PreAccident Investigation Podcast

In this episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, host Todd Conklin shares the vibrant discussions and insightful Q&A sessions from a recent conference held in Santa Fe. This three-day event brought together a diverse group of experts and professionals to explore the fundamentals of human performance, leadership impact, and practical applications in safety practices. The first day delved into the evolution of human performance over the past 25 years, featuring voices like Tony Mishara, Shane Bush, and Ron Gant. The second day focused on leadership, psychological safety, accountability, and mental health, with contributions from experts like Jennifer Long and Mike Peters. The final day was dedicated to practical applications, leadership denial, and an engaging panel discussion with industry leaders. Join us for a deep dive into the key takeaways and thought-provoking questions raised during the conference. Whether you missed the event or want to revisit the highlights, this episode offers valuable insights and stories that will resonate with safety professionals and leaders alike.

Hi, everybody, and welcome to the Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment, Operational Excellence Moment. I'm your host, Todd Conklin. How are you today? I hope you're good. Today's episode focuses on a simple yet powerful message about safety and storytelling. Todd discusses how the way we collect and distribute data can sometimes lead us to focus too much on negative safety stories. These stories often highlight what went wrong, with the hope that others will learn from these mistakes and avoid similar pitfalls. However, Todd suggests that this approach may not be as effective as we think. Instead, he advocates for sharing success stories—stories that illustrate what went right. By focusing on successful outcomes, we can better understand the conditions that lead to success and teach others to manage these conditions effectively. This shift in narrative can help us move away from managing unexpected failures to creating environments where success is more likely. It's a simple idea, but its time has come. By sharing what works, we can all learn to be safer and more effective in our practices. That's your safety moment for today. I hope you learned something new. Have as much fun as you possibly can and, for goodness' sake, be safe.

Welcome to the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast with your host, Todd Conklin. In this episode, Todd dives into the ongoing discussion about the potential addition of a sixth principle to the long-standing five principles of Human and Organizational Performance (HOP). The conversation explores whether "Control Saves Lives" should be considered a new principle or if it remains a practice, and how this impacts organizational safety strategies. Joined by Brent Sutton and Jeff Lyth, Todd navigates the complexities of principles versus practices, the evolution of HOP, and the importance of having guiding principles that shape organizational behavior. The episode also touches on the historical context of these principles and the necessity for organizations to adapt to an ever-changing, complex world. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and seeks to refine the way we think about safety and risk management in the workplace.

Hey, everybody! In this eye-opening episode of the Pre-Accident Podcast Safety Moment, we delve into a profound concept: "The map is not the territory." This idea, originating from Alfred Korzybski, highlights the crucial difference between models of reality and reality itself. We explore how procedures, like maps, serve as important guides but cannot fully encompass the dynamic nature of actual work. Workers must adapt in real-time, using procedures as stabilizing documents while making necessary adjustments to handle variations in the work environment. Tune in to understand why it's essential to recognize that GPS is not driving, and procedures are not the work—they are merely models. Learn something new, be kind, and most importantly, stay safe!

Hey everyone, Todd Conklin here from the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast. As we transition into the beautiful autumn season in New Mexico, where the air is filled with the delightful scents of roasting chilies and pinon pine, I've been reflecting on the concept of super high risk with super low reward. In this episode, we delve into the intriguing idea of "picking up pennies in front of a steamroller," a metaphor often used in investments to describe gathering low value in front of advancing high risk. How does this apply to our daily operations and risk assessments? Join me as I explore the balance between risk and reward, and how transparency in complex systems can help us make better decisions. We'll discuss the importance of recognizing low-value activities that carry high risks and how organizations can evaluate whether these risks are worth the rewards. This episode encourages you to think critically about your work processes and to constantly develop your risk assessment skills. So, take a moment to reflect on your own "thinking place," understand that mental work can be exhausting, and let's dive into this fascinating topic together. Stay safe, be kind, and keep learning!

In this episode of "Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment," Todd Conklin delves into the intricate and often debated concept of truth. He explores how different perspectives can lead to varying interpretations of what is considered true, using a relatable anecdote about airport security lines to illustrate his point. Through this thought-provoking discussion, Todd challenges listeners to reflect on how personal experiences shape our understanding of truth. He emphasizes that multiple truths can coexist, even when they appear contradictory. This brief yet profound safety moment encourages us to be open-minded, kind, and considerate of others' perspectives. Join Todd for this enlightening episode and remember to stay curious, compassionate, and safe in all your endeavors.

In this episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, Todd dives deep into the intriguing world of risk perception. He explores the philosophical and practical differences between viewing risk through the lens of the individual versus the organization. Todd discusses the timeless debate between the foxes, who know many things and embrace nuance, and the hedgehogs, who know one big thing and focus intensely on it. Join Todd as he examines how these differing cognitive styles impact our understanding and management of risk. He delves into the importance of balancing these perspectives to foster a risk-informed and competent workforce, drawing insights from psychology, engineering, and even Greek philosophy. This thought-provoking episode challenges the conventional views on risk and encourages listeners to rethink their approach to uncertainty in the workplace.

Welcome to the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast Safety Moment with Todd. In this episode, Todd delves into the well-known phrase "practice makes perfect" and offers a fresh perspective on its true meaning. While many of us have heard and used this phrase countless times, Todd explains why we don't practice to achieve perfection but rather to navigate a world full of imperfections. He highlights the importance of building capacity to handle high-risk, high-consequence situations through practice and simulation. Join Todd as he emphasizes the significance of practicing in an imperfect world to be prepared for variations and unforeseen challenges. This short and sweet safety moment encourages us to learn, have fun, and be kind and safe in our daily lives.

