Podcast
Help with OSHA
Help with OSHA is the podcast for safety managers, EHS professionals, supervisors, HR managers, and manufacturing leaders who want to build safer workplaces without feeling overwhelmed.
Every episode covers practical workplace safety topics including OSHA compliance, safety leadership, safety training, OSHA inspections, accident investigations, safety culture, hazard identification, machine guarding, lockout/tagout, forklift safety, PPE, industrial safety, manufacturing safety, and proven systems that help you become OSHA-ready.
Whether you're a brand-new safety manager or an experienced EHS professional, you'll learn simple, practical strategies to prevent injuries, avoid OSHA citations, and build a safety program that actually works.
Hosted by David Sawyer, OSHA Authorized Trainer and founder of Port City Training, each episode gives you actionable advice you can use immediately to improve workplace safety and confidently lead your organization's safety efforts.
- Management chart
- #160
- Episodes
- 98
- Releases
- Weekly
- Typical length
- 27 min
- On air since
- 2024
- Latest episode
- 16 hours ago
Episodes
98 episodes, newest first
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39 min
E97 What is OSHA? (Everything New Safety Managers Need to Know)
Show notes
New to workplace safety and overwhelmed by OSHA compliance? Not sure what OSHA actually requires or where to start as a safety manager? In this video, I'll explain what OSHA is, what it does, and what every new safety manager needs to know to protect employees and get their company OSHA-ready. Whether you're responsible for safety in manufacturing, food processing, or an industrial facility, understanding OSHA requirements doesn't have to be complicated. We'll break down OSHA regulations, workplace safety responsibilities, safety training, and how to build a practical safety program without getting buried in paperwork. Here's what you'll learn: ✅ What OSHA stands for, why it exists, and what it actually requires from employers. ✅ The difference between OSHA compliance and genuinely keeping employees safe. ✅ How OSHA's General Duty Clause applies to workplace hazards. ✅ My PTI 360 Safety Framework: Programs → Training → Inspections, a simple system for setting expectations and continuously improving safety. ✅ Three practical steps you can take TODAY to identify serious hazards, align with leadership, and create a clear safety action plan. Remember: OSHA compliance matters, but the real goal is making sure everyone goes home safely. You don't have to know everything about OSHA to start making a difference. ***MORE FREE SAFETY RESOURCES*** 🎯 Overwhelmed With Safety? Start Here: Take the FREE Next Step Safety Assessment and discover your next step: https://www.helpwithosha.com/assessment 📋 Access the OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in 🎟️ Get Your Ticket to the Next OSHA Audit Ready Challenge: https://www.helpwithosha.com/challenge ✅ Connect with David on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/davidsawyerosha 💬 LET'S TALK SAFETY What's your biggest frustration with OSHA compliance right now? Is it understanding the regulations, keeping up with safety training, or knowing what to prioritize? Let me know in the comments. I'd love to hear from you! 🔔 Subscribe to Help With OSHA for practical workplace safety tips, OSHA compliance guidance, and simple strategies to help you become a more confident safety manager #OSHA #SafetyManager #OSHACompliance #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #SafetyManagement #OSHARequirements
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31 min
E96 A Day in the Life of a Safety Manager (What Do You Actually Do?)
