In this powerful episode recorded live at the iP Utility Safety Conference in Charleston, Brent Jeffries of Bierer Meters and Billy Martin of Think Tank Project LLC dive deep into the overlooked element of utility safety: human connection. They explore how emotional energy, team environment, and psychological safety can make or break a crew’s performance. From “rebuilding the energy wheel” to becoming the invisible force of change, this conversation reveals the power of empathy, intention, and interaction in keeping utility workers safe.

Key Takeaways:

• Connection is a safety tool: Emotional and interpersonal connection within teams enhances decision-making and reduces risk.

• The “11th element” in energy systems is people—and they must be factored into hazard assessments.

• Environment shapes behavior: A supportive work environment directly impacts performance and longevity, as seen through both human and animal examples.

• Words have power: Negative language can become a hazard; leaders should speak with intention to neutralize risk.

• Small gestures spark change: Simple acts like eye contact, encouragement, or a check-in can be the catalyst for major cultural shifts.

 5 Questions & Answers:

Q1: What is the “11th element” Brant refers to in his energy wheel?

A: It’s people—the human factor often missing when discussing risks from energy sources. People introduce variables that can either mitigate or magnify those risks.

Q2: Why is eye contact in meetings and safety talks so important?

A: According to studies referenced by Billy, eye contact synchronizes brainwaves and builds engagement, making communication more impactful and meaningful.

Q3: How can leaders positively shift a team’s culture?

A: By creating an environment of trust, curiosity, and communication. Even small, positive interactions can interrupt negativity and ripple into long-term change.

Q4: Why is it important to not wait for policy to make safety changes?

A: As Billy shared, real change often comes too late. Leaders should act on what’s right now instead of waiting for approval or regulation.

Q5: How does the “wind” analogy apply to utility safety?

A: Wind represents invisible forces—like morale, communication, and emotions—that shape outcomes. Leaders can’t always see them, but they can harness and redirect them.

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

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

#UtilitySafety #HumanPerformance #SafetyLeadership #WorkplaceCulture #EmotionalIntelligence #SafetyInnovation

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

In this episode of Built In, Not Bolted On, host Doug Hill sits down with safety leader and educator David McPeak to explore the real keys to successful Human and Organizational Performance (HOP). Through storytelling, relatable analogies, and a few laughs, they break down the power of caring leadership, building a just culture, the dangers of overcomplicating safety systems, and the importance of embedding safety into the DNA of an organization. From tools like “E + R = O” to the “village-by-village” model of influence, this episode provides a practical, people-first look at how to make safety initiatives stick—for good.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1. Culture eats strategy for breakfast. Safety systems must be embedded into the culture—not simply bolted on as compliance requirements.

2. Toxic culture is a showstopper. No safety program will succeed in an environment that lacks trust, respect, and accountability.

3. Success starts with relationships. Building strong, caring teams helps create the psychological safety needed to speak up and improve performance.

4. Don’t overcomplicate safety. Practical, repeatable tools that workers understand and use in context matter more than complex policies.

5. Peer-level champions and simple tools like “E + R = O” and performance mode awareness can drive real change from the ground up.

5 Relevant Questions & Answers:

Q1: What’s the key to implementing effective Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) strategies?

A1: Commitment and time. It’s not about quick fixes—it’s about embedding care, consistency, and communication into every level of the organization.

Q2: Why do many safety programs fail?

A2: They’re often implemented in toxic cultures or made too complex. Without foundational trust and simple, relatable tools, programs won’t stick.

Q3: How can you tell if a safety initiative is “built in” versus “bolted on”?

A3: “Built-in” programs are part of daily work, language, and habits. “Bolted-on” programs feel forced, top-down, and are quickly abandoned.

Q4: What role do performance modes play in safety?

A4: Understanding if a worker is in skill-, rule-, or knowledge-based mode helps choose the right tool—like saying it out loud, step-by-step checks, or stopping work to seek help.

Q5: How can leaders support cultural safety transformation?

A5: By modeling desired behaviors, creating a safe space for feedback, understanding how each role sees safety, and helping translate tools into all departments—not just field crews.

