Ted Speaks

In this episode, Barb and Ted are joined by safety professional Tracy Krieger, a seasoned expert with 14 years in the field, who is now leading her own consulting business, Safety LLC. Tracy shares her unique approach to safety management, passionately advocating for its importance both in and out of the workplace. She discusses the benefits of her new online training program, offering a sneak peek into how it meets regulatory requirements and helps prevent potential OSHA issues. They delve into the often overlooked topic of safety for temporary and seasonal workers, with Tracy highlighting strategies to reduce their high injury rates. Listen in as she uncovers why California's safety regulations are more stringent and how this proactive approach is reshaping safety norms.Moreover, Tracy reveals her insights on the significance of investing in seasonal workers and the potential payoff. You won't want to miss her clever solutions to common language barriers in training and her strong belief in the power of mentoring for temporary worker success. Tune in to hear Tracy's practical advice on training temporary workers effectively, capped with a surprising emphasis on a particular aspect: confidence building. All this and more when you listen to the episode!References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsTracy Krieger, MPH, ASPLinkedInEmail

Barb and Ted Carew sit down with Tim Pigott, a safety veteran with a diverse background ranging from the Navy to construction, in this insightful episode. Listen as they delve into the intricate process of building a safety program from the ground up and the art of overcoming complacency in a workplace. You'll hear Tim share some invaluable safety nuggets, including the importance of "baby steps" in implementing changes and the power of leading by example. Meanwhile, Barb emphasizes the critical role of effective teaching and mentorship in safety education. Ted enlightens us with insights from his extensive field experience, revealing how it aids in identifying potential distractions and maintaining a focus on safety. But the conversation doesn't stop at the workplace. Discover how the principles of safety can permeate into the retirement phase and beyond, ensuring the well-being of not only employees but also family and friends.Don't miss out on hearing more about the importance of mentorship in the safety profession, and how you can benefit from it through Total Health and Safety Solutions. Tune in and join us as we explore these topics and more!References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsTim PigottLinkedInEmailPhone 920-810-1369

In this riveting episode of Ted Speaks, we're joined by a veteran of the EHS field, Brian Zoeller of Johnson Controls. With over 25 years of experience under his belt, Brian shares his insights on the essential role technology plays in EHS processes. Get a sneak peek into how a renowned organization like Johnson Controls utilizes innovative tools like BESafe and leverages cutting-edge technologies— think cell phones, google glass, and drones—to ensure the safety of their workforce. Discover how this app, designed specifically for subcontractors, aids in identifying potential risks, ensuring compliance with OSHA standards, and how user feedback has transformed it over its five years of use. We also delve into some intriguing policies of JCI, such as the "no cell phone usage while driving" rule and the empowering "Stop Work" tool. But that's not all. Brian also emphasizes the importance of senior leadership's engagement in EHS matters and why safety should be a value deeply embedded in all decision-making processes. Intrigued? Tune in for the full discussion and learn from the best in the industry. We guarantee, it's an episode you won't want to miss!References: Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsBrian Zoeller, MS, CSPLinkedIn

Jasmine San Nicolas, a recruitment specialist at Shirley Parsons firm, offers invaluable expertise in EHS fields, particularly in higher education, consultancies, and manufacturing. In a post-pandemic landscape, the demand for safety roles has surged, creating a job market with more opportunities than qualified candidates.Jasmine highlights the changing dynamics, as candidates now hold higher expectations from employers. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring both clients and candidates are genuinely committed to finding the right fit, advocating for an efficient interview process that respects everyone's time.Face-to-face interaction remains crucial in interviews, and Jasmine encourages candidates to leverage resources for interview preparation and resume formatting. Her dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion shines through initiatives like employee resource groups and active participation in special interest groups.The discussion emphasizes the value of real-life skills for young individuals, underlining the importance of hands-on experiences. The episode culminates in a powerful message: embrace failure as a stepping stone to success, and let passion be the driving force in the pursuit of safety careers.References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsJasmine San NicolasLinkedInEmail

Join hosts Barb and Ted Carew on this enlightening episode with their guest, David Collingwood, a seasoned expert in carrier Work Comp claims management. The discussion sheds light on the pivotal role of EMRs/Moderates in calculating premiums, emphasizing the significance of understanding safety protocols to secure lower premiums and competitive advantages. Return-to-work programs emerge as a vital cost-saving tool, incentivizing employers to maintain lower mods.David advocates for a proactive, advocacy-based approach to handling worker comp claims. He stresses consistent communication between all stakeholders, from injured workers to insurers, to foster transparency and prevent surprises. This open dialogue proves instrumental in not only addressing claims effectively but also in formulating strategies to prevent future incidents.For safety professionals seeking comprehensive insights into Workers' Compensation claims, this episode provides invaluable guidance. References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsDavid CollingwoodLinkedInPhone - 9208867651   