Show notes
Ever wonder what a safety manager actually does all day? If you're overwhelmed by OSHA compliance, endless emails, safety training, and inspections, you're probably spending too much time on the wrong things. In this video, I'm walking you through a typical day in the life of a safety manager and sharing the daily routine that helped me go from overwhelmed to confident and in control. After nearly 20 years working in workplace safety, including six years as a full-time safety manager in food processing, I've learned that managing a successful safety program isn't about doing everything. It's about knowing what matters most. I'll show you how I organized my day, prioritized OSHA requirements, handled incident investigations, scheduled safety training, and worked with supervisors to prevent accidents without spending my entire day behind a desk. HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: ✅ Why your first stop every morning should be the production floor, not your email inbox. ✅ How to organize your daily responsibilities so you're focused on preventing accidents instead of just pushing paperwork. ✅ How to manage safety inspections, incident investigations, employee training, and production meetings without getting overwhelmed. ✅ Why checking email twice a day can help you reclaim hours of productive time. ✅ How to set priorities, communicate with leadership, and finish your workday knowing you've made a difference. READY TO GO FROM OVERWHELMED TO OSHA-READY? You don't need another certification or hundreds of hours studying OSHA regulations. You need a simple system that helps you focus on the right things. 🎯 FREE STRESS-FREE SAFETY WORKSHOP Learn how to take control of your safety responsibilities, identify your biggest priorities, and build a safety program without adding more work to your already busy schedule. 👉 https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 📋 FREE OSHA AUDIT CHECKLIST Not sure if your facility is meeting OSHA requirements? Get my free OSHA Audit Checklist and accompanying walkthrough video to help you identify gaps in your safety program and know where to start. 👉 https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in LET'S TALK SAFETY! What's the biggest challenge you face during your workday as a safety manager? Is it endless emails, keeping up with OSHA requirements, getting management support, or simply finding enough time to get everything done? Drop a comment below. I'd love to hear from you! 🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE PRACTICAL SAFETY ADVICE If you're a new safety manager, a one-person safety department, or an overwhelmed EHS professional, subscribe for weekly videos to help you prevent accidents, simplify OSHA compliance, and become a more confident safety leader. MORE FREE SAFETY RESOURCES 🎯 Overwhelmed With Safety? Start Here: Take the FREE Next Step Safety Assessment and discover your next step: https://www.helpwithosha.com/assessment 🎟️ Get Your Ticket to the Next OSHA Audit Ready Challenge: https://www.helpwithosha.com/challenge ✅ Connect with David on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/davidsawyerosha #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyLeadership #SafetyProgram #FoodProcessingSafety
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34 min
E95 I Can Tell Within 10 Minutes if Your Company Has a Safety Problem
Show notes
Think your workplace safety program is working? I can usually spot serious safety problems within 10 minutes of walking through a facility—and most safety managers overlook these warning signs. In this video, I'm sharing 10 workplace safety red flags that reveal whether your safety program is actually preventing accidents or just looking good on paper. If you're a new or overwhelmed safety manager responsible for OSHA compliance, this video will help you identify hidden hazards, recognize weaknesses in your safety culture, and understand what needs your attention first. Whether you work in manufacturing, food processing, or an industrial facility, having written safety programs, completing safety training, and meeting OSHA requirements doesn't automatically mean your employees are safe. I'll show you what to look for during a workplace safety inspection, why leadership and employee involvement matter, and how to build a proactive safety program that prevents injuries instead of just reacting to accidents. In this video, you'll learn: 🚩 10 safety red flags you can spot during a simple facility walkthrough. 🚩 Why supervisors ignoring unsafe behavior can reveal bigger leadership problems. 🚩 How forklift operations, temporary repairs, and unclear safety rules expose serious workplace hazards. 🚩 Why completing OSHA safety training doesn't always mean employees understand how to work safely. 🚩 Why zero workplace accidents doesn't necessarily mean you have an effective safety program. Ready to go from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready? You don't need to memorize every OSHA regulation or fix every safety problem overnight. You need a clear starting point and a practical plan. 