#BuiltInNotBoltedOn #UtilitySafety #HumanPerformance #SafetyCulture

#OrganizationalLeadership #JustCulture

Contact Doug: doug@utilitybusinessmedia.com

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

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

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

Safety by Design - Empowering Leadership and Employee Involvement with Pam Tompkins CSP, CUSP

Read the article - https://incident-prevention.com/blog/safety-by-design-leadership-and-employee-involvement/

In this episode of Safety by Design, we welcome back safety expert Pam Tompkins, CUSP, CSP, to explore the foundational role of leadership and employee involvement in building effective safety systems. Based on her recent article in Incident Prevention magazine, Pam shares candid insights on overcoming middle management roadblocks, building measurable KPIs, and empowering workers at all levels—from new apprentices to seasoned frontline leaders. Tune in as Pam breaks down why involving the workforce is not optional but essential to safety success—and how organizations can align top-down and bottom-up strategies to protect their people and drive meaningful change.

Key Takeaways:

1. People are the foundation of safety—rules and programs only work when employees are actively involved in shaping and executing them.

2. Middle management is often the bottleneck in safety performance due to lack of field experience and misaligned priorities.

3. Effective safety systems require alignment across all levels: senior leaders, middle managers, and frontline employees.

4. KPIs must be tailored by role—senior leadership, middle management, and field crews should each have performance metrics tied to their unique influence on safety.

5. Safety is not just policy—it’s integration, and organizations must continuously measure, evaluate, and adapt their systems with employee feedback.

❓ 5 Relevant Questions & Answers:

Q1: Why is employee involvement essential to a successful safety system?

A1: Without employees, there is no safety system. Engagement ensures processes are practical, understood, and effectively integrated into real-world tasks.

Q2: What role does middle management play in the success—or failure—of safety programs?

A2: Middle managers often act as a roadblock if they prioritize production over safety or lack a true understanding of field-level risks.

Q3: How can senior leaders improve safety outcomes?

A3: By understanding the real “look of safety,” engaging directly with field teams, and holding themselves accountable for organizational risk tolerance.

Q4: What kind of KPIs are most effective for evaluating safety?

A4: Role-specific KPIs—like field engagement for executives or measurable improvements in hazard mitigation for frontline supervisors—are key.

Q5: What’s the danger of not aligning top-down and bottom-up safety efforts?

A5: It creates a culture of distrust, disengagement, and missed opportunities to improve safety. Full integration is necessary for success.

#UtilitySafety #WorkplaceSafety #SafetyLeadership #SafetyCulture #EmployeeEngagement #FrontlineSafety

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

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

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

Optimizing Arc Flash Protection: The Crucial Role of Layered Clothing

A layered approach that includes FR/AR undergarments can enhance worker safety, comfort and compliance.

Read the article here - https://incident-prevention.com/blog/optimizing-arc-flash-protection-the-crucial-role-of-layered-clothing/

Arc flash incidents can happen in a split second, but the right preparation can make all the difference. In this episode of The Deep Dive, we break down the must-know insights from the article “Optimizing Arc Flash Protection: The Crucial Role of Layered Clothing” by Derick Sang, featured in Incident Prevention Magazine. From flame-resistant undergarments to outerwear strategy, we explore why a layered clothing system isn’t just safer — it’s smarter. Learn how layering improves protection, comfort, compliance, and even day-to-day adaptability in the field. Whether you’re in safety leadership or on the front lines, this episode delivers actionable takeaways you can put to work today.

✅ Key Takeaways:

1. Layered Clothing Enhances Protection: Combining base and outer layers boosts defense against arc flash energy more effectively than a single garment.

2. Comfort & Moisture Management Matter: Layering helps regulate temperature and sweat, improving field comfort.

3. Compliance Isn’t Optional: OSHA, NFPA 70E, and ASTM standards mandate FR/AR clothing and recognize layering as an effective strategy.

4. Base Layers Are Often Overlooked: FR-rated undergarments are critical for secondary protection and shouldn’t be substituted with just cotton.

5. Training & Maintenance Are Vital: Proper education on wear and care ensures PPE is used correctly and continues to perform over time.

❓ Five Questions & Answers:

Q1: Why isn’t a single flame-resistant garment enough in high-risk environments?

A1: While common, single layers can be uncomfortable and might not meet protection needs. Layering offers cumulative protection and energy dissipation.

Q2: What role do FR base layers play in arc flash safety?

A2: They act as a secondary defense, especially if outerwear shifts or fails during an event, protecting the skin and helping prevent burns.

Q3: Are layered systems recognized by safety standards?

A3: Yes. OSHA, NFPA 70E, and ASTM F1506 all support layered approaches and place responsibility on employers to provide proper gear.

Q4: How does layering improve comfort for utility workers?

A4: It regulates body temperature and wicks away moisture, keeping workers dry and more comfortable throughout changing weather conditions.

Q5: What training should accompany an FR layered clothing system?

A5: Workers should be taught how to wear layers properly, understand when PPE is required, and avoid compromising safety by adding non-FR outerwear.

