Safe, Efficient, Profitable: A Worker Safety Podcast

Does your facility use this tool that creates over-looked safety risks?  

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Safe, Efficient, Profitable: A Worker Safety Podcast, Joe and Jen Allen put a spotlight om an overlooked source of workplace injuries: hose handling. While hoses are a staple tool across manufacturing, sanitation, and agricultural facilities, the hosts reveal practices and conditions that can lead to significant injuries. 

Through real-world examples, the episode breaks down the top hose-handling opportunities, encouraging safety professionals and plant management to evaluate their cleaning processes to see if any of these risks are at...

In this episode we're picking the top hot work safety risks that we've encountered over our careers that can create the perfect storm for a fire event during hot work activities, with luck playing a major role in why some buildings are still standing.  Give this episode a listen, and see if your facility has any of these hot work process management risks:   

 “Top Failures in Hot Work Safety – Not Your Typical Toolbox Talk”

🔥 Overview:

In episode of Safe, Efficient, Profitable, hosts Joe and Jen of Allen Safety go beyond the basics of hot work trai...

Working at Farms, feed lots, and feed mills. They are absolutely an "if you know you know" type work place, which can create some risks if that person becomes a new hire!  In this episode, Joe and Jen skip right over some of the more "traditional" Hazards and move right to things that make you go "huh."🤔    This was a fun one to make- we hope you guys enjoy it!  Full episode summary below:
  
Key Points:
1. Biosecurity & Industrial Hygiene
Farm safety starts before driving onto the property—biosecurity measures require washing vehicles, showering in/showering out, wearin...

We've all seen the boiler-plate electrical safe work practice & electrical awareness training.  This isn't that.  In this episode, we're challenging your program, what's covered in training, who gets training, and even your routine safety inspections to give you a fresh way to view electrical safety at your facility.  If this helped you, please support us by liking and sharing the episode and thank you for listening!  Full episode description below:

This episode dives deep into common electrical hazards overlooked during inspections and audits, highlighting critical gaps in personal protective equipment (PPE), voltmeter use, and general facility maintenance. By e...

Where will the top safety risks and threats fall in 2025?  Joe and Jen throw out their predictions for 2025.  Let us know in the comments what your predictions are! 

1. The Continuation of Key 2024 Trends into 2025
The episode kicks off with a reflection on 2024’s biggest safety and compliance trends, including the growing complexity of safety protocols and the rise of multi-stakeholder involvement in documentation.
Predictions for 2025 include heightened emphasis on process ownership and the need for more specialized training amidst rising turnover rates.

2. Who Should Be Signing Off on Safety Documents?
Understanding Documentation Respo...

Join us for this 2024 worker safety trend wrap-up, where we're discussing the top worker safety gaps and opportunities we personally saw ourselves in the field as safety experts.  Is this reviewing OSHA's list from Sept 2024? No.  Is what we're listing possibly some of the root causes for why OSHA issued the citations they did?  Maybe.  Stick with us until the end to see the actionable, budget conscious safety strategies for 2025 and let us know if we missed any that you saw!  Full episode description below: 

Key Points:
OSHA 2024 Most-Cited Issues- this video isn't covering that list releas...

This video is intended for educational purposes.  Solutions offered are not designed to take the place of an attorney, career advisor, or medical professional, and should not be taken as legal, career, or medical advice.  It is recommended that viewers consult a safety consultant, career advisor, medical provider or an occupational safety legal team as applicable to help navigate their specific circumstances.

It seems like there are people claiming to be "experts" everywhere- so how do you spot the true experts among all the noise?  This video helps you identify exactly that with some red flags and key questions to ask then next time you hire a third party for PSM or Safety audits or training.   
This video is intended for educational purposes.  Solutions offered are not designed to take the place of an attorney or medical professional, and should not be taken as legal advice.  It is recommended that viewers consult an occupational safety legal team as applicable to help...

Could something as simple as a microwave be driving up injuries at your manufacturing facility?  We think it very well could be, but it goes deeper than that.  It goes all the way to the culture and environment your employees are working in.  Does your facility have any of these top risks that can drive up stress, and in turn risk of injury? Join us with special guest George Mazzuca this week where we break it all down, and talk about our experiences working in the plants, along with what stressed us out!  Full episode summary below: 

Key D...

Its the holiday season, a dinner topic that may be brought up at a lot of tables centers around job and career changes.  For safety managers, a driving force for contemplating a job starts with if they feel the company they work for doesn't have safety values that align with their own.  Is it the company, or is it how the manager is presenting the concept of safety?  Listen to this episode to learn more!
This video is intended for educational purposes.  Solutions offered are not designed to take the place of an attorney, career coach, or medical prof...

In this episode, Joe and Jen dive deep into the world of training costs and provide practical insights on how to manage your facility’s training budget without sacrificing quality or compliance. From in-house vs. third-party training to hidden fees and travel expenses, they break down the key factors that can make or break your training program.