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast with Todd Conklin! In this episode, Todd shares his recent travel adventures and dives into a crucial discussion about the distinction between prevention and recovery in the realm of safety management. Fresh from a trip to Europe, Todd reflects on the challenges of managing safety in organizations, especially after catastrophic events. He emphasizes the importance of shifting the focus from merely preventing accidents to enhancing the capacity for recovery when things go wrong. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how leaders can better understand and manage the aftermath of serious incidents, ensuring that their organizations become more resilient and capable of handling unexpected failures. Todd also teases a potential future discussion with Eric Holnagle on the nuanced concepts of safety and safely, promising a deep dive into this fascinating topic. Join Todd as he unpacks these critical ideas, offering practical advice and thought-provoking perspectives to help organizations navigate the complexities of safety management. Don't miss this episode if you're looking to enhance your understanding of safety, leadership, and organizational culture. Tune in, learn something new, and be part of the conversation!

Get Caught Trying to Make the World Better! Best Safety Podcast, Safety Program, Safety Storytelling, Investigations, Human Performance, Safety Differently, Operational Excellence, Resilience Engineering, Safety and Resilience Incentives... Give this a listen. Thanks for listening and tell your friends. See you on Audible...all my books are up on there. One of them is read by a British dude - it is like a Harry Potter book! Have a great day as well.

Join Todd Conklin on the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast for an insightful discussion with the fabulous Martha Acosta. This episode delves into Martha's fascination with the liberal arts and her recent seminar on "2001: A Space Odyssey." They explore Kubrick's central theme of evolution and its relevance to leadership and organizational development. Martha shares her journey of writing a book focused on building safety capacity within organizations. She emphasizes the critical role of leadership in creating and shaping meaning within a system. Through engaging case studies, such as the Columbia disaster and the Chilean mining disaster, Martha illustrates how leadership practices can significantly impact an organization's ability to recover from failures. The conversation touches on the paradoxical nature of leadership, the importance of developing external perspectives, and the systemic nature of soft skills like influence and psychological safety. Martha introduces the CHIP tool (Consequences, Habits, Identity, Power) as a method to uncover underlying issues in organizational behavior. Tune in to discover how leaders can develop emotional resilience, create capacity, and foster environments where innovation and safety thrive. Whether you're a formal leader or an informal influencer, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to enhance their leadership capabilities.

Welcome to the Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment with your host, Todd Conklin. In this episode, Todd explores the concept of signal strength and its impact on workplace safety. Using the example of crossing a street and encountering poorly timed crosswalk signals, he illustrates how weak signals can indicate underlying issues in a system. Todd emphasizes the importance of identifying and addressing these weak signals to enhance safety. He encourages leaders and managers to listen to their workers and diagnose problems before they escalate into significant events. By improving signal strength, we can create stronger, safer systems. Tune in to learn how to spot weak signals and make your organization safer. Remember, your role is to listen, identify, and act to ensure a secure working environment. Have fun, stay curious, and be safe!

In this engaging episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, host Todd Conklin teams up with leadership expert Jennifer Long for a thought-provoking conversation on leadership and capacity in today's complex organizational environments. Together, they explore how leaders can build confidence and capacity within their teams to foster innovation and resilience. Jennifer shares insights from her recent leadership development program, while Todd delves into the importance of monitoring capacity rather than just measuring it. They discuss the balance between efficiency and thoroughness, and how leaders can shift their focus from simply solving problems to understanding and analyzing them deeply. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how modern leadership can adapt to ever-changing challenges, the significance of creating safe-to-fail environments, and the critical role of curiosity and learning in effective management.

Welcome to the Pre-Accident Podcast Safety Moment! In this episode, we delve into the age-old debate of free will versus predeterminism, exploring how individual behavior is influenced by organizational systems, processes, and culture. Our host challenges the notion of free choice in the workplace, arguing that context plays a significant role in shaping our decisions. From the clothes we wear to the products we use, many of our choices are influenced by the environment around us. Join us as we discuss the powerful impact of context on workplace safety and the importance of understanding these influences. Learn something new, have fun, and stay safe!

