Utility Safety Podcast by Incident Prevention Magazine

Live from The iP Utility Safety Conference, Glendale, AZ - How Upstream Thinking Changes Safety

Recorded live from the IP Utility Safety Conference in Glendale, Arizona , this free-flowing conversation features Kate Wade of IP magazine , Billy Martin of Think Tank Project, LLC , and Brant Jeffries of Bierer Meters. The group discusses how conferences and networking change our perspectives , using analogies like Billy's "fire corn" and Heraclitus's river. They dive deep into the dangers of "reactiveness" , citing examples from Arizona's freeway development to local city council decisions. The conversation emphasizes the need to move to "upstream thinking" and use the "space between stimulus and response" to build trust and make more rational, safer decisions.

 

💡 Key Takeaways

Learning requires discomfort. True growth at conferences comes not from seeking confirmation , but from being stretched and a "little bit uncomfortable".

 

Shift your perspective. The group uses the analogy, "You're not stuck in traffic; you are the traffic" , to illustrate how we are the ones who apply negative emotion (the "suck") to a situation , which blocks our ability to learn from it.

 

 

Beware the "reactive" trap. Humans are programmed to be reactive. The speakers note that we often react to problems—like traffic or accidents—long after they began , rather than using "upstream thinking" to find the root decisions that caused them.

 

Use the space between stimulus and response. Citing Viktor Frankl , the group stresses the importance of taking time before responding. This space allows our "thinking selves" to override an immediate reaction , de-escalate conflict , and choose a rational response.

 

Modern media may be programming us for reactivity. The group discusses how modern movies and video games, with their "flash, flash, flash" editing , are rewiring our brains for shorter attention spans and making us more reactive.

 

iPi Forum - https://ip-institute.com/ipi-forum/

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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

 

Utility Safety Podcast - Confronting the Silent Epidemic - A Conversation on Suicide Prevention in the Utility Industry

In this incredibly moving and vital episode of Incident Prevention's Utility Safety Podcast, host Kate Wade is joined by Rob Duplain, a project superintendent, and Bill Martin, President of Think Tank LLC. The conversation centers on the critical issue of suicide, particularly within the utility and construction industries, sparked by a powerful LinkedIn post Rob wrote in honor of National Suicide Awareness Month. Rob shares his profound personal story of losing both his best friend and his mother to suicide, opening the door to a candid discussion on navigating grief and leveraging trauma to help others.

 

Together, they explore practical ways to foster genuine human connection and psychological safety in the workplace. The discussion covers simple but powerful actions like a "buddy check", the importance of authentic leadership, and how to create an environment where it's safe for employees to be vulnerable and support one another. This episode is more than a conversation; it's a model for how to talk about uncomfortable but necessary topics to build stronger, safer, and healthier teams.

 

Key Takeaways

• The Power of the "Buddy Check": A simple, consistent text message like "buddy check" can be a powerful tool to let a coworker know you are thinking of them beyond the scope of work. It helps build a foundation of genuine care that makes it easier to notice when someone is struggling.

• Authentic Leadership Builds Trust: True leadership isn't just about being in charge; it's about showing up for your people, especially when mistakes happen. By meeting people where they are and creating a safe space to be vulnerable, leaders can build the trust necessary for open communication.

• Proactive Connection Over Reactive Rituals: The industry often shows solidarity after a tragedy, such as with bucket trucks at a funeral, but fails to see the weak signals beforehand. The focus must shift to building foundational, day-to-day relationships to prevent tragedies before they happen, as there's "no party for the thing that doesn't happen".

 

 

Proactive Connection Over Reactive Rituals: The industry often shows solidarity after a tragedy, such as with bucket trucks at a funeral, but fails to see the weak signals beforehand. The focus must shift to building foundational, day-to-day relationships to prevent tragedies before they happen, as there's "no party for the thing that doesn't happen".

 

 

Q&A

 

Question 1: What is a simple, actionable step someone can take to support a colleague's mental well-being?

• Answer: Rob Duplain suggests sending a quick, simple text that just says "buddy check". This small, consistent action lets the person know you are thinking of them and opens the door for deeper connection beyond just project updates.

Question 2: Why do traditional classroom-style trainings often fail to engage workers in the utility industry?

• Answer: Bill Martin explains that many field workers are kinesthetic learners who "have to move to think". When forced to sit in rows, they often disengage, slouch, and cross their arms, whereas on a job site, they naturally gather in circles to communicate and collaborate.

