The patented BREAK-SAFE is designed to add a functional and portable switch to a mechanical jumper. The BREAK-SAFE has three operating functions: load break, continuous current duty and load pickup.

To keep personnel at a safe distance, the BREAK-SAFE is operated with an insulated fiberglass hot-stick for load-break and pickup functions. The yellow safety lock is also operated by a hot-stick and helps prevent the tool from an unintended load-break or pickup operation.

The BREAK-SAFE is available in four models with either a floating head or a duckbill: 15 kV/300 amp; 38 kV/300 amp; 27 kV/300 amp; and 46 kV/200 amp. https://utilitysolutionsinc.com/product/break-safe-load-break-pick-up-tool/

Working at height presents workers with unique challenges. Add in the potential for electrical arcs, and your PPE – including fall protection – must perform at the highest level under the harshest conditions.

To help you meet those challenges, Guardian is pleased to introduce a full line of ASTM F887 arc flash-rated height safety products in the U.S. and OSHA/ANSI regions, including the world’s first tool tether rated to ANSI/ISEA 121.23 and ASTM F887.

Guardian’s comprehensive suite of arc flash height safety solutions includes a standard five-point harness along with a Kevlar/Nomex version of the company’s award-winning B7-Comfort harness. Guardian also offers a variety of arc flash connectors, from a 9-foot web SRL to fixed-leg and stretch-leg lanyards, each with the option of steel, aluminum or web loop hooks. https://guardianfall.com/discover-arc-flash

Streamlight Inc., a leading manufacturer of high-performance flashlights, has introduced the Survivor Pivot. An intrinsically safe, right-angle LED flashlight, the Survivor Pivot features both spot and flood beams, a 90-degree articulating head and an easy-to-use push-button switch to control lighting modes. The versatile rechargeable light, which has multiple power options, is rated for use in Class 1, Division 1 environments that many industrial workers, first responders and other professionals find themselves in.

The Survivor Pivot features a forward-facing LED spot beam for distance illumination and a flood beam that is angled downward for up-close work. The two beams can be used individually or at the same time to create an uninterrupted light pattern that delivers 325 lumens while optimizing navigation and eliminating blind spots that can lead to slips, trips and falls. Its heavy-duty clip securely attaches to gear for hands-free use, and its optional removable magnet with 30-pound pull strength can be used to attach the light to metal surfaces. www.streamlight.com

CM Labs Simulations, a leading vendor of simulation-based training solutions, has expanded and updated SimGuide, a consulting service that simplifies the integration of simulation training tools into new and existing heavy-equipment operator training programs, helping clients use their simulators to maximum effectiveness.

With SimGuide, customers benefit from industry-expert training tailored to their specific organizational needs. This individualized assistance ensures that the simulation training system is not only effectively utilized but fully aligned with existing workflows and curriculums. Additionally, all documentation produced during the SimGuide process remains with the client, creating a valuable resource for ongoing reference.

SimGuide is now available in two packages: SimGuide and SimGuide Premium. With SimGuide Premium, customers can have their trainers and operators certified by an industry expert during the SimGuide process. CM Labs has partnered with Baker Technical Institute, a leading provider of career technical education, to offer this additional service to customers. www.cm-labs.com

The Cementex Feature Series of Arc Flash Protective Clothing PPE is designed for those seeking the next level of comfort, safety, durability and protection. With a focus on safety and usability, the Cementex Feature Series is made with USA labor and materials to ensure the highest quality arc flash protection.

The Feature Series clothing is made with Indura Ultra Soft FR treated cotton and meets current ASTM F1506 and F1959/1959M-99 standards. FR Velcro front closures provide secure closure, easy access and rapid removal in the event of arc flash exposure. FR Velcro calf/ankle closures allow for easy access and fit adjustment during donning and removal, as well as adjustment while wearing boots.

Clothing options include coats, parkas, bib/pants, coveralls and leggings, available in sizes S-5X with a standard inseam of 32 inches. Coveralls include elastic backs for ease of movement, and all coats and coveralls have Nomex knit wrist cuffs. Bib/pants have easily adjustable quick-disconnect shoulder straps to ensure user safety. Kits – which are available in a duffle bag, backpack or hard-sided storage canister – include hard hats, safety glasses and ear canal inserts.

In addition to the Feature Series of Arc Flash Protective Clothing PPE, Cementex also offers the Contractor Series for high-quality, classic protection of personnel around energized equipment, as well as the UltraLite Series, with innovative design and materials for the lightest, most comfortable arc flash PPE task wear available, according to the company. www.cementexusa.com

Despite widespread recognition of the importance of worker safety, gaining consistent buy-in for safety initiatives remains a significant challenge for many safety and operational leaders.

Even with the best intentions and efforts, safety programs too often become temporary “flavors of the month” or are reduced to routine check-the-box activities. As a result, these initiatives frequently fall short of their intended impact.

Over the last decade, my team and I have been fortunate enough to partner with dozens of utilities to successfully implement and sustain soft-tissue injury prevention programs. As we began to identify the common factors shared by our most successful customers, several key themes emerged. This article is intended to share those themes, with the goal of helping other safety and operational leaders gain true, consistent buy-in for safety initiatives across three key levels of their organizations: senior leadership, frontline management and frontline employees.

The Role of Senior Leadership
Securing the visible, active commitment of senior leadership is essential for driving safety initiatives that have a lasting impact. When leadership prioritizes safety, the rest of the organization is likely to follow suit.

Among our most successful customers, we’ve seen that senior leaders who go beyond approving budgets and signing off on policies truly set the stage for long-term success. These leaders are consistent, vocal advocates for safety. Through their active engagement (e.g., attending safety meetings, participating in training, discussing safety initiatives in regular briefings), they reinforce to the entire organization that safety is not just a formality or even a priority – it’s a core value embedded in how the organization operates.

When senior leaders model the safety behavior they expect from others, they emit a signal of authenticity that begins to create greater trust among frontline management and frontline employees. Actively participating in safety initiatives not only encourages others to do the same, but it also enables leaders to identify opportunities for improvement and suggest appropriate adjustments.

Tactics to Achieve Senior Leadership Buy-In
One of the most effective ways utility safety and operations managers can secure senior leadership commitment to their initiatives is to clearly outline the costs associated with safety issues and provide the projected return on investment of the proposed initiatives. By quantifying problems – whether through the cost of injuries, lost productivity, a decline in retention or a combination of these factors – senior leaders can gain a clear understanding of financial and operational impacts to the business. This helps to build a compelling case for action.

Further, our data suggests that regularly providing senior leaders with various ways to support a safety initiative greatly increases the likelihood of their engagement. Offer concrete, actionable steps they can take, such as attending a safety event, participating in a workshop, or recognizing individuals and teams for their safety achievements. These are excellent opportunities for senior leaders to demonstrate support, stay involved and reinforce their commitment to safety.

Weekly or monthly updates on a safety initiative’s progress – including both data-driven insights like injury reductions and cost savings as well as anecdotal evidence of cultural shifts – also help keep safety top of mind for senior leadership. Consistent communication often results in strengthening leaders’ commitment to safety initiatives and helps to ensure safety remains a focus throughout the organization.

Empower Frontline Management
Frontline managers are key to bringing safety initiatives to life in day-to-day operations. In fact, according to our data, employees consistently cite their direct manager’s level of support for an initiative as the top factor in determining their own level of participation.

Given that information, it’s no surprise that safety initiatives are much more likely to thrive when frontline managers allocate time, talent and treasure to promote them. This includes making safety a regular part of daily meetings, educating teams about – and encouraging them to take advantage of – available safety resources, and conducting consistent check-ins with workers to solicit feedback. We’ve observed that when frontline management actively prioritizes safety and integrates it into their teams’ daily work, safety becomes an operational necessity.

Tactics to Achieve Frontline Management Buy-In
It’s essential for safety and operational leaders to demonstrate to frontline managers how safety initiatives benefit both their team members and their operational efficiency. Quantify and highlight how improved safety reduces downtime, boosts productivity and minimizes disruptions caused by incidents; this can help managers better understand the direct impact of safety initiatives on their daily work.

Leaders should define frontline managers’ roles in supporting safety initiatives and ensure they have the right tools and resources to successfully execute those roles. Organizations may also want to consider developing a system of accountability for outcomes, which typically drives even greater frontline management engagement in safety initiatives, according to our data. Include safety criteria in key performance indicators and performance reviews; doing so will help to determine if initiatives are being actively promoted.

Both senior leadership and frontline management are more likely to stay committed to an initiative when they’re provided proof of the impact of their efforts. Safety and operational leaders will want to share regular updates with these groups about reductions in injuries, employee feedback and decreased days-away-from-work numbers. This helps keep safety top of mind and encourages continued investment in related initiatives.

Inspire Frontline Employee Ownership
Frontline employees must actively participate in a safety initiative for it to truly succeed. Through their participation, employees gain greater insight into how safety directly benefits them, shifting it from solely being an organizational requirement to something that also enhances their well-being. Among our most successful customers, we’ve found that those who foster a sense of employee ownership for safety initiatives see more sustained engagement from the workforce.

Tactics to Achieve Frontline Employee Buy-In
Frontline employees typically become increasingly motivated to support organizational safety initiatives when they are regularly educated about how safety supports their physical health, mental well-being and overall quality of life.

One way to highlight these benefits is to make safety training engaging, practical and connected to employees’ everyday work tasks. To keep sessions fresh and impactful, offer various training formats, including interactive workshops, videos and real-world scenarios in the field.

Another strategy to achieve frontline employee buy-in of safety initiatives is to regularly recognize those workers who consistently engage in the initiatives or help improve safety processes. Positive reinforcement for a job well done makes employees feel good about their successes and often motivates them to continue their safe behaviors in the future.

Lastly, leaders across the organization must work to ensure safety is woven into the fabric of daily operations. Make it a core organizational focus by including safety updates in weekly meetings and internal and external newsletters and by incorporating safety discussions into employee performance reviews.

Conclusion
Through our work over the past 10 years, we’ve observed that safety initiatives make the greatest impact when an organization’s senior leadership actively participates in them, frontline management consistently prioritizes them, and frontline workers feel a sense of ownership for them.

For senior leadership, visible commitment and engagement set the tone for the rest of the company. Leaders who model safe behaviors and provide visible support send a message that safety is a core company value, not just another checkbox.

Frontline managers are the bridge between senior leadership and frontline employees. When these managers prioritize safety each day, promote accountability and share outcomes, they empower their teams to integrate safety into their operational flow and contribute to long-term success.

Frontline workers are the heart of any safety initiative. When they can see the direct benefits to their well-being, they are more likely to take ownership of an initiative and remain actively engaged. So, make training relevant, ensure safety is part of employees’ everyday workflow and provide positive reinforcement for desired behaviors. These actions help organizations build lasting safety cultures.

Over time, my team and I have seen firsthand how these strategies have helped numerous organizations create a ripple effect of positive safety outcomes. When buy-in is achieved at every level, safety initiatives can evolve from short-term efforts into a sustained safety culture that protects employees and drives operational excellence.

About the Author: Kevin Rindal, D.C., is co-founder and CEO of Vimocity (www.vimocity.com), a soft-tissue injury prevention partner that has helped leading utility companies reduce common and costly injuries. Rindal has a robust background in human performance, including working with the U.S. Olympic Swim Team as a member of the medical staff. Over the last decade, he’s brought the latest human performance and safety practices to over 40,000 utility workers through targeted education to promote physical and job readiness.

Utility workers face numerous challenges in their quest to build, maintain and improve infrastructure. One significant yet sometimes overlooked challenge is the risk associated with equipment instability. Crucial aspects of equipment setup include stabilization of the machine and selection of appropriate supporting materials – such as outrigger pads and cribbing blocks – to enhance work-site safety.

Case Study: EnergyUnited
From busy roadsides to uneven terrain and unstable surfaces, utility workers are no strangers to operating in precarious environments. These conditions can increase the risk of equipment tip-overs, which remain one of the most common – and preventable – job-site accidents. The consequences of such accidents range from equipment damage and project delays to worker injuries and fatalities.