So we lost a good friend this weekend, and I wanted to take a moment and just celebrate the life of Jim Howe. This is just a little special podcast. I hope you take a minute and listen to it just because Jim Howe is somebody really special that if you don't know, I wish you did know him. And if you do know him, you totally know why I had to say a few words. Jim's a remarkable force. I guess maybe it's more accurate to say Jim was a remarkable force. That's hard. But Jim, I think, carried more than his fair share of the weight of moving safety into more contemporary thinking. And he did it in such interesting ways. You know, he was on all these international standards committees, and he helped write a lot of the international standards for safety and for investigatory work and for certification and audits and assessments. And he did that because he knew it would matter, because he knew in essence that was his legacy, is if you want to change a bureaucratic function, you have to change the bureaucratic function. And his belief was, because he told it to me many times, that his voice in the room was often the only voice that was speaking for looking at these problems differently than we have before. And Jim was amazing at that. Jim spent years in safety. I know for certain he was at the United Auto Workers as the assistant director of safety, and he was at UAW for 20 years, maybe even a little longer. And he ended up at that assistant director spot, and he really led a lot of the more significant efforts that UAW did throughout North America. He's done many, many, many serious critical investigations, fatality investigations. And he was quite amazing at that work, which you have to just be thoughtful that that's an area that I'm not sure how much you want to be amazing at, but he was. He was incredibly good at it. But what I think he liked even more was going out and doing site visits because he did hundreds and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of site visits. And I think he liked most of all talking to the people. At least that's certainly my impression. I've known Jim for a lot of years, certainly more than 10 years. And I have lots of stories about Jim and funny things that happened and how easy it was to get him to laugh and how much he enjoyed the laughter. But I think what most comes to my mind is how thoughtful Jim was about the people and how much he cared about the people and how much he cared about providing, really, an opportunity for the world to be a better place. So, you know, I talk all the time about what is meaningful work. Well, the answer is good work done well for the right reasons. And if I had to pick somebody that exemplified that, it would be Jim. Good work, done well, for the right reasons. Jim's remarkable, and he will be missed. And after a four-year struggle with prostate cancer, he lost it gallantly this weekend. And our thoughts are with him and certainly with his family, but even more importantly, with everybody he touched. changed throughout the globe, but certainly specifically throughout North America. Jim, we'll miss you, my friend. It was good to know you. You made the light of the world a little bit brighter, and that's amazing. So to our friend Jim Howe, what a great life you lived, and what a significant contribution you gave, not just to us who do this work, work but to everybody who has to work jim we'll miss you.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, hosted by Todd Conklin. In this enlightening discussion, Todd is joined by Jenna Miranda and James Wan, two extraordinary professionals making significant strides in the field of pediatric healthcare. Jenna Merandi, a medication safety officer at Nationwide Children's Hospital, shares her journey in reducing adverse drug events and implementing proactive safety measures. Learn about the innovative approaches and collaborative efforts that have helped her team break through safety plateaus and improve patient outcomes. James Won, a human factors expert from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, delves into the importance of designing systems that fit human capabilities. Discover how pediatric hospitals are leading the way in embracing human factors and proactive safety, setting a benchmark for healthcare innovation. This episode is a deep dive into the evolving landscape of healthcare safety, the challenges of measuring proactive efforts, and the fearless, patient-first mentality driving these advancements. Don't miss this engaging conversation that highlights the power of proactive safety and the impact of collaboration across industries.

Welcome to the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast! Join our host and special guests, Jay Allen and Jennifer Long, as they dive into the upcoming meeting in Santa Fe from September 10th to 12th. This episode is filled with excitement as we discuss the venue, the Drury Inn Plaza Hotel, and its unique history. Our main focus is on the critical topic of accountability in safety practices. Jennifer Long sheds light on implementing accountability strategically and culturally within organizations. We also touch upon the intriguing connection between mental health and safety, particularly in high-risk industries like construction. Get a sneak peek into the workshop layout, designed to build language and fluency in managing reliable and resilient operations. Whether you're a beginner or bringing along decision-makers, this conference offers valuable insights for everyone. Plus, discover the culinary delights and biking opportunities that Santa Fe has to offer during the Wine and Chili festival. Don't miss out on this enriching experience! For more information and to secure your spot, visit safetyfm.io. Join us in Santa Fe for an event that's sure to enhance your understanding of safety and accountability. Learn, enjoy, and stay safe!

Welcome to another episode of Todd Conklin's Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment. In this brief yet insightful segment, Todd shares two essential tips for the summer season. First, he emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Dehydration is a common issue, and ensuring you consume enough water can significantly impact your well-being. Second, Todd delves into the concept of imperfect knowledge. When faced with situations where you lack complete understanding or information, he advises seeking out differing opinions and perspectives. This approach helps to bridge knowledge gaps and fosters continuous learning. Tune in to discover how embracing diverse viewpoints can lead to better problem-solving and organizational growth. Remember to stay curious, have fun, and prioritize safety.

Welcome to the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, hosted by Todd Conklin. In this episode, Todd sits down with Asher Balkin from The Ohio State University's Cognitive Systems Engineering Lab. Asher is a brilliant researcher known for his work in resilience engineering and his ability to communicate complex ideas in an accessible manner. Join Todd and Asher as they delve into the challenges and opportunities in the field of resilience engineering. They discuss the difficulties in making advanced research widely accessible and the importance of translating complex ideas for broader audiences. Asher shares insights into the lab's efforts to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, particularly in industries with high exposure to failure such as healthcare, IT, and aviation. Learn about the lab's innovative approaches to education, including short courses designed to make resilience concepts more attainable for professionals. The conversation also touches on the importance of building strong partnerships between academia and industry to foster a more resilient and adaptable world. Don't miss this engaging and enlightening discussion that promises to leave you with a deeper understanding of resilience engineering and its critical role in today's ever-changing environment.

Hey, everybody. Todd Conklin here with a Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment. Can you tell it's summer? Today, we're diving into a crucial topic that's been coming up a lot lately: the significance of the green light on your progress chart. One of the things that I think is so important to understand is that you should fear the green, embrace the yellow, and understand the red. The green light doesn’t really tell you anything, and fatalities and catastrophic failures often live in the green light. So, as leaders, it’s essential to question what's happening when everything seems fine. Catastrophic failure doesn’t live in the yellow light because you’re already examining it. It sure doesn’t live in the red light because the red light gets a lot of attention and resources. But the green light? It’s often overlooked because it’s not “squeaky.” That is your safety moment for today. Short and sweet. Learn something new every single day. Have as much fun as you possibly can. Be good to each other. Be kind to each other. And for goodness’ sakes, be safe.

Join Todd Conklin on this enlightening episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast as he sits down with retired Rear Admiral John Meyer of the United States Navy. Dive into a fascinating discussion about Admiral Meyer’s innovative approach to safety, his unique journey, and the transformative steps taken within naval aviation to enhance safety protocols. From the creation of a simulation center for aircraft movement on flight decks to a paradigm shift in leadership thinking, this episode offers valuable insights into managing safety in complex environments. Learn how Admiral Meyer's dedication and forward-thinking have led to significant improvements and what advice he has for current and future leaders. Don't miss this compelling conversation that blends philosophy, practical solutions, and leadership wisdom, all aimed at making the workplace safer for those who serve. Tune in to discover how small changes can lead to monumental impacts in safety and operations.

