Utility Safety Podcast by Incident Prevention Magazine

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/

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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!

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!

Voice of Experience: Battling the Storm - Hurricane Season Lessons for Linemen with Danny Raines, CUSP

In this powerful episode of the Utility Safety Podcast: Voice of Experience, veteran lineman and safety consultant Danny Raines, CUSP, shares hard-earned lessons from decades of storm response—from Hurricane Katrina to ice storms in Georgia. With hurricane season in full swing, Danny offers real-world guidance on preparing for storm duty, understanding system hazards, and staying mentally and physically resilient in the face of chaos. Whether you’re a new lineworker heading out on your first storm or a seasoned pro, this episode delivers critical insights to keep you safe, sharp, and storm-ready.

 

Key Takeaways:

1. Preparation is Everything: Danny emphasizes the importance of personal checklists, including meds, hygiene, and weather-appropriate gear.

2. Test and Verify: Don’t assume equipment is de-energized—especially with the increase in generators, solar, and battery backups.

3. Mental & Physical Fatigue is Real: After 14–18 days, exhaustion sets in, increasing the chance of errors. Know your limits.

4. Find a Mentor: For new linemen, a trusted mentor can be a lifeline during complex storm work.

5. Storm Hazards Go Beyond Electricity: Environmental dangers like snakes, alligators, and aggressive customers add to the challenge.

 

3 Questions & Answers:

 

Q1: What’s one of the most overlooked parts of storm prep?

A: Personal medications. Many new crew members forget that pharmacies may be closed or destroyed post-storm, making it impossible to refill critical prescriptions.

 

Q2: Why is it so important to “test and verify”?

A: With so many modern power sources—from Honda generators to solar panels and battery storage—assumptions can be fatal. Always check for voltage, even on lines you think are isolated.

 

Q3: How long can a lineworker realistically stay sharp on storm duty?

A: According to Danny, the magic number is around 14–18 days. After that, physical fatigue and mental exhaustion dramatically increase the risk of mistakes and injuries.

 

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

 

#UtilitySafety #StormResponse #LinemanLife #HurricanePrep #ElectricalSafety #DannyRaines #CUSP #Lineworkers #StormWork

 

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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!

Bringing Electrical Safety Home - A Conversation with Jennifer LeFevre of Electrical Safety Foundation International

In this episode of the Incident Prevention Utility Safety Podcast, host Kate Wade sits down with Jennifer LeFevre, Executive Director of the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), to explore how everyday decisions at work and at home can impact electrical safety. Jennifer shares insights into the mission of ESFI, the dangers of lithium-ion batteries, how utilities can access free safety resources, and why public education is critical to preventing electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities. Whether you’re a utility safety professional or simply want to protect your family, this episode is full of actionable advice that could save a life.

Key Takeaways:

• Electrical safety starts at home—complacency off the job can be just as dangerous as on it.

• Lithium-ion batteries require proper handling, charging, and disposal to prevent fires.

• ESFI offers free infographics and video shorts utilities can use to educate customers.

• Public education is prevention—sharing small safety habits can make a big impact.

• After disasters, generators and downed lines present serious electrical hazards that people often overlook.

Q&As summary:

Q1: Why should utility professionals care about electrical safety in the home?

A: Utility workers are trained to prioritize safety on the job, but Jennifer LeFevre reminds us that hazards exist at home too. Everyday items—like extension cords, electric blankets, or ladders near power lines—can cause serious incidents if not used safely. Translating workplace safety habits into the home can protect your loved ones.

 

Q2: What resources does ESFI offer to support electrical safety outreach?

A: ESFI provides free downloadable resources including infographics, short-form educational videos, and seasonal safety newsletters. These are designed for easy integration into utility newsletters, community outreach, and employee training programs.

 

Get in touch with Jennifer - Jennifer.LeFevre@esfi.org

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

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

 

 

#ElectricalSafety #UtilitySafety #SafetyEducation #LithiumIonBatterySafety #HomeAndWorkSafety #InjuryPrevention #ESFI #iP

 

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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 - Industrial Athletes - Keeping Utility Workers Safe in Extreme Heat

In this special Incident Prevention Utility Safety Podcast episode for Extreme Heat Awareness Month, host Kate Wade welcomes Dr. Kevin Rindal of Vimocity and Scott Head of DragonWear to share essential strategies for preventing heat stress among utility workers.

 

They dive deep into how extreme heat affects the human body, why utility workers are especially vulnerable, and how modern flame-resistant (FR) clothing technology can dramatically improve comfort, safety, and productivity in the field.

 

Drawing on sports medicine principles, real-world utility experience, and advanced FR fabric design, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for safety leaders, crew trainers, and frontline workers alike.

 

Contact our guests - Dr. Kevin Rindal and Scott Head: kevin@vimocity.com and scott@dragonwear.com.

 

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

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

 

Key Takeaways:

• Utility workers are industrial athletes who need to manage hydration, acclimatization, and recovery like pro athletes do.

• Early signs of heat stress include confusion, irritability, and poor coordination—workers and supervisors need to spot these quickly.

• Modern FR clothing is engineered to wick moisture, provide stretch, offer UV and arc-flash protection, and even manage odor—reducing distractions and injuries.

• Dynamic warm-ups, proper hydration strategies, and electrolyte management are critical for heat adaptation.

• Safety leaders should equip crews with a “toolbelt” of resources: high-performance clothing, hydration plans, training, and real-time site monitoring for evolving heat risks.

 

3 Q&As from the Episode:

 

Q1: What actually happens to the body during heat stress?

A: Blood flow shifts from the brain and core to the skin to cool off, reducing cognitive sharpness. Early signs include confusion, irritability, and clumsy movements—critical warnings for supervisors to watch for.

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Q2: How can clothing reduce heat stress risk?

A: Advanced FR garments like DragonWear’s Pro Dry Tech shirts use multi-fiber designs to wick moisture, offer stretch for movement, provide UV/arc-flash protection, and even manage odor—keeping workers cooler, drier, and focused.

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Q3: What can crews do to prepare for working in extreme heat?

A: Start hydration the day before, sip water with electrolytes throughout shifts, do dynamic warm-ups to prime blood flow, and plan shaded breaks. Avoiding sugary or dehydrating drinks is also essential.

 

#UtilitySafetyPodcast #HeatStressPrevention #FRClothing #WorkerSafety #ExtremeHeatAwareness #DragonWear #IndustrialAthlette #Lineworker #OSHA

 

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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!