👉 FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop Learn how to simplify OSHA compliance, focus on your biggest risks, and build a safety program that actually works. https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass MORE FREE SAFETY RESOURCES 🎯 Overwhelmed With Safety? Start Here: Take the FREE Next Step Safety Assessment and discover your next step: https://www.helpwithosha.com/assessment 📋 Access the OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in 🎟️ Get Your Ticket to the Next OSHA Audit Ready Challenge: https://www.helpwithosha.com/challenge ✅ Connect with David on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/davidsawyerosha LET'S TALK SAFETY Which of these 10 safety red flags have you noticed at your facility? Drop a comment below. I'd love to hear what you're dealing with. 👍 If this video helped you, hit LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to Help With OSHA for practical workplace safety tips, OSHA compliance guidance, and simple strategies to become a more confident safety manager. ABOUT HELP WITH OSHA I'm David Sawyer, a safety coach helping busy, overwhelmed safety managers go from frustrated and confused to confident and OSHA-ready. My goal is simple: Help you prevent workplace accidents, simplify safety management, and know exactly what to work on next—without becoming an OSHA expert. #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #SafetyTraining #EHS #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyCulture #WorkplaceSafetyTips #SafetyInspection
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27 min
E94 6 Things Great Safety Managers NEVER Do
Show notes
If you’re a safety manager who feels stressed, overwhelmed, or constantly behind, you may be making your job harder than it needs to be. In this video, I break down 6 things great safety managers NEVER do—and what to do instead. Being responsible for workplace safety doesn’t mean you need to become an OSHA expert or memorize every regulation. A strong safety program starts with knowing your biggest risks, prioritizing what matters, building relationships, and creating a system that actually prevents accidents. We’ll talk about OSHA compliance, safety training, workplace safety, OSHA requirements, and why leadership matters just as much as knowing the rules. In this video, you’ll learn: Why great safety managers don’t try to fix everything at once Why becoming the “safety cop” can actually hurt your safety culture Why “common sense” is not an effective safety program Why zero injuries does NOT necessarily mean zero risk Why you don’t need to become an OSHA expert to be a great safety manager How to focus on the hazards and priorities that actually keep people safe Want to go from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready? 👉 FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 👉 FREE OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in These resources are designed to help busy and new safety managers get clarity on what to do next, build confidence in their safety system, and prepare their company before OSHA shows up. What’s making YOUR safety job harder right now? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear what you're dealing with. And subscribe to Help with OSHA for practical safety management strategies designed for busy managers who want to prevent accidents, improve their safety program, and become OSHA-ready. Resources OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass Website: https://www.helpwithosha.com #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyLeadership #SafetyCulture
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29 min
E93 I Was Wrong About AI...Every Safety Manager Needs to Hear This
Show notes
Are you a safety manager wondering if AI can actually make your job easier—or eventually replace you? AI is changing workplace safety fast, but there are some things it will NEVER do for you. In this video, I break down how safety managers can use AI to save time, organize information, improve safety training, and strengthen their safety program—without blindly trusting technology. Whether you're dealing with OSHA compliance, OSHA requirements, workplace safety, accident prevention, or employee training, AI can be an incredible tool when you know where it fits—and where it doesn't. In this video, you’ll learn: 🔎 How to use AI to quickly research OSHA and workplace safety information 📊 How AI can organize and summarize safety surveys, inspections, and employee feedback 💡 How to use AI to brainstorm better toolbox talks, training ideas, and safety improvements ⚠️ Why you still need to verify AI-generated OSHA information and watch for inaccurate answers 👷 The 3 things AI cannot replace: walking the floor, building relationships, and leading your people 👉 Want to go from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready? 🎓 FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass ✅ FREE OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in Both are designed to help busy safety managers gain more clarity, confidence, and peace of mind without trying to become an OSHA expert. 💬 What are you currently using AI for in your safety program? Drop your best use in the comments—I’d love to hear it. And if you're a busy or new safety manager trying to figure all this out, subscribe to Help with OSHA for practical OSHA compliance and workplace safety advice you can actually use. RESOURCES: 🔹 Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 🔹 OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in 🔹 Help with OSHA: https://www.helpwithosha.com 🔹 Related Video: [ADD LINK] #OSHA #SafetyManager #ArtificialIntelligence #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyLeadership #AI