In this episode of Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Amendment, Todd Conklin explores a crucial aspect of effective leadership: the connection between learning and leading. He emphasizes that good leaders are inherently good learners and delves into the importance of embracing the unknown. Todd highlights the value of continuous learning and the humility it requires, suggesting that leadership success comes from a willingness to seek knowledge and understand the intricacies of organizational processes and employee experiences. Tune in to discover how embracing the journey of learning can enhance your leadership skills, making you a more effective and empathetic leader. Remember, the more you know, the better you lead. Join us for this insightful discussion and take away practical tips to improve your leadership approach. As always, stay curious, be kind, and stay safe.

Welcome to the final part of our three-part series on patient and worker safety in children's hospitals across North America. In this episode, we dive into the evolution of employee safety and health practices, focusing on the challenges and successes experienced over the past few years. Discover how hospitals have shifted from having no data or willpower to address staff safety, to now having 95 hospitals submitting critical safety data. Learn about the innovative strategies used to engage leadership, including board training and distributed leadership models, which have significantly influenced hospital culture and safety practices. We also explore the importance of asking the right questions and fostering a proactive safety culture. The episode concludes with reflections on how to sustain these improvements and the exciting potential for spreading these practices across multiple hospitals. Join us for this insightful conversation that highlights the power of collective learning and the ongoing journey to enhance safety in healthcare environments.

In this episode of "Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment," Todd Conklin shares a compelling story about a friend who learned a powerful lesson in leadership. This friend, known for her unpolished approach, often faced resistance and pushback from colleagues. Her boss advised her to remain calm and become instructive rather than defensive when met with opposition. Conklin emphasizes the importance of this advice, highlighting how it can transform challenging interactions and foster better understanding. He encourages listeners to adopt this mindset, reminding them that resistance often stems from a lack of understanding. By becoming instructive, we can navigate conflicts more effectively and build stronger relationships. Tune in to learn how to turn resistance into an opportunity for growth, and remember to be kind, take care of each other, and stay safe.

Welcome to part two of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, where we dive deep into the significance of involving frontline workers in problem-solving within organizations. This episode underscores the importance of asking those who do the work to define the problems and propose solutions, emphasizing their unique expertise. We continue our conversation with five experts discussing proactive safety measures in children's hospitals. Discover how engaging frontline staff has led to improved outcomes and a stronger safety culture. Learn about the success stories of proactive huddles, the creation of behavioral event response teams, and efforts to address safety disparities among patients. From exploring the challenges of measuring psychological safety to the inspiring stories of reducing unplanned extubations, this episode is packed with insights and practical takeaways. Join us as we uncover the transformative power of listening to and valuing the expertise of frontline workers.

In this episode of Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment, Todd Conklin delves into the topic of change and its significance in our professional and personal lives. He discusses his recent project, a book focused on managing the transition from old thinking to new thinking, and shares valuable insights on the importance of being proactive in the face of change. Todd emphasizes that being on the "pro-change" side is crucial for success and adaptability. He reassures listeners that while change can be challenging, it is also a constant part of life that we are inherently good at handling. By embracing change and staying ahead of it, we can ensure that we are not merely reacting but actively shaping our future. Tune in to learn why it's essential to be on the front end of change, and gather practical tips on how to make this mindset a part of your daily routine. Remember to be kind, stay safe, and embrace the continuous journey of learning and growth.

Welcome to this engaging episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast! Dive into a compelling roundtable discussion with a dynamic group of nurses and doctors from various children's hospitals. They share their experiences, stories, and the innovative strategies they've implemented to improve patient and staff safety. Listen as they discuss the importance of vulnerability, curiosity, and collaborative learning in driving significant cultural changes within their organizations. The conversation highlights the power of frontline engagement, the challenges of implementing new safety measures, and the transformative impact of shared knowledge across institutions. Whether you're in healthcare or another field, this episode offers valuable insights into fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this inspiring dialogue among some of the leading minds in pediatric healthcare safety.

Hey everybody, Todd Conklin here with another Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment. In this brief yet insightful episode, Todd delves into a crucial concept that's often overlooked: the difficulty of noticing something that hasn't happened yet. He emphasizes the importance of building systems that help identify potential drifts and failures, while also acknowledging the inherent challenge in predicting the unforeseen. This episode is a thoughtful reminder that hindsight is always 20/20, and it’s essential to support our organizational systems to better anticipate and prevent failures. Join Todd for a few minutes as he explores this pivotal idea, encouraging us all to learn something new every day and to be kind and safe in our endeavors.

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Pre-Accident Podcast with your host, Todd Conklin. Today, we delve into the world of patient safety with a special focus on children's hospitals. Todd introduces Dr. Anne Lyren, the clinical director of Children's Hospitals Solutions for Patient Safety (SPS), an organization dedicated to eliminating serious harm in pediatric care. Dr. Lyren shares the fascinating journey of SPS, detailing its origins, the challenges faced, and the remarkable successes achieved in improving safety measures across 150 children's hospitals in the U.S. and Canada. From reducing surgical site infections and adverse drug events to pioneering new safety strategies and fostering a culture of collaboration, this episode covers it all. Join us as we explore the innovative approaches and proactive safety tools that have transformed pediatric care. Dr. Lyren's insights and stories are not only encouraging but also incredibly meaningful, offering a glimpse into the future of patient safety. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this inspiring conversation.