To mitigate the risk of tip-overs, employers should consider a three-pronged approach to proper equipment setup that includes comprehensive employee training, proper work planning and effective use of supporting materials.

To illustrate the importance of work planning, let’s examine an approach taken by EnergyUnited, a North Carolina-based electric cooperative. Under the leadership of Jimmy Brown, director of fleet services, the cooperative established a formal policy for the use of outrigger pads and cribbing.

EnergyUnited collaborated with industry experts to assess their organization’s outrigger requirements, examining factors including truck weight, boom length, lift capacity and typical site conditions. As a result of this study, the cooperative implemented three key policies:

• Mandatory use of outrigger pads for all bucket trucks, digger derricks and small crane trucks.
• Use of cribbing blocks when operating on uneven terrain.
• Implementation of a fleet specification policy intended to ensure all company trucks are equipped with storage bins to carry the necessary stabilization tools.

This approach demonstrates how organizations can systematically address safety concerns related to equipment stability.

Stabilizers and Outriggers
Utility crews employ a wide range of equipment (e.g., aerial devices, digger derricks, boom trucks, compact crawler lifts). These machines typically come equipped with either stabilizers or outriggers.

Stabilizers keep a truck from tipping over or shifting while the bucket or digger is in use, providing lateral support during equipment operations. Equipment with stabilizers is operated “on rubber” – that is, its wheels or tracks stay on the ground – with the equipment’s suspension acting as the primary support. Loads and pressure transferred to the ground through stabilizers are usually lighter than with an outrigger-equipped machine. However, supporting materials are essential as sudden shifts in the boom can create dynamic loading that results in much heavier loads and pressure. Typically, a relatively small effective bearing area or area of supporting materials is required.

In contrast to stabilizers, out-and-down outriggers provide full equipment support. Equipment with these outriggers is operated “off rubber” (i.e., wheels or tracks are raised above ground level). Out-and-down outriggers significantly increase the base of the equipment, allowing for a wider range of motion or heavier lifting capacity. Because the total weight of the equipment, rigging and load is transferred directly through the outriggers, a larger area of supporting materials – properly spec’d to provide the appropriate strength and stiffness properties – is required to support these loads and pressures and to reduce them to levels the ground can withstand.

Materials Selection and Equipment Setup
When utility equipment is involved, two key elements should be incorporated into work planning:

• Guidelines for the selection and use of appropriate supporting materials.
• Procedures for equipment setup, which serve as a roadmap for safe operation.

Supporting materials such as outrigger pads should be selected by engineers and lift planners who are trained and competent to do so, including choosing the appropriate size of the materials. During the selection process, it’s important to evaluate:

• Loads and pressures that will be generated by the equipment.
• Allowable ground-bearing pressures and site-specific ground conditions.
• Whether supporting materials create a sufficient area to reduce ground-bearing pressures to levels the ground can withstand.

Supporting materials must also be inspected before each use to ensure they are not damaged, rotted, bent, delaminated or rusted in any way that could impact safety or stability.

Equipment setup procedures should provide step-by-step instructions for deploying stabilizers or outriggers. They should also include a pre-operation checklist to help ensure all safety measures are in place before work begins. Remember to work within the equipment manufacturer’s guidelines for levelness. Here are some other pointers to keep in mind:

• Always follow the equipment manufacturer’s setup requirements.
• Ensure the ground is firm, drained and level.
• Inspect for visual signs of excavations, standing water or poor soil.
• Ensure your setup plan is communicated to your team and that they fully understand it.
• Assess the work area for potential overhead and underground hazards.
• Properly deploy stabilizers or outriggers.
• Verify equipment stability before operation.

Cribbing Considerations
Cribbing plays a vital role in leveling equipment when the ground is uneven or sloped. Many different materials are used to “crib up,” and most can be stacked or interlocked to provide additional height and stability. However, to ensure a stable setup, it’s essential to use the correct cribbing based on the equipment’s weight and the severity of the slope. And because stacking increases risk, it is often best to use products manufactured for this specific purpose. Cribbing blocks with an interlocking surface or mechanism are an excellent option because they help prevent lateral sliding.

Key considerations when choosing cribbing materials include:

• Strength, stiffness and overall capacity of the materials.
• Safe stacking height.
• The interface between the cribbing and the outrigger pad.
• Overall stability of the cribbed structure.

Note that training on proper cribbing use must be provided to workers; improper use can create additional hazards.

The Science of Supporting Materials
The primary purpose of supporting materials like outrigger pads is to provide a flat, level surface that spreads a piece of equipment’s forces over a large area.

When assessing and selecting materials for outrigger pads, it’s important to understand the properties that contribute to their strength and stiffness. Strength refers to a material’s ability to resist breaking under load. A strong material can withstand great amounts of force without fracturing or failing catastrophically. Stiffness refers to a material’s resistance to bending under load. A stiff material maintains its shape and distributes loads more effectively over its entire surface.

The ideal supporting material should be a balance of both these properties. A pad that’s strong but lacks stiffness may bend excessively, leading to a functional failure even if it doesn’t break. Conversely, a stiff pad with less overall strength might break under extreme loads.

Several materials are commonly used for outrigger pads, each with its own set of characteristics. The best choice of material will depend on specific applications, expected loads, ground conditions and environmental factors. In some cases, a combination of materials may offer the optimal solution.

Factors such as moisture, temperature extremes and chemical exposure can significantly affect a material’s performance and longevity. Wood, an organic material, is particularly susceptible to environmental degradation. Exposure to moisture can rot and weaken the wood, while repeated stress from loading can also cause problems over time. In contrast, engineered materials like high-density polyethylene and fiber-reinforced polymers offer more consistent performance across a range of environmental conditions.

For operations in areas with extreme temperatures, it’s important to select materials that maintain their properties in both hot and freezing conditions. Keep in mind that some plastics may become brittle in extreme cold, while others may soften excessively in high heat.

Commit to a Culture of Safety
Ensuring safety and equipment stability in utility operations requires dedication at all levels of an organization. Without training on their proper use, even the best equipment and supporting materials can’t keep workers safe. A comprehensive employee training program should be equipment-specific and address the correct use of outrigger pads, cribbing and other supporting materials. By teaching equipment stabilization principles through training, selecting appropriate supporting materials and continuously working to sustain a culture of safety, utility companies can reduce their risk of job-site accidents.

About the Author: Kris Koberg is the president and CEO of DICA (https://dicausa.com), a family-owned manufacturer and distributor of supporting materials, ground protection, site access mats and associated products. He is a contributing member of the ASME P30 committee, a member of the North American Matting Association’s technical committee, and recent chair of the Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association’s task force to create “A Guide to Outrigger Pad Materials, Selection and Usage.”

There is an inextricable link between employee safety and mental and physical wellness that is often overlooked. Taking a holistic view of your employees includes looking wholly at each person to better understand and address their mental and physical health challenges and related distractions that can affect their personal safety and the safety of others.

Additionally, demonstrating you care about your employees’ well-being can translate into improved morale, engagement, productivity, and recruitment and retention.

At its foundation, your employee safety program should be viewed as an act of caring about your employees. However, our safety focus can often be siloed. It’s time to break through the silos and take a more comprehensive look at how we can – and should – take care of our employees.

But first, a question. Why do we view employee safety almost exclusively through the lens of a traditional safety program in terms of training, safety rules, tools, equipment and compliance? The simple answer is that we are not typically trained to do otherwise.

To illustrate the opportunity, here’s another question. How do you think your employees would respond to an anonymous survey that asked this: Does my leader care about my well-being? Unfortunately, according to a recent Gallup poll, “Fewer than one in four U.S. employees feel strongly that their organization cares about their well-being” (see www.gallup.com/workplace/390776/percent-feel-employer-cares-wellbeing-plummets.aspx).

‘His Head Just Wasn’t in the Game …’
You’ve heard a statement like this before. It’s recognition of the potential effect of a mental distraction when performing a task. Do you agree that distractions can lessen the focus on personal safety and increase injury risk? If so, do you want your employees to engage in work tasks – particularly high-risk tasks – when they are significantly mentally or physically distracted? In many injury events, it only took a second for a distraction to lead to the injury.

What about an employee who was served legal papers late yesterday and is anguished and distracted today? Would you want them attempting to correctly use fall protection or follow a lockout/tagout process today, on their own without extra care and supervision? What if they’re on a new medication that makes them sensitive to heat until they acclimate to the medication? Would you want them working outside in the summer or inside a hot warehouse in their normal role for the next few days?

These types of distractions are very real and can affect your employees’ personal safety.

Let’s dive a bit deeper into some other emotional and physical stressors (distractions) that leaders can learn to better recognize and address with their employees:

• Anxiety or depression. The employee’s demeanor has changed; they may appear to be sad and/or nervous, display signs of low energy or have trouble concentrating. Learn more about signs and symptoms at www.nimh.nih.gov.
• Argument with a spouse or significant other. The employee has a bad argument the night before and comes to work distraught.
• Money/debt issues. Perhaps creditors are calling the employee, or they have financial worries that are disrupting a relationship; these issues can be significant distractors.
• Negative performance appraisal or discipline rendered. A poor employee review and/or discipline can be potential sources of anguish and even anger, both of which can lead to distraction.
• Not fitting in with co-workers. The employee may be socially excluded from their work group. Signs include the employee regularly taking a break or lunch alone and being left out of work task planning and meaningful tailboard discussions.
• Children. There may be health-related or other challenges with an employee’s child that are causing stress and distraction on and off the job.
• Off-the-job injury or illness. The employee comes to work ill or injured, which can cause distraction.
• New medication. Some medications initially affect mental alertness, reaction time, perception, stamina and personality.

Would you want an employee facing any of these challenges to perform high-risk work? Further, since you are likely not a mental health or other medical professional, how do you navigate these challenges? Are they even any of your business?

Employee Safety is Your Business
When it comes to the safety of your employees, these types of challenges are your business. Sometimes all that’s needed is to have a one-on-one conversation with an employee and listen with sensitivity to understand that they are in some way compromised. Simply acknowledging that these challenges could be safety distractions can help increase the employee’s safety focus as well as your own.

Work toward creating a culture that provides a psychologically safe environment in which to talk to one another. Communicate to your employees that you have an open-door policy. Let them know they don’t have to be specific about their stressors; the goal is to make them comfortable enough to willingly speak with you when they are feeling stressed or dealing with other challenges that could make them vulnerable to distraction and injury.

Keep in mind that it’s unlikely you are going to solve the underlying issues (if the employee chooses to disclose them), but kindness, compassion and caring go a long way to help relieve stress.

When you become aware that an employee is struggling, it’s a good idea to consider adjusting their work tasks as needed or delaying safety-sensitive tasks until a more appropriate time. Be sure to meet with your organization’s human resources representative or team to confirm any dos and don’ts regarding temporary job modifications.

The Stigma of Using EAP Resources
Many companies have employee assistance program (EAP) resources available. The ideal time to promote these resources is both routinely – including during new-hire onboarding – and when your employees are obviously stressed.

Unfortunately, multiple studies show EAP utilization rates are typically less than 10% across an employee population. There is still a stigma that EAPs are mostly intended for people who are mentally ill, addicted to drugs or alcohol, or facing marital issues. Thus, one of your opportunities as a leader is to help your employees overcome the typical reluctance to use the EAP. Let them know that using EAP benefits is easy and confidential, and doing so can help in addressing a broad range of mental well-being challenges, such as stress, anxiety and depression.

Here are some additional strategies to promote safety, mental wellness and physical well-being.

Leader Training
Employees with mental health challenges may not take the initiative to reach out to their leaders. When they don’t reach out and don’t seek help elsewhere, their challenges may go unaddressed and potentially get worse. With the proper training, leaders can make a profound difference by recognizing the signs of mental health challenges and referring employees to the appropriate resources. Check with your EAP provider for available leader training.

Holistic Communications and Campaigns
Many companies have separate internal publications and campaigns covering safety, physical wellness and mental health. Consider combining these into a single publication with one holistic theme. Explain how improved mental and physical wellness positively affects personal safety and can improve overall quality of life. The message you want to send is that the organization’s leaders care about – and have resources to help – employees and their families.