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28 min
E92 Why Good Employees Make Terrible Safety Decisions
Show notes
Are you tired of employees making unsafe decisions—even when they know better? If you’re a safety manager trying to improve workplace safety, the problem may not be a lack of rules or common sense. In this video, I break down 5 reasons employees make bad safety decisions and what you can do about them. From rushing and bad habits to distractions, shortcuts, and unclear expectations, you’ll learn how these behaviors affect OSHA compliance, workplace safety, safety training, and your overall safety program. More importantly, I’ll give you a simple 3-part framework—Clear. Easy. Consistent.—to help employees make safer decisions without expecting you to police every move. In this video, you’ll learn: Why rushing causes employees to skip critical safety steps How unsafe habits develop when people repeatedly “get away with it” Why distractions and fatigue can lead to serious workplace accidents How to make the safe way the easy way A simple 3-part framework to improve your safety program and prevent repeat problems 👉 Want to go from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready? 🎓 FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass ✅ FREE OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in These resources are designed for busy safety managers who want more clarity, confidence, and peace of mind without spending their entire day trying to memorize OSHA requirements. 💬 QUESTION: What causes the most unsafe decisions at your facility—rushing, bad habits, distractions, shortcuts, or lack of training? Let me know in the comments. And if you’re responsible for safety and sometimes feel like you’re figuring it out as you go, subscribe to Help with OSHA for practical safety training and OSHA compliance guidance. RESOURCES: 🔹 Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 🔹 OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in 🔹 Website: https://www.helpwithosha.com #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyLeadership #IndustrialSafety #SafetyProgram
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27 min
E91 Safety Manager: Stop Trying to Figure Everything Out Yourself
Show notes
Are you overwhelmed by OSHA compliance—even though safety information is everywhere? The problem isn’t finding more information. It’s knowing what to do next. If you’re a busy or new safety manager, it’s easy to get buried in OSHA regulations, safety training requirements, written programs, inspections, and endless advice. In this video, I explain why information alone won’t build an effective safety program—and why direction and accountability are what turn information into results. You’ll learn a practical approach to OSHA compliance and workplace safety that helps you prioritize OSHA requirements, focus on serious hazards, and move from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready. In this video, you’ll learn: Why more OSHA information may actually leave you feeling more overwhelmed How to identify the safety priorities that matter most Why safety managers need to focus on the process—not just injury numbers How accountability helps turn safety plans into actual improvements Why a coach or mentor can help you avoid mistakes and make progress faster Ready to stop guessing and start building a clear safety plan? 👉 Free Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 👉 Free OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in Both resources are designed to help busy safety managers gain clarity, confidence, and peace of mind while preparing their facilities for an unexpected OSHA inspection. Question for you: What’s your biggest challenge right now—knowing what needs to be done or knowing what to do first? Leave a comment below. And if you’re responsible for safety and want practical help without becoming an OSHA expert, subscribe to the channel. RESOURCES 🔗 Free OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in 🔗 Free Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 🔗 Help With OSHA: https://www.helpwithosha.com #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHATraining #SafetyLeadership #SafetyProgram
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25 min
E90 Workers' Comp vs. OSHA Safety Inspections -- How Are They Different?
Show notes
Are you relying on your workers’ comp insurance walkthrough to tell you whether you’re OSHA-ready? As a safety manager, that could leave major OSHA compliance gaps hiding in plain sight. There’s a big difference between an insurance safety walkthrough, a mock OSHA audit, a safety gap analysis, and an actual OSHA inspection—and each has a different purpose. In this video, I break down those differences so you can better understand your OSHA compliance, strengthen your safety program, improve workplace safety, and identify problems before they become injuries or OSHA citations. We’ll also look at why simply meeting OSHA requirements isn’t always enough to build an effective safety program. In this video, you’ll learn: Why a workers’ comp walkthrough is not the same as a mock OSHA audit What a mock OSHA audit actually looks for—and how it prepares you for the real thing Why OSHA compliance should be the minimum, not the finish line How a safety gap analysis can uncover weaknesses before someone gets hurt Why assigning ownership is critical to keeping safety problems from coming back 🎯 Ready to Go From Overwhelmed to OSHA-Ready? 