Hey everybody, welcome to another pre-accident investigation safety moment with Todd! In this episode, Todd kicks things off with an insightful quote from Henry Petrosky: "We have learned to live in a world of imperfect things, just as we've learned to live in a world of imperfect humans." Todd delves into the humility and profound truth behind this quote, emphasizing that neither systems nor people are perfect. He highlights the importance of recognizing potential weaknesses and flaws in our work and daily lives, urging us to be prepared for inevitable failures. Whether managing high-risk systems or simply navigating everyday tasks like shopping or getting repairs done, Todd reminds us that how we approach and understand the potential for disappointment is crucial. He encourages listeners to share their interpretations of the quote and celebrates the diversity of perspectives that make life interesting. Join Todd for a reflective moment that underscores the value of learning, having fun, and being kind and safe in an imperfect world. Learn something new every day and embrace the journey!

Welcome to the 500th episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast! Join Todd Conklin as he reflects on a decade of insightful conversations, safety moments, and the evolution of ideas in the safety world. Todd takes us through the origin story of the podcast, sharing how it all began with a simple idea to capture the voices and thoughts of safety professionals. He delves into the importance of consistency, the challenges of podcast production, and the joy of connecting with listeners. Throughout the episode, Todd highlights the significant changes in how safety is discussed, especially the shift in understanding human error. He emphasizes the value of creating systems that are tolerant and expectant of human mistakes. As Todd reminisces about the journey, he expresses gratitude to the listeners for their unwavering support and engagement. He looks forward to continuing the conversation, exploring new topics, and bringing more intriguing guests to the show. Thank you for being a part of this incredible milestone. Here's to many more episodes of learning, growth, and safety!

Welcome to the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast with Todd Conklin! In this episode, Todd delves into the concept that "two heads are better than one" and explores the value of independent verification in ensuring safety and reliability. He discusses how an additional set of eyes can significantly enhance the ability to catch mistakes and prevent failures, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared expertise. Join Todd for this short and insightful safety moment as he explains how leveraging the skills and experiences of others can lead to greater resilience and reliability in any system. Remember, learning and safety go hand in hand! Stay safe, stay kind, and keep learning something new every day!

In this episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, host Todd Conklin delves into a real-life scenario that underscores the importance of effective system design. Through an engaging story about a confusing airport security line, Todd explores the concept of high reliability and the pitfalls of blaming individuals for systemic failures. Join Todd as he reflects on the principles of highly reliable organizations and how they apply to everyday situations. This episode offers valuable insights into recognizing weak links in systems and emphasizes the need for clear, user-friendly design to prevent unnecessary confusion and errors. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that not only entertains but also provides practical takeaways for improving system reliability and user experience in any organization.

In this captivating discussion, Todd Conklin takes on the topic of workplace safety, highlighting the importance of the 'Start Work' approach compared to the 'Stop Work' method. Although acknowledging the and ethical and moral value of having a 'Stop Work' authority, Conklin makes a stronger case for the 'Start Work' approach. During the conversation, Conklin illuminates how 'Start Work' is all about identifying essential safety controls necessary for work and ensuring their validation and verification before any task commences. This preventive method, as he contends, eliminates uncertainties, allows for better measurement, verification, and monitoring while negating the unreliability of attempting to predict and prevent potential hazards at every turn, a requirement often associated with 'Stop Work'. Consequently, Conklin underscores the importance of celebrating the successful execution of 'Start Work' within an organization, pointing out that deciding not to start a task due to inadequate provisions should be viewed as a success rather than a failure. Amid his discussion, he also cautions against using 'Stop Work' as a finding or blaming individual workers for not employing 'Stop Work'. With an emphasis on safety, Conklin concludes the segment urging listeners to learn something new daily, be kind to one another, and above all, stay safe. Tune in for an enlightening discourse on the power of starting when safe and the crucial role it plays in workplace safety management.

In this episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, Todd Conklin presents a comprehensive discussion on the risks and consequences associated with outdoor recreational activities, especially school trips to the lake. The conversation emphasizes the crucial need for understanding risk management and implementing practical safety measures in group outdoor settings. Joining the discussion is Associate Professor Mike Brown from Auckland University, an expert with over three decades of experience in outdoor education. He highlights the fatal consequences of underestimating risks in outdoor activities and introduces listeners to his refined process of identifying and preventing accident patterns specific to outdoor education scenarios using real-life examples from coroner's case studies. The episode explores the thrilling allure of outdoor activities versus the imperative of safety, striking a balance between fun and responsible outdoor learning. It offers a profound understanding of the factors that can turn an exciting outdoor adventure into a tragic event, and discusses preventative strategies for future educational excursions. Diving deeper into practical examples, guest Mike Brown discusses a program involving water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, stressing the importance of adequate safety precautions, particularly when engaging with water. Delving into free-time vulnerabilities, complexities around supervision, and the dangers of unpreparedness and uninformed decision-making, the conversation alerts listeners to the critical importance of familiarity with water environment dynamics and adopting a 'fatality prevention mindset'. Concluding on a note of caution, the episode advises that while outdoor activities are mostly enjoyable and successful, the participants need to remain vigilant at all times to avert unfortunate incidents. This thought-provoking episode heightens understanding of the precarious balance between adventure and safety in outdoor education, prompting listeners to think critically about their own safety behaviours.

In this episode, Todd Conklin discusses the critical element of understanding local rationale in the workplace and how it can serve as the starting point for significant organizational discovery. Rather than using this information to point fingers or penalize individuals, Conklin encourages managers and leaders to utilize these moments of rationale to investigate and gain insight into the broader challenges and issues within their organizations. Highlighting the essence of curiosity, Conklin proffers that when workers explain why something made sense at a particular moment, leaders should seize this as an opportunity to learn and understand instead of using it as a weapon of accountability. This interest, he asserts, is critical to uncover deep-seated organizational issues that might often be overlooked. Conklin's message encapsulates the importance of becoming smarter in every aspect of our lives, pushing listeners to adopt curiosity as a pathway to greater understanding. He finishes off the episode with a heartfelt note on learning, fun, kindness, and safety, serving as a reminder of the essential things in life and work.

