Utility Safety Podcast by Incident Prevention Magazine

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Aug 2026

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Come listen to an extension of some of the excellent utility safety & ops safety content published in Incident Prevention magazine. Dive deeper into insightful safety topics by hearing interviews with the some of the best and brightest minds in the industry! Learn more about Incident Prevention magazine at incident-prevention.com

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August 1, 2026Episode 15248 min

Built In Not Bolted On - Equipment Jobsite Setup & Ops Exchange with Doug Hill, CUSP

In this episode of the Built In, Not Bolted On podcast, host Doug Hill is joined by co-host Nick to dive into the critical topic of job site preparation and equipment setup in utility operations. Prompted by evolving working conditions—such as severe air quality impacts from Canadian wildfires—the hosts discuss why safety practices must be proactively integrated into daily work routines rather than "bolted on" as an afterthought. They explore the deeper systemic issues behind setup-related incidents, human fallibility, the importance of practical safeguards, and how post-job briefs foster a culture of continuous learning across all experience levels. Key Takeaways Proactive Safeguards vs. Reactive Explanations: Proper job site preparation requires building in practical systems and safeguards that account for human error, rather than simply blaming workers or relying solely on individual adherence to rules. Continuous Adjustment for Changing Conditions: Job sites are live environments. Pre-job plans and "game plans" must evolve fluidly as conditions change (e.g., weather shifts, air quality changes, site hazards) using Stop Work Authority as a system reset. The Value of Post-Job Briefs & Knowledge Sharing: The best organizational learning happens after the job is completed by reviewing what went well, identifying unmitigated risks, and actively communicating these insights across workgroups and generations. Questions & Answers Q1: Why is relying solely on written safety procedures or worker experience insufficient for job site setup? A: Written procedures and individual experience are fallible. Procedures can leave room for interpretation, and workers of different experience levels may evaluate risks differently. Relying entirely on individuals to catch every issue leads to system failures; instead, companies must build in clear, practical, and practical safeguards that allow workers to fail safely. Q2: What are the five key stages of a holistic job site preparation framework outlined in the episode? A: Pre-Job Planning: Gathering materials, selecting agreed-upon equipment, and assessing needed competencies. Job Site Plan (Game Plan): Converting the pre-job plan to match actual site conditions during the tailgate/pre-job brief. Executing: Carrying out the work while treating the safety plan as a dynamic, live document. Post-Job Brief: Debriefing after completion to analyze risks, successes, and necessary improvements. Sharing Results: Communicating lessons learned across teams and departments to improve future setups. Q3: How does the "generational gap" impact job site safety and preparation? A: Workers with decades of experience view site hazards and necessary controls differently than newer workers with only a few years on the job. Creating mutual understanding and open communication ensures that junior employees feel empowered to ask questions and use Stop Work Authority, while senior employees share practical knowledge effectively. Conference & Workshop Links Conference Website: Learn more, view the schedule, or register for the event at the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo . Pre-Conference Workshop: Be sure to check out the interactive session on Generational Leadership to learn how to transform generational differences into strategic safety strengths. #UtilitySafety #JobSitePreparation #SafetyLeadership #HumanAndOrganizationalPerformance #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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

August 1, 2026Episode 15141 min

Utility Safety Podcast - Lifesaving Layers - Clearing up the Confusion in The Utility Industry with Derek Sang