👉 FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 👉 FREE OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in Use these resources to figure out where your safety program stands, what OSHA may look for, and what you should work on next. 💬 Question for You When was the last time your facility had a mock OSHA audit or safety gap analysis? Drop your answer in the comments. And if you’re a busy or newly promoted safety manager trying to figure all this out, subscribe for practical OSHA and workplace safety guidance that makes your job simpler. 🔗 Additional Resources OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass Website: https://www.helpwithosha.com #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyProgram #OccupationalSafety
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23 min
E89 OSHA Compliance vs. OSHA-Ready -- There's a BIG Difference
Show notes
Are you overwhelmed trying to keep up with OSHA compliance and wondering if you’re doing enough as a safety manager? Being OSHA compliant is important—but being OSHA-ready is something bigger. If you’re a busy or new safety manager in manufacturing, food processing, or an industrial environment, this video will show you how to move from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready. We’ll break down the difference between OSHA compliance and true OSHA readiness—and why a strong safety program requires more than knowing OSHA requirements. You’ll learn how safety training, written programs, inspections, and clear expectations work together to improve workplace safety while giving you greater clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. In this video, you’ll learn: Why OSHA compliance should be the starting point—not the finish line How to build a simple system for managing workplace safety Why clarity + preparation = confidence as a safety manager How programs, training, and inspections work together to strengthen your safety program How to stop carrying the entire weight of safety on your shoulders Ready to make safety simpler? 👉 FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 👉 FREE OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in The checklist will help you understand what documents, procedures, and preparations you should have in place before an unexpected OSHA visit. QUESTION: What causes you the most stress as a safety manager right now—knowing what to work on, keeping up with OSHA requirements, getting employees involved, or simply finding enough time? Drop your answer in the comments. And subscribe to Help with OSHA for practical safety management strategies designed to help you prevent injuries, prepare for OSHA, and become a more confident safety manager. RESOURCES 📋 Free OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in 🎓 Free Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 🌐 More Safety Resources: https://www.helpwithosha.com #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyManagement #OccupationalSafety
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45 min
E88 New Safety Manager? Stop Trying to Do Everything (Interview with Brye Sargent from Safety Geek)
Show notes
Are you a new safety manager who feels like OSHA compliance has become your entire job—and there’s still never enough time? You don’t need to do more. You need a better way to manage workplace safety without carrying everything yourself. In this episode, I sit down with Brye Sargent from The Safety Geek to talk about why so many safety managers become overwhelmed—and what you can do differently. We discuss OSHA compliance, building an effective safety program, safety training, workplace safety, OSHA requirements, leadership, and why your job isn’t to become the “safety cop.” The goal is to help you stop reacting to whatever problem is screaming the loudest and start building a safety program that gives you clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. In this video, you’ll learn: -Why you need to stop being the “safety cop” and become a guide and facilitator instead -How to stop taking responsibility for safety tasks that should belong to supervisors and managers -Why a department of one can successfully manage safety when the right systems are in place -How leadership, communication, influence, and collaboration can make you a more effective safety manager -Why becoming OSHA-ready isn’t about memorizing every OSHA regulation—it’s about knowing what to do next 🎯 Ready to Go From Overwhelmed to OSHA-Ready? Watch my FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass I’ll show you the framework I use to help safety managers get organized, identify their priorities, and build a clear plan for moving forward. Download my FREE OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in Use it to start identifying gaps in your safety program and see where you may be vulnerable during an OSHA inspection. 💬 Question for You What is taking up too much of your time as a safety manager right now? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear what you’re dealing with. And if you’re responsible for safety and want practical help with OSHA compliance, safety management, and building a stronger safety program, subscribe to the channel. 🔗 Additional Resources OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass Website: https://www.helpwithosha.com #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyLeadership #SafetyProgram #OccupationalSafety