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

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

#ArcFlashSafety #FlameResistantClothing #UtilitySafety #WorkplaceProtection #PPECompliance #IncidentPrevention #PPE

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

In this episode of Built In, Not Bolted On with host Doug Hill, CUSP, we dive deep into the world of utility safety culture, exploring the latest risk management strategies, regulatory challenges, and best practices to keep crews safe. Our host shares firsthand experiences and expert insights on hazard identification, compliance updates, and leadership in safety culture. Whether you’re in line work, transmission, or distribution, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you enhance workplace safety and efficiency.

Contact Doug: doug@utilitybusinessmedia.com

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

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

Key Takeaways:

•Risk Mitigation Strategies – How to proactively identify and address workplace hazards.

•Compliance & Regulations – Updates on industry standards and their impact on daily operations.

•Technology & Safety – The role of innovative tools in improving worker protection.

•Leadership in Safety – Why management commitment is crucial for fostering a strong safety culture.

•Lessons from the Field – Real-world scenarios that highlight best practices and potential pitfalls.

Five Relevant Questions & Answers from the Podcast:

1.Q: What are the biggest safety challenges facing the utility industry today?

A: The biggest challenges include hazard identification, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and integrating new technology while maintaining worker safety.

2.Q: How can companies improve their safety culture?

A: Companies must prioritize training, encourage open communication, and lead by example to create an environment where safety is a shared responsibility.

3.Q: What role does technology play in utility safety?

A: Innovations like wearable safety devices, AI-driven monitoring, and automated reporting systems are enhancing how companies manage risks.

4.Q: How do changing regulations impact utility workers?

A: New safety laws require continuous education and adaptation, ensuring workers stay compliant and protected in evolving work environments.

5.Q: What is one key piece of advice for improving safety in the field?

A: Always prioritize situational awareness, follow protocols, and never hesitate to speak up about potential hazards.

#UtilitySafety #WorkplaceSafety #LinemanLife #RiskManagement #SafetyCulture #OSHACompliance #PowerGrid #ElectricalSafety

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

In this episode of The Utility Safety Podcast, host Kate Wade sits down with Shawn Galloway, a renowned expert in safety leadership and culture, to discuss the evolving landscape of utility safety. They explore the key factors that drive a proactive safety culture, the role of leadership in risk management, and how organizations can shift from compliance-driven safety to a culture of continuous improvement. Shawn shares actionable strategies that help utility companies enhance safety performance while aligning with business goals.

Key Takeaways:

•The difference between a compliance-based and a culture-driven safety approach.

•How leadership plays a pivotal role in influencing safety behaviors.

•Strategies to proactively identify and mitigate risks in utility work.

•The importance of aligning safety goals with business objectives.

•Methods to engage employees in creating a sustainable safety culture.

Q&A from the Podcast:

Q: What is the biggest challenge utility companies face when trying to improve safety culture?

A: One of the biggest challenges is shifting from a mindset of compliance to one of proactive safety. Many organizations focus on meeting regulatory requirements rather than embedding safety into daily operations as a core value.

Q: How can leadership foster a culture of safety rather than just enforcing rules?

A: Leaders need to model the behaviors they expect from their teams. This means being actively involved in safety discussions, providing consistent feedback, and recognizing employees who contribute to safety improvements.

Q: What are some common mistakes companies make when implementing safety initiatives?

A: One common mistake is failing to engage employees in the process. When safety programs are dictated from the top down without employee input, they often fail to gain traction.

Read his previous article in iP Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/blog/five-core-capacities-for-sustainable-safety-excellence/

Listen to Shawn's other podcast with iP - https://utilitysafety.podbean.com/e/5corecapacities/

and feel free to reach out to him for further discussion at info@proactsafety.com.

________________________________

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

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

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

Equipotential grounding is a critical safety practice that protects utility workers from electrical hazards by equalizing voltage levels at the worksite. In this episode, we delve into real-world lessons learned from the field, highlighting the importance of establishing an effective equipotential zone (EPZ) to prevent harmful electrical currents from passing through the body. We discuss how improper grounding techniques can transform routine tasks into dangerous situations and emphasize the necessity of continuous training to maintain a safety-first mindset. Additionally, we explore the challenges posed by grounding on various structures and the role of personal protective equipment in safeguarding workers. Understanding and implementing proper grounding methods are essential steps toward ensuring the well-being of lineworkers and maintaining compliance with safety standards. 