Join host Kate Wade as she sits down with Derek Sang, Senior Technical Training Manager at Bulwark Protection, to answer the utility industry's most burning questions about protective clothing. With 25 years of experience, Derek breaks down the critical differences between flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR) garments, exposes common field errors in wearing and maintaining PPE, and highlights dangerous everyday products like fabric softeners and DEET. Listeners will also learn how modern fabric innovations help combat heat stress, the importance of worker acclimation, and why continuous education is the key to bridging the gap between compliance and real-world safety. Visit Bulwark Protection - https://www.bulwark.com/ Key Takeaways All arc-rated (AR) garments must be flame-resistant (FR), but not all FR garments have an arc rating. Wearing gear correctly—keeping sleeves rolled down, shirts buttoned to the neck, and shirts tucked in—is essential to prevent severe burn injuries. Wearing an arc-rated base layer removes the safety hazard of an untucked shirt because it eliminates access to lightweight, flammable cotton t-shirts. Common maintenance errors include using bleach, peroxide (like OxiClean), and fabric softeners or dryer sheets, which can leave a flammable petrochemical buildup over time. Deet-based bug sprays are highly flammable accelerants that can cause FR gear to catch fire; workers should use permethrin-based products instead. Single-layer work clothing does not contribute to heat stress, and modern 5.5-ounce performance fabrics help keep workers cooler by wicking moisture away from the body. Managing heat stress effectively requires a combination of electrolyte hydration, rest, shade, and structured worker acclimation programs. Continuous worker education and annual audits of industrial laundry programs are necessary to close the safety gap and protect workers from arc flashes. Questions and Answers Q: What is the main difference between flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR) clothing? A: All arc-rated garments are flame-resistant, meaning they self-extinguish and will not melt or drip. However, not all FR garments have an arc rating. AR garments undergo specific testing to measure their ability to protect against the incident energy of an arc flash, making them necessary for electrical utility and general industry environments. Q: How do everyday laundry and field products like bug spray affect protective gear? A: Products like chlorine bleach, peroxide (found in OxiClean), and fabric softeners can degrade protective properties or build up flammable residues over time. In the field, Deet-based insect repellents are dangerous because Deet is a severe accelerant that can catch fire. Workers should use permethrin-based repellents instead, which have been proven safe for FR clothing. Q: What fabric innovations and protocols help utility workers stay cool in extreme heat? A: The industry has transitioned to lightweight 5.5-ounce fabrics that blend hydrophobic and hydrophilic fibers to push moisture away from the body. Beyond clothing, managing heat stress requires proper hydration supplemented with electrolytes, taking breaks in the shade, and utilizing structured acclimation programs to ease workers back into hot environments after taking time off. #UtilitySafety #ArcFlash #FRClothing #SafetyEducation #PPE #IncidentPrevention #Bulwark _______________________________ 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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

July 22, 2026Episode 15018 min

Utility Safety Podcast - Deep Dive - Unpacking "250 Years of Safety" - Why Statistics Are a Trap

In this episode, we dive deep into David McPeak's article, "250 Years of Safety," featured in the July 10th, 2026 issue of Incident Prevention magazine. We explore the staggering evolution of workplace safety, starting from the 1890s when electrical line workers faced a nearly 50% on-the-job mortality rate. Discover how financial liabilities, worker's compensation laws, and the establishment of OSHA in 1970 transformed corporate accountability and birthed the modern safety data revolution. Finally, we discuss the shift from physical safety nets to managing cognitive overload, treating near-misses as "free tuition," and the new frontier of protecting the worker's mind, body, and spirit. Don't miss the details on David McPeak's upcoming September 9th, 2026 frontline webinar at the end of the episode! Read the article by David McPeak here: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/250-years-of-safety/ Key Takeaways The Deadliest Era: The 40-year span from the 1890s to the 1930s was the deadliest era for utility trades, with a roughly 50% fatality rate for electrical line workers due to uninsulated high voltage contact, falls, and a complete lack of specialized protective equipment. Financial Accountability Sparked Change: Early corporate safety improvements weren't driven by a moral awakening, but by shifting legal landscapes. The introduction of worker's compensation laws established a no-fault system, turning workplace injuries into massive financial liabilities that forced companies to track and stop incidents. Failing Safely: Modern safety embraces the concept of "failing safely" because human error is normal and cannot be trained out of existence. Instead of relying on lagging indicators, organizations use proactive tools like High Energy Control Assessments and view near-misses as "free tuition" to improve systems without anyone getting hurt. The New Frontier is Cognitive Load: Safety focus is expanding beyond physical gear like harnesses and trench boxes to address the "whole person". Organizations are realizing that cognitive overload, burnout, and mental health crises pose significant risks on highly complex, modern job sites. Questions and Answers Question: What was a major catalyst that forced companies to transition out of the deadly, unregulated era of utility work? Answer: The transition was largely driven by legal and financial shifts. In the 1910s and 1920s, unionization and the introduction of worker's compensation established a no-fault system, meaning employers had to carry insurance that paid out for injuries. This financial liability forced management to understand and prevent incidents to stop their insurance premiums from skyrocketing. Question: How has the perception of a "near miss" evolved in modern safety culture? Answer: Historically, workers would sweep near-misses under the rug out of fear of getting fired. Today, sophisticated tracking software allows organizations to view a near-miss as "free tuition". It is seen as a successful instance where the safety net held, allowing the organization to learn and reinforce the system without anyone having to bleed for the lesson. #WorkplaceSafety #IncidentPrevention #UtilityWork #SafetyCulture #MentalHealthInSafety _______________________________ 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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

