The WorkSAFE Podcast | Workplace Safety Strategies

A low claim count can mean your safety program is working – or it can mean employees don't feel safe enough to speak up. Brad Minor, MEM Senior Safety and Risk Consultant, breaks down the real cost of delayed and unreported injuries, why well-intentioned incentive programs backfire, and the steps employers can take to create a safety culture where reporting is the norm.

Most employers measure safety outcomes. Fewer measure the efforts that produce them. Tim Wilson, Sr. Manager of Safety and Risk Services at MEM, breaks down how to build a safety measurement system that goes beyond incident rates to evaluate leading KPIs, ROI, and a successful safety culture.

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.

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 frequency versus claim severity on a business' s risk evaluation with Becky Duello, Senior Underwriter at MEM.

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 make workplaces safer, reduce claims, and save businesses money with Tim Wilson, Safety and Risk Manager at MEM.

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. Separate work comp fact and fiction with Matt Speight, President and CEO of the Scott Agency.

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, Director of Claims at MEM.

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 discove how to personalize your work comp experience with Lacey Hahn, Customer Engagement Strategist at MEM.

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 Shannon Fox, Claims Operations Manager at MEM.

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 Risk Services Regiona Manager at MEM.

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 success with Sheila Schmidt, Safety and Risk Services Manager at MEM.

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 Health.

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 to offset costs and tackle safety challenges head on with Tisha Greco, MEM's Resource and Support Center Manager.

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 Safety Pro Podcast.

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 their alternatives, are increasing engagement and retention with Caitlin McNeese, owner of Walking Each Other Home Wellness.

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 preventing future pain with Lori Frederic, founder of Balance Biomechanics.

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 owner, Mark Watson.

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 risk and introduce innovation with Brad Minor, Senior Safety and Risk Consultant at MEM.

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 creator of Save with CPR.

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 essential and can save you money on premium with Tina Austin, Premium Consultant Supervisor at MEM.

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 Management at MEM.

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.

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 industry is sparking new and important conversations with Susan Hart, Vice President of Reinhardt Construction.

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 city of Ashland.

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 seven practical tips from Larry Lambert, a member of MEM's legal team and Director of Legal and Compliance.

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 Health Management Consultant at Marsh McLennan Agency.

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 understanding of different ways of processing and thinking can help ensure the success of a business in multiple ways with Daniel Wysocki, board-certified therapist with more than ten years of experience providing counseling and pyschological services.

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 navigate what comes next with Lyndi Barthel, Manager of Medical Services and Case Management at MEM.

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 to implement a workplace wellness program with Paula Nicholson, Director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

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, laws and regulations work together to keep employees safe with Sheila Schmidt, Safety and Risk Services Manager at MEM.

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 mean for our minds, bodies - and our safety - with Kelly Campbell, certified trauma-informed leadership coach, author, and keynote speaker.

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 with Laura Sides-Cooper, Managing Attorney at MEM.

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 Aaron Paris, Director of Safety at the Robert E. Miller Group.