Question 3: What does it mean to be "above the line" vs. "below the line" when handling a problem at work?

• Answer: Drawing from the work of Brené Brown, Bill Martin explains that being "below the line" means reacting to a problem by becoming a villain, victim, or hero. To be "above the line," one must act as a creator, challenger, or coach, focusing on learning from the outcome and moving forward constructively.

 

 

 

 

 

iPi Forum - https://ip-institute.com/ipi-forum/

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/

 

#MentalHealthInConstruction #SuicidePrevention #UtilitySafety #WorkplaceWellness #AuthenticLeadership #BuddyCheck

 

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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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

 

What is The Fifth Wire? Building a Human Safety Net in the Utility Sector with Tom Murphy

In this powerful episode of Incident Prevention's Utility Safety Podcast, host Kate Wade sits down with Tom Murphy, the founder and CEO of Sweethearts and Heroes. Tom shares the deeply personal journey that led him from the railroad industry and professional mixed martial arts to creating a vital organization focused on "upstream prevention" for mental health. He sheds light on the alarming suicide crisis within the utility sector, where linemen are taking their own lives at a rate of 67.8 per 100,000—more than five times the rate of workplace fatalities. Tom explains the intentional meaning behind his organization's name, the science of building community, and how their unique "Fifth Wire" program uses an ancient practice called "circle" to forge life-saving connections among workers. Tune in to learn how we can combat hopelessness and prevent "voltage drop" in our own lives and organizations.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Upstream Prevention is Key: The world often focuses on intervention after a crisis has already occurred, but the real work lies in "upstream prevention"—giving people the tools and community support they need before they reach a breaking point.

• The Alarming Suicide Rate Among Linemen: The suicide rate for electrical linemen is a staggering 67.8 per 100,000, significantly higher than the general population (12-14 per 100,000) and even the Marine Corps (34.9 per 100,000).

• The Meaning of "Sweethearts and Heroes": The name is intentional. In the 16th century, the word "bully" originally meant "sweetheart"—an endearing term for someone who pushes you to be better and gives you hope. "Heroes" are those who choose to jump into action to help others.

• The Power of Circle: Beyond high-impact presentations, the core of the programming is "circle," a 400,000-year-old practice where individuals sit together to commune and build deep, neurological connections. This helps create healthy, adaptive social norms within a peer group.

• Preventing "Voltage Drop": Tom uses the electrical concept of "voltage drop" as a metaphor for losing the momentum gained from an inspiring event due to life's resistance. Sweethearts and Heroes implements follow-up systems, like circle, to keep the "voltage" high and ensure the message sticks.

Questions and Answers

 

Q1: What is the "Fifth Wire" program? A1: "The Fifth Wire" is the name of the program Sweethearts and Heroes developed specifically for the electrical industry. It builds on the organization's core principles of upstream prevention and creating strong peer networks to combat the high suicide rate among linemen and other utility workers.

Q2: Why does Tom Murphy say suicide is a male issue? A2: While suicide is a human issue, Tom points out that men are statistically more affected. Young men are five times more likely to die by suicide than young women. He theorizes this is partly because men are evolutionarily driven to seek agency (power and resources), whereas women are more driven to seek communion (social bonds). Modern society has often removed the traditional outlets for men to build agency, contributing to a sense of purposelessness and hopelessness.

Q3: How does Sweethearts and Heroes ensure their message has a lasting impact after they leave? A3: They are only interested in working with organizations that want to fix the system, not just host a one-time awareness speech. To prevent "voltage drop," they implement spaced, repetitive practices like circle sessions over several months. They also offer a "train the trainer" model, including master classes, to teach people within the organization how to facilitate circles themselves and maintain momentum long-term.

 

Vist https://www.sweetheartsandheroes.com/

 

#UtilitySafety #MentalHealth #LinemanLife #SuicidePrevention #SweetheartsAndHeroes #UpstreamPrevention

 

iPi Forum - https://ip-institute.com/ipi-forum/

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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

 

 

Voice of Experience with Danny Raines, CUSP - Beyond the Wires - The Hidden Dangers in Stormwater

It’s not just downed lines and high voltage you need to watch out for during storm restoration. In the mud and floodwaters lies a hidden, deadly threat: flesh-eating bacteria. In this critical episode, we're talking about Necrotizing Fasciitis, a rare but devastating infection that can start from a tiny cut or scrape exposed to contaminated water. We break down what every line worker and utility professional needs to know—how to identify the risks on a storm-ravaged site, the crucial first-aid steps that can save your life, and the early warning signs you can't afford to ignore. Don't let a small nick turn into a career-ending injury. This is a must-listen for anyone working in the aftermath of a hurricane, flood, or major storm.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• The Threat is Real: Necrotizing Fasciitis is caused by bacteria (like Group A Strep or Vibrio vulnificus) found in contaminated water, mud, and debris common after storms. It enters the body through any break in the skin, including minor cuts, scrapes, or even insect bites.

