Utility Safety Podcast by Incident Prevention Magazine

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/

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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!

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/

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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 - 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!

Voice of Experience - Danny Raines, CUSP - The Perils of the 100 Days of Summer

Join us on this episode as we dive into a critical conversation with Danny Raines, CUSP, a seasoned expert in the utility safety field. Danny sheds light on the alarming trends and safety challenges that line workers face, particularly during the hazardous "100 Days of Summer." He shares real-life anecdotes and data-driven insights into the prevalence of accidents and fatalities among linemen, the importance of adhering to safety regulations, and the crucial role of human performance and leadership in mitigating risks. Whether you're in the utility industry or simply interested in workplace safety, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and eye-opening stories.

Key Takeaways

1. The "100 Days of Summer": Understanding why this period is particularly dangerous for utility workers and how it correlates with increased accident rates.
2. Safety Regulations and Compliance: The impact of OSHA regulations on reducing fatalities and the challenges of inconsistent safety practices across companies.
3. Human Performance and Safety Culture: The significance of leadership in promoting a safety culture and addressing the root causes of unsafe behaviors.
4. Real-life Incidents: Anecdotes and case studies highlighting common safety violations and their consequences, emphasizing the need for proper training and adherence to safety protocols.
5. Risk Drift: The concept of risk drift and how the absence of immediate consequences for unsafe practices can lead to increased risk-taking and accidents over time.
6. Inductive Voltage Hazards: The dangers of inductive voltage in substation work and the importance of proper grounding and bonding techniques to prevent fatal accidents.

 

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.

 

#UtilitySafety #WorkplaceSafety #OSHA #LinemenSafety #HumanPerformance #SafetyCulture #100DaysOfSummer #ElectricalSafety #DannyRaines #Podcast #SafetyFirst

 

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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!

Line Brother's Keeper - Unpacking the Story, Mission & Message - Zach Spicer, CUSP

Line Brother's Keeper - Unpacking the Story, Mission & Message with Zach Spicer

Welcome to another edition of the Utility Safety Podcast. I am your host, Nick, the Creative and Marketing Director for UBM. In this special episode, we are honored to have Zach Spicer, a journeyman lineman and the founder of Line Brother's Keeper, a non-profit organization dedicated to electrical safety and supporting linemen. Zach shares his inspiring journey from the Marine Corps to becoming a safety instructor for the State of Tennessee, and his dedication to helping those in need through his organization.

In this episode, Zach opens up about his experience in the field, the challenges faced by linemen, and the brotherhood that keeps them united. He discusses the importance of safety, the impact of his personal injury, and how Line Brother's Keeper aims to prevent accidents and support those affected by them.

 

🔌 Topics Covered:

• Zach's transition from the Marine Corps to the utility industry
• Founding Line Brother's Keeper and its mission
• The significance of safety in the electrical utility field
• Personal experiences and lessons learned from the job
• The role of brotherhood and teamwork in utility work

🎧 Tune In to Learn:

• How the utility safety landscape has evolved
• Practical safety tips for linemen
• The story behind Line Brother's Keeper and its initiatives
• The importance of community and support among utility workers

🔗 Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Line Brother's Keeper Website
• Line Brother's Keeper Facebook
• Utility Safety Conference

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Zach Spicer, filled with valuable insights, heartfelt stories, and a powerful message of safety and brotherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and stay updated with the latest in utility safety.

 

#Podcast #UtilitySafety #ElectricalSafety #LineBrothersKeeper #ZachSpicer #MarineCorps #SafetyTraining #NonProfit #Brotherhood #CommunitySupport #InjuryPrevention

 

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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 with Bill Martin, CUSP Pt. 8 - Live from the iP Utility Safety Conference

In the eighth episode of this multipart podcast series, Bill Martin, CUSP, president and CEO of Think Tank Project LLC (www.thinkprojectllc.com), and host Kate Wade discuss a host of topics and what they are seeing in the safety world, and how to change it!

 

This podcast discusses safety in the utility industry. Here are the key points:

• Safety conferences are not leading to a decrease in accidents. Bill Martin, a safety consultant, argues that the safety information is not being translated into actionable steps for workers.
• Focus on worker-centered safety. Instead of top-down safety initiatives, Bill Martin proposes a worker-centered approach where workers are involved in creating and implementing safety measures.
• The current safety approach might not consider human biology. Bill Martin argues that safety messages need to consider how the human brain reacts to stimuli in order to be effective.
• We need to connect with workers on a human level. Bill Martin emphasizes the importance of building relationships and trust with workers to create a safer work environment.
• Younger generations may hold the key to safety improvements. Bill Martin believes younger generations have the potential to improve safety practices if they are taught how to connect and be curious.

Listen to the other 7 parts of this special series with Bill Martin, CUSP.

To share feedback about this podcast, reach Bill at influenceteamdynamics@gmail.com and Kate at kwade@utilitybusinessmedia.com.

 

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

 

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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 - Danny Raines, CUSP - Lineman - Lineworker Development

Listen to this important episode of this Voice of Experience with Danny Raines!

 

The speaker, a retired lineman with over 55 years of experience, discusses the importance of proper training and development for lineman. He argues that simply obtaining a journeyman license doesn't guarantee competency and that true learning happens on the job.

The speaker outlines the different stages of lineman development, starting with basic line skills like climbing poles and tying knots. He emphasizes the importance of safety rules and procedures, and of always testing and verifying everything before starting work.

The speaker also discusses the challenges of troubleshooting electrical problems and the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. He concludes by sharing a personal story about his own journeyman lineman training.

Here are some key takeaways from the description:

• Lineman development is a continuous process that goes beyond obtaining a journeyman license.
• On-the-job training is crucial for developing the necessary skills and knowledge.
• Safety rules and procedures must be strictly followed.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential for troubleshooting electrical problems.

 

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!

Utility Safety in Depth - Five Core Capacities for Sustainable Safety Excellence - Shawn Galloway

In this episode, iP’s Kate Wade sits down with Shawn Galloway to dig into his recent iP article, "Five Core Capacities for Sustainable Safety Excellence." Shawn is the CEO of ProAct Safety – which was founded in 1993 with the sole purpose of helping organizations achieve and sustain safety excellence – and author of several bestselling books, including his latest, “Bridge to Excellence: Building Capacity for Sustainable Performance.” Read Shawn’s article at https://incident-prevention.com/blog/five-core-capacities-for-sustainable-safety-excellence/, and feel free to reach out to him for further discussion at info@proactsafety.com.

 

Read the Article - https://incident-prevention.com/blog/five-core-capacities-for-sustainable-safety-excellence/

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!