As a plant manager or safety leader, it's essential to ask the right questions when evaluating training vendors. The episode touches on everything from the true cost of training (including travel and overtime) to how to ensure your team receives ef...

In this episode, Joe and Jen cover all of the tangible costs of an injury, but dive deep into the intangible costs that injuries bring that are typically not calculated.  These underlying costs can cause the start of a cycle that can end up repeating for years to come.  Is your business in one of these cycles?  Episode summary below:

Cost of Workplace Injuries:

This episode focuses on the cost of workplace injuries, highlighting both tangible and intangible expenses such as medical bills, management time, lost productivity, and knowledge gaps.
Management Time:

Inj...

In this episode, Joe and Jen debate if making changes based on ergonomic evaluations are worth the money, and how to get a return on any ergo projects.  If you're wondering if JHAs, JSAs, and Ergo assessments are worth the time and effort, this one is for you!

Key Takeaways:

Ergonomics Is Often Overlooked: When businesses are under pressure, ergonomic improvements are frequently postponed, yet neglecting them leads to higher injury rates and long-term costs.

New Hires at Risk: In physically demanding industries like poultry processing, new hires are particularly vulnerable to ergonomic i...

In this episode, Joe and Jen try to give you a step by step guide on how to manage the chaos that can be left after regulators visit your facility.  What do you do next? Where do you start?  It can be so overwhelming, and this episode was designed to help you sort through it all.  

Initial Preparation and Documentation: Jen and Joe emphasize that businesses should have a pre-existing plan in place to handle regulatory inspections. A key point here is that the plan should clearly outline how to interact with regulatory bodies when they arrive on...

Esta semana tuvimos un episodio extra en español con nuestro consultor de seguridad George Mazzuca. Nos divertimos mucho haciendo esta breve capacitación sobre HAZCOM y Hojas de Datos de Seguridad (SDS). ¡Déjanos un comentario abajo y cuéntanos qué te pareció y si quieres más capacitaciones cortas de seguridad en español como esta!

In this episode we welcome our good friend and employee George Mazzuca to chat about a huge potential risk in safety: miscommunication and wrong translations.  George covers challenges he's personally come across in his career in the plants, along with solutions for translating safety training & documents for multiple languages.  Full episode summary below

Episode Summary: "Breaking Down Language Barriers in the Workplace"

In this episode, hosts Joe and George discuss the significant challenges that language barriers pose in the workplace, particularly in industries like food production. They explore common scenarios such as new employee orientations an...

Episode Summary: Contractor Liability and Job Site Safety

In this episode, Joe and Jen dive into the complexities of contractor liability and job site safety, focusing on the responsibilities and legal implications for both contractors and host employers. The discussion highlights the often misunderstood aspects of liability beyond just having insurance, emphasizing the importance of clear roles and responsibilities when things go wrong on a job site.

Key Points:

Jen from Allen Safety addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by rapid changes within workplaces. From turnover to shifts and product changes, she explores how safety managers can effectively navigate these dynamics wand create continuous improvement in safety metrics, safety measures, safety programs, safety training, and overall improve their safety culture all while running more efficient.  

There's often a tension between pursuing continuous improvement and maintaining stability in safety protocols.
Jen shares insights on how new managers can establish their own methods while respecting the legacy left by predecessors, learning why things are done the way t...

Jen from Allen Safety dives into the critical aspects of safety programs that every company should consider.  From writing new safety programs, reviewing existing safety programs, or performing updates, the Allen Safety team has years of experience in safety management across manufacturing and industry to help your team avoid common problems, create a cohesive program, and shines a light on best safety practices into your safety programs.

Key Points Covered:

Identifying Gaps in Safety Programs

Jen emphasizes the importance of assessing safety programs regularly to identify gaps that may compromise safety culture.
C...

Elevated Work and Fall Protection and Prevention Challenges and Solutions:
This episode can be used as a safety short, manager continued education, or used as a toolbox talk.  

Our episode begins by acknowledging the wide-ranging challenges encountered in elevated work scenarios. From incorrect or no tie-off points to accessibility issues and equipment limitations, these factors significantly impact worker safety and productivity in industrial settings.  

Key Challenges Explored:

Tie-Off Points and Accessibility Issues:

We address the critical issue of tie-off points being insufficient or inaccessible in many industrial environments. This challenge of...

Welcome to our latest discussion on contractor safety during project days. In this episode, we dive deep into managing the chaos of the crucial first hour, addressing failures, and providing actionable solutions to enhance safety and efficiency.

Introduction to Project Day Chaos:
The episode opens with a candid acknowledgment of the intense challenges faced during the initial hour of a project. Described as chaotic and critical, this period sets the tone for the entire day's operations.