• Prevention is Proactive Wound Care: Standard PPE is your first defense, but it's not foolproof. The most critical step is to immediately and thoroughly clean any wound—no matter how small—with soap and clean water. Follow up with an antiseptic and a waterproof bandage.

• Know the Early Warning Signs: The infection progresses with terrifying speed. Watch for pain that is far more severe than the injury looks, rapidly spreading redness or swelling, fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms. Do not "wait and see."

• Time is Tissue: If you suspect an infection, seek immediate medical attention. Go to an emergency room and explicitly state your concern about a severe skin infection from exposure to storm water. Early and aggressive treatment is the key to survival and recovery.

Q&A Session

1. I'm always covered in PPE. Isn't that enough protection?

While waterproof gear and gloves are essential, they can be punctured or torn. Bacteria can also enter the body if you touch a contaminated surface and then inadvertently touch a small, existing cut. The real defense is vigilant personal hygiene and immediate wound care. Think of your first-aid kit as being just as important as your climbing gear.

 

2. How can I tell the difference between a regular infection and flesh-eating bacteria?

The two key indicators are pain and speed. A typical localized infection might be sore, red, and develop over a few days. Necrotizing Fasciitis is characterized by excruciating pain that seems completely out of proportion to the minor wound. The redness and swelling will also spread incredibly fast, sometimes visibly changing within a single hour. If the pain is the worst you've ever felt, it's a major red flag.

 

3. What if I get a cut but I'm in the middle of a 16-hour shift?

Don't tough it out. Stop what you're doing immediately. At a minimum, douse the wound with clean water from your water bottle and apply antiseptic from your personal or truck first-aid kit. Cover it securely. As soon as you are able, clean it more thoroughly with soap and water. Report the injury to your supervisor, no matter how minor, so there's a record. This ensures you're covered and encourages a culture of safety.

 

iPi Forum - https://ip-institute.com/ipi-forum/

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/556LDvzc

 

#LineWorkerSafety #StormRestoration #UtilityWorker #NecrotizingFasciitis #Lineman #SafetyFirst #LineLife #WorkplaceSafety #CUSP #FleshEatingBacteria 

 

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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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

Utility Safety Podcast - Safety by Design - Safety Management System Planning with Pam Tompkins CSP, CUSP

In this episode of the Safety by Design, Nick sits down with Pam Tompkins, CUSP to discuss her recent article, "Safety by Design, Safety Management System Planning." This is the third installment of a six-part series where Pam delves into the critical role of planning in creating an effective safety management system (SMS). Pam explains why a proactive, systemic approach is essential for identifying and mitigating workplace hazards, moving beyond a reactive safety model. She emphasizes the importance of conducting a gap analysis to understand the current state of safety, using a systems-thinking approach to risk management, and setting clear, measurable objectives. The discussion also covers the use of leading indicators and key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and ensure continuous improvement, all within the framework of the ANSI/ASSP Z10-2019 standard.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

• A proactive "safety by design" approach is crucial to move beyond a reactive safety culture that waits for accidents to happen.

• Conducting a gap analysis is an essential first step to identify weaknesses in your current safety practices and align improvements with fieldwork.

• Leading indicators, such as safety observations and near-miss reporting, provide a more accurate picture of safety performance than lagging indicators like incident rates.

• A systems-thinking approach helps to understand how people, processes, and equipment interact, leading to more effective risk management.

• Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) objectives is key to making safety goals actionable and accountable.

• The ANSI/ASSP Z10-2019 standard provides a comprehensive framework for building and maintaining a robust safety management system.

• Engaging employees at all levels in the safety planning process is vital for building a strong safety culture and ensuring that procedures are practical and effective.