Broaden Your Safety Meeting Agenda
Include physical wellness and mental health challenges in your agenda for safety and other team meetings. Periodically invite an EAP or benefits representative to review the scope of mental health and physical well-being services offered. Invite the speaker to discuss why seeking help is critical to keeping your head in the game. Other guest speakers could include an athletic trainer to discuss exercise and ergonomics as well as a nutritionist to speak with your team about food choices to support a healthy lifestyle.

Model the Way
How are you personally demonstrating best practices – both in terms of safety and mental and physical health? Revealing how you are working on a personal challenge can increase employee engagement and even loyalty. Show vulnerability!

Use Testimonials
Solicit testimonials for your internal publications from employees who have benefited from a wellness service offered by your company or who are willing to discuss physical or emotional distractions that led to an injury or a near-miss.

Incident Investigations and Wellness
Have you dug deeply enough into your event investigations to determine if physical or mental health issues were contributing factors?

In addition to the tips above, event investigations are another opportunity to better understand and address the connection between safety and mental and physical wellness. Here are some specific questions to ask:

• Was the employee’s mental state a contributing factor when the event occurred?
• Did the employee have physical limitations, either temporary or permanent, that led to the event?
• If the answer to either of the questions above is yes, what were the missed leadership opportunities to address the employee’s mental or physical wellness issues?

By identifying these contributing causes, you can then develop more effective countermeasures that also address supervisor recognition of employee physical and mental wellness challenges.

In summary, when you take a holistic view of your employees, you can capitalize on an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference. Following this strategy can create additional goodwill with your employees while helping them improve their well-being. A great byproduct will be safer employees.

About the Author: Mark L. Morgan combines his unique skill set, observations and experiences from a 35-year career spanning three Fortune 200 companies to help leaders focus on how to make a difference in safety. He recently completed his service as the founding chairman of the Florida Chamber Leadership Cabinet on Safety, Health and Sustainability. Morgan is also a public speaker, a guest columnist and the author of “The M.A.D.* Safety Book for Leaders (*Make a Difference).”

Editor’s Note: This article contains edited excerpts from “The M.A.D.* Safety Book for Leaders (*Make a Difference).”

In the world of utility work, where daily tasks often involve inherent risks, the need for a robust support system for workers’ safety and welfare cannot be overstated. This is where the United Support & Memorial for Workplace Fatalities (USMWF) comes in. Established with a mission to honor the memories of fallen workers and advocate for safe workplaces, the USMWF has made remarkable strides in raising awareness, supporting families affected by workplace tragedies and driving meaningful change.

But what exactly does this organization offer to the utility industry, and why should utility professionals consider collaborating with or supporting the USMWF? This article will explore the organization’s background, mission, core activities and the unique benefits it can bring to the utility sector.

Origins and Mission
USMWF was founded in response to a tragic reality – that thousands of workers lose their lives each year in preventable workplace accidents. For the families left behind, navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. Recognizing this, a dedicated group of family members, survivors and safety advocates came together to form the USMWF to provide resources, support and advocacy for families and to assist in the prevention of future tragedies.

The organization’s mission is twofold: to honor fallen workers and to advocate for safety reforms. This unique focus on both remembrance and advocacy sets the USMWF apart, making it not just a support network but also a driver of change. By promoting legislative improvements, raising safety standards and offering a platform for the voices of those affected by workplace tragedies, the USMWF has become a critical force for advancing workplace safety.

Core Activities and Services
The USMWF offers a range of services that are especially relevant to industries like utilities, where hazardous work conditions are often part of the job. Some of the organization’s key activities include:

• Family support services. The USMWF provides direct support to families affected by workplace fatalities. This includes emotional support, resources for navigating legal and regulatory processes, and connections to other families who have experienced similar losses. The organization’s Family Connect program creates a network of understanding and shared experiences, helping to ease the emotional burden on grieving families.
• Awareness campaigns and memorial events. To honor fallen workers and ensure their stories are not forgotten, the USMWF organizes events such as Workers’ Memorial Day and maintains an online tribute site. Sharing these stories emphasizes the real human cost of workplace hazards, helping to foster a culture that values safety as paramount.
• Advocacy for safety regulations. The USMWF actively works to improve occupational safety laws and standards, providing testimony, collaborating with regulatory bodies and advocating for changes that make workplaces safer. This involvement is particularly valuable for high-risk industries like utilities, where safety regulations can significantly impact worker protection.
• Educational initiatives and safety training. In partnership with various organizations, the USMWF offers educational materials and safety training, with a focus on preventing common workplace hazards. Training sessions and workshops are designed to raise awareness about effective safety measures among workers and employers; these offerings are often tailored to industry-specific needs.
• Partnerships with industry leaders. The USMWF regularly partners with unions, industry associations and safety organizations to amplify its impact. By working with these groups, the organization brings its mission to industries that have the potential to benefit from its expertise, further extending the USMWF’s reach and influence in improving workplace safety.

Benefits for the Utility Industry
In the utility industry – where workers are exposed to electrical hazards, heavy equipment, heights and extreme weather conditions – safety is a top priority. Here’s how the USMWF can enhance safety outcomes and support utility workers.

Empower Workers and Families
For utility companies, having a partnership with an organization like the USMWF demonstrates a commitment to supporting employees beyond their immediate working environment. In tragic cases where a workplace accident occurs, the USMWF offers families a community of support, access to critical resources and guidance through the complex legal landscape. When utility companies connect with the organization, they offer their workforce a powerful message: that employee well-being, both on and off the job, is valued and prioritized.

Strengthen Safety Culture
The USMWF’s dedication to honoring fallen workers reminds us of the importance of safety in every aspect of our work. By incorporating the organization’s mission and message into safety training programs, utility companies can further develop a culture of safety that resonates on a personal level. This focus on individual lives lost as a reminder for vigilance can lead to a stronger collective commitment to safe practices.

Policy Advocacy
By working with the USMWF, utility companies have an avenue to voice their concerns and needs in policy discussions. The organization’s advocacy efforts focus on strengthening safety regulations that protect workers, often directly impacting policies related to the utility industry. Partnering with or supporting the USMWF means the industry’s unique challenges are better represented in legislative discussions, leading to policies that reflect the real needs of utility workers.

Enhance Stakeholder Trust and Company Reputation
Today, companies that prioritize corporate social responsibility, or CSR, are typically viewed more favorably by customers, partners and the public. By supporting the USMWF, utility companies send a strong message about their commitment to worker welfare, helping to enhance their reputation and build trust with employees and stakeholders alike. This association with a respected safety advocacy group can also positively influence employee morale.

Impact on High-Risk Industries
To understand the real-world impact of the USMWF’s work, it’s helpful to look at industries with similar risks to utilities. For example, in the construction sector, the organization’s advocacy led to heightened awareness of fall protection, which resulted in regulatory changes and widespread adoption of improved safety measures. In mining, the USMWF’s family support initiatives helped foster stronger support networks for workers, which eventually contributed to mental health and safety being recognized as essential components of workplace well-being.

These examples underscore how an organization like the USMWF, when partnering with companies and unions, can drive change that not only saves lives but also transforms workplace culture. The utility industry stands to benefit in much the same way, especially as the USMWF’s expertise and resources continue to grow.

Now is the Time to Engage
Utility companies operate in a landscape of rapid technological change, increasing regulatory demands and a growing emphasis on sustainability. Amid these shifts, the safety of the workforce remains the bedrock of operations. In this context, aligning with the USMWF offers utility companies an opportunity to enhance their safety protocols, improve compliance with evolving regulations, and build a reputation as a socially responsible, worker-centric organization.

Furthermore, with OSHA’s ongoing rulemaking processes and a renewed emphasis on injury and illness prevention, utility companies have much to gain from an ally with deep expertise in safety advocacy. The USMWF’s network can provide utilities with insights into regulatory changes, effective safety measures and family support mechanisms that are aligned with industry best practices. This engagement can serve as a proactive measure to prevent accidents, reduce costs associated with workplace injuries and demonstrate a commitment to safety leadership.

A Call to Action
For utility professionals committed to safeguarding their workforce, supporting an organization like the USMWF is more than a philanthropic gesture – it’s an investment in a safer, more resilient industry. By partnering with the organization, utility companies gain access to valuable resources, a network of safety advocates and an enduring reminder of the importance of protecting every worker. Through its programs, advocacy and family support initiatives, the USMWF offers a holistic approach to safety that aligns well with the goals of the utility industry.

And in a sector where risk is inherent, the organization offers a path forward that respects the lives lost while striving for a future in which every worker can return home safely. For utility companies ready to lead by example, now is the time to connect with the USMWF, champion workplace safety and contribute to a legacy of meaningful change.

About the Author: With over three decades of experience in the utility industry, John “Scotty” MacNeill, CUSP, serves as the national safety director for the Utility Workers Union of America. He has worked in roles ranging from lead mechanic to crane operator and rigger, and he also has extensive experience as a business agent representing line-clearance workers. In his current role, MacNeill is dedicated to ensuring safe working environments for utility workers nationwide, overseeing safety initiatives, and advocating for industry-wide health and safety standards. His commitment to worker safety drives his collaborations with OSHA, ANSI and various national safety committees, including his position on the USMWF board of directors.

Collaborating with the USMWF can reinforce a safety-first culture within utility companies while also supporting families and preventing future tragedies. For more information about the organization, including how to get involved, visit www.usmwf.org.

The primary goal of safety is to prevent injuries. We achieve that goal in most cases, though our rare failures often overshadow our frequent successes. And while it’s essential to analyze failures and apply lessons learned, it’s equally if not more important to highlight and replicate our successes. So, let’s explore how to define success, reinforce success and, most critically, ensure repeated and continuous success.

Success Defined
Success can be defined as desired behaviors achieving desired results – with extreme preference given to behaviors. From that definition, and in order from least to most desired, we get the following.

Incident: undesired behaviors with undesired results – someone doing something incorrectly that causes damage, injury or death. For example, I use improper work methods and cut myself with a knife.

Chance: undesired behaviors with desired results – someone doing something incorrectly that does not cause damage, injury or death (e.g., I walk under a suspended load that doesn’t fall).

Compliance: desired behaviors with undesired results – someone doing something correctly that results in damage, injury or death. For instance, I stop at a red light while wearing my seat belt and get rear-ended.

Success: desired behaviors with desired results – someone doing something correctly that does not cause damage, injury or death. As an example, let’s say I use lockout/tagout while performing electrical work and complete the work without shock or flash.

Reinforcing Behavior
To win and then win again, step one is to win and succeed. Assuming success, how do we reinforce and repeat it? Remember WIN, an acronym that stands for work, influence, normalize. The idea is that WIN results in work performed that influences future behavior through its consequences, eliminates undesired behaviors and reinforces desired behaviors.

Before discussing reinforcement of compliance and success, let’s briefly discuss incidents and chance. If an incident has occurred (i.e., undesired behaviors with undesired results), someone did something wrong and got hurt doing it. Aside from the application of disciplinary policies, this person had a negative experience and probably learned their lesson. You touch the stove, it’s hot, you get burned, you don’t touch it again. You don’t need additional reinforcement, punishment or penalty to stay away from the stove in the future.

Chance – undesired behaviors with desired results – needs additional consequences. In the example above, I walk under a suspended load and don’t get hurt. Unless I am provided with consequences that decrease this behavior in the future, complacency will set in and compound over time into normalization of deviation. The key is to understand why the behavior occurred. Was it because I didn’t know better, wasn’t paying attention or made a poor choice?

Compliance, which we earlier defined as desired behaviors with undesired results, is where we must use caution. Negative consequences, such as punishment or penalty, should not be given based on results when the behavior is good. The behavior needs to be positively reinforced, and training may be needed if a skills gap is identified.

Now let’s talk about success (i.e., desired behaviors with desired results) and make it our primary focus moving forward. Look for successes and make sure they are positively reinforced. Too often our attitude is “that’s what we pay them for,” and we don’t provide any feedback or reward. When people succeed, they should be given something they want or be able to avoid things they don’t. Examples include verbal feedback, opportunities to provide training or conduct job briefings, involvement in decision-making, and formal rewards programs.

