As a leader, the safety of your employees is your top priority. But we get it - you have a lot on your plate. We've got you covered with interviews and insights to help you build a safer workplace. Published monthly by Missouri Employers Mutual and Previsor Insurance.
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WorkSafe WA is a part of the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety and the Government of Western Australia. Workplace health and safety is everybody’s business. Every person who goes to work deserves to come home healthy and safe. Our podcast series cover a wide range of topics such as asbestos safety, psychosocial hazards, silicosis, consultation and agriculture. We encourage you to listen to the podcasts and share the health and safety knowledge with others in your ...
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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 document…
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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.MEM
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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%.MEM
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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 ca…
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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 …
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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.…
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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.MEM
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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.…
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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 t…
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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 bu…
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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 prote…
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In the world of workers compensation, loss runs affect a business's risk evaluation. Underwriters look carefully at a company's claim history. This process gives them an understanding of how frequently claims are happening, how severe they are, and if a business is putting effort into reducing workplace risk. Learn the differing impact of claim fre…
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For many policyholders, the thought of a visit from a loss prevention or safety consultant feels intimidating. It's easy to assume a visit like this is all about finding mistakes or pointing out what's wrong. But these visits aren't about catching business owners off guard; they are about helping them succeed. Learn how customized recommendations m…
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Many employers have misconceptions about how workers compensation actually works. Some don't understand what types of injuries are covered. Others aren't sure how claims impact their business - or how they can be involved in the process. These misunderstandings can lead to costly mistakes and missed opportunities to improve workplace safety. Separa…
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Organizations are always looking for ways to be more efficient. While some of those efficiencies are gained through changing standard operating procedures, others come from technological advancements. Learn how artifical intelligence (AI) is set to change the work comp claim process, lowering costs and improving overall outcomes with Mark Phillips,…
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If you're a business owner, you know that workers compensation isn't just a policy. It's a tool to protect your employees and your bottom line. But what happens after you receive your policy? How can employers control work comp costs and set themselves up for a smooth renewal at the end of the year? Follow each step of the policyholder journey and …
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A claim that lingers for months—or even years—can create uncertainty, increase costs, and impact both the injured worker and the business. Several factors can keep a claim open longer than expected, such as medical complications or legal roadblocks. Learn why claims are often delayed, and what employers can do to help keep the process moving, with …
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Slips, trips, and falls are a persistent problem across industries. Despite extensive studies, detailed recommendations, and countless safety initiatives, these incidents continue to rank as the number one cause of workplace injuries. Learn how these safety risks can be symptoms of an unhealthy company safety culture with Tim Wilson, Safety and Ris…
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Year over year, new hires account for many on-the-job injuries. With increased turnover and higher expectations, employers often expect new hires to get right to work without proper onboarding and training. Expecting a new hire to use "common sense" while working is not a safety strategy. Learn how to properly onboard new hires and set them up for …
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Ep. 150: From Baby Boomers to Gen Z | Building Safety Programs for a Multigenerational Workforce
30:06
Across industries, many companies share a commonality: a multigenerational workforce. Whether it's fresh-from-school Gen Z new hires to seasoned baby boomers, employers face the challenge of creating a safety program that works for everyone. Learn how to bridge the gap between generations - and keep everyone safe - with Curt DeWeese of Briotix Heal…
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Every business faces safety challenges. For some companies, addressing those challenges can become difficult or cumbersome. The cost could potentially grow too high for them to afford. MEM offers an opportunity to help offset those costs and tackle safety challenges head-on. Discover how MEM's Safety Grant program offers businesses the opportunity …
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In today's workplace, safety isn't considered a "sexy" topic. Some employers consider safety communication challenging, unengaging, and not always very impactful. What if there was a better way to engage employees? Learn how to plan your safety communication strategically and take your audience into consideration with Blaine Hoffman, host of the Sa…
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Consistent safety training is essential to protecting employees. Not only does it help prevent on-the-job injuries, but it also controls work comp costs. While much of today's training is regulatory or an industry requirement, it isn't always engaging. As a consequence, employees may unplug and miss critical information. Learn how fidget toys, and …
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At some point in our lives, we all experience aches and pains. Often, these pains are temporary. But at other times, the discomfort eventually becomes a part of our everyday lives. Understanding the source of the pain is important, but so is addressing it before it becomes difficult to manage. Learn the importance of early intervention in preventin…
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Many of MEM's policyholders have found ways to go above and beyond keeping their employees safe - they help them work with confidence. At one organization, safety isn't just a concept - it's a core value and a daily commitment made by each employee. Discover why Watson Concrete has become a standout in its industry for its safety culture with its o…
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Farmers kickstart the journey many essential goods make from the field to the table. While farming is the backbone of many communities and economies, it is also one of the most dangerous professions. From heavy machinery and hazardous chemicals to unpredictable weather conditions, farm workers face safety risks at every turn. Learn how to reduce ri…
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Injuries and emergencies happen in the workplace. Critical minutes pass between calling for help and first responders arriving. First aid skills, such as CPR and giving rescue breaths, often make the difference between life and death. Learn the invaluable role of healthcare literacy for employees with Drew Toma, career paramedic, educator, and crea…
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As costs continue to rise, many business owners are looking for ways to save money and confirm their expenses reflect their priorities. Most businesses are legally required to have workers compensation insurance. Payroll and employee classifications play an important role in how much work comp premium costs. Learn why keeping accurate records is es…