Barb and Ted Carew welcomes Brad Scheer, a Safety Engineer with Mortenson Construction. Brad brings a unique perspective to safety, shaped by five years of hands-on experience and a significant incident at work. He stresses the importance of trust, relationships, and pre-planning to prevent mistakes and enhance productivity.Sharing his personal story, Brad reinforces safety practices, advocating for a culture where safety takes precedence over production. He highlights Mortenson's commendable approach, valuing morale as integral to both productivity and safety.Brad's wisdom extends to prioritizing training, mentoring, and offering positive incentives for workers. He emphasizes the collective responsibility for safety and encourages proactive engagement. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable safety strategies! References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsBrad Scheer     

Barb and Ted Carew are joined again by Bill Olson, a seasoned expert with over two decades of experience in Construction and Manufacturing Safety. Together, they unravel the critical role of communication in every facet of business.In this insightful episode, the trio stresses that effective communication should never be compartmentalized. It must flow seamlessly across all domains. Knowing your audience and adapting communication styles to specific contexts emerge as pivotal strategies.The focus shifts towards agile idea exchange, rather than redundant information relay or embellished narratives. Bill introduces a diverse array of communication channels to expedite learning curves and actively engage audiences.Barb emphasizes the bedrock of trust in successful communication. Authenticity and transparency are championed as cornerstones of genuine connection.Bill offers sage advice on structuring communication through stages and leveraging a spectrum of resources - be it written, verbal, or visual. The power of communal objectives is underscored, propelling teams towards collective triumphs.Listen now to hear Bill delve into vital topics such as culture, communication, and accountability. His resounding message echoed the centrality of accountability in every thriving program, underpinned by personal integrity. So, tune in for a masterclass in communication that transcends boundaries and propels businesses to new heights! References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsBill Olson

Join Bill Olson, a seasoned expert with over two decades of experience in Construction and Manufacturing Safety, in a profound episode of Ted Speaks. Bill, the Director of Safety and Employee Development for a leading civil construction company, delves into the intricacies of safety, culture, and employee well-being.Discover the pivotal role of trust in building a culture of safety within companies. Bill's approach combines counseling techniques with resource identification, empowering employees to navigate complex systems effectively. He advocates for a shift from mere presentation to dynamic teaching methods, like expert-led videos, for more impactful onboarding.Embrace the idea that failures are integral to the learning process, fostering a growth mindset. Bill emphasizes the need for tailored safety programs, debunking the notion of a one-size-fits-all solution.In a lively exchange, Ted Carew of Total Health and Safety Solutions underscores the importance of customizing safety processes to each organization's unique structure. The conversation is peppered with insightful advice, from mindful verbiage use to fostering a collective sense of ownership.Tune in to gain invaluable insights into safety practices and discover the wisdom of adapting methods for optimal success. Remember, safety is a collaborative effort, and every stride towards it is a stride towards prosperity! References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsBill Olson

Join Barb and Ted Carew in this thought-provoking episode with the remarkable Crista Vesel, a Human Factors and Communication specialist. As an adjunct professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and co-founder of Dynamic Inquiry, Crista's expertise lies in interpreting normal work events and adverse situations to enhance safety through learning.Discover the transformative power of "The Language of Learning," a methodology that moves beyond binary oppositions by encouraging open inquiry and avoiding imposing knowledge on others. Uncover biases in language, embrace agency, and steer clear of attribution errors to foster a culture of learning from incidents effectively.Practice reframing blame-centered language and involve workers in creating training materials through engaging dialogues. Embrace the discomfort of asking questions, as it leads to greater understanding and improved safety outcomes. Ditch the "zero injury" goal and prioritize learning from incidents as a key factor in enhancing safety. Explore the powerful meanings behind workplace signs and symbols through the study of semiotics.Embrace the transformational shift from "accident" to "incident" for a blame-free learning environment. Show genuine care through actions, like celebrating incidents, to promote a culture of continuous improvement. Unravel the intricate elements of communication, from language priming and metaphors to labels, counterfactuals, and binary oppositions. Enhance your communication skills by honing your ability to identify language techniques through media broadcasts. This practice will not only refine your skills but also improve your overall understanding of effective communication. Tune in now to embrace the power of language for a safer, more open-minded workplace! References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsCrista Vesel, MScEmail