July 1, 2026Episode 14834 min

Beyond Root Cause - Shifting to a Root Conditions Mindset in Utility Safety Part 2 with Billy Martin, CUSP

Listen to Part 1: https://utilitysafety.podbean.com/e/beyond-root-cause-shifting-to-a-root-conditions-mindset-in-utility-safety-part-1-with-billy-martin-cusp/ In this 2 part series of the Utility Safety Podcast, host Nick sits down with Kate Wade and safety expert Bill Martin to challenge the traditional frameworks of incident investigation. Moving away from the "blame and shame loop" of traditional root cause analysis, the group explores the concept of "root conditions". Using vivid metaphors like the decision funnel, the tomato plant, and the petri dish, Bill explains how human physiology, organizational pressure, and crew dynamics heavily dictate safety outcomes long before an incident occurs. The conversation delivers a deep dive into metacognition, the dangers of treating workers as simple commodities, and how field crews can reclaim agency over their safety decisions. Key Takeaways The Shift from Root Cause to Root Conditions: Utility environments are complex webs rather than straight lines. Searching for a single "loose bolt" or miscommunication causes organizations to miss the underlying systemic conditions that allowed the failure to happen. The Metaphor of the Tomato Plant: True leadership is about managing the environment rather than demanding results. Just as humans cannot force a seed to grow by yelling at it, safety managers must cultivate healthy cultural and environmental conditions to release human potential. The Funnel of Pressure: The top of the funnel represents a slow-moving "swirl" where ideas, job briefs, and life stressors mix. As time narrows toward a decision, pressure spikes. Focusing solely on the bottom of the funnel hides the upstream factors that perfectly aligned to cause an event. The Danger of Strip Mining Talent: Large utilities often treat contractors as interchangeable commodities, such as breaking up intact crews to aggregate specialized operators during storm responses. This destroys the crew's "collective intelligence" and synchrony, heavily compromising safety. Listening to Weak Signals: Organizations must pay attention to cultural warnings, such as workers sitting exclusively in the back row during safety meetings or saying, "I know this is stupid, but it's what they want." These are indicators of a toxic culture of mere compliance. Questions & Answers Q1: What is the difference between a root cause mindset and a root conditions mindset? A1: A root cause mindset seeks certainty by isolating a single point of failure or human error at the exact moment of an incident. Conversely, a root conditions mindset looks far upstream to evaluate the environmental factors, physiological stress, and systemic setups that allowed the incident to form over time. Q2: What role does "metacognition" play in improving on-the-job safety decisions? A2: Metacognition is the practice of "thinking about your thinking". By recognizing that automated emotions and internal thoughts are separate from the "observer" within the mind, workers can utilize a brief pause (a 5-4-3-2-1 count) to intentionally choose a safe, adaptive response rather than defaulting to a low-level, high-pressure reaction. Q3: Why does Bill Martin argue that the presence of an observer changes safety data? A3: Drawing on scientific principles, Bill explains that an outside observer inevitably alters the environment they enter. For example, when management performs targeted field observations, crew behaviors temporarily shift due to that presence, meaning the data collected does not accurately reflect everyday operations. Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/ Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/ #UtilitySafety #IncidentPrevention #RootConditions #SafetyCulture #Metacognition #HumanPotential _______________________________ 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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