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31 min
E87 How Much Do Safety Managers Make? (And How to Make More)
Show notes
Are you a safety manager who feels overwhelmed, underpaid, or unsure how to move your career forward? You can make $100K+ in safety—but knowing OSHA compliance alone isn't what gets you there. In this video, I break down how much safety professionals can make, the different levels of a safety career, and what you can do to increase your value and earning potential. Whether you're a new safety manager, safety coordinator, EHS professional, or the one person responsible for your company's entire safety program, you'll learn how growing your skills, leadership, and responsibilities can help you advance your career while building a stronger workplace safety program. You'll learn: 💰 The different earning levels for safety technicians, safety managers, and safety directors 📈 Why greater responsibility can lead to greater earning potential 🏭 How understanding your company's operations and hazards makes you a better safety manager 🗣️ Why leadership and communication skills can be just as important as understanding OSHA requirements 🎯 Why investing in yourself—and sometimes changing companies—can dramatically change your career trajectory 👉 Ready to become a more confident safety manager? FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass Learn the simple system I use to help busy safety managers go from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready with more clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. FREE OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in Use this checklist to identify gaps in your safety program, OSHA compliance, safety training, and workplace safety systems before an OSHA inspection happens. 💬 Join the Conversation What stage of your safety career are you in right now—and what's the next position or salary level you're working toward? Leave a comment below. And if you're responsible for safety in manufacturing, food processing, or an industrial workplace, subscribe for practical OSHA and safety management guidance. 🔗 Resources OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass Website: https://www.helpwithosha.com #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #SafetyCareer #OSHACompliance #SafetyProfessional
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26 min
E86 7 Things Managers Do in the First 10 Minutes That Ruin an OSHA Inspection
Show notes
7 Things Managers Do in the First 10 Minutes That Ruin an OSHA Inspection
What happens in the first 10 minutes of an OSHA inspection can set the tone for everything that follows.
When OSHA unexpectedly walks through the door, people get nervous. They start talking too much, rushing decisions, grabbing the wrong people, and sometimes making the inspection harder than it needs to be.
In this episode of Help with OSHA, I break down the 7 mistakes companies make in the first 10 minutes of an OSHA inspection and explain exactly what you should do instead.
In This Episode, You'll Learn
• Why your receptionist, security guard, or front-office employee needs to know how to handle OSHA
• Why being rude or defensive can immediately create problems
• Why you should always verify the inspector's credentials
• Who should be involved in the opening conference
• Why understanding the scope of the inspection is critical
• Why talking too much can unnecessarily expand the inspection
• Why OSHA inspectors should not simply wander through your facility alone
• How to organize your documentation so you can quickly provide what OSHA requests
• Why being prepared every day is better than scrambling after OSHA arrivesOne of the biggest themes in this episode is simple:
The OSHA inspector is not the enemy. Being unprepared is the enemy.
Your goal should be to remain professional, understand why OSHA is there, control the flow of information, and have your team and documentation ready before an inspection ever happens.
Get the Free OSHA Audit Checklist
If you're not sure where to start preparing your company for an OSHA inspection, visit:
www.helpwithosha.com
There you'll find my free OSHA Audit Checklist along with a short video walkthrough that explains how to use it.
Join the OSHA Audit Ready Challenge
Want to go beyond a checklist and actually prepare your company for an unexpected OSHA inspection?
Visit: www.helpwithosha.com/challenge
During the OSHA Audit Ready Challenge, we cover why OSHA may visit, the documentation you need, what inspectors look for during the walkthrough, common mistakes, and how to organize your OSHA Audit Ready information.
If this episode was helpful, subscribe to the Help with OSHA Podcast, share it with another safety manager, and send it to someone responsible for safety at their company.
Until next time, do everything you can to keep the people you work with safe.
Because no one should get hurt at work.
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19 min
E85 How to know what to do RIGHT NOW when everything is important?