 

Q&A:

 

Q: What is the main problem with a reactive approach to safety? A: A reactive approach to safety is insufficient because it waits for accidents to happen before taking action. In high-risk industries like electric power, the consequences of an incident can be catastrophic, making it too late to react after a fatality or serious injury has occurred.

Q: Can you provide an example of an effective leading indicator? A: One effective leading indicator is near-miss reporting. A high level of participation in near-miss reporting is a positive sign that employees are engaged in the safety process and feel comfortable speaking up about potential hazards. This allows organizations to address issues before they lead to an incident.

Q: What is "systems thinking" in the context of safety? A: Systems thinking is about looking at the bigger picture and recognizing that safety is influenced by the interaction of people, processes, and equipment. Instead of blaming an individual for a mistake, a systems-thinking approach looks for flaws in the system that may have contributed to the error, such as impractical procedures or a lack of resources.

 

#SafetyByDesign #UtilitySafety #SafetyManagementSystem #ProactiveSafety #LeadingIndicators #WorkplaceSafety #SafetyCulture

 

OSHA Power Electric Standards Course -  https://ip-institute.com/osha-electric-power-standards/

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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

Union Care Solutions - A Conversation on Mental Health in the Electrical Industry

In this vital episode, host Kate Wade sits down with Jenny Lavin, the founder and CEO of the nonprofit Union Care Solutions, to tackle the pressing mental health crisis within the union electrical community. Jenny, a union wife and mother with deep family roots in the IBEW, shares the alarming statistics that prompted her to take action: in the construction industry, workers are five times more likely to be affected by a mental health condition than an on-the-job fatality.

 

 

Tune in to explore Union Care Solutions' "for us, by us" approach to building psychological safety through a powerful "Train, Mobilize, and Deploy" model. Jenny discusses the importance of peer support networks, critical incident stress management for workers who witness traumatic events, and her mission to create a national hub of accessible mental health resources for every local. This is a must-listen for anyone in the utility and construction trades who wants to learn how to support their brothers and sisters and end the stigma around mental health.

Key Takeaways

• The Crisis is Real: In one local community over five years, there were 19 suicides and 22 drug overdoses, compared to five on-the-job fatalities, highlighting a significant disconnect in safety focus. Construction workers are five times more likely to be impacted by a mental health condition than a workplace fatality.

 

• A "For Us, By Us" Approach: Lasting change comes from within the community. Union Care Solutions champions a peer-to-peer support model, training people within the trade to recognize struggles and connect their colleagues with resources, as they are the true first line of defense.

 

• Train, Mobilize, Deploy: The organization's core strategy involves training members in programs like Mental Health First Aid, mobilizing them into peer support networks, and deploying Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) teams to help crews process traumatic events they witness on the job.

 

• The Unseen Trauma: Utility workers are often first on the scene of horrific accidents, storms, and fires, and the psychological toll of what they see is rarely discussed or addressed. CISM provides a crucial space for them to process this trauma.

Q & A

• What is the mission of Union Care Solutions? Their mission is to bring advocacy and awareness to mental health issues within the union electrical trade. They achieve this by providing training, resources, and support, with the ultimate goal of creating a hub where anyone in the industry can find vetted, accessible information to build psychologically safe work environments.

   

• Why is peer support so critical in this industry? Peer support is effective because workers often spend more time with their crew than their own families and can notice when a colleague is struggling. There is a strong "brotherhood" mentality, and workers are more likely to listen to and trust one another. A trained peer who understands the unique job pressures can connect with a struggling individual in a way an outside professional might not be able to.

   

Reach out:

jlavin@unioncaresolutions.org

www.unioncaresolutions.org

 

#MentalHealthInTrades #UnionStrong #ConstructionSafety #IBEW #EndTheStigma #PeerSupport

 

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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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

Utility Safety Podcast - Deep Dive - Improving Rope Safety in Energized Environments

This episode of "The Deep Dive" explores the hidden dangers of using standard synthetic ropes in high-voltage environments and the shift towards true dielectric ropes. We discuss how traditional ropes can become conductive when exposed to moisture and contaminants, turning them into a serious safety hazard. We also cover the importance of rigorous testing, proper maintenance, and the barriers to adopting this life-saving technology.

Read the article: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/from-risk-to-reliability-improving-rope-safety-in-energized-environments/

Written by Patrick Barry on June 10, 2025. Posted in Worksite Safety.

Key Takeaways

• Traditional Ropes are a Hidden Danger: Standard synthetic ropes, often assumed to be non-conductive, can absorb moisture and contaminants, making them conductive and posing a significant risk in energized environments.