Correlating Consequences in Practical Applications
One of the most important things to consider is giving each individual and crew a mechanism to do this for themselves, which comes in the form of post-job briefings or after-action reviews. Implement those and let the following questions be part of the conversation: What could we have done better? What did we do well that needs repeating? Were we lucky or were we good? How can we make lucky good and good great?

When performing observations and providing feedback, designate a success reinforcer. Find people above the line on the hierarchy of controls and/or who have direct controls in place for high-energy exposures, and then provide positive feedback. When you deliver that feedback, make sure you understand why the behavior occurred and that the individuals understand the value of repeating their behavior.

Formal rewards programs can be effective at reinforcing and normalizing behavior – if we shift from rewarding what didn’t happen to rewarding what did. Give incentives, for instance, to the person who provided the most peer-to-peer coaching rather than the group that had the lowest incident rate. Or praise the group that reported the most near-misses and good-catches rather than the group with the longest injury-free streak.

Conclusion
One of the biggest challenges in safety is that when it’s working correctly, it gets ignored because nothing happens and no one gets hurt. This can lead to organizational and individual complacency, thinking we have figured this out and can move on to the next thing. If you study human behavior, you’ll quickly learn that any behavior that doesn’t get reinforced – in other words, no good or bad consequences happen – becomes nearly extinct. That means we must positively reinforce success for it to be repeated. If we don’t, success will shift to compliance and ultimately chance and incident.

Learn More
You can learn more about this article by reading my book “Frontline Incident Prevention – The Hurdle: Innovative and Practical Insights on the Art of Safety,” and I hope you’ll join me for the free webinar on this topic January 8 at 11 a.m. Eastern. Thank you for reading, stay safe and be well.

About the Author: David McPeak, CUSP, CIT, CHST, CSP, CSSM, is the director of professional development for Utility Business Media’s Incident Prevention Institute (https://ip-institute.com) and the author of “Frontline Leadership – The Hurdle” and “Frontline Incident Prevention – The Hurdle.” He has extensive experience and expertise in leadership, human performance, safety and operations. McPeak is passionate about personal and professional development and believes that intrapersonal and interpersonal skills are key to success. He also is an advanced certified practitioner in DISC, emotional intelligence, the Hartman Value Profile, learning styles and motivators.

About Frontline Fundamentals: Frontline Fundamentals topics are derived from the Incident Prevention Institute’s popular Frontline training program (https://frontlineutilityleader.com). Frontline covers critical knowledge, skills and abilities for utility leaders and aligns with the Certified Utility Safety Professional exam blueprint. 

Webinar: Win and Win Again
January 8, 2025, at 11 a.m. Eastern
Visit https://ip-institute.com/frontline-webinars/ for more information.

Q: Here in Australia, we recently read Jim Vaughn’s “Trainer the Trainer 101: Substation Entry Policies” (https://incident-prevention.com/blog/train-the-trainer-101-substation-entry-policies/). We have a 415-volt substation on-site; its doors and cabinets are locked. However, we are not comfortable allowing entry to the substation without some control over who is able to enter and the qualifications they must have. Do you know of any reference materials pertaining to entry requirements for non-qualified electricians, or is allowing them entry simply a no-no? We appreciate any help you can provide.

A: We are glad to hear from Australia and gratified to know that Incident Prevention magazine’s reach is becoming more international. Because we are based in the U.S., we are not experts on Australian labor law, but we do have colleagues who are members of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). We’ve had some discussions over the years with Australian IEC members made possible by those colleagues. As it turns out, because today’s ability to exchange information in real time has made our work environments more uniform, Australia has work practices that have become somewhat universal.

We know that Safe Work Australia (www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au) has rules for employers and safety directors that mirror international standards. The only issue is whether your local enforcement jurisdiction has adopted the principles found in Safe Work Australia’s Model Codes of Practice.

Those codes require the employer – often referred to in Australia as a “person conducting a business or undertaking” or “PCBU” – to assess the workplace and ensure workers are not exposed to hazards. We think the most important practice is ensuring the competency of workers who could be exposed to energized electrical equipment. The definition varies slightly from source to source, but “competent” typically refers to a person trained, tested and qualified by the employer to understand and avoid the risks associated with their job tasks.

We don’t think your company’s integrated alliance is classified as an electric utility. That means your workers would fall under the code of practice intended to prevent their exposure to energized work unless there were no reasonable alternative; this would prohibit substation entry by individuals who are not specifically qualified to identify and control their exposure hazards.

As with most international standards, Safe Work Australia requires the employer/PCBU – even where no rule exists that defines safe work practices for substation entry – to consider all risks associated with the work, not just those covered by regulations and codes of practice.

The bottom line is that you have a responsibility to assess the workplace and establish safety and health standards that ensure your employees are not unnecessarily exposed to uncontrolled hazards.

Good luck, keep in touch, and let us know how things go.

Q: Our company has a rule that requires use of a portable equipotential mat when switching, but a question came up: How good is this type of mat – or any mat – if it is underwater due to heavy rain?

A: Thanks for sending us this question. We’re going to provide a very detailed answer because although the answer is as simple as yes, use of a portable equipotential mat does make a difference even in water, it’s important that readers understand why that’s the case.

The answer depends on the resistance of the path between the structure and the worker’s feet (touch potential) or the resistance between the worker’s feet (step potential). Whether ground is dry, damp or soaked makes a big difference in voltage (potential) and the level of the hazard to the worker.

Keep this in mind as we dig through the weeds here to understand the risk. Touch potential creates a parallel path with the structure, which will very likely include a division of total fault current between the path through the structure and the path through the worker touching the structure. That is not the case with step potential. Electrical current cannot flow across the earth’s surface without a complete electrical path to ground, and there is no complete horizontal path as opposed to down into the earth along the path of the structure, which is the earthing electrode.  Voltage can flow horizontally, but that’s only because a conductive element in earth gains a charge from the conductive element next to it and passes it on to the next conductive element simply by transfer of electrical charge. Electrical current cannot do that. Voltage without a current component is rarely deadly. Although fatal step-potential injuries occasionally occur in non-power-line exposures, they are very rare in power-line exposures.

Regarding touch potential, the goal of the equipotential mat is to electrically bond the structure and the worker touching the structure to prevent a potential difference between the two. In the case of structure-mounted switch operator handles, this is the lesser of the issues. Even if a portable mat were underwater, we suggest that protection would not be degraded for a worker standing on that mat, which is electrically bonded to the structure. We also know that wet ground is highly conductive, so it is very likely that if a worker is within reach of the structure, the distance between the worker’s feet and the structure is very short. Since the resistance is very low across the wet soil and the distance is very short, the potential difference across that distance is likely to be negligible. However, it’s not guaranteed to be completely without risk, so the equipotential mat is appropriate. Now, the earth-potential argument is based on principle and theory, lacking the assurance of a physical bond across the gap provided by the portable mat. The point here is that there is low risk to the worker with their hands on the switch operator handle in water, but those conditions cannot be assured – whereas using the portable mat ensures protection of the worker even in water.

The step-potential hazard in the gap between a worker’s feet is similar when assessed based on principle and theory. First, we must understand the IEEE definition of step potential as related to the voltage developed across the resistance of the earth 3 feet apart. That might be a good working definition, but on the ground, the distance does not matter. Voltage flowing across a resistance creates a potential across that resistance proportional to the voltage available and the resistance between the two points, distance notwithstanding. Like the issue of touch potential, the relative risk is the resistance in the gap, not the voltage crossing the ground. A worker standing with their feet together in highly conductive, wet, low-resistance earth is not likely to be exposed to a high-potential voltage. But as with the touch-potential principle, the resistance and voltage conditions at the time cannot be known; thus, we cannot assume the level of risk without commonly bonding that space between the worker’s feet through use of a portable mat or by insulating the worker’s feet.

Trying to manage the use of a portable vinyl mat in water must be difficult and might create a tripping hazard. Perhaps a vendor will invent a portable EPZ mat constructed with some form of non-floating material or a lightweight, rigid, conductive screen. We hope this detailed answer to your question helps you and other readers better understand both the risk and remedy. Keep in touch and let us know how the discussion goes.

Q: We spoke about underground distribution transformers last year during an iPi Monthly Forum (https://ip-institute.com/ipi-forum/), and I was wondering if you could provide some insight on overhead this time. We have a process called “half-tapping” or “back-tapping” of a pole-top transformer. Here is the wording: “Method for ‘piecing out’ (transferring) existing energized taps to a newly installed live conductor: This method is commonly practiced in the field, and it is known as ‘half-tapping’ or ‘back-tapping.’ This method allows an energized piece of equipment (e.g., a pole-top transformer) to remain energized while transferring load from existing primary conductors to newly installed primary conductors.”

This has been done in the past but hasn’t been taught in school; it is considered something to be learned during on-the-job training. It also hasn’t been taught in the field in quite some time. The process does mention proper isolation using rubber goods as well as proper PPE for live work. Are you aware of this process? Do you have any information that could help us better understand it?

A: What you’re referring to is a practice often used to keep a transformer in service while transferring load to a new three-phase system. It’s pretty much an old-school practice as the rule back then was no outages, especially if the transfer affected several transformers in a line section. Today, following the hierarchy of controls, many utilities take an outage as the preferred alternative to an energized transfer.

With planning, experience and proper cover-up, this practice is legal and can be done safely. The process is to spread the old phases; pull in and energize the new phases; and parallel tap all the transformers to both the old system and the new system. From there, crews go back to each bank or transformer and untap the old feed, leaving the transformers on the new feed. The parallel phase taps were always Kearney-squeezed on above the transformer fuse.

This is not a task for new or apprentice lineworkers, especially on two- or three-pot banks. Single pots are easy to half-tap, but utilities most often take outages on three-pot banks.

Without close supervision of workers and a true commitment to safety, cover-up as a policy can be a real problem; that’s because crews moving from pole to pole to half-tap a single transformer don’t want to slow down to cover up. That’s no excuse at all. It is possible to glove on the new tap and stay below the feeder, but crews should always blanket the dropout switch while they bug-on the tap.

Q: We are a small distribution contractor with eight trucks. Recently, while returning from storm restoration work in North Carolina, we were stopped by state troopers in two different states. In one state, the troopers had all our drivers get out and talk to them while they assessed the drivers for alertness, or that’s what we assume. They let the crew continue driving. In the second state, the troopers cited all of our drivers for record-of-duty-status (RODS) violations. We thought we had an emergency exemption. The troopers said the ride home is not considered an emergency under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) and that RODS applies. What are your thoughts?

A: It is a distinct possibility that some readers who respond to storms are not necessarily going to agree with our answer, but please don’t ignore this advice. During every storm response event, our industry sees crashes on the way home that often include serious injuries and fatalities. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has exemptions for some of its regulations – such as hours of service and RODS – but there are limits. Specifically, 390.23(b) states the following: “Except as provided in paragraph (b)(1) of this section, §§ 395.3 and 395.5 of this chapter shall not apply to a motor carrier or driver operating a commercial motor vehicle so long as the motor carrier or driver is providing direct assistance during an emergency declared by the Governor of a State, their authorized representative, or FMCSA during the emergency period or 14 days from the date of the initial declaration of emergency, whichever is less.”

The FMCSA further states in 390.23(e)(3) that when “the driver has been relieved of all duty and responsibilities upon termination of direct assistance to an emergency relief effort, no motor carrier shall permit or require any driver used by it to drive, nor shall any such driver drive in commerce, until the driver has met the requirements of §§ 395.3(a) and (c) and 395.5(a) of this chapter.”

We’ve seen internet commentary from lineworkers who were stopped after recent storm restoration efforts. Some comments included hasty criticism of law enforcement, but that criticism is out of place. The practical defense of highway rules enforcement is right in our own metaphorical backyard. Lineworkers demand that our brothers and sisters work safely, that our employers provide the tools and support to keep us safe, and that each of us follows the rules to make it safe to work even in the harshest of conditions. None of that is any different than the FMCSA rules that are designed to keep drivers and the public safe. When you leave the bucket for the cab, you become a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver maneuvering a multi-ton vehicle at interstate speeds – and there are rules. The rules are based on practical experience. And just as in line work, the rules are to be followed to prevent accidents.

