility safety apparel, this episode is packed with valuable information.

Key Takeaways:

1. Impact of Live Demonstrations: Live flash fire and arc flash events leave a lasting impression, helping safety professionals understand the severity of thermal hazards.
2. Survivor Stories: Hearing from thermal exposure survivors like Brad Livingston emphasizes the real-life consequences of not wearing proper PPE.
3. Education and Training: Westex offers extensive educational resources, including webinars, regional safety conferences, and online materials to keep safety managers informed.
4. Balancing Cost and Safety: The competitive landscape in flame-resistant fabric manufacturing drives innovation and helps maintain affordable prices without compromising safety.
5. Comfort Equals Protection: Comfortable PPE is more likely to be worn consistently, directly impacting worker safety.

#UtilitySafety #FlameResistantClothing #ArcRatedApparel #PPE #WorkplaceSafety #SafetyPodcast #IncidentPrevention

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

Voice of Experience - Danny Raines, CUSP - Meter Safety

Welcome to "Voice of Experience" with Danny Raines, CUSP. In this episode, Danny delves into crucial safety practices and procedures within the utility industry, focusing on meter safety and the potential hazards associated with improper meter base checks. With real-life incidents and expert advice, Danny highlights the importance of thorough inspections and adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure worker safety.

Key Takeaways:

• Importance of checking both low and high sides of meter bases.
• Real-life examples of incidents caused by improper checks.
• Safety protocols for dealing with self-contained meter bases.
• Recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for different voltage levels.
• Consequences of not adhering to safety procedures.

#UtilitySafety #MeterSafety #ElectricalSafety #DannyRaines #CUSP #VoiceOfExperience #SafetyProtocols #PPE #WorkplaceSafety #ElectricalHazards #Podcast

Tune in to gain invaluable insights from Danny's extensive experience and ensure you are well-equipped to handle meter safety challenges in the field.

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

 

The Voice of Experience with Danny Raines podcast is produced by the same team that publishes Incident Prevention. It delivers insights based on Danny's regular column in the magazine, also called the Voice of Experience. To listen to more episodes of this podcast, as well as other podcasts we produce, visit https://incident-prevention.com/podcasts. You can reach Danny at rainesafety@gmail.com or 770-354-7360.

 

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!