Key Points Covered:

First Hour Challenges:

The first hour is identified as the most...

In this episode on Hot work and fire watch gaps, opportunities, and failures, the focus is on critical issues related to hot work procedures, permitting Joe and Jen begin by highlighting common misunderstandings and gaps in hot work permitting and hot work safety practices within the industry.

Key Points Covered:

Importance of Fire Watch Training: The episode starts with a discussion on the inadequate coverage of fire watch responsibilities in industry training. The host emphasizes the need for comprehensive fire watch training that goes beyond basic fire extinguisher use to include strategic placement and movement...

Introduction:

The hosts, Joe Allen and Jen Allen, discuss the importance of ladder safety and the excitement surrounding the topic.
The episode focuses on ladder safety issues, not just inspections or conventional solutions, but on identifying user problems and how to address them effectively.
Identifying Problems:

They discuss various problems encountered with ladder safety, including using the wrong style of ladder, using ladders that are too short, using outdated or inappropriate materials (e.g., wooden ladders in environments requiring metal ladders), and the confusion surrounding the selection of staircases.
Lack of spotters...

The episode opens with an acknowledgment of the contentious nature of confined space reclassification, noting its status as a highly debated topic within safety circles.
The host invites viewers to engage in a discussion, emphasizing the importance of exploring different perspectives and considerations surrounding this issue.
Key Points:

Motivations for Reclassification:
The episode highlights common motivations for reclassification, such as avoiding extensive training, labor issues, and the need for permits and rescue procedures.
The allure of simplifying processes through reclassification is discussed, particularly in industries where confined spaces are prevalent.

Challenges...

Summary: 
Equipment Selection and Use: The speaker stresses the significance of proper equipment selection and training in using gear specific to confined space environments, emphasizing real-world scenarios and environmental conditions.

SCBA Usage and Alternatives: The speaker dispels myths around the necessity of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) for confined space rescue, highlighting alternative rescue methods and the importance of assessing air quality within confined spaces.

Awareness Training vs. Specialized Training:
Awareness training informs individuals about the presence of confined spaces and the dangers associated with them, typically lasting about 15 minutes.
Specialized training goes b...

Confined space training- how many hours should it be? Is there an “initial” class? Should it include high angle rescue? What about other versions of rope rescue?  What about train the trainer?  Before you schedule your confined space training this year, listen here- it could save you a lot of time and money and scheduling drama! 💰🕰️

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Episode Summary:
In this week's enlightening episode, we embark on an in-depth exploration of confined space assessments—a critical yet often underestimated aspect of workplace safety. With years of hands-on experience and a wealth of expertise, we unravel the complexities surrounding assessments, shedding light on the essential components, nuanced considerations, and practical strategies necessary for ensuring the utmost safety in confined workspaces.

Key Points:

Demystifying Assessments: We kick off the discussion by debunking common misconceptions surrounding confined space assessments. Far from being mundane paperwork, assessments are indispensable tools for identifying potential hazards and devising ef...

 In this episode, the hosts delve into the complex process of determining whether a space qualifies as confined, unpacking the various factors that must be considered in making this determination. They emphasize that confined space classification is not a straightforward task and requires a comprehensive assessment of several critical elements. Throughout the discussion, the hosts provide insights and anecdotes drawn from their extensive experience in the field of confined space safety.

The episode begins with the hosts addressing the fundamental question: what constitutes a confined space? They highlight the ambiguity surrounding this definition, particularly in terms of l...

In this episode, the hosts discuss the essential traits required for being an effective Incident Commander (IC) in handling chemical spills, leaks, and other related events. They highlight four key traits that may not be immediately apparent but are crucial for successful Incident management.

1. Understanding the Role of an IC:

Distinguishing between an Incident Commander and an Incident Manager.
The IC manages chemical aspects, while the manager handles everything else.
The importance of combined training to ensure a comprehensive skill set.
Awareness of other emergencies at the facility, such as fire, explosion...

Hazmat Response Phases and Chemical Leaks - Navigating Emergency Situations

Introduction:
In this insightful YouTube episode, the hosts delve into the stages of a hazmat response, covering crucial aspects of handling chemical leaks. The discussion unfolds with an overview of the decision to establish a hazmat team, emphasizing the importance of understanding the chemicals present at a location.

Chapter 1: Initial Response Planning
The hosts stress the need to establish an evacuation plan, citing examples from a food plant setting. Specific chemicals like CO2, nitrogen, and ammonia are...

In this insightful YouTube episode, the Joe and Jen delve into the critical aspects of why establishing a hazmat team is not only essential for safety but also a sound business strategy. The discussion unfolds across four key reasons, providing a comprehensive exploration of each:

Emergency Response and Planning: The episode starts by stressing the significance of emergency response and planning in the business landscape. The speaker challenges the common notion that accidents and leaks can be predicted. Instead, they advocate for a proactive approach, highlighting the need for a robust Process Safety Management (PSM) program. The...