There are a few voices in our industry asking storm restoration managers to recognize that exhausted lineworkers are a hazard to themselves and the public. Planners should recognize that the FMCSA explicitly requires CMV drivers to follow the RODS and hours-of-service rules once they’re relieved from emergency restoration duties. Driving home is not part of the emergency, so driver logs apply, meaning that in compliance with federal rules, a driver leaving North Carolina must have a log entry showing 34 off-duty hours before they begin the trek home.

By the way, the FMCSA is very clear that “on-duty not driving” is any work for the employer that does not include driving duties. Yes, that seems impractical, but a very easy solution is to ferry return drivers to the storm location to begin those drives home.

The FMCSR exception has been around for a long time and many states give some leeway on enforcement. Interstate communications among highway law enforcement officers have put a spotlight on the number of line-truck crashes that occur, and the trends have been noted. Some of us have already heard that more states may be tightening up on enforcement of the return-home “end of exception.” So, as planners, we should be finding solutions to follow the law. There really is no excuse for lineworkers putting in 16-hour days for three to four weeks without incident during a storm restoration effort – only to fall asleep and crash on the drive home. We think sending fresh workers to drive trucks home at the end of deployment is one good solution.

Do you have a question regarding best practices, work procedures or other utility safety-related topics? If so, please send your inquiries directly to kwade@utilitybusinessmedia.com. Questions submitted are reviewed and answered by the iP editorial advisory board and other subject matter experts.

I was so excited when I became a journeyman lineman in the early 1970s. In those days, there was no such thing as a journeyman ticket – a union member or business agent would let you know that you had arrived. Seniority alone was the driver.

I was a union lineman in IBEW 84/896 located in Macon, Georgia. As there was no junior apprenticeship development program at the time, the senior linemen on the crews taught young apprentices. Apprentice school consisted of a two-week class to determine if an apprentice could climb a 40-foot pole well enough to become a journeyman. There was also a small segment of the class dedicated to building transformer banks and framing poles. That was it. The real learning began after being promoted to journeyman.

I was fortunate to learn from excellent, experienced senior linemen. Most had 10 years of crew experience or more, and I was privileged to work with them for the first five or six years I was on a line crew. Back then, we had six-man crews: three linemen, an apprentice, a winch truck operator and a foreman who was part of management (i.e., not a working foreman). The foreman was in charge, and he doled out a lot of advice to younger crew members as their on-the-job training was advancing.

Don’t Do This: Scenario 1
All of this was well and good until a task came along that no one on our crew had much experience with. For example, on one occasion, a customer simply could not find time for a scheduled outage that would allow us to relocate a bank of transformers feeding the building. So, the crew members put their heads together and devised a plan to parallel the YY bank with another bank. We set a pole and built a bank of 100-kVA transformers about 75 feet away. After the new bank was completed, we closed the switches, heated up the bank, and checked the voltage and phasing to ensure everything was correct with the existing bank. Everything looked good.

Next, we pulled a piece of 4/0 quadruplex from the new bank to the existing bank pole to connect the service from the new bank to the existing quadruplex. We then energized the existing bank, cutting the existing service in the clear. We had successfully completed a similar task at other locations in downtown Macon when converting the system from 4 kV to 12 kV – but this time we overlooked one step. Once the voltage and phasing checks had been completed, a lineman at the new bank pole opened the cutouts and de-energized the bank. At the same time, the old bank was still energized and serving the customer. While I was on the existing bank pole, I was instructed to recheck the markings on the quadruplex, confirm everything was correct, and make the connection from the new service to the existing service. The weatherproof jacket was removed, and we used H-frame compression connectors.

The problem was that when I connected the new and old services, a flash occurred that nearly scared me to death. I thought I had made a phasing mistake, but it turns out that none of us on the crew had realized that heating up the transformer from the secondary coil side was just like picking up a large load. That’s why the flash occurred, not because of a fault. Afterward, our resident engineer asked us why we didn’t have the transformers energized on the new bank. It was because we’d energized the new bank to parallel and had never had problems with that in the past.

So, another lesson was learned, even by the senior linemen on the crew. We had never asked about or verified the task we were to perform, and we had assumed everything would be fine using the procedure we chose. Had we asked for clarification, we could have avoided the incident altogether. Luckily, in the end, there was no injury to anyone other than some embarrassment.

Don’t Do This: Scenario 2
The next real-life “don’t do this” scenario I want to share with you involved a crew building a two-transformer open delta UD bank. We were continually building these banks to feed sewerage lift points in subdivisions that did not have three-phase primaries when they were designed and cable was installed. After load surveys were conducted, engineers decided that splitting the loads of the total number of houses into two different phases would be adequate and not cause a load imbalance on the overhead system that fed underground.

Keep in mind that because of terrain and land elevation, gravity flow of sewage is not always possible. Inevitably, some of it must be pumped uphill. When we were building these types of banks, a three-phase lift pump would typically be needed on the backside of the subdivision.

A two-transformer open delta bank must be built with only two phases available. I’ve never personally had a problem installing one, but in this cautionary tale, a crew learned a valuable lesson after one of their crew members was nearly killed by an energized bank. The crew had been instructed to build a two-transformer open delta bank – although they’d never installed one before. The incident report stated that the crew was following the company specifications book as required. To use the entire coil for the high leg on delta service, the neutral spade in the power transformer of the two-transformer bank had to be isolated. Next, the specifications book stated that the transformer tank ground must stay in place after removing the neutral strap from the transformer bushing. The crew missed that step.

As a result of the tank not having the concentric neutral or neutral bus attached to the system neutral, the internal high-side coil needed to be connected to the system neutral by the tank ground. That means the tank had primary voltage potential given that the high-side primary-side coil was internally attached to the tank. When elbows and bushings energized the transformer, the tank was also energized. Unfortunately, one of the crew members contacted the power transformer and the lighting transformer. He didn’t sustain any severe injuries, but again, lessons were learned. First, if you’re unsure, stop the work you’re doing and ask for clarification. And second, be sure to test and verify that all connections have been made per your company’s specification requirements.

Conclusion
I feel that stories like these are worth passing along to new lineworkers who are learning the trade as I did many years ago. You can read about other events I’ve witnessed – and the lessons learned from them – in my book, “Legends of an Ole’ Lineman.”

About the Author: Danny Raines, CUSP, is an author, an OSHA-authorized trainer, and a transmission and distribution safety consultant who retired from Georgia Power after 40 years of service and now operates Raines Utility Safety Solutions LLC.

Learn more from Danny Raines on the Utility Safety Podcast series. Listen now at https://utilitysafety.podbean.com!

Employers in our industry must have policies and procedures in place that align with OSHA’s qualified worker requirements. Each employer also must be able to defend its interpretation of those requirements. Many can’t do it. This is something I come across in almost every OSHA and civil litigation case I work on. Whether it’s General Industry (29 CFR 1910.269) or Construction (1926 Subpart V), the requirements are the same. If an employer assumes a journeyman’s ticket is proof of qualification, they have made a mistake. The employer’s duty is not met by third-party certification alone under the employee qualifications standard.

In 2018, OSHA issued a final rule – “Cranes and Derricks in Construction: Operator Qualification” – that includes the following paragraph: “This rule continues to require operator training. It likewise clarifies and continues the employer duty to evaluate operators for their ability to safely use equipment. Just as an employee’s driver’s license does not guarantee the employee’s ability to drive all vehicles safely in all conditions an employer may require, crane-operator certification alone does not ensure that an operator has sufficient knowledge and skill to safely use all equipment. The record makes clear that employers need to evaluate operators and provide training when needed to ensure that they can safely operate cranes in a variety of circumstances. Similarly, and also consistent with many employers’ current practices, employer evaluation of a crane operator’s experience and competency with respect to the particular equipment assigned is essential to ensuring the safe operation of cranes on construction sites. This final rule accordingly continues the common-sense requirements that employers train operators and assess their competence and ability to work safely” (see www.osha.gov/laws-regs/federalregister/2018-11-09).

Now, let’s cover the qualified worker requirements clearly and concisely. To make it simple, we will review them from the perspective of the General Industry rules. Paragraph 1910.269(a)(2), “Training,” is part of the OSHA regulations concerning safety standards for electric power generation, transmission and distribution. It is a portion of the broader regulations found in 1910.269, which address hazards specific to the electric power industry.

As I noted earlier, readers should understand that the General Industry and Construction qualification requirements are the same. They have nothing to do with how well a lineworker, plant electrician or mechanic makes up an elbow or motor or frames a pole. Also be aware that the 1910.269(a)(2) training rules apply to generation plants. Specifically, these rules apply to how an employee analyzes and mitigates hazards, which is a product of training by the employer.

Training Requirements
Paragraph 1910.269(a)(2) instructs the employer to train employees in the recognition and avoidance of hazards in their work environment related to electrical power generation, transmission and distribution. It requires employee understanding of the safety-related work practices that pertain to their assigned tasks, necessitating training by the employer on how to identify and mitigate or avoid hazards.

Employee training also must cover any procedures involving electrical safety and the correct use of personal protective equipment.

The OSHA regulation emphasizes that employees who are expected to work on or near energized lines or equipment must receive training that ensures they are qualified to do so safely. Training should be specific to the hazards employees will face in their working conditions.

Further, 1910.269(a)(2) requires all employees to be trained in first aid, including CPR, and competent to perform rescue.

This section reinforces OSHA’s commitment to ensuring that workers who are exposed to electrical hazards are properly trained to avoid accidents and injuries.

Per paragraph 1910.269(a)(2), an employer must confirm – through a combination of training, verification and demonstration – that employees are qualified to perform their job tasks. Following are the key elements an employer needs to consider when confirming qualification:

• The employer must provide sufficient training to employees so that they understand the specific hazards associated with their tasks and work environment. This training should cover all relevant safety-related work practices, procedures and emergency response actions.
• Employees must be trained to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions and in the safety practices applicable to their jobs.
• Training must include both knowledge and skills assessments. The employer must verify that employees comprehend and are competent in the work practices they are taught. Verification can involve written testing, oral testing, hands-on demonstrations and job-specific evaluations.
• Employees must demonstrate proficiency in the use of PPE, tools and methods for electrical safety.

Practical Demonstration
Employees must demonstrate their ability to safely perform work tasks under normal or simulated conditions. Demonstration could include supervised fieldwork or controlled exercises during which employees apply what they have learned to both their normal and occasionally assigned tasks.

The employer must ensure each employee can perform their work without creating risks for themselves or others.

Recordkeeping
Written training records are not required by 1910.269(a)(2). However, the employer must be able to convincingly demonstrate that employees have been trained. You can rely on a supervisor’s testimony and co-worker witnesses, but it is much more defensible to be able to provide training records to compliance officers investigating an incident. Such records document that employees received the necessary instruction and can serve as proof that employees were adequately trained.

Reevaluation and refresher training are required by 1910.269(a)(2) under specific circumstances. If an employee is injured and determined to be in violation of the training they received, OSHA will want to know how the employer keeps track of employee performance and when retraining is required. Employers must periodically evaluate employees to ensure they continue to perform their work safely, and they may need to provide additional training if deficiencies or new hazards are identified.

Qualification for Specific Tasks
Employees working on or near energized lines or equipment must be qualified to perform their tasks safely. Being qualified means that the employee has been trained in the specific hazards of electrical power and demonstrated the ability to perform assigned duties in a way that minimizes risks.

To read the specific requirements, see paragraphs 1910.269(a)(2)(i) through (a)(2)(ii)(E).

Supervision and Observation
Employees must work under direct supervision until they are fully qualified. The employer must ensure that employees in training are not exposed to hazardous situations without proper oversight.

The employer is also responsible for ongoing observations to ensure that employees maintain the necessary qualifications over time. That means supervisors must be trained to recognize their responsibility in ensuring that employees demonstrate – and continue to demonstrate – their qualifications.

