The WorkSAFE Podcast | Workplace Safety Strategies

Most safety training is easy to forget – because it's designed to be delivered, not retained. In this episode, Mark Woodward, Director of Training and Safety Manager at Sellenriek Construction, shares how microlearning turns workplace training into a tool that actually changes behavior, builds consistency, and shows up in safety outcomes over time.

When deadlines tighten, safety is often the first thing that slips. But the cost of that tradeoff adds up. Sean Galloway, CEO of ProAct Safety, shares how leaders unintentionally undermine safety culture, why the absence of injuries isn't the right success metric, and what practical steps actually move businesses toward safer, more productive operations.

Home health caregivers face unique safety challenges working independently in uncontrolled environments. Kristin Wamsley, Director of Facilities and Fleet at Emmaus Homes, shares how building a genuine safety culture, implementing mandatory equipment protocols, and addressing top risks has helped the organization achieve an injury rate significantly lower than industry averages.

When experienced safety professionals leave, their knowledge often leaves with them. Mentorship keeps that expertise in-house through both structured programs and organic relationships. Domini Montgomery from the Saint Louis Zoo explains how effective mentorship builds psychological safety, improves retention, and creates cultures where people feel confident asking questions and sharing ideas.

AI-powered safety tools are making workplace injury prevention more precise and effective. Brandon Jones, MEM's Director of Safety and Risk Services, shares how predictive analytics, automated compliance monitoring, and personalized training can help you identify emerging risks before injuries occur – using the data you already have.

In workers compensation, settlement simply means closing a claim – either naturally when an injured worker recovers, or through negotiated agreement for complex injuries. MEM Claims Operations Manager Shannon Fox explains the two settlement types, how amounts are determined, what protections exist for injured workers, and how employers can support the process without overstepping their limited role.

When does gig work need work comp coverage? This classification determines who's responsible when someone gets hurt. MEM's Tina Austin breaks down the employee vs. independent contractor distinction, coverage gaps with platform-based workers like DoorDash drivers, and documentation strategies to protect your business as regulations continue to evolve.

Young employees experience injury rates 1.2 to 2.3 times higher than the average adult popular. MEM Nurse Case Management Supervisor Lauren Mattes shares how proper training, hands-on practice, and creating a speak-up culture can dramatically reduce these risks. Learn age-appropriate safety strategies, mentor assignment best practices, and documentation requirements that protect young team members while building their confidence.

Employers need a clear drug testing plan before incidents occur to make informed decisions quickly. Amy Wimer from Premier Biotech shares practical tips to implement a testing program that incorporates on-site rapid oral fluid testing.

Wearable safety technology helps businesses identify workplace hazards before they cause injuries. Tom West of MākuSafe explains how data-driven safety approaches reduce work comp costs, improve productivity, and cut safety incidents by 50-90%.

From slips and falls to emergency preparedness, schools face diverse safety challenges. Zac Rantz, Nixa Public Schools Chief Communications Officer, shares his people-first approach to preventing workplace injuries. By asking the right questions, creating sustainable systems, and addressing the root causes behind unsafe behaviors, administrators can build a collaborative safety culture that protects everyone on campus.

Considering a career in safety? Brandon Jones, MEM Director of Safety and Risk Services, shares insights from his 35-year career helping businesses create safer workplaces. Discover why communication skills matter as much as technical knowledge, how technology is changing the field, and why this profession offers meaningful opportunities to impact people's lives.

When workplace injuries become complex, high-dollar work comp claims, the financial impact extends far beyond immediate medical costs. MEM's claims experts Shannon Fox and Lyndi Barthel share strategies for recognizing warning signs, managing costs, and successfully navigating the most challenging claims.

Work zone deaths are on the rise, affecting construction crews and everyday drivers. MoDOT's Jon Nelson shares critical safety practices, including training, risk assessment, communication systems, and accountability measures that can prevent work zone incidents and save lives.

Safety habits don't clock out when you do. The same hazards that cause workplace injuries occur just as frequently at home. MEM Safety and Risk Services Regional Manager Sheila Schmidt shares how to apply workplace safety principles at home, build a family safety culture, and create consistent awareness that protects you everywhere.

When treatment isn't progressing or complications arise in workers' compensation claims, second medical opinions can provide crucial clarity. MEM Claims Operations Manager Shannon Fox shares the warning signs that signal when a second opinion is needed, how state laws affect the process, and how employers can navigate these situations effectively to support your injured worker's recovery.

Most business owners know that payroll affects their work comp premium. Did you know it also determines who's covered if an injury happens? From naming the wrong business entity to classifying subcontractors, payroll mistakes can create coverage gaps and surprises at audit time. MEM Underwriting Specialist Tammy Canton shares how to protect your business with accurate reporting and proactive communication.

Workplace hazards like noise, chemicals, and poor air quality often go unnoticed until employees develop serious symptoms. These invisible risks can lead to permanent health conditions and costly work comp claims. Industrial hygiene specialist Rhonda Kaufman explains how to identify hidden workplace hazards, address them cost-effectively, and protect your most valuable asset – your employees – before they suffer permanent health issues.