July 1, 2026Episode 14731 min

Beyond Root Cause - Shifting to a Root Conditions Mindset in Utility Safety Part 1 with Billy Martin, CUSP

Listen to Part 2: https://utilitysafety.podbean.com/e/233errrff/ In this 2 part series of the Utility Safety Podcast, host Nick sits down with Kate Wade and safety expert Bill Martin to challenge the traditional frameworks of incident investigation. Moving away from the "blame and shame loop" of traditional root cause analysis, the group explores the concept of "root conditions". Using vivid metaphors like the decision funnel, the tomato plant, and the petri dish, Bill explains how human physiology, organizational pressure, and crew dynamics heavily dictate safety outcomes long before an incident occurs. The conversation delivers a deep dive into metacognition, the dangers of treating workers as simple commodities, and how field crews can reclaim agency over their safety decisions. Key Takeaways The Shift from Root Cause to Root Conditions: Utility environments are complex webs rather than straight lines. Searching for a single "loose bolt" or miscommunication causes organizations to miss the underlying systemic conditions that allowed the failure to happen. The Metaphor of the Tomato Plant: True leadership is about managing the environment rather than demanding results. Just as humans cannot force a seed to grow by yelling at it, safety managers must cultivate healthy cultural and environmental conditions to release human potential. The Funnel of Pressure: The top of the funnel represents a slow-moving "swirl" where ideas, job briefs, and life stressors mix. As time narrows toward a decision, pressure spikes. Focusing solely on the bottom of the funnel hides the upstream factors that perfectly aligned to cause an event. The Danger of Strip Mining Talent: Large utilities often treat contractors as interchangeable commodities, such as breaking up intact crews to aggregate specialized operators during storm responses. This destroys the crew's "collective intelligence" and synchrony, heavily compromising safety. Listening to Weak Signals: Organizations must pay attention to cultural warnings, such as workers sitting exclusively in the back row during safety meetings or saying, "I know this is stupid, but it's what they want." These are indicators of a toxic culture of mere compliance. Questions & Answers Q1: What is the difference between a root cause mindset and a root conditions mindset? A1: A root cause mindset seeks certainty by isolating a single point of failure or human error at the exact moment of an incident. Conversely, a root conditions mindset looks far upstream to evaluate the environmental factors, physiological stress, and systemic setups that allowed the incident to form over time. Q2: What role does "metacognition" play in improving on-the-job safety decisions? A2: Metacognition is the practice of "thinking about your thinking". By recognizing that automated emotions and internal thoughts are separate from the "observer" within the mind, workers can utilize a brief pause (a 5-4-3-2-1 count) to intentionally choose a safe, adaptive response rather than defaulting to a low-level, high-pressure reaction. Q3: Why does Bill Martin argue that the presence of an observer changes safety data? A3: Drawing on scientific principles, Bill explains that an outside observer inevitably alters the environment they enter. For example, when management performs targeted field observations, crew behaviors temporarily shift due to that presence, meaning the data collected does not accurately reflect everyday operations. Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/ Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/ #UtilitySafety #IncidentPrevention #RootConditions #SafetyCulture #Metacognition #HumanPotential _______________________________ 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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

June 23, 2026Episode 14920 min

Utility Safety Podcast - Deep Dive - Lethal Hazards Inside Underground Utility Vaults Written By Mark Savage