Are you ready to redefine safety and embrace a holistic approach to well-being? Step into a world of safety and well-being as Ted and Barb Carew are joined by Lindsay Polic, a certified safety professional and international health coach with an impressive two-decade experience in environmental health and safety.Lindsay is passionate about a human-centered approach to safety, focusing not only on physical but also psychological wellbeing. Her mission? To redefine what it means to lead a safe life, both in and outside of work.Discover how Lindsay crafted the remarkable Human Safety Circle and PHA Table, that are transformative tools which enables individuals to identify and address personal risks. This powerful circle encompasses four pillars: Community, Communication, Education & Skills, and Well-being.Tune in to learn about the incredible power of kindness. Invest in it, and you'll receive four to five times what you give. Head to Lindsay's website for a valuable freebie that's perfect for assessing your personal risks and creating a positive safety culture. By taking small steps and embracing change, businesses can create a welcoming environment that promotes work-life integration and enhances overall balance.References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsLindsay Polic, CSPWebsiteEmailPodcastInstagram

Join Ted and Barb Carew in a compelling discussion with safety expert Jerome Spear. With 33 years of experience supporting organizations in preventing injuries and controlling losses, Jerome's expertise is unmatched. From his background as a Certified Safety Professional and Certified Industrial Hygienist, to his academic achievements in Industrial Engineering and Business Administration, Jerome brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.Jerome's passion for safety and desire to help businesses shine through as he discusses his own journey, from managing finances in starting his business to earning multiple certifications. He shares his insights on industrial hygiene, covering chemical, physical, and biological hazards.Tune in to discover the invisible risks in the workplace posed by welding fumes, silica, and other hazardous materials. Learn how IH assesses risk, evaluates contamination levels, and ensures workplace safety. Don't miss out on Jerome's expert advice to enhance workplace safety and well-being.References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsJerome SpearWebsitePodcast

Are you prioritizing safety in your workplace? Curious about effective fall protection measures to keep your employees safe? Ted and Barb Carew dive into the world of workplace safety with special guest Brent Rehberg, who brings a wealth of experience to the conversation with 15 years in operations and 3 years dedicated to safety. Recently, he and his business partner launched Access Safety Specialists, a company providing engineered systems for fall protection, including guardrails, platforms, anchor points, and more.Education and training play a crucial role in fall protection. Brent emphasizes the importance of everyone understanding the risks associated with working at heights before donning a harness. With their expertise, Brent and Ted are here to guide and support companies in enhancing their health and safety processes.Discover the fair and logical approach to fall protection that Access Safety Specialists offers. They prioritize exceptional customer service and are prepared to handle any unexpected challenges that may arise. Ted shares a similar mission of keeping families together by assisting companies in their safety processes. Together, Ted and Brent provide invaluable insights and resources to create a safer work environment.Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your workplace safety practices and ensure the well-being of your employees. Remember, a proactive approach to safety is key to a thriving and secure work environment. Take action today and make safety a top priority.References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsBrent RehbergWebsite

Are you tired of traditional safety approaches that focus on blame rather than learning? Ready to explore innovative ideas that can revolutionize safety practices? Dr. Ivan Pupulidy, a seasoned expert with 25 years of experience as the US Forest Service Director, brings a fresh perspective to the table. He developed the revolutionary Learning Review process, which shifts the focus from rules to creating learning opportunities for leadership and frontline personnel.Discover how Ivan's background as an Air Force Reserve pilot influenced his approach to safety culture. Through thought-provoking discussions, Ivan delves into the importance of understanding human action, mapping systemic conditions, and promoting inquiry for learning. Explore the concept of Human & Organizational Performance (HOP) and the capacity building approach, which emphasizes sense making, learning, and improvisation. Ivan shares insights from Ruben McDaniel's complex adaptive systems framework, demonstrating how failure can be reframed as a valuable opportunity for growth.Learn how aviation's margin-based systems provide room for errors without catastrophic consequences, inspiring lessons for industries of all kinds. Uncover the power of sense making, learning, and improvisation to navigate novel situations and enhance safety outcomes through experimentation. Tune in now to gain fresh insights, challenge conventional safety practices, and take your safety culture to new heights. Your organization and your employees will thank you.And remember, safety is a continuous journey. Apply the principles discussed in this episode to create a learning culture within your organization. Embrace inquiry, experiment, and foster a blame-free environment that encourages growth and improvement. Together, we can make safety a top priority.References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsIvan Pupulidy, PhDEmail