In essence, the employer ensures employees are qualified under 1910.269(a)(2) by providing thorough training; verifying employee understanding through demonstrations and assessments; documenting the process; and ensuring ongoing supervision and reevaluation to maintain safe work practices.

Should We Hire a Third-Party Trainer?
While third-party trainers can be part of the process to train employees on safety-related work practices, using their services does not fully satisfy an employer’s obligation to ensure employees are qualified. OSHA places the ultimate responsibility for employee qualification on the employer, which involves more than just providing training.

There are two key points to understand about the role of third-party training in meeting the employer’s obligation. First, even if third-party training is provided, the employer remains responsible for ensuring that employees are fully qualified to safely perform their tasks. And second, this means the employer must verify that any third-party training is adequate, relevant, and specifically addresses the tasks and hazards employees will encounter in the workplace.

Third-Party Training Verification
After third-party training is conducted, the employer still must evaluate employee knowledge and skills to ensure that the training was effective and that each employee truly understands the material.

The employer should verify that the employee can demonstrate proficiency in the specific work practices, procedures and safety measures necessary for their job. This verification often includes hands-on assessments, on-the-job observations or performance-based testing.

Since third-party training may cover general principles and practices, the employer also must ensure that employees receive any additional, site-specific training necessary to address unique hazards and procedures they will face at the employer’s location.

Task-specific qualification may be required based on the actual work to be done (e.g., work near energized lines or equipment), which may not be fully covered by a third-party training program.

Third-party training using qualified trainers with specialized knowledge and skills can be effective, and when effective, this is a defensible method of meeting the 1910.269(a)(2) requirements. The training contract should define what the third party is going to deliver and how they intend to ensure their training’s efficacy.

Still, the employer must ensure that the employee is fully qualified by verifying their ability to perform their job safely, providing additional training when necessary, and ensuring the employee understands site-specific hazards and procedures.

Ultimately, the employer is responsible for the employee’s competence and safety on the job, even if they use external training providers. Third-party training can be a helpful component of an employee’s overall training program, but it must be supplemented and validated by the employer.

About the Author: After 25 years as a transmission-distribution lineman and foreman, Jim Vaughn, CUSP, has devoted the last 27 years to safety and training. A noted author, trainer and lecturer, he is a senior consultant for the Institute for Safety in Powerline Construction. He can be reached at jim@ispconline.com.

The holiday season is a wonderful time to spend with family and friends and to reflect on our gratitude for all the blessings we have. The joy and love we share during this magical season often graces us with memories we’ll cherish for years to come.

But once the holidays are over and Monday rolls around again, it’s time to get back to work. How do you come down from your emotional high and begin to refocus on your work responsibilities?

It’s all about dialing in.

Each of us has an internal switch that we must flip to help ensure we stick around to make more beautiful memories with our loved ones. When we actively, consciously shift our mindset from holiday mode to work mode, we adjust our focus. A significant portion of maintaining that focus involves asking ourselves questions that matter throughout every workday. For example, how engaged do I need to be during this tailboard? Can I get away with only wearing half of my PPE today? I’m just going to make this quick connection – is it OK if I work by myself?

To better understand what I mean, imagine a worker who doesn’t ask himself those questions. Or, imagine if he asked those questions but still felt it was OK not to engage in the tailboard, OK not to wear all his required PPE or OK to work by himself. If that worker were injured or killed because of any of those actions (or inactions), what would you say about him? Probably something along the lines of, “I can’t believe he did that – that’s crazy.”

Now, ask yourself how many times you have put yourself in those same or very similar scenarios. The only difference between you and that injured worker is one word: yet. None of those things has happened to you yet. Next, consider your family and friends for a moment. Think about all the holiday seasons – past and present – you’ve had together making beautiful memories. Then consider the people you work with every day. Picture their families and friends and all the good times they’ve celebrated. Don’t you want those good times to last for many years, for every single one of you?

Maybe you’ve cheated danger in the past. You didn’t fully engage in that tailboard. You chose not to wear all the required PPE for that job you performed. You decided to work alone even though you knew it was safest for two workers to perform that task.

This moment, however, is your opportunity to change your behavior. As the holiday season begins to wane and you’re beckoned back to work, take some time to reflect, refocus and shift back into game mode. Think about all the years of holiday seasons (and much more!) still to come. And then make a daily commitment to (1) asking yourself safety questions that matter and (2) reminding yourself that the decisions you make today will impact all of your days ahead – so be sure to choose wisely.

About the Author: Jennifer A. Martin works as a safety manager for Michigan-based D and T Power LLC (www.dandtpower.com).

Hand Protection for Electrical Shock and Arc Flash Hazards

Written by Hugh Hoagland and Zarheer Jooma, BSEE, M.S. on October 1, 2024. Posted in Worksite Safety.

Read the full article:
Click here.

Ensuring proper hand protection against electrical shock and arc flash hazards is vital for worker safety. This podcast explores advancements in protective gloves, safe work practices, testing methods, and international standards.

Key Takeaways:

• Evolution of Hand Protection: From basic gloves to advanced multihazard protective gear.
• Standards and Testing: Overview of ASTM D120-22 specifications.
• Safe Work Practices: Integrating proper glove use into safety protocols.
• International Standards Updates: Recent developments in global standards.

FAQs:

1. What are the main types of hand protection used for electrical work?

Rubber Insulating Gloves: Protect against electrical shock, classified by voltage rating.

Protector Gloves: Provide mechanical and thermal protection, now available in advanced materials.

2. Why are protector gloves worn over rubber insulating gloves?

• Mechanical Protection: Prevents punctures and cuts.
• Thermal Protection: Shields against heat and flames.
• Grip Enhancement: Improves handling in challenging conditions.

3. What are the key considerations for selecting hand protection for electrical work?

• Shock Hazard: Use gloves rated for appropriate voltage.
• Arc Flash Hazard: Select gloves with sufficient arc ratings.
• Mechanical Hazards: Consider cut and abrasion resistance.
• Environmental Conditions: Assess factors like temperature and chemicals.
• Dexterity Requirements: Choose gloves that allow safe, efficient task performance.

4. How often should rubber insulating gloves be tested?

OSHA mandates electrical testing every six months per ASTM D120, with daily visual inspections before use.

5. What are the recent advancements in hand protection for electrical work?

• New Materials: Improved dexterity, grip, and cut resistance.
• Multi-Hazard Protection: Gloves that combine insulation with other safety features.
• Enhanced Comfort and Fit: Innovations for better usability and compliance.

6. What are the challenges of hand protection in clean room environments?

Non-leather gloves, such as those conforming to ASTM F3258, address contamination concerns while maintaining protection.

7. How do international standards compare to US standards for hand protection?

IEC 60903 lacks thickness requirements but aligns more closely with US practices through updates like IEC 63232.

8. What should workers do when exposed to both shock and arc flash hazards?

Combine rubber insulating gloves with arc-rated protector gloves to meet OSHA and ASTM standards for dual protection.

#ElectricalSafety #ArcFlashProtection #HandProtection #WorkerSafety #PPE #SafetyStandards

In this episode of the Incident Prevention Utility Safety Podcast, Kate Wade interviews Dr. Kevin Rindal, DC, chiropractor, human performance expert, and co-founder of Vimocity. Drawing from his extensive experience with the U.S. Olympic Swim Team and industrial athletes, Dr. Rindal shares insights on preventing soft tissue injuries, implementing dynamic warmup programs, and securing organizational buy-in for holistic well-being strategies. Learn how utilities can leverage sports medicine principles to enhance safety, reduce costs, and improve workers’ quality of life.

Key Takeaways

1. Industrial Athletes and Soft Tissue Injuries: How utility workers face similar physical demands to athletes and the role of dynamic preparation in reducing injury rates.
2. Proactive vs. Reactive Approaches: The importance of addressing leading indicators like pain to prevent more significant injuries or reliance on opioids and other pain mitigations.
3. Integration with Daily Routines: Methods to seamlessly incorporate warmups, muscle maintenance, and recovery into existing workflows, making it scalable for smaller organizations.
4. Leveraging Technology and Gamification: How apps, micro learning, and team challenges foster engagement and create sustainable safety habits.
5. Leadership and Culture: The critical role of leadership buy-in at all levels in making safety and well-being programs successful.

Connect with Kevin:

• LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/
• Email – kevin@vimocity.com

Resource Links:

• Short form job-task specific training video | LINK
• Dynamic/ Full-body movement routine (5 min or less) | LINK
• Avoid Slips, Trips and Falls video | LINK

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

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

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

#UtilitySafety #IndustrialAthletes #InjuryPrevention #Vimocity #WorkplaceWellbeing #DynamicWarmups

In this episode of the Safety by Design podcast, Pam Tompkins, CUSP, shares her extensive 40-year journey in the utility safety industry. Pam dives into the critical importance of intentional safety planning and proactive assessments, emphasizing the need for quality over quantity in safety initiatives. With insights drawn from her global consulting experience, Pam provides actionable strategies to design systems that protect both employees and organizations. She also previews her upcoming article series in Incident Prevention Magazine, which will provide a deep dive into transforming safety practices for utility professionals.

Key Takeaways

1. Proactive Assessments are Vital: Most safety assessments are reactive, conducted after incidents occur. Pam stresses the need for proactive assessments to prevent significant injuries or fatalities.
2. Quality Over Quantity: Simply adding more safety initiatives doesn’t translate to better safety outcomes. Organizations must ensure their programs are effective and aligned.
3. Importance of Standards: Leveraging ANSI and ISO standards can guide organizations in creating robust safety systems.
4. Systemic Alignment Matters: Safety programs should align at all organizational levels to ensure effectiveness and consistency.
5. Baseline and Metrics: Establishing a baseline and measurable goals for every safety initiative is essential for tracking success.

#SafetyByDesign #UtilitySafety #ProactiveSafety #CUSPLeadership #IncidentPrevention #WorkplaceSafety

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

As part of its mission to make the road a safer place, Grote Industries has announced its new line of warning lights, Grote WorkShield. Powered by HINVII technology, WorkShield lamps use minimally visible, low-wavelength light to illuminate high-visibility material, significantly raising its conspicuousness without distracting personnel or disturbing traffic.

Designed to deliver the visibility critical to worker safety, Grote’s WorkShield lights are versatile enough for any application and can be strategically mounted on a wide variety of equipment like utility trucks, tow trucks and emergency response vehicles. This allows them to illuminate the high-visibility clothing and material on a work site without directing visible light into traffic or other surroundings.

The WorkShield product line currently features two flat-mount options. The first uses six LED diodes producing low-wavelength HINVII light, while the second supplements the base model with four amber light diodes for added versatility. Both versions mount easily to nearly any solid, flat surface. www.grote.com

KASK, a designer and manufacturer of head protection, has launched the Utilities Collection – created to protect U.S. utility workers from electrical hazards, heat and flames.

This new collection combines advanced helmet features with safety accessories, focusing on fire-resistant, fire-retardant and arc-rated equipment. It is specifically designed to meet the demanding safety requirements of U.S. professionals in industries responsible for maintaining city infrastructures. The KASK Utilities Collection has been tested against multiple arc flash safety standards.

At the heart of the new collection is the ZENITH X2 FR helmet, which meets ANSI Z89.1 Type I and Type II standards, providing all-around protection against impacts and penetration from the front, rear and sides. KASK subjected Zenith X2 FR to the ASTM F2621 test to ensure that it did not melt, drip or ignite when exposed to high levels of thermal energy. The helmet passed the test, ensuring protection at energy levels of up to 19 cal/cm².