Show notes
How to Know What to Do Right Now When Everything Is Important If you’re a safety manager, there’s a good chance your to-do list feels like it never ends. Training. Inspections. Written programs. OSHA compliance. Accident investigations. Employee concerns. Management requests. Everything feels important. So how do you know what to work on first? In this episode of Help with OSHA, I share one of the foundational concepts I teach my clients: The 80/20 Safety Rule. The idea is simple: a relatively small number of hazards are likely responsible for the majority of your risk. Your job isn’t to give every safety issue the same amount of attention. Your job is to identify what could hurt someone—and then prioritize the hazards that matter most. I’ll also explain why you need to look at safety from two different perspectives. First, ask: How could someone get killed or seriously injured at our facility? These may be low-frequency hazards, but the consequences could be catastrophic—a fatality, amputation, fall, struck-by incident, fire, explosion, or other life-altering event. Then ask: Where are people getting hurt most often? Look at your OSHA logs and injury history. Hand injuries, strains, sprains, ergonomic issues, slips, trips, and other recurring injuries can help reveal where your everyday risks are hiding. The goal isn’t to ignore everything else. It’s to stop treating everything as equally important. Because if you have 50 things on your safety to-do list, you probably don’t have a time-management problem. You have a priority problem. In This Episode: How to use the 80/20 Safety Rule How to determine which hazards deserve your attention first Why every OSHA regulation isn't equally relevant to your facility The difference between frequent injuries and catastrophic risks The questions to ask when prioritizing workplace hazards How to stop trying to fix everything at once How to create clarity when your safety responsibilities feel overwhelming Ready to Become OSHA-Ready? If you’re wondering where to start, begin with my OSHA Audit Checklist. I’ll walk you through what you need to look for and how to begin preparing your organization for an unexpected OSHA inspection. Get the OSHA Audit Checklist: helpwithosha.com Want to go deeper? Join me for the OSHA Audit Ready Challenge, where I’ll walk alongside you and help you determine what your facility needs to become OSHA-ready. Join the Challenge: helpwithosha.com/challenge Remember: You don’t have to fix everything. You need to identify what matters most and start there. Until next time, do everything you can to keep the people you work with safe—because no one should get hurt at work.
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28 min
E84 HR Manager Now in Charge of Safety? Here's Your 90 Day Plan
Show notes
HR Manager... Now You're Responsible for Safety? Here's Your 90-Day Plan
Were you hired to manage Human Resources, only to find yourself suddenly responsible for workplace safety too?
If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you.
In this episode of the Help With OSHA Podcast, David Sawyer shares a practical 90-day roadmap designed specifically for HR managers who have been handed safety responsibilities without formal safety training. You'll learn where to focus first, what mistakes to avoid, and how to build a safety program that protects your employees without becoming overwhelmed by OSHA regulations.
In this episode you'll discover:
• The three priorities to focus on during your first month
• The one question that uncovers your biggest safety risks
• Why maintenance can become your greatest safety resource
• How to identify quick wins that build credibility
• How to create ownership instead of trying to do everything yourself
• Why simple safety systems consistently outperform complicated ones
• How to build a proactive safety culture over your first 90 days
• How to prepare your company before OSHA ever arrivesWhether you've been managing safety for one week or one year, this episode will help you stop reacting to problems and start leading with confidence.
Resources Mentioned
🎁 Download the Complimentary OSHA Audit Checklist:
https://helpwithosha.com🎯 Learn more about the OSHA Audit Ready Challenge:
https://helpwithosha.com/challengeIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with another HR manager or safety professional who could benefit from a clear, practical roadmap.
About David Sawyer
David Sawyer is an OSHA-authorized trainer, safety coach, and host of the Help With OSHA Podcast. He helps busy safety managers and HR professionals go from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready through practical coaching, training, and proven systems that prevent accidents and help companies confidently prepare for OSHA inspections.
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27 min
E83 The 7 Reasons OSHA Shows Up Without Warning
Show notes
Why OSHA Really Shows Up (And How to Avoid an Unexpected Inspection) Have you ever heard that OSHA inspections are completely random? The truth is, they're not. In this episode of Help With OSHA, safety coach David Sawyer breaks down the seven real reasons OSHA shows up at a facility—and more importantly, what you can do to reduce your risk and be prepared if they do. You'll discover: The #1 reason OSHA conducts unexpected inspections Why serious injuries and employee complaints trigger most audits How high injury rates, referrals, and emphasis programs put companies on OSHA's radar The surprising role media attention can play in attracting an inspection Practical steps you can take today to become OSHA-ready and prevent costly citations Whether you're a new safety manager, an HR professional responsible for safety, or the only person managing workplace safety at your company, this episode will help you understand how OSHA prioritizes inspections and give you a clear roadmap for protecting your employees and your organization. Free Resource: Download the OSHA Audit Checklist and prepare your team for an unexpected inspection https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in If you'd like hands-on guidance, join the next OSHA Audit Ready Challenge, where David walks you step by step through building an OSHA-ready safety program with confidence. www.helpwithosha.com/challenge Remember: Most OSHA inspections aren't caused by bad luck—they're triggered by preventable problems. The better prepared you are, the less you have to worry about when OSHA comes knocking.