In this insightful episode, our host, Todd Conklin, presents a new envisioning of safety at workplaces. He emphasises the need to perceive safety not merely as avoiding accidents, but more importantly, fostering operational capacity. Todd emphasises the necessity to reform the investigative processes, urging to involve workers in learning rather than attributing blame. The dialogue gravitates towards studying regular workflows, a welcome deviation from the standard practice of only probing when mishaps occur. Leadership plays a key role in implementing these philosophical and methodological changes, despite inevitable resistance and nostalgia for traditional ways. Overcoming this barrier, leaders need to foster change and pioneer the path to progress. The value of several upcoming workshops, each offering chances to learn and improve upon safety practices, is highlighted. The role of safety within operations evolves from being a theoretical discourse to a focus on practical interventions. The challenge lies in the sustainable adoption of these new philosophies across the entire organisation in a pragmatic manner. This transition demands new ways of assessing progress and monitoring methods, underlining the importance of understanding our current standing. Building an organisation's capacity to fail safely, rebound from failure and ultimately sidestep predictable accidents is deliberated upon. Yet, this often clashes with organisations rooted in traditional safety philosophies, inhibiting their recovery capacity. Innovations in safety measurements and changing paradigms can help advance towards creating a strong, resilient and future-proof organisation, paving the way for continuous improvement. Finally, the entire process must factor in the unique characteristics of different sectors within the organisation while developing and implementing new safety measures. The ultimate goal is to test and apply innovative solutions to long-standing issues. This initiative invites everyone to partake in and contribute towards strategic change management practices and to remember the importance of learning, enjoyment, and most significantly, safety.

In this episode, Todd Conklin delves into a unique phenomenon propelling safety regulations globally. Discussing the intriguing concept of 'sticky', an acronym for 'stuff that kills you', Todd highlights how this approach has impacted organizations and reinvigorated safety dialogues. In a world where perfect conditions, processes, or people are not guaranteed, the 'STKY' approach encourages identifying the highest risks involved in a task. However, Todd emphasizes that the magic lies not in the identification but in the follow-up questions. Upon identification of the 'sticky'—the deadliest risk, one ought to ask: 'When that bad thing happens, what keeps us safe?'. This paves the way to identify the essential controls for failing safely. The value of 'STKY' begins to shine through with the critical evaluation of existing safety measures. In conclusion, Todd points out that the power of 'STKY' lies in the subsequent questions: 'What will kill you?', 'When it happens, what keeps you safe?', and 'Is that enough?'. He advocates for the need to keep learning, to be kind to each other, and above all, to ensure safety at all times.

In this enlightening episode, host Todd Conklin talks with Christian Gould from Norwegian energy giant Equinor. The central focus of their conversation revolves around the multifaceted Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) and its effectiveness across diverse cultures, industries, and geographical planes - with a heavy emphasis on the Scandinavian scenario. Gould elaborates on the need to contextualize HOP theories and practices in light of both language and culture. He navigates pivotal discussions on the cultural impact on high-stakes, high-potential events, and dissect how his team is facilitating it. Unravelling insights into how HOP ideologies have been adopted in Scandinavia, Gould notes the one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work. Instead, he walks us through the stumbling blocks they need to bypass, despite an initial perception of these principles being easy to implement. Furthermore, Gould introduces the listeners to tactics they employ to turn obstacles into opportunities, underscoring the impact of language and day-to-day operations rather than just focusing on the outcome. The conversation also veers towards the necessity of psychological safety within workplaces, the pitfalls of blame culture, and how to counter them. Listeners also get a glimpse into the success of learning teams at Equinor. The episode comes to a close with a powerful message - the potential for global principles like HOP to be remodeled according to various cultures and industries. Tune in for a valuable discussion on enhancing the comprehension and application of HOP.

Welcome to pre-accident investigation safety moment with Todd Conklin, where we engage in thought-provoking and insightful discussions about safety. In this episode, Todd explores the concept of conflict in the workplace, not from an interpersonal perspective, but rather as it pertains to processes, practices, and procedures. Conflict areas within your system are often pain points - places where two goals collide. They are complex coupling points that put workers into a position where failure is likely to occur. This episode encourages leaders to seek out such points of conflict - places where the work system doesn't align or makes no sense. The interaction between workers and their operational procedures is critical. Todd shares an anecdote about airline employees discussing a new safety analysis document which, instead of reinforcing safe work practices, ended up hindering the employees and compromising overall safety. This conversation reveals how workers, the users of such systems, can give valuable input about the processes that make sense and those that don't. It is essential for bosses to tap into this wealth of information for the betterment of systems and safety. Catch more such intriguing discussions on safety from Todd Conklin in this episode and remember to practice safety, learn something new every day and most importantly, have fun!