• True Dielectric Ropes are a System: A true dielectric rope is more than just a product; it's a system that includes a specific design for electrical insulation, rigorous testing against global standards, and a commitment to proper maintenance throughout its lifecycle.

• Barriers to Adoption: The adoption of dielectric ropes has been slow due to factors like resistance to change, the misconception that they are only necessary for live-line work, and financial hurdles.

• Best Practices are Crucial: To ensure the safety and reliability of dielectric ropes, it's essential to verify compliance with standards, store and maintain them properly, inspect them before each use, and provide thorough training for all workers.

Q&A

1. What is the main problem with using traditional synthetic ropes in high-voltage environments?

The main problem is that while the base material of these ropes (like polyester or polypropylene) is an insulator, the rope as a whole can absorb moisture, dirt, and oil. This contamination can make the rope conductive, turning it from a safe tool into a hidden hazard.

2. What makes a "true" dielectric rope different from a standard synthetic rope?

A true dielectric rope is designed specifically for electrical insulation from the start and is rigorously tested against global standards like IEC 62192 and ASTM F1701. These ropes are also meant to be maintained like any other critical insulating tool, with a focus on their entire lifecycle.

3. What are some of the barriers preventing the widespread adoption of dielectric ropes?

Some of the main barriers include a general resistance to change within the industry, with some believing the old ropes are "good enough". Other barriers are the dangerous assumption that work is always de-energized, dismissing the importance of wet testing, and the financial hurdles associated with the higher upfront cost of these ropes.

 

#RopeSafety #ElectricalSafety #WorkplaceSafety #IncidentPrevention #LinemanSafety #DielectricRope

 

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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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

The Future of PPE - How Twiceme Technology Is Revolutionizing PPE for Utility Workers

In this episode of the Utility Safety Podcast, host Kate Wade sits down with Christian Connolly, CEO of Twiceme Technology, a Sweden-based smart safety company revolutionizing PPE with digital innovation. Christian shares his journey from fintech to safety tech, explains how wearable technology is transforming worker protection, and highlights Twiceme’s growing partnerships with leading PPE manufacturers like Bullard and Studson.

 

Listeners will learn how Twiceme is building a digital safety standard to streamline emergency response, enhance workplace efficiency, and ultimately save lives. Christian also offers a vision for the future of wearable safety technology, addressing challenges such as adoption, privacy concerns, and creating global standards for the utility industry.

 

If you’re interested in the intersection of safety, technology, and the future of work, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways

• Twiceme’s mission is to create a digital safety standard for PPE, enabling faster aid and fewer accidents.

• Partnerships with PPE manufacturers are critical to scaling adoption and making wearable safety technology the norm.

• Privacy concerns like HIPAA/GDPR are mitigated through local-only storage, ensuring worker control over personal data.

• Wearable safety tech adoption faces challenges (inertia, skepticism, form factor), but simplicity and usability drive success.

• Beyond safety, digital PPE solutions can deliver major cost savings and efficiency gains for utility companies.

3 Q&A for Promotion

 

Q1: What problem does Twiceme Technology solve for utility workers?

A1: It allows emergency responders to instantly access critical medical and contact information in the field, speeding up response times and potentially saving lives.

 

Q2: How does Twiceme address worker privacy concerns?

A2: All personal data is stored locally on PPE (like a helmet chip), not in a central database, giving workers full control over what information is shared.

 

Q3: What’s the long-term vision for wearable safety technology?

A3: To establish a universal digital safety standard across industries, reducing accidents, improving efficiency, and enhancing worker well-being worldwide.

 

Contact Info: christian.connolly@twiceme.com

 

#UtilitySafety #WearableTechnology #PPEInnovation #WorkplaceSafety #DigitalSafety #SafetyLeadership

 

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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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

Rethinking Risk: Safety Culture, Risk Tolerance, and Relationship-Driven Leadership - Mark Taylor, CUSP

Rethinking Risk: Safety Culture, Risk Tolerance, and Relationship-Driven Leadership

In this compelling episode, Mark Taylor, CUSP, Senior Advisor of Corporate Services at Primary Engineering and Construction, joins us to explore how utility professionals perceive and manage risk. Drawing from decades of field and leadership experience, Mark discusses how a worker’s risk tolerance evolves over time, the importance of coaching over compliance, and how building trust and relationships within teams fosters a stronger safety culture.