Are you concerned about safety in the workplace? Wondering how even minor incidents can lead to major improvements? In this gripping episode, join Ted and Barb Carew as they talk to Frank Bell, an esteemed Health and Safety Manager with over three decades of experience.Discover the power of reporting even the smallest injuries or incidents, as Frank reveals how they can become invaluable opportunities for root cause analysis. Through compelling anecdotes and real-life examples, Frank and Ted underscore the importance of preventing accidents to keep families together.Explore the key principles of root cause analysis as Frank shares practical techniques for breaking down incidents and involving employees in the corrective action process. Learn about the powerful concept of "care enough to act" and how it applies not only in the workplace but also in everyday life. Frank's personal story of intervening to prevent a dangerous situation with his neighbor will leave you inspired to prioritize safety in all aspects of your life.So, if you're ready to elevate your safety practices, gain insights from seasoned professionals, and make a positive impact on your organization, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and discover the power of proactive safety measures. Your employees and loved ones will thank you.References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsFrank BellEmail

Barb and Ted Carew speak with Ernesto Solorzano - an experienced safety professional with over 16 years of experience in managing safety programs in general industry and construction. Ernesto's career began in 2007, working in the oil and gas industry and taking OSHA classes, before moving into the role of safety specialist for a demolition company. Ernesto has also earned an associate's degree in Fire Science, a bachelor's degree in Occupational Health and Safety, and a master's degree in Public Policy; he continues to expand his knowledge in the field. Ernesto shares that safety culture revolves around communication that enables individuals to speak up about hazards or unsafe practices and also gives them the right to stop work if necessary. Management needs to encourage constructive conversations and act upon worker concerns to promote engagement and build trust. Ernesto emphasizes that integrating a safety culture into the company's overall culture, including production and quality, is essential. This helps employees recognize the value and importance of safety within the company, which positively influences a strong safety culture. Barb, Ted and Ernesto discuss the challenging aspects of building a safety culture. Changing an established safety culture is a more challenging task than forming one from scratch. This process would require small, incremental, and concrete changes, implemented with input from management to maintain their support. Management support for safety culture helps promote a team approach to identifying and addressing for improvement, which directly affects worker safety. They also emphasize that every company is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution while building safety culture. This episode provides great insights into building and maintaining safety culture in various industries. The importance of open and transparent communication, a team approach, and an on-going commitment to improvement. Tune in to this episode to learn more about the uniqueness of every company safety needs and the importance of tailoring safety culture to fit each one individually. References: Safety FM 

Barb & Ted welcome Nicholas Moe, a soon-to-be graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Platteville with a major in occupational safety management and a minor in production and manufacturing management. Nick is also the vice president of the American Society of Safety Professionals at UW Platteville and has worked as a safety intern at Wisconsin Homes. Nick hopes to contribute to companies’ established safety culture as a safety specialist, starting at Crystal Finishing Systems after graduation. He feels that safety is all about keeping people safe, building a safety culture, and protecting companies from fines. Nick emphasizes that the best way for people to learn and understand safety protocols is through hands-on experience, in addition to learning through reading books or attending lectures. He highlights the importance of safety culture in the safety programs of companies, emphasizing open communication and trust with employees. Nick also shares the significance of safety culture in a company's safety program or process. He suggests that building a culture of safety requires not only commitment from the safety department but also upper management's trust and support. Barb and Ted agree that forming a culture that values safety and open communication can positively impact the entire organization's culture. They discuss the importance of PPE safety and addressing employee pushback to safety protocols or concerns. Barb, Ted, and Nick offer some tips for younger individuals pursuing a career in safety. Nick recommends staying open-minded, looking for opportunities to grow and learn, and being able to communicate effectively through public speaking and involvement in safety committees and boards. Whether you are a young safety professional or a seasoned veteran, this episode provides valuable information and insights into building a successful safety program, developing a safety culture, and effective training methods. References: Safety FM Total Health & Safety Solutions Nicholas Moe 

Ted and Barb Carew interview Vince Daliessio, the Industrial Hygiene and Safety group manager for Pennoni Associates, who has over 30 years of experience in the industry. Vince's passion for science led him to specialize in Environmental Science and Industrial Hygiene, where he began his safety career. Vince's expertise is chemical assessments, and he is passionate about helping companies handle hazardous materials more safely. The conversation focuses on the biggest topics currently affecting industrial hygiene, such as Hexavalent Chromium standards and Silica exposure, where Vince served as the subject matter expert in his company when the standards were initially released. He emphasizes the importance of OSHA's inclusion of Table 1 in construction, making it easier for smaller businesses to comply with the regulations.The discussion also highlights Vince's personal investment in safety and helping others, making him a valuable asset in the industry. He stresses the significance of building a good safety culture and interacting with people, resolving safety issues, and helping people as the core recipe for success in the industry.Vince cites his father, uncles, and first safety director Patricia Dapolito as mentors who helped him become confident in his decision-making skills and taught him to use all the tools available to achieve his goals. Ted and Barb stress the importance of building confidence in children and younger professionals and highlight the crucial role mentoring plays in the professional world to help individuals develop the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their career. Tune in now and gain valuable insights into the world of industrial hygiene and safety. References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsVince Daliessio