Beneath every major city lies a high-voltage world that powers our daily lives—and presents some of the most dangerous conditions utility workers face. In this episode, we break down the critical safety protocols for manhole and vault inspections. Drawing from Mark Savage's recent insights in Incident Prevention, we explore why these confined spaces can turn deadly in seconds due to invisible atmospheric hazards and electrical risks. We'll walk you through the non-negotiable three-person entry approach, the correct way to monitor for gas layers, and the five essential inspection steps every underground employee must master. Whether you are an entry supervisor, an attendant, or the authorized entrant, this episode is packed with the procedures you need to protect your crew and keep the grid running safely. Read the article by Mark Savage: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/manhole-and-vault-inspections-5-critical-safety-steps-for-underground-employees/ Key Takeaways Invisible Threats are the Deadliest: Over half of confined space fatalities are linked to atmospheric hazards like oxygen deficiency and toxic gases, which can incapacitate a worker in seconds. The "Rule of Three" for Entry: Safe underground work requires a structured three-person team: an authorized entrant (doing the work), an attendant (monitoring outside), and an entry supervisor (verifying procedures). Gas Stratifies, So Test at All Levels: Because gases settle into different layers, crews must test the top, middle, and bottom of a vault before entering, checking oxygen levels first. Continuous monitoring is non-negotiable. Water Hides the Danger: Standing water must be pumped out before an inspection begins. It can compromise insulation, obscure trip hazards, and create deadly conductive paths. Q&A Segment Q: Why are atmospheric hazards considered the greatest risk in manholes and vaults? A: Atmospheric hazards—like oxygen deficiency, flammable gases, and toxic contaminants—are completely invisible and account for over half of all confined space fatalities. Because conditions in an underground vault can change rapidly due to leaks or environmental factors, a worker can be incapacitated in seconds without continuous gas monitoring. Q: What is the proper sequence and method for testing the air in a confined space? A: According to OSHA standards, workers must use a four-gas monitor to test oxygen levels first, followed by flammable gases, and finally toxic contaminants. Crucially, testing must be done at the top, middle, and bottom of the space before entry because different gases settle at different depths. Once inside, continuous monitoring in the worker's breathing zone is required. Q: What are the five critical tasks workers must complete during a vault inspection? A: Assess the site for physical hazards and structural damage at the surface. Evaluate equipment for thermal damage, arcing, or stray voltage. Remove water and debris to eliminate conductive paths and uncover hidden hazards. Confirm structural integrity of the vault walls, ladders, and ceilings. Document and report all findings, including atmospheric readings and photographs of anomalies. #UtilitySafety #ConfinedSpace #LinemanLife #UndergroundUtility #SafetyFirst 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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

June 1, 2026Episode 14630 min

Voice of Experience - Surviving the 100 Days of Summer - Highway Risks and Lineman PPE

In this episode, Danny Raines discusses the "100 Days of Summer," a critical period spanning roughly from May 20th to September 10th. During this timeframe, approximately 60% of all major accidents and fatalities occur. The conversation covers the severe dangers of distracted driving , the catastrophic risks of head-on collisions and intersection accidents , and the life-saving importance of using seatbelts. For utility workers facing heightened workloads, the episode highlights the necessity of proper work zone setups , strategies to mitigate heat exhaustion while wearing PPE , and the critical requirement to adhere to the 2024 ASTM updates for testing insulated gloves. Key Takeaways The period between May 20th and September 10th accounts for roughly 60% of all major accidents and fatalities for the entire year. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and injuries in the country. Approximately 40% of all vehicle crashes occur at intersections. While head-on collisions make up only 3% to 9% of crashes, they account for around 33% of traffic-related deaths. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recently introduced a new program focused on preventing heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Due to the 2024 ASTM update, electrical gloves cannot be used beyond 12 months from their test date. Questions & Answers Q: What is the "100 Days of Summer" and why is it a significant time of year? A: The "100 Days of Summer" refers to the time frame between approximately May 20th and September 10th. It is highly significant because roughly 60% of all severe accidents, vehicle crashes, and workplace fatalities throughout the entire year happen during this specific window. Q: What are the specific risks and statistics associated with not wearing seatbelts? A: In fatal highway crashes, half of the victims are not wearing safety belts. When individuals are unbelted, they often become projectiles inside the car, making the risk of injury three times higher for passengers in the back seat and two times higher for the driver. Q: What precautions must utility workers take regarding PPE and heat during the summer months? A: Utility workers must stay hydrated by drinking water and electrolytes instead of energy drinks. Even when it is hot and uncomfortable, workers must never remove necessary cover-up equipment. Furthermore, workers must strictly track their PPE testing, as the 2024 ASTM update mandates that insulated gloves cannot be used beyond 12 months from their test date. #100DaysOfSummer #UtilitySafety #IncidentPrevention #DistractedDriving #LinemanSafety #PPETesting #Lineman #Linemen #Lineworkers 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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