Episode Breakdown:

1. Introduction to Incident Management

2. EAP vs. ERP: Decoding the Basics
Explore the fundamental differences between Emergency Action Plans (EAP) and Emergency Response Plans (ERP) to establish a solid foundation for understanding incident management.

3. Navigating Industry-Specific EAPs (2:20 - 3:45):
Address the confusion surrounding industry-specific EAPs, like the refrigeration side's version, and examine how they tailor responses to unique challenges such as chemical leaks.

4. The Crucial Role of Training
Delve into the significance of training in incident management, emphasizing the necessity of preparing Instant Managers for a variety of...

The podcast episode titled "First fifteen minutes of a chemical leak top four things" provides a detailed and informative discussion on the crucial steps to be taken during the initial moments of a chemical leak emergency. The episode is hosted by Joe and Jen, who draw upon their extensive experience in handling over 480 incidents, including leaks involving various hazardous materials such as sanitation chemicals and refrigerants.

The hosts begin by emphasizing the urgency of the situation, urging listeners to buckle in for a comprehensive discussion. They acknowledge the fast-paced nature of emergency responses and encourage the use...

Introduction:
In this podcast episode, Jen shares valuable insights and tips on optimizing business travel experiences, emphasizing the importance of smooth stays and how to leverage exclusive perks. With a focus on hotels, flights, and rental cars, Jen provides practical advice on choosing accommodations, navigating flight options, and selecting the right rental car company. Additionally, she delves into the benefits of loyalty programs and corporate discounts, aiming to enhance both the professional and personal aspects of frequent travel.

Podcast Summary:

Hotel Selection and Prioritizing Sleep:

Highlighting the critical role of hotels in...

Introduction and Background:

Jen introduces herself as the host.
The episode revolves around organizing the year for safety managers, especially those handling Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) responsibilities, security, and Process Safety Management (PSM).
Challenges Faced by Safety Managers:

Safety managers deal with a multitude of tasks such as PMs (preventive maintenance), audits, inspections, and monthly safety topics.
Responsibilities include handling emergency equipment, fire safety, audits at varying intervals (three and five years), and more.
Organizing the Year:

Jen emphasizes the importance of creating a physical calendar, not just...

The Ultimate Guide to Harness Selection 

Introduction:
Welcome to the Allen Safety Podcast, where Joe and Jen unravel the mysteries of safety equipment. In this episode, they dive deep into harnesses, revealing the top four crucial considerations before making a purchase.

1. Size Matters:
The hosts emphasize the importance of choosing the right size for a harness. Stressing that adjustability has limits, they underscore that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is personal, urging listeners to understand preferences and brand variations. They recommend testing multiple sizes to ensure a perfect fit for every user.

2. S...

Key Points:

Introduction and Schedule Update:

Podcast hosts, Joe and Jen Alan Safety, introduce the episode.
Discuss the shift to a bi-monthly schedule due to a busy season.
Apologize for the background noise due to having kids and winter illnesses.

Host's Background and Military Experience:

Joe shares his background as a Navy corpsman with CPR training experience.
Highlights the contrast between military and civilian CPR training settings.
Top 4 Things to Consider Before First Aid CPR Training:

Identify Specific Needs:

Determine the type of...

In this episode of the Worker Safety Podcast, hosts Joe and Jen, representing their safety company, delve into the complexities of working with robots and the crucial safety considerations associated with them. Having previously discussed the advantages of incorporating robots into the workplace, this episode breaks down the essential safety aspects to be aware of before installing or working with robots.

Key Highlights:

🚀 Deep Dive into the World of Robots:
As we navigate the intricate landscape of robotic assistance, Joe and Jen, armed with their extensive safety expertise, shed light on the nuanced challenges and...

Summary:
In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Joe and Jen dive deep into the pivotal question of whether investing in robotics for your industrial plant is a strategic move for the future. With industries facing a significant labor shortage, the demand for automated solutions has surged. The hosts explore the multifaceted impact of AI and robotics on safety, knowledge retention, and procedure updates for new hires. They also address challenges such as equipment setup and early shift operations, emphasizing the potential for robotics to revolutionize safety measures. Tune in for invaluable insights into navigating the dynamic landscape of automation...

Episode Description:

In this special Halloween edition of Safe, Efficient, Proper - A Worker Safety Podcast, join us as we delve into the spine-chilling world of workplace violence. Joe, a seasoned safety manager, recounts his top three harrowing encounters with workplace violence that left him on edge. From unexpected confrontations to adrenaline-pumping emergencies, these incidents serve as cautionary tales for managers and employees alike.

Episode Summary:

The Unsettling Confrontation:
In this hair-raising incident, Joe recounts a morning that took a terrifying turn when the highway patrol arrived with a mission. Little did...