We also discuss the generational shift in safety attitudes, how to encourage real “stop work” authority, and the power of employee buy-in—whether it’s safety glasses or safety protocols.

 

Whether you’re a safety leader, a utility worker, or a manager seeking to improve culture and communication, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and stories that resonate.

 

🎧 Don’t miss Mark’s insights, leadership tips, and a sneak peek into the upcoming IUOTA conference in San Diego.

 

Check out the IUOTA Conference - https://www.iuota.com/

 

Key Takeaways:

• Risk tolerance increases with experience—but so can complacency.

• Relationship-building is key to enabling true stop-work authority and a proactive safety culture.

• Coaching yields better long-term safety outcomes than compliance enforcement.

• Younger workers tend to question safety practices more—and that’s a good thing.

• When employees are heard and supported, buy-in follows naturally.

• Explaining the “why” behind safety rules is critical to adoption.

• Culture shifts start with caring—genuinely—about your team.

• Small gestures (like supporting preferred PPE purchases) can lead to major cultural wins.

Questions and Answers:

Q1: What is risk tolerance in the context of utility safety?

A1: Risk tolerance is a worker’s willingness to accept safety risks, often influenced by experience, previous outcomes, and personal comfort. Over time, routine exposure without consequences can raise that tolerance to unsafe levels.

 

Q2: How can leaders help reduce unsafe risk tolerance?

A2: By fostering open communication, encouraging curiosity, and modeling behavior that prioritizes elimination over mitigation. Leaders should promote a culture where anyone feels empowered to speak up.

 

Q3: What role does relationship-building play in safety?

A3: Strong relationships between leadership and field teams build trust. When workers feel respected and heard, they’re more likely to participate in safety discussions, report hazards, and accept coaching.

 

Q4: How can companies shift from compliance-driven to value-driven safety cultures?

A4: Start by caring deeply about workers, offering flexibility where possible (e.g., PPE preferences), involving teams in decisions, and always explaining the reasoning behind policies.

 

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/

 

#UtilitySafety #RiskTolerance #SafetyCulture #StopWorkAuthority #SafetyLeadership #FieldSafety #UtilityWorkers #IncidentPrevention

 

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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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

Built from the Underground Up - Mark Savage’s Mission to Train the Next Generation of Utility Workers

In this episode of Incident Prevention’s Utility Safety Podcast, host Kate Wade sits down with Mark Savage, Marine Corps veteran and founder of DeadBreak — a specialized underground electrical training and consulting company. Mark shares his professional journey, the gaps he identified in underground utility training, and how DeadBreak aims to bridge those gaps by offering curriculum development, hands-on training, consulting, and more. From the importance of replacing tribal knowledge with formal instruction to creating future pathways for veterans and apprentices, Mark’s passion for safety and legacy shines throughout. Whether you’re in the field, hiring apprentices, or overseeing training programs, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

1. Underground utility training lacks standardization — and DeadBreak is working to change that.

2. Mark Savage’s military background influenced his drive for structure, clarity, and service in training.

3. DeadBreak offers custom curriculum, onsite training, manhole rescue, and consulting.

4. Veterans are an untapped, ideal workforce for underground utility work.

5. Tribal knowledge and implied instructions can pose serious safety risks.

6. Proper training isn’t just about compliance — it’s about saving lives.

 

Three Questions & Answers for Listeners:

 

Q1: Why is underground utility work often overlooked in formal training?

 

A: Unlike overhead systems, underground systems vary widely by region and have traditionally relied on tribal knowledge, leading to inconsistent or nonexistent training standards.

 

Q2: What is DeadBreak’s mission?

 

A: DeadBreak aims to fill the training gap in underground electrical work by offering tailored curriculum, in-person instruction, safety-based onboarding, and mobile splicing teams.

 

Q3: How can employers improve underground job safety right now?

 

A: By investing in standardized training, eliminating implied knowledge, and ensuring tools and procedures are clearly understood and taught by qualified professionals.

 

Get ahold of Mark Savage:

Email: msavage@deadbreak.us

Website: https://deadbreak.us

Phone: 561.831.9832

 

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/

 

#UndergroundUtilities #UtilitySafety #ElectricalTraining #VeteranWorkforce #DeadBreak #CableSplicing #InfrastructureTraining #UtilityWorkforceDevelopment #WorkplaceSafety #SkilledTradesEducation

 

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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 IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!