June 1, 2026Episode 14533 min

From Space-X to the Job Site - Why Kevlar is the New Standard for Utility Safety

In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Pantelides and Gary Percy from Telesteps to discuss the next evolution of climbing safety. While traditional fiberglass ladders have been the industry standard for decades, Telesteps is disrupting the market with their patented, DuPont Kevlar non-conductive telescoping ladders. Engineered for use near energized electrical systems, these ladders are 25–30 lbs lighter than traditional models and compact enough to fit in the back of a small van. We dive into the history of the company—from manufacturing aircraft-grade aluminum tools for the U.S. Military to using the same ballistic materials found in NASA’s Artemis II shield. Learn how these precision tools are improving ergonomics for fleet professionals and why "big when you need it, small when you don't" is the future of utility safety. Learn more about their full range of products at: https://telestepsladders.com Key Takeaways The Kevlar Advantage: Unlike fiberglass, which can dry out and fracture over time, Telesteps’ DuPont Kevlar ladders are ballistic-grade, non-conductive, and built to withstand extreme weather and heavy use. Revolutionary Portability: These ladders retract to under 30 inches, allowing utility crews to downsize their vehicles and save on fuel costs without sacrificing reach. Safety First Engineering: Equipped with safety indicator windows that show when the rungs are locked, a "One-Touch" slow-close release to prevent pinched fingers, and pivoting silicone feet for a sure grip on any surface. High Load Capacity: The Kevlar A-frame model holds a Type 1AA duty rating of 375 lbs, while the extension models meet Type 1A (300 lbs) standards, surpassing OSHA requirements. Built for Longevity: With a claim rate of only 0.01%, these ladders are designed to be "the last ladder a company buys" if maintained properly. #UtilitySafety #ElectricalSafety #Telesteps #KevlarLadder #JobsiteSafety 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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

May 1, 2026Episode 14432 min

Utility Safety in Depth - The Safety Alchemist: Gina Vanderlin, CUSP, CSP, CHMM, CIT - Data into Utility Safety Insights

Read the article: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/confronting-data-bias-to-improve-safety-outcomes/ Effective mitigation requires leaders to regularly audit data, standardize definitions and measurement practices, and create psychologically safe reporting environments. This podcast episode features Gina Vanderlin, CUSP, CSP, CHMM, CIT, Health and Safety Program Manager at PSEG Long Island and a self-professed "Safety Alchemist". In a deep dive with host Kate Wade, Gina explores how safety professionals can transform raw data and standard procedures into meaningful organizational change. The conversation focuses on her Applied Alchemy article series for Incident Prevention magazine, specifically highlighting the hidden dangers of data bias and the evolving safety risks associated with new energy technologies like lithium-ion batteries. Key Takeaways The Concept of Safety Alchemy: Rather than just following compliance-based checklists, a "safety alchemist" blends diverse disciplines—such as behavioral science, decision science, and engineering—to transform information into actionable insight. The Evolution of Battery Hazards: As utilities integrate EVs and grid storage, employers must reconsider hazard communication. Batteries often bypass traditional scrutiny because they are classified as "articles," but damaged or failing batteries introduce significant chemical and fire risks. Data Bias in Safety Management: Bias is a natural human trait, but in safety data, it can lead to "ghost" weaknesses. Gina identifies five key biases—survivorship, selection, measurement, historical, and algorithmic—that can cause a safety system to drift away from reality. The "Geographic Presumption": Under a new OSHA letter of interpretation (Jan 2026), injuries caused by personal devices (like e-cigarettes or personal chargers) in the workplace are generally considered work-related and recordable. Improving Decision Quality: The common thread across all safety domains is decision quality. Improving how workers interpret information and how leaders prioritize resources is the most effective way to address the plateau in Serious Injury and Fatality (SIF) rates Questions & Answers Q1: How does Gina Vanderlin define "Decision Quality" in the context of utility safety? A: Gina defines it as the core issue connecting diverse safety topics. It involves how individuals and organizations interpret information to make choices. If decisions are made based on flawed assumptions or biased data, the entire safety system can fail to address real-world risks. Q2: What is a specific example of how data bias has physically impacted safety training? A: Gina points to CPR training, noting that 95% of mannequins are anatomically male. This lack of representative data creates a "modesty deterrent" and technical discomfort, resulting in women being 14% less likely to receive CPR during a public medical event. Q3: What does Gina suggest is the biggest pitfall for organizations rebranding their programs as "SIF-focused"? A: The pitfall is rebranding on paper without actually improving the quality of investigations or examining the decision-making conditions that led to the exposure. Simply changing the name of a near-miss program doesn't change the safety outcome if the underlying system remains the same. Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/ Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/ #UtilitySafety #SafetyAlchemy #DataBias #OccupationalHealth #IncidentPrevention #EHSLeadership _______________________________ 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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