Read the article here written by Dwight Miller, CLCP, CUSP - https://incident-prevention.com/blog/equipotential-grounding-lessons-learned-in-the-field/

Key Takeaways:

•Equipotential Zone (EPZ): Creating an EPZ ensures that all conductive objects at the worksite are at the same electrical potential, minimizing the risk of electrical shock. 

•Temporary Grounds and Bonds: Proper installation of temporary grounding and bonding at the worksite is essential to protect workers from accidental re-energization or induced voltages. 

•Continuous Training: Ongoing education and vigilance are vital in reinforcing safe grounding practices and preventing complacency among utility workers. 

•Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Utilizing appropriate PPE, such as dielectric footwear and insulating gloves, adds an extra layer of protection against electrical hazards. 

#EquipotentialGrounding #UtilitySafety #ElectricalSafety #LineworkerTraining #WorkplaceSafety #GroundingTechniques #SafetyFirst #IncidentPrevention

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

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

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

In this episode of Tailgate Topics, host Rod Courtney is joined by Nick from Utility Business Media to discuss one of the biggest safety risks in the utility industry—distractions. Inspired by Scott Perrin’s article, The Dangers of Distraction: Staying Focused in a High-Risk Environment, this conversation dives into how mental drift, complacency, fatigue, and technology impact workplace safety.

Read the article: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/the-dangers-of-distraction-staying-focused-in-a-high-risk-environment/

From distraction-related vehicle accidents to the role of fatigue and stress in high-risk environments, this episode explores real-world examples and practical strategies for reducing workplace hazards. Tune in to learn how small changes in awareness and environment can help prevent serious injuries and fatalities in the utility industry.

Key Takeaways:

✔️ Distractions are unavoidable, but they can be managed.

✔️ Fatigue, complacency, and stress increase the risk of accidents.

✔️ Cell phones and modern technology are major workplace distractions.

✔️ Taking scheduled breaks and staying mindful can improve focus and safety.

✔️ Vehicle accidents due to distracted driving are a growing financial burden for utilities.

✔️ Simple steps, like identifying distractions and using hands-free devices, can help reduce risk.

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

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

#UtilitySafety #WorkplaceDistractions #SafetyCulture #HighRiskJobs #FatigueAwareness #ComplacencyKills #DistractionFreeWork #UtilityWorkers

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

Challenging the Status Quo: Rethinking Safety in the Utility Industry

Is safety truly the utility industry's first priority? And is it even a real thing, or just a byproduct of something deeper? In this thought-provoking episode of Influencing Safety, Bill Martin, President and CEO of Think Tank Project LLC, joins host Kate Wade to challenge traditional views on safety. They explore the critical role of teamwork, communication, and human connection in fostering a truly safe work environment. Bill shares insights on the psychological factors that influence workplace culture, the hidden impact of mental health, and how shifting our focus from compliance to competency could change the game.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Safety isn’t just about compliance—it’s a byproduct of strong teamwork and communication.
✅ A psychologically safe work environment fosters better decision-making and fewer incidents.
✅ The traditional "safety first" mindset might be limiting our ability to create real change.
✅ Human connection and mental health are critical factors in workplace safety.
✅ Small changes, like pre-job huddles and open conversations, can have a major impact.

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

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

#WorkplaceSafety #UtilityIndustry #SafetyCulture #PsychologicalSafety #TeamworkMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #IncidentPrevention #CommunicationIsKey #CUSP #IncidentPrevention

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!

In this episode of the iP Utility Safety Podcast, we take a deep dive into a common yet challenging workplace issue: bad attitudes. But instead of just discussing the problem, we explore proven leadership strategies to transform negativity into productivity. Drawing insights from an Incident Prevention magazine article, we uncover how effective leadership, empowerment, and strategic communication can shift workplace culture. Whether you’re in the utility industry or any team environment, these takeaways will help you lead with confidence and create a positive, high-performing team.

Read the article written by David McPeak: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/bad-attitudes-and-how-to-handle-them/

Key Takeaways

✔ The Power of Leadership – How leaders set the tone and influence team dynamics.

✔ Circle of Control – Focusing on what you can change rather than dwelling on negativity.

✔ Turning Negativity Into Responsibility – Giving difficult employees more responsibility as a way to engage them.

✔ The Role of Positive Reinforcement – Why recognizing efforts and creating trust can transform even the toughest employees.

✔ Empowering Leadership – Strategies to inspire, rather than control, your team.

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

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

#LeadershipDevelopment #UtilitySafety #WorkplaceCulture #SafetyLeadership #TeamSuccess #IncidentPrevention #BadAttitudes

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2025 to receive a 5% discount!