EHS on Tap

Join Jim Wetekamp, CEO of Riskonnect, a leader in risk-management software, as he dives into how technology and AI can revolutionize safety practices. He discusses the impact of OSHA backlogs on manufacturers and the necessity for continuous hazard monitoring. Jim reveals fascinating AI applications for hazard detection and near-miss analysis, and emphasizes the importance of integrating safety data with business continuity. He also outlines practical steps for adopting AI, urging organizations to break down silos for improved outcomes.

Adam Nemer, founder of Simple Mental Health and author, shares his powerful personal journey that ignited his passion for workplace mental health. He discusses his motivation behind his book, which aims to bridge the business and human case for mental health awareness. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing burnout and loneliness in the workplace. Adam also emphasizes the role of leadership vulnerability in fostering a supportive culture and details how to implement mental health training effectively across various sectors.

On episode 276 of EHS On Tap, Paul Gladden, Senior Director of Claims for Pie Insurance, talks about a new report on employee workplace safety concerns.

Amy Roosa, Founder and CEO of The Safety Rack, advocates for women’s safety in the workplace and addresses the concerning rate of violence against them. She highlights the critical gaps in personal protective equipment and stresses the need for comprehensive prevention strategies. Roosa discusses the limits of traditional training, the importance of open conversations about workplace culture, and the necessity of prioritizing victim reports. She encourages employees to be proactive about their safety and reflects on social media's role in fostering change.

Cam Mackey, President and CEO of the International Safety Equipment Association, dives into the effects of tariffs on personal protective equipment (PPE) and worker safety. He highlights concerns from members about purchasing delays and quality downgrades. Mackey discusses the disturbing prediction that a 10% reduction in PPE could lead to 143 additional deaths. He shares how companies respond to cost shocks and the long-term impact of tariffs on the U.S. economy. The conversation underscores the urgent need for domestic manufacturing and clearer policies.

On episode 273 of EHS On Tap, Shawn Galloway, CEO of ProAct Safety, talks about the need to align operational and EHS leadership.

Kristi Hames, a certified industrial hygienist and Principal Solutions Strategist at VelocityEHS, discusses the far-reaching effects of the government shutdown on workplace safety. She highlights how OSHA has paused routine inspections and how agencies like the EPA and NIOSH have scaled back activities. Kristi advises safety leaders to maintain their programs and keep thorough documentation, as regulatory deadlines remain in force. She emphasizes the importance of continuous safety oversight and suggests alternative resources to navigate these challenges effectively.

Dr. Christine Robinson, a faculty member at Columbia Southern University and former industrial hygienist, discusses the critical impact of communication barriers on worker safety. She shares alarming U.S. statistics illustrating how language and cultural differences can lead to serious workplace incidents. Dr. Robinson emphasizes the need for effective strategies like tailored risk communications and manager training. Additionally, she explores the role of higher education in fostering better safety communication and highlights hopeful trends in generational adaptations to workplace training.

On episode 270 of EHS On Tap, Clare Epstein, General Manager of Commercial, Vector Solutions, talks about a new report looking at safety issues faced by construction supervisors.

Karen Hamel, a regulatory compliance expert and trainer at Hale & Hardy, dives into the significance of embedding a robust safety culture within organizations. She highlights common pitfalls, such as insufficient leadership commitment and treating safety as merely the safety department's concern. Karen discusses the advantages of fostering psychological safety and trust for employee retention. She offers actionable strategies for engaging leadership and measuring safety culture effectiveness, stressing the need for grassroots initiatives to revitalize safety practices.