May 1, 2026Episode 14241 min

Special Series: Voice of Experience - Part 2 - Accepting the Unacceptable with Danny Raines, CUSP

In this hard-hitting and deeply personal session, industry veteran Danny Raines, CUSP, challenges the "normalization of deviation" in the electrical utility industry. Drawing from decades of experience in the field, as well as his perspective as a pilot, Danny explores why skilled professionals continue to bypass safety regulations despite having better equipment and training than ever before. Through a series of real-world case studies and sobering accident investigations, this program dissects the thin line between "operating by the rules" and true operational excellence. Danny reminds us that while we can work in an unacceptable manner for years without incident, we are simply increasing the odds of a catastrophic failure. It is a call to action for every employee to become their "brother’s keeper" and refuse to let the unacceptable become the standard. Part 1: The Illusion of Experience and the Cost of Compromise In the first half, Danny discusses the origins of the "Accepting the Unacceptable" program and the alarming statistics of human error. The Risk of "It Ain't My Job": How a lack of ownership leads to system unreliability and hazardous conditions for the next crew. The Experience Trap: Why veteran linemen often fall victim to complacency while newer workers suffer from a lack of quality mentorship. Minimum vs. Excellent: A breakdown of why following OSHA regulations is merely the "legal minimum" and not the same as operating at an excellent safety level. Part 2: Leadership, Human Performance, and the Art of the Craft In the second half, Danny delves into the psychology of human performance and the heavy burden of leadership. The Pilot’s Perspective: Comparing "Cockpit Resource Management" to the teamwork required in a bucket truck to prevent fatal mistakes. Non-Verbal Endorsements: The dangerous message sent when a leader watches an unsafe act and says nothing, essentially "signing off" on the risk. The Artist in the Field: A final reflection on moving from being a laborer to a "craftperson" and ultimately an "artist" who works with hand, brain, and soul. Question & Answer 1. What is Danny Raines' definition of "Accepting the Unacceptable"? It is defined as accidents or close calls caused by human performance failures or leadership accepting less than what is required by standards and regulations. 2. Why does Danny believe that following regulations is not enough? He argues that regulations and industry standards represent the minimum precautions required to be "legal," but they do not equate to operational excellence or the highest level of safety. 3. What is a "non-verbal endorsement" in a safety context? It is when a leader or peer witnesses an unsafe act and remains silent. This silence sends a message to the rest of the crew—especially inexperienced members—that the behavior is acceptable. 4. According to the transcript, who is ultimately responsible for safety on the job site? While the employer is legally responsible and accountable to OSHA, the transcript emphasizes that the employee is the only one who can identify and correct unacceptability the moment it happens on-site. #LinemanSafety #OperationalExcellence #UtilityIndustry #HumanPerformance #SafetyLeadership #DannyRainesCUSP Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/ Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/ The Voice of Experience with Danny Raines podcast is produced by the same team that publishes Incident Prevention. It delivers insights based on Danny's regular column in the magazine, also called the Voice of Experience. To listen to more episodes of this podcast, as well as other podcasts we produce, visit https://incident-prevention.com/podcasts . You can reach Danny at rainesafety@gmail.com Purchase Danny's Book on Amazon - https://a.co/d/04PvuEyn _______________________________ 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 IP2026 to receive a 5% discount!

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