To further enhance worker safety in fire-prone and high-risk environments, the helmet can easily be equipped with an FR sun shield, FR neck protector, arc visor and FR padding. www.kask-safety.com/en-us/utilities-collection.htm

The Barry D.E.W. Line R4 Rescue Kit (CHANCE Catalog no. PSCDEWR4050) is a reusable, simple, complete, self-contained and ready-to-use kit that can be deployed at a moment’s notice should an emergency self-evacuation situation arise. The kit can be cleaned, tested and reused after inspection. The storage bag has built-in hanging loops for easy storage on standard bucket hooks, and it contains a 50-foot-long Barry D.E.W. Line Rescue Rope that is pre-strung through a figure-eight descender (other descender models are optional) and mounted to two locking carabiners. Two 6-foot-long anchor slings are also included in case the emergency requires an additional or alternative anchorage. The Rescue Rope meets or exceeds the dry and wet electrical requirements of IEC 62192:2009 and ASTM F1701-12; is arc flash rated to 40 cal/cm² (Category 4); and has a working load limit of 500 pounds with a 15:1 safety factor. All Barry D.E.W. Line insulating rope tools clean easily with CHANCE Hotstick Wipes and can be electrically tested with a CHANCE Wet/Dry Hotstick Tester. For bucket trucks that raise higher than 50 feet, custom-length kits can be made to order. Contact your local CHANCE Lineman Grade Tools Distributor for more information. www.hubbell.com/hubbellpowersystems/en/products/barry-d-e-w-line-r4-rescue-kit-50-ft-15-2-m/p/16439675

The Greenlee EK425LXR 6-Ton In-line Remote Service Tool is the brand’s most versatile battery tool, featuring interchangeable heads for eight different crimping and cutting applications in both remote and hand-held applications. The EK425LXR provides access to hard-to-reach overhead areas while giving users complete operational control. Designed to keep users in the safe zone while crimping and cutting in utility distribution environments, its lightweight design (4 pounds) and 350-degree rotating head also minimize strain, helping to reduce user fatigue. Equipped with a universal remote, The EK425LXR is compatible with all Greenlee remote tools, allowing for both hand-held and remote operation. Visual indicators provide tool status with forward-stop-reverse at any point, while the patented trigger jacket secures the tool to various-length hot sticks using its universal spline connection. The 2.0-Ah Makita battery in the EK425LXR charges in under 25 minutes, provides more cycles per charge and pairs with the Greenlee Link mobile app for performance tracking. An integrated Intelli-Crimp System with pressure sensor monitors the force of each crimp and provides the operator with a visual and audible alert if the force is below specifications. www.greenlee.com

LineWise has updated its Insulated Work Platform (IWP), including the option to hydraulically articulate the jib up to 45 degrees for improved access to hard-to-reach areas. The IWP is designed for installation on hydraulically telescoping cranes to increase the utilization of existing equipment. This versatility not only reduces the need for expensive, dedicated insulated aerial equipment, but it also offers a solution for utilities struggling to procure bucket trucks in the current market.

Equipped with a corona ring, the IWP is rated for barehand work up to 765 kV. The insulated fiberglass jib is sealed from moisture and other contaminants to maintain insulation properties. It includes a visible desiccant canister and current leakage monitor for maximum safety.

Fiber-optic or radio controls are integrated into the crane’s control valves to operate all functions from the basket, such as hydraulic telescoping and rotating of the crane. If equipped with the optional hydraulic articulating jib, featuring a self-contained hydraulic system, this function can also be operated via remote while in the air. The articulation capability can help lineworkers reach the middle phase and other difficult access areas. Variable-speed, programmable controls offer precise, smooth operation when adjusting the position of the basket. https://line-wise.com

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways:

• SF6 Gas Switches: Due to environmental concerns, SF6 gas switches are being phased out. Leaking switches must be addressed promptly to avoid regulatory issues. An audit of existing breakers is recommended to develop a replacement program.
• OSHA Regulations on Hot-Line Clamps: OSHA does not explicitly prohibit the use of hot-line clamps to make or break loads, provided that employees are not exposed to hazards during the operation. Employers should ensure that devices used are designed to handle the current involved and that safety protocols are strictly followed.
• Handling Insulated Elbows: Insulated elbows in pad-mounted transformers are not considered safe to touch with bare hands, even when wearing rubber gloves. Manufacturers advise against handling energized elbows due to potential safety risks.

#UtilitySafety #SF6GasSwitches #OSHACompliance #ElectricalSafety #IncidentPrevention

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

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

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

Outdoor workers across various industries face numerous hazards on the job site. One sometimes overlooked yet potentially deadly threat is lightning. A leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States, lightning strikes pose a significant risk to workers, surroundings and equipment. According to OSHA, in the U.S., over 300 people are struck by lightning every year, often causing victims injury, disability and even death. Understanding the dangers of lightning and implementing proper safety protocols, including the use of advanced detection technology, is critical for reducing risk and ensuring a safe working environment. 

Dangers to Outdoor Workers
Lightning is a powerful force of nature; a single bolt can contain up to 1 billion volts – enough to heat the air around it to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit, five times hotter than the surface of the sun. This immense amount of energy can cause catastrophic damage to both the people and objects it strikes.

Outdoor workers are particularly susceptible to lightning strikes due to their exposure. Lightning often targets the tallest object in a given area; isolated objects like trees, utility poles and cranes; and conductive materials. In addition, in the U.S., many lightning injuries and deaths are related to ground current. When a lightning strike impacts the ground or an object on the ground, the electrical discharge occurs primarily along the ground’s surface rather than penetrating deep beneath it. This can generate a potentially lethal ground current near the site of the lightning strike.

It is important to understand these phenomena, especially given the fact that lightning can strike even when the sky appears to be clear and blue; an instance of this is sometimes referred to as a “bolt from the blue.” In fact, one can hear thunder from 10 miles away, but lightning can strike from more than 25 miles away from any rainfall.

Lightning Safety Protocols
OSHA emphasizes the importance of emergency action plans for severe weather threats, including lightning. A crucial component of these plans is establishing procedures for monitoring weather conditions and alerting workers to threats.

Employers must take steps to educate workers about the dangers of lightning, train them to recognize the signs of an approaching storm and develop clear response procedures. These procedures should include seeking safe shelter and designating assembly points or check-in practices for all personnel once a lightning warning has been issued.

Technology for Enhanced Safety
Education on risks and safety protocols is vital. Technology can also help to keep workers safe. Recent advances have made real-time lightning detection more accessible and accurate. These detection systems can provide critical warnings, alerting workers to the presence of lightning, thereby improving their situational awareness and allowing them time to seek safety.

Lightning detection systems use the same technology as expensive weather stations to track electrical activity in the atmosphere and can detect strikes from up to 25 miles away. Some detectors are portable and can be placed around a job site, while others are integrated into vehicles or equipment either during the OEM stage or as an aftermarket installation.

Protecting Heavy Equipment
Heavy equipment and machinery are particularly vulnerable to lightning due to their size and height. A direct lightning strike can cause substantial damage, from frying electronic controls to igniting flammable materials. Even indirect strikes can result in power surges that disrupt equipment operation.

Installing lightning rods and surge protectors on equipment can help divert strikes and reduce damage. Additionally, using detection systems to alert operators of approaching lightning can minimize risks by providing time for workers to lower booms, turn off vulnerable electronics and seek a covered facility for their machinery.

Conclusion
Lightning is an extreme force of nature that demands respect. By understanding its risks, establishing comprehensive safety protocols and leveraging advanced detection technology, employers can significantly reduce the threat that lightning poses to workers in the field, their equipment and the surrounding environment.

About the Author: Dan Gibson is the channel manager for TALOS Lightning Detectors (https://taloslightningdetectors.com).

Barry Dielectric Nets are designed to protect live-line crews and the public by providing an efficient, nonconductive barrier during overhead stringing operations. Engineered using advanced synthetic fibers and tested up to 100 kV/foot akin to hot sticks, this insulating net system reduces the risk of accidental contact with a dropped conductor or sky wire, preventing potential injury and avoiding costly outages.

The nets are lightweight, robust and offer flexibility across various applications. They can be strung over wood poles or metal towers, and they remain installed for long periods without losing their insulating properties when subjected to the elements. In effect, these act as a protective barrier during maintenance or construction of new high-voltage lines. They are installed above energized substations, at road and train crossings, over public spaces/parking lots, or anywhere a temporary barrier is required to separate live zones from ground.

Live-line crews using Barry Dielectric Nets can work with greater confidence and reduced risk of human error or mechanical failure. This translates into improved productivity and fewer safety incidents. They are UV- and weather-resistant, ensuring reliable performance in harsh, wet or humid environments. The nets offer a tangle-free design, making them a rapidly deployable solution for crews working in confined or in windy environments. www.barry.ca

Huskie Tools, a pioneer in the design and manufacture of high-quality tools for the electrical utility industry, has announced the release of the SpeedCut CrimpForce Storm Jaw, a groundbreaking innovation that redefines performance standards in storm repair and power restoration or installation projects.

Developed with the lineworker in mind, the SpeedCut CrimpForce Storm Jaw combines cutting-edge technology with practical, field-tested features to streamline the critical work of power restoration. Designed for use in the harshest conditions where time and reliability are paramount, this tool significantly reduces downtime and boosts productivity, empowering lineworkers to restore power faster and more efficiently than ever.

Key features and benefits include dual functionality, allowing lineworkers to cut and crimp using a single tool; versatility and adaptability to a range of equipment already familiar to industry professionals; and the capability to cut up to 4/0 ACSR, ACAR, AAC and AAAC cables, with blades crafted for full-tension and semi-tension cable applications, ensuring performance under pressure. https://huskietools.com

This is the lightest and now the most innovative lineworker wrench on the market, according to MADI. Designed with functionality and safety in mind, this wrench is a must-have tool for lineworkers everywhere.

This new MADI wrench has a nonconductive patented handle that is up to 30% lighter than any other wrench, reducing fatigue and allowing for less weight on the tool belt. This wrench is 1000V approved and meets ASTM F1505 standards, enhancing safety in high-voltage environments. The unique patent-pending slot socket allows for installing and removing eye nuts, eye bolts and pole steps, streamlining work for lineworkers. Plus, the innovative 5-in-1 design also accommodates multiple hardware sizes, fitting square heads of 3/4”, 13/16”, 1” and 1-1/8” (hardware sizes 1/2”, 13/16”, 5/8” and 3/4”). The wrench also features a large, rubberized handle for a comfortable and secure grip. Additional features include our bolt-thru design, 24-tooth ratchet and an extra-large lanyard hole for added safety while working at heights. https://madilinemantools.com/products/5-in-1-slotted-insulated-big-wrench/

Bierer’s exclusive three sessions, tailored to meet your organization’s objectives, consist of Lineworker Safety Tool Competence; Your Electric Reality; and Live-Line Training with Bierer Products. The Lineworker Safety Tool Competence Workshop that Bierer Meters shares is just one of several Bierer USA no-cost services. Email safetytraining@bierermeters.com to discover more information, receive a copy of the workshop curriculum and schedule your line team experience.

Bierer USA services include field training, technical service, tool and work methods meetings, and safety conference speaking, all at no cost. www.bierermeters.com

The next generation of adjustable overhead skinners is faster, simpler and safer than ever. Designed with lineworkers in mind, the US01-7100 is the most dependable solution for tackling a wide variety of 15- to 35-kV overhead wire. This innovative tool eliminates the need for traditional stripping knives, significantly reducing the risk of cuts or lacerations. Its heavy-duty construction easily removes the jacket and insulation from overhead wires. The tool features colored knobs for set-and-forget blade positioning, including a standard depth stop. The red knob, equipped with a reflective revolution marker, allows for visible-at-a-distance blade depth setting, while the blue knob is used for opening and closing the jaw. The US01-7100 is designed to strip wire without spiraling during ring cuts, ensuring clean jacket removal without the need for a clamp. Additionally, a selector switch enables quick transitions between ring and spiral cut settings. The tool’s body weight has been reduced from the original design, making it easier to operate with a hot stick. www.ripley-tools.com/product/us01-7100hs/

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

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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/

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

Key Takeaways:

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

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

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

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

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

“A Roundtable with Electricom & Sellenriek: Using Simulators to Close the Skills Gap”

WEBINAR RECORDING

MEET YOUR SPEAKERS

CM Labs builds hi-tech solutions to help clients design advanced equipment and prepare for skilled operations.