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25 min
E82 Prepared, Not Panicked - The OSHA Audit Ready Challenge
Show notes
Is your team truly ready for an unexpected OSHA inspection? Most safety managers panic when OSHA arrives because they don't have a plan. In this video, I'll show you how to become OSHA-ready before OSHA ever knocks on your door. If you're a busy or newly promoted safety manager responsible for OSHA compliance, workplace safety, and keeping your team prepared, this video is for you. You'll learn why OSHA inspections happen, the biggest mistakes companies make when preparing for an audit, and how to build a simple, repeatable safety program that gives you clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by OSHA requirements, you'll walk away with a practical framework for improving your safety training and preparing your entire team—not just yourself. In this video, you'll learn: ✅ Why OSHA inspections usually happen (and how to reduce your risk) ✅ The simple framework to prepare your team before an OSHA inspection ✅ The paperwork and documentation OSHA expects to see first ✅ How to stop carrying the entire safety program on your shoulders ✅ Why implementation—not more information—is the key to becoming OSHA-ready 🎯 Ready to become OSHA-ready? 📘 Watch my Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 📋 Download my OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in These two resources will help you stop guessing where to start and give you a proven roadmap for preparing your facility for an unexpected OSHA visit. 💬 I'd love to hear from you! What's your biggest challenge when it comes to OSHA compliance or preparing for an OSHA inspection? Leave a comment below—I read every one. And if this video helped you, subscribe for weekly videos designed specifically for overwhelmed safety managers who want to go from stressed out to OSHA-ready. Helpful Resources 🌐 Website: https://www.helpwithosha.com 🎓 Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass 📋 OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in #OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyCulture #IndustrialSafety #OSHAAudit
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23 min
E81 The Best Safety Investment Most Companies Never Make
Show notes
Are you an overwhelmed safety manager wondering where to start with OSHA compliance?
The best investment your company can make isn't more software or PPE—it's investing in the person leading workplace safety.If you're responsible for OSHA compliance, managing a safety program, or improving workplace safety, this video explains why developing great safety leaders creates better decisions, fewer accidents, stronger safety cultures, and long-term success. Whether you're a new safety manager or you've been handed safety responsibilities on top of everything else, you'll learn why professional development is one of the most overlooked ways to meet OSHA requirements, improve safety training, and build a safer workplace.
In this video, you'll learn:
✅ Why investing in your safety manager delivers a bigger return than new software or PPE
✅ The 4 reasons professional development improves workplace safety and OSHA compliance
✅ How better leadership prevents costly safety mistakes and workplace injuries
✅ Why great safety managers create more safety leaders throughout the organization
✅ How to build a safety culture that lasts instead of constantly reacting to problemsReady to go from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready?
🎯 Watch my Stress-Free Safety Workshop:
https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass📋 Access my OSHA Audit Checklist:
https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-inIf you're tired of guessing what to do next and want more clarity, confidence, and peace of mind, these are the best places to start.
I'd love to hear from you...
What's been the biggest challenge you've faced as a safety manager?
Leave a comment below, and I'll personally read it.
If this video helped you, subscribe for practical OSHA compliance tips, workplace safety strategies, and simple systems to help you become OSHA-ready without the overwhelm.
Resources
🎓 Stress-Free Safety Workshop
https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass📋 OSHA Audit Checklist
https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in🌐 Website
https://www.helpwithosha.com#OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #IndustrialSafety #SafetyCulture #Leadership
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28 min
E80