Ted and Barb discuss their passion for safety and how the industry has evolved over the years. With three years of experience running their own safety business, Total Health and Safety Solutions, Ted and Barb are dedicated to helping clients stay safe and healthy in their workplaces.  Before diving into the topic, Ted and Barb share some exciting news - they now offer online safety training through their website, healthandsafetynow.com. We encourage you to check it out and provide feedback on the new courses. While in-person training is often more effective, they recognize the need for online options and are committed to providing their clients with all the resources they need to succeed.Ted and Barbdelve into the evolution of safety over the years, from the early 1900s when safety was not taken seriously, to the present day. Despite progress over the years, the safety industry still has a long way to go. Ted expresses frustration that over 5,000 people still die each year from workplace accidents, and emphasizes the need for continued improvement. He believes that while technology has helped, it's important to also focus on human error and behavioral aspects of safety.Barb adds that she's seen a positive change in the field of safety, with more young professionals entering by choice rather than just falling into it. She also notes that technology can play a significant role in improving safety, as discussed in a previous episode with guest Don Elswick. They highlight the importance of communication and networking in the safety profession and how it can make everyone better in their careers and lives. Overall, Ted and Barb stress the importance of ongoing education and improvement in the safety industry to protect employees and prevent workplace accidents. Listen in as they share their thoughts on the importance of limiting fatalities and severity of injuries in the workplace, and don't miss their humorous banter and jokes.References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety Solutions

Ted and Barb welcome Donald Elswick, a former commander in the United States Navy and an occupational environmental health and safety solutions specialist for ELSMART Associates, LLC. He has over 30 years of experience in government and multi-industry and currently serves on the State of Alabama's Technical Advisory Committee on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Ted, Barb and Donald discuss the pros and cons of virtual safety training versus in-person training. While virtual training is cost-effective and timely, in-person training is necessary for life-critical situations, where hands-on practice and instructor-led sessions are required. Virtual training can be used to engage participants before in-person training and help them prepare questions. Donald also stresses the importance of making safety training engaging and effective by involving participants in projects and qualitative analysis. Ultimately, a combination of virtual and in-person training can be an effective way to train employees and make them feel confident in their safety skills. Donald talks about how everyone has their own frame of reference that they can share, and everyone can be lifelong learners, although it is harder for some than others. However, working together, having each other's back, and doing it for the right reason make a difference in the end.This episode also discusses the future of the workforce and how technology can keep employees safe. Donald encourages emerging professionals, mid-career professionals, and mature professionals to consider a career in occupational and environmental health and safety. He reminds listeners that safety is not business confidential, and it's okay to steal from others in safety to improve. This episodes highlights the importance of safety, quality, productivity, and cost-effectiveness in the workplace. Tune in now and discover how technology is being used to keep employees safe and promote a safer workplace.References:Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsDonald Elswick

In this episode of Ted Speaks, Ted and Barb, talk with Carly Baez, a safety manager and a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals. The discussion revolves around the issue of distracted driving, which is a major safety concern in the construction industry and beyond. Carly shares her experience in educating the public about distracted driving and discussed strategies for reducing distractions while driving. Carly also highlights the importance of combining work safety with public safety, and how laws alone are not enough to create a safer environment without proper training and education. Behavior is often rooted in past experience and Carly shares her experience in creating a community challenge that addresses the behavior of distracted driving, rather than simply telling people to stop texting and driving. The challenge requires participants to hold their phones in their hands, face up, with the ringer and volume on, and ignore any calls or messages for 30 minutes. The goal is for people to experience and understand their own response style and relationship with their phones, which is crucial to changing the behavior behind distracted driving. Ted, Barb and Carly also share personal anecdotes about their own experiences with distractions while driving and the importance of this approach, as well as the difficulty of mentally shutting off the automatic response to phone notifications. This episode provides valuable insights into how to address distracted driving and emphasizes the importance of creating awareness about distracted driving and promoting safe driving habits to keep employees and families safe.References: Safety FMTotal Health & Safety SolutionsCarly Baez