Developer of Vortex Studio, the industry-leading platform for creating real-time interactive simulations within virtual environments, CM Labs provides capabilities for training simulators, mission rehearsal, serious games, virtual prototyping and testing.

While temperatures have begun to cool across the country, heat emergencies can still occur. And because heat is the leading cause of death among all hazardous weather conditions in the U.S., OSHA recently published its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings (see more at www.osha.gov/heat-exposure/rulemaking). Would you know what to do if one of your co-workers collapsed on the job due to heat-related illness?

Let’s say you are working in the right-of-way. It’s a simple pole transfer, but it’s being done out of the hooks. The temperature is already over 90 degrees Fahrenheit and expected to climb close to 100. There are four of you: you and Joe, the climbers, and two other men on the ground. Joe says he is feeling a bit lightheaded as he is pulling up and dead-ending one of the 336 aluminum primary conductors. You notice he is flushed and sweating and has drenched his shirt and pants. You say to Joe, “Hey, we have this outage for most of the day, so let’s climb down and take a break in the shade and get a cold drink.” Joe replies, “What? Did you say take a break?” You confirm and Joe immediately starts to descend without speaking.

When Joe gets to the ground and is stepping off the pole, one of the ground guys notices he is soaking wet; even his leather gloves are soaked through. Joe then wobbles and falls to the ground in a heap, unconscious.

What do you do?

My guess is that you have training in first aid, CPR, bucket rescue and pole-top rescue. But how often have you rehearsed for an event that requires use of that training? Studies have proven mental rehearsal and visualization fire the same neurons in our brain as actual physical practice.

To be effective, mental rehearsal must be specific. In the case of Joe’s collapse, the list of things to be done include the following:

• Assess Joe’s condition and call 911.
• Begin cooling Joe’s body temperature. What will you cool him with and how will you administer it?
• Determine how long it will be before emergency responders arrive. Can the responders get to you in the right-of-way? Be sure to secure the scene for their safety.
• Locate the first-aid kit and AED.

Call 911
Upon calling 911, you will be expected to provide your location and an assessment of Joe. What would your assessment be? Joe is unconscious but breathing, and he is flushed and soaking wet with sweat.

In the field, very few of us are trained to the level of a responding paramedic. Our job is to recognize and appropriately treat Joe while waiting for first responders. In a heat emergency, a change in consciousness must be considered heat stroke until proven otherwise. It’s also important to note that heat stroke is often described as flushed, hot and dry. However, “dry” is unlikely in the case of industrial athletes performing physical tasks outdoors in high temperatures.

In Joe’s case, immediate, aggressive cooling is necessary; that’s because if heat stroke is not treated more aggressively than heat exhaustion, the outcome can be devastating. So, do you have the right supplies on-site to cool him? The American Stroke Association recommends moving Joe into the shade or indoors, removing his excess clothing, and cooling him with water, fans, ice packs or cold, wet towels. (See www.stroke.org/en/professionals/stroke-resource-library/prevention/heat-stroke-vs-stroke for more, including information on the differences between a stroke – which is caused by a blocked or burst blood vessel in the brain – and heat stroke, which is when your body overheats and your core body temperature rises significantly.)

When Will First Responders Arrive?
After Joe’s collapse, you may be tempted to put him in the company pickup truck and rush him to the designated hospital written on your job brief. Don’t do that. The 911 system is designed to bring patients to the closest appropriate hospital – which may not be the one on your job brief. Hospitals and urgent care facilities can also be overwhelmed by patient load due to anything from a pandemic to a bus accident to another multi-casualty event. Always follow the 911 dispatcher’s directions.

In Joe’s case, imagine the dispatcher says, “It will be 15 minutes before help arrives at the intersection of the road and the right-of-way you are in.” Can you meet the responders and quickly bring them to Joe? If more time and equipment are needed to access Joe, are you prepared to continue aggressively cooling him while you wait? Do you have the right supplies? Again, what is your plan?

First Aid and Supplies
Because Joe is unconscious, he can’t protect his airway if he vomits or if secretions move to the back of his throat. Positioning him on his side is warranted to keep his airway clear.

While waiting for first responders, Joe should be assessed regularly to make sure he is still breathing. If he is not, CPR must be started, and an AED should be available for use. Someone will need to stay with Joe at all times and monitor his condition, including his continued cooling. His shirt should be off, and cooling should be applied to his armpits, neck and groin.

You might be wondering, how should we continue to cool Joe with the finite number of cooling aids available on the job site? One option is to move Joe to the cab of a work vehicle and make use of the air-conditioning in addition to cooling him with water, ice packs and the like. Oil spill kits can come in handy, too; some types have spill reservoirs that resemble a kiddie pool. Put Joe in the “kiddie pool” and pour in ice water. Note that you could also dunk an absorbent sock in ice water and apply it around Joe’s neck.

The Cooling-Too-Quickly Myth
Yes, children can develop febrile seizures from changing body temperature too quickly. But for the 14 years I worked at the Ironman tent in Lake Placid, New York, we always had a kiddie pool with ice water in which to submerge adult athletes suspected to be having heat emergencies. That’s because a human being can survive a seizure, but we will not survive if our brain is cooking above 105.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Aggressive cooling is necessary if we suspect heat stroke.

What About the Person Who Says, ‘I’m OK’?
Profuse sweating in high temperatures can create an electrolyte imbalance. Low sodium is a problem called hyponatremia; low potassium is known as hypokalemia. The human heart relies on a balance of sodium and potassium to create the potential necessary to beat properly. When someone has been cooled down from a heat emergency and begins to improve, it is very possible they still have an irregular heartbeat that can cause sudden cardiac arrest. As such, someone recovering from a heat emergency should not be left alone. This is unsafe and can result in their death. Also, someone recovering from a heat emergency may be nauseated and won’t want to eat; they should be encouraged to eat bananas and drink fluids with electrolytes.

Conclusion
The time to prepare for emergencies is before they occur. Doing mental rehearsals to prepare for an event improves outcomes, reduces the stress response during the event and allows us to safely fail. What’s your plan?

About the Author: Bill Martin, CUSP, NRP, RN, DIMM, is the president and CEO of Think Tank Project LLC (www.thinkprojectllc.com). He has held previous roles as a lineman, line supervisor, project manager and safety director.

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

Key Takeaways:

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

Check out the IUOTA Conference – Conference Link

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

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

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

Gas Clip Technologies manufactures top-of-the-line gas detectors and accessories that meet every budget. Each product meets the highest standard of reliability and longevity to help ensure that every user’s safety remains uncompromised. Gas Clip’s MGC Simple and Simple Plus are a perfect example. The MGC Simple and Simple Plus have continuous run times of two years and three years, respectively. Additionally, after being charged and calibrated during manufacturing, neither the MGC Simple nor the Simple Plus requires recharging or routine calibration, although bump testing prior to every use is advised. Both detectors are designed to identify the presence and level of hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases. www.gascliptech.com

FallTech has launched AXIS, the ultimate Minimum Required Fall Clearance and Safe Work Zone Calculator. This innovative tool redefines safety planning by replacing outdated paper charts with cutting-edge digital technology and decades of proven safety engineering expertise.

AXIS goes beyond the capabilities of a traditional calculator – it’s a game-changer in safety planning. With a focus on precision and reliability, AXIS delivers unparalleled accuracy tailored to specific FallTech self-retracting lifelines and job requirements.

Featuring a dynamic 3D digital interface, AXIS simplifies complex calculations into straightforward, accurate assessments, whether you’re planning or making on-site adjustments. This flexibility allows for quick recalculations for adjusted anchor points or minimum clearances, reducing downtime and ensuring maximum safety compliance. www.falltech.com

The Andax Spill Tray recently received the 2024 OH&S New Product of the Year Award for Spill Control & Containment.

The Andax Spill Tray Reusable Absorbent Drip Pad System is the ultimate solution for oil-selective spill containment, perfect for managing any drip or leak.

What sets the Andax Spill Tray apart is its innovative design featuring four sidewalls that act as a mini containment system, effectively preventing leaks from overflowing or leaking over the edge. The tray is reusable and made of a flexible PVC liner, offering a higher containment capacity than standard drip pads. Paired with multiple layers of bonded oil-selective absorbent pads, it ensures more reliable and efficient spill control. When the replaceable absorbent pad is saturated, simply replace it with a new one. www.andax.com

Bollé Safety, a leader in personal protective equipment eye protection, has launched SEAMLESS Vision, a new online ordering service for prescription safety glasses. This new platform is designed to make prescription safety eyewear accessible to professionals everywhere, streamlining the process while ensuring quality and convenience.
As pioneers in the prescription eyewear market, Bollé Safety is solving industry challenges that companies face in providing prescription safety glasses to employees. Traditional barriers such as time constraints, limited access to optical outlets and complicated ordering procedures often impede efforts. SEAMLESS Vision provides a digital solution to these obstacles, enhancing accessibility and efficiency through a user-friendly interface available on computers, tablets and mobile phones.

SEAMLESS Vision introduces a seamless, 100% digital platform that simplifies the ordering process for safety glasses with corrective lenses. This innovative service supports professionals by allowing precise pupillary distance measurements using advanced technology and offers comprehensive lens options, including both progressive and single-vision lenses. www.bolle-safety.us

Gray Tools has released a full line of insulated hand tools to meet the growing needs of commercial and residential electricians, industrial maintenance professionals, mobile/field service technicians and electric vehicle mechanics. The assortment consists of more than 275 products, including both sets and loose tools, with new tools continuing to be added as Gray expands the line. Each tool goes through a lengthy, labor-intensive process to ensure maximum protection for the operator up to 1,000 VAC.

Gray’s insulated line includes ratchets, sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, nut drivers, pliers, hex keys and hacksaws, as well as a selection of uncommon tools. Various styles and sizes, including SAE and metric, are available to meet a range of job-site requirements. Each tool features a dual-colored insulation that serves as a visual safety indicator. If the outer orange layer of insulation becomes damaged, an inner yellow layer alerts the user that the tool is no longer safe for use.

Gray’s rigorous multistep insulation process is designed to meet or exceed ASTM F1505 standards for insulating adhesion, dielectric properties, flammability and durability. When the process is completed, each tool is charged with 10,000 volts of energy for 180 seconds to ensure its insulation resists potential electric shock. Other tests are performed to verify the flame resistance and durability of the insulating material. https://shopdynamictools.com, https://graytools.com

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

Key Takeaways

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

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

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

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

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

In this episode of the Incident Prevention Utility Safety Podcast, Kate Wade interviews Dr. Kevin Rindal, DC, chiropractor, human performance expert, and co-founder of Vimocity. Drawing from his extensive experience with the U.S. Olympic Swim Team and industrial athletes, Dr. Rindal shares insights on preventing soft tissue injuries, implementing dynamic warmup programs, and securing organizational buy-in for holistic well-being strategies. Learn how utilities can leverage sports medicine principles to enhance safety, reduce costs, and improve workers’ quality of life.

Key Takeaways

1. Industrial Athletes and Soft Tissue Injuries: How utility workers face similar physical demands to athletes and the role of dynamic preparation in reducing injury rates.
2. Proactive vs. Reactive Approaches: The importance of addressing leading indicators like pain to prevent more significant injuries or reliance on opioids and other pain mitigations.
3. Integration with Daily Routines: Methods to seamlessly incorporate warmups, muscle maintenance, and recovery into existing workflows, making it scalable for smaller organizations.
4. Leveraging Technology and Gamification: How apps, micro learning, and team challenges foster engagement and create sustainable safety habits.
5. Leadership and Culture: The critical role of leadership buy-in at all levels in making safety and well-being programs successful.

Connect with Kevin:

• LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/
• Email – kevin@vimocity.com

Resource Links:

• Short form job-task specific training video | LINK
• Dynamic/ Full-body movement routine (5 min or less) | LINK
• Avoid Slips, Trips and Falls video | LINK

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

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

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

#UtilitySafety #IndustrialAthletes #InjuryPrevention #Vimocity #WorkplaceWellbeing #DynamicWarmups

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

Key Takeaways:

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

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

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

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

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

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.

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

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/