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Planning ahead for workplace incidents is an essential task for any business. Despite safety rules and risk reduction, getting injured on the job is still a possibility. Emotions run high in the immediate aftermath of an injury. Learn how to put a plan of care in place ahead of time with Lyndi Barthel, Manager of Medical Services and Case Managemen…
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Handling animals comes with unique risks and challenges. It's essential to equip yourself with the right knowledge and techniques to protect yourself. Join Dale Muenks, Safety and Risk Specialist at MEM, to learn about everything from understanding animal behaviors to implementing proper safety protocols.…
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Women are a growing employee community in the traditionally male-dominated field of construction. There are countless advantages to diversifying a company's workforce. With those advantages, there are also opportunities to make sure everyone is working in a safe and healthy environment. Discover how an increasing number of women in the construction…
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The 2024 Show Me Your Score contest encouraged employers to hone in on driving safety by tracking and rewarding safe driving behaviors. The city of Ashland, MO took home the prize with a score of 97.3 out of 100 possible points. Learn more about their contest experience and how they keep their employees safe with Kyle Michael, Administrator for the…
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In the past few years, marijuana use in Missouri has been a changing landscape. First, medical use of marijuana became more readily available. Then, recreational use was legalized. In a short window of time, how and when marijuana can be used has changed quite a bit more Missouri residents - and what that means for Missouri employers. Take away sev…
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Everyone deserves to work in a safe and healthy workplace. The health of a workplace's culture either contributes to the risk of on-the-job injuries or preventing them. Cultures are complex by nature and often feel difficult for employers to address. Learn practical ways to foster a culture of well-being in any workplace with Andrea Neal, Senior He…
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In today's world, neurodivergence impacts an estimated 15 - 20% of the world's population. Neurodivergent conditions include dyslexia, ADHD, ADD, social anxiety, or sensory processing disorder disorders. Employees impacted by one or more of these bring some unique strengths - and have some unique challenges - in the workplace. Discover how an under…
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When it comes to work comp, a common saying rings true: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The best way to ensure employees make it home safety every day is to prepare. However, injuries do happen. At the time of injury, choosing the right next step is crucial. Learn how a nurse triage program helps injured workers and their employers…
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As the cost of doing business continues to rise, employers are always looking for ways to ensure their operations are efficient and cost effective. Workplace wellness focuses finding areas to invest in, rather than simply cutting costs. The return on those investments can be substantial - not just for operations, but also for employees. Learn how t…
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The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), formed in 1972, serves as a way to ensure the safety of America's workforce. Every state has its own unique work comp laws; OSHA provides a set of standards. Managing the requirement, and protecting employees, can seem like a daunting task for employers. Learn how safety rules, standards, la…
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Trauma is a term we hear used more often today than ever before. It can lead to a ripple effect, impacting everything from a person's ability to make decisions to how they handle stress. What qualifies as trauma? And how to employers prevent it from leading to distraction and an uptick in injuries on the job? Learn what these stored experiences mea…
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Work-related injuries present a substantial hurdle to companies across all industries. Not only do they sap time, productivity, and financial resources, but they also damage employee morale. These issues are intensified when injured workers choose to pursue additional legal action. Learn how to prevent and prepare for litigation in your workplace w…
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Many employers invest a lot of time in maintaining a safe workplace. They arrange safety training, buy personal protective equipment, and call out risky behavior with corrective action. But what impact do these efforts have beyond the business? Learn how employees take these safety lessons home and the benefit of applying them with return guest Aar…
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Safety in the job is widely associated with doing the right thing. That usually translates into performing our workplace duties in an ethical way. However, no one is perfect. Unexpected scenarios often require us to pivot from our usual way of doing things - and in reality, making the right choice is often more gray than black and white. Learn how …
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Unless they are paid to compete professionally, most employees don't consider themselves to be athletes. However, manual labor and frequent movement are a requirement in many industries. Commitment to physical and mental health is critical to an athlete's success - and for any employee. Learn how using the industrial athlete mindset can kickstart t…
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Getting employee buy-in is an essential step in building a safety culture. Forming a safety committee is a great way to engage with employees and empower them to work safely. Safety committees are considered so effective that in some states, they are actually required in the workplace. Learn how to start your own safety committee with Sheila Schmid…
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Telematics is a form of technology that allows us to pass information over long distances. For an employer managing drivers, whether it's a single delivery driver or a fleet of truckers, telematics is a way to keep employees safe. Learn about the science of telematics and its benefits with Ryan McMahon, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Corpora…
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A safety plan is essential for any business owner who directs employees in the course of daily operations. Safety risks are present in every industry. Whether your employees use tools or equipment, operate company vehicles, or deal with the public, it's essential to outline safety expectations. Learn how a safety plan goes a long way in preventing …
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Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are terms used increasingly in the workplace today. At the center of the movement is an effort to include employees from all different walks of life. However, these terms can often mean different things to different people. Learn what DEI efforts look like and how they can make a difference in your workplace w…
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Employers shouldn't leave workplace safety down to luck. It's essential to measure risk exposure, or the potential that an incident might occur. Learn how to create safe environments where people want to work and be with Elizabeth Prazeres, organizational effectiveness and change management expert at DEKRA.…
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Struck-by incidents are a common workplace hazard in bustling industries. Where there is moving machinery, whirling equipment, or turning wheels, employees are at risk of being struck. Learn how to reduce this kind of exposure and keep employees safe with Terry Dussault, environmental health and safety professional and founder of Yellowknife Consul…
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Ep. 120: Building Safety Standards | Laying the Foundations with the International Code Council
27:24
A safe work environment is essential to running a business safely. The International Code Council is a collection of professionals who set building safety standards, from building design to codes and regulations. Learn how these standards shape the structural integrity of buildings today with Dominic Sims, Chief Executive Officer of the Internation…
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