In "The Evolution of a Safety Professional: Engaging Lessons and Perspectives," Todd Conklin hosts an enlightening conversation with returning guest, Nick Peasley. Two years after his initial appearance, Peasley comes back to the podcast, seasoned by experiences in the safety field, offering invaluable insights for new and veteran safety professionals. Their conversation revolves around the invaluable practice of expanding one's professional safety network. Peasley emphasizes the importance of attending safety organization events, such as those held by the NSC and ASSP, stepping out of one’s comfort zone, and engaging with other professionals. Building relationships, exchanging ideas, and sharing experiences are noted as foundations of a strong network - a crucial asset in the safety profession. Peasley and Conklin highlight the benefits of introducing oneself to local colleagues and peers. Expanding the network can open doors to opportunities, mentorship, and friendships which prove pivotal in career advancement. Mixing exploration of local and global professional networks, the seasoned professionals recommend a balanced approach to networking in the safety sphere. Further, the duo dives into the integral role of failure in professional growth. Peasley introduces the concept of "psychological safety zones" that welcome learning and constructive acknowledgement of mistakes. He underscores the significance of self-reflection in identifying failures and the need for effective leadership that guides through the failure navigation. The conversation culminates in a visionary outlook for the future of the safety profession. This engaging episode serves as an excellent resource for those in the safety field, spotlighting the roles of professional relationships, ongoing learning, self-reflection, and immersive experiences in propelling career growth.

In today's episode, Todd Conklin talks about a profound reality everyone comes to understand with time and experience. This striking insight is about delving deeper into surface-level issues, to discern what's causing deeper-rooted problems in workplace scenarios. Todd shares an intriguing anecdote about a friend's team's struggles with trust-building which provides a springboard for this insightful discussion. Pivoting the conversation from a drawn-out trust-building exercise that ended up being unfruitful and counterproductive, Todd invites listeners to re-calibrate to a new perspective. He suggests that the problem might lie elsewhere. In fact, trust, or lack thereof, is just a symptom of a more profound issue. The real concern may very well be a lack of clarity regarding each team member’s mission, responsibilities, and deadlines, resulting in unfulfilled promises and agreements. This eye-opening talk challenges the listeners' conventional methods of problem-solving and pushes them to look beyond the obvious. Todd emphasizes that merely addressing the surface-level issues might not solve the underlying impediments in team coordination and project management. It's a call to peek under the hood and truly understand the dynamics of teamwork and the fundamental elements required to foster a trustworthy, efficient work environment. Stay tuned, and let's dive deep into identifying and addressing hidden issues that hinder team growth and productivity. Engage in our journey to make work-life safer and more fun. And remember all along: Be safe, be kind, learn something new every day, and above all, have as much fun as you possibly can.

In our latest podcast episode, we welcome Nicholas Dahlstrom, Human Factors Manager at Emirates Airline. He takes us deep into his role, managing cultural diversities in one of the world's leading airlines. With more than 100 nationalities on the flight deck, cabin crew and wider company, Dahlstrom explores the benefits and challenges of such varied workforce. Listen as he shines a light on the greater professional culture subduing national cultural differences, sharing the impact of Covid-19 on operations, and explaining his diverse role at Emirates. Our conversation touches base with Dahlstrom's insights into training pilots and cabin crew, supporting the staff, and participating in accident investigation. A fascinating journey into the intricate workings of Emirates, this episode is a must-listen not to be missed! Navigating CRM and Aviation Safety Training with Dr. Nicholas DahlstromJoin us in this exciting podcast episode where we sit in conversation with Dr. Nicholas Dahlstrom, a prominent figure in Aviation Safety Training and Crew Resource Management. Our discussion revolves around the current state and future of CRM, especially from the lens of Emirates Airlines where he has brought about significant change. Dahlstrom stresses the importance of adjustable training methods, the challenges of blending safety and efficiency in training, and the need to focus on human development while making organizational improvements. His insights prove invaluable for anyone intrigued by aviation safety, human factors, CRM, and the delicate task of merging traditional knowledge with innovative methods. Plug in as Dr. Dahlstrom illustrates the power of CRM in enhancing safety and boosting efficiency. A must-listen for all safety professionals!

The next time you experience a potential failure or safety issue, pause and ask, "Who, within the working sphere, wasn't surprised by that?" Todd Conklin hosts the Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment podcast episode and emphasizes this query's importance. Unexpected safety issues or near-miss incidents can sometimes be anticipated by individuals targeted in your work environment, and recognizing these signals can guide you to improve precautions. Understanding that some employees weren't startled by the risks and closely examining these situations is key. Significantly, however, creating a psychologically safe atmosphere is crucial to encourage employees to communicate freely and genuinely. This episode aims at creating an environment where employees feel secure enough to admit that the eventual risk was foreseeable. Conklin further points out that fully grasping these 'low-level' or 'weak' signals and timely risk identification can prevent potential disasters. It therefore becomes the leadership's responsibility to ensure these almost unnoticeable signs aren't neglected and, instead, are proactively addressed. It also means refining the company's sensitivity towards detecting these quiet alarms earlier rather than after mishaps. Once safety risks are acknowledged, learning from them and implementing the necessary measures to avert future occurrences is the following step. An essential part of this process is identifying what employees specifically anticipated might go wrong. The information established as a result is valuable data that will drive safety advancement within the organization. This informative yet intriguing episode emphasizes the significance of continuous learning, mutual respect, fun, kindness, and above all, safety in the workplace. Join us on this safety-focused episode and learn how to improve your organization's safety approach today.

In this engaging episode, Todd revisits the genesis and evolution of the 'Fundamentals of Human Performance' class developed over 20 years ago at the Department of Energy at Los Alamos National Laboratory with teammates Martha Costa, Andrea Baker, and Bob Edwards. Together they reflect on the journey of this revolutionary concept, its global influence on safety practices, and the power of innovative thinking within a small group of committed individuals. The conversation provides an intimate look at the origin of their ideas, their growth, and their impact. It's more than a trip down memory lane; it's a testament to their ongoing commitment to global safety practices and standards. Todd and his guests also delve into their transition from operational learning to 'Learning Teams' within their organization. Despite skepticism and pushback, they highlight their struggles, successes, and the lessons learned in implementation. They candidly discuss the stumbling blocks faced, such as blame culture, and how they ultimately successful in overcoming these issues. This segment encapsulates their views on accountability as a group effort, their learning experiences, and the evolution of their methodology over time. The episode also hones in on some of their most groundbreaking solutions, including innovative ways to address efficiency issues. These industry trailblazers share their unforgettable 'eureka moments', the initial frustrations, and the broad impact they have had on an array of workplaces. The conversation intertwines their professional achievements with their heartfelt personal sentiments, providing listeners with a deeply moving and inspiring journey. The episode winds up with a discussion on the joy of bringing about change and how credit becomes secondary when the true reward is the ability to make a difference. Tune in for a mix of thought-provoking stories, personal reflections, and insights into a journey of professional innovation that changed the dynamics of safety practices globally.

In this enlightening episode, Todd Conklin explores the paradoxical concept that as a leader, not knowing can actually be a superior position to knowing. Sounds contrarian? Not in the slightest once you understand the reasoning behind it. The tenet of this discussion is founded on the notions of cognitive and confirmation biases - biases we unknowingly nurture. You might be wondering, "How is ignorance beneficial to a leader?" It's simple. Admitting ignorance gives you the licence to learn, often leading to you shedding your ego while entering a prolific phase of self-improvement. However, there is a common misconception that acts as a stumbling block for many leaders. It is the belief that displaying any form of ignorance is a sign of weakness, possibly raising questions about their competence. This episode aims to debunk such misconceptions, arguing that there is immense value in conceding ignorance and turning it into a powerful tool for learning. This intriguing discussion is topped with insights drawn from the scientific world, where every experiment stems from a state of not knowing. These scientists, open to learning and discovering, create fruitful research environments led by the spirit of curiosity and ignorance. Their attitude emphasizes the potency of not knowing – it propels you into a position where learning is more than just acceptable, it is actively sought after. Join us in this episode to challenge your preconceived notions and learning to embrace the unknown. Let's remember that every day brings new opportunities to learn, have fun, show kindness to one another, and most importantly, keep safe!

In the recent episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, we unveil a new voice in the safety scene, Georgina Poole. Teaming up with Sidney Dekker, Georgina provides fresh insights into understanding a firm's safety performance in their new book "Random Noise." The book brings a deep dive into the complexities of measuring safety within an enterprise. An insightful exploration, "Random Noise" is all set to burst common misconceptions about safety metrics and their importance, helping businesses enhance their comprehension and utilization of the same. With Georgina's first-hand experiences within the mining, oil, and gas sectors, and their profound journey of writing this book, they expose the critical aspects at the convergence of safety, performance and metrics. The book also points towards the repercussions of overemphasizing safety records. Filled with thought-provoking discussions on multilingual safety books, total recordable incident rates, injury frequency rates among other topics, this podcast episode presents an enlightening talk on the necessity, validity and challenges of safety metrics. The transcript reveals some surprising revelations, curated statistics, and thorough research studies revolutionizing safety methods globally. The conversation unearths the implications of safety protocols across diverse industries, the potential for manipulation or failure, and the significance of sustainability in safety implementation. This conversation will certainly inspire professionals, management-level leaders and safety enthusiasts. It behooves a global shift in risk and safety management, while providing a preview into the creation and successful launch of a safety book addressing these potent issues. Ready for a renewed perspective on global safety measures? Engross yourself in the valuable insights and compelling experiences shared in this transcript.

In this informative episode from Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment, Todd Conklin presents an invigorating discussion on the contrasting concepts of recovery and restoration in the realm of safety management. While at first glance, these terms may seem interchangeable, Conklin explains that they imbibe very different meanings. Recovery, as Conklin describes, is about bringing a system back to its original state post disruption. On the other hand, restoration brings in an evolved perspective. It goes beyond mere recovery by probing deeper into three significant queries - identifying what or who has been harmed, determining what needs to be done for improvement, and assigning accountability for ensuring necessary actions. According to Conklin, the true efficacy of restoration surfaces during challenging times such as the last four years of continuous change and uncertainty. It has been observed that organizations employing a restorative approach have bounced forward rather than simply bouncing back, arriving at a configuration that is distinct, better suited to the changing environment, and in many ways, superior. Encouraging listeners to mull over these ideas, Conklin concludes his insightful session with a safety moment. In line with his belief in continuous learning and fostering goodness and safety, this episode provides an enlightening perspective on the multifaceted nature of safety management.

In this enlightening podcast episode, Todd delves into resonant discussions on safety practices with guest expert, Drew Rae, professor at Griffith University and authority in safety science. Discover riveting debates on the essence and future of safety science, inconsistencies in research practices and the intriguing topic of safety culture. Witness how the conversation deepens as they unmask the contentious topic of Empirical vs. Emotional Decision-making in safety. Delve into revealing anecdotes on how empirical evidence is often overlooked, organizations resist change and hold on to traditional practices despite concrete proof. Drew stresses on the enormous value of evidence-backed decisions, shedding light on an intriguing case of deep-rooted emotional decision-making. The discourse then shifts onto the dynamic dimension of 'Safety Science'. Through intense discussion, they explore its multidisciplinarity, veneering of its indispensable role in credible research's foundation. They scrutinize the pitfalls stemming from the lack of expertise in peer-reviews and flaws in research designs in the field. Drew gladly shares his focus on the role of digital transformation research and the amalgamation of safety with other aspects of organizational expansion and technology adoption. He also articulates the challenges faced by 'Safety Science' in registering itself in universities, highlighting the necessity of industry collaborations for the evolution and continuity of research. This episode offers a deeper understanding of making effective safety decisions within an organizational framework and keeps you abreast of emerging research in Safety Science. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by organizational behavior, safety decision-making, and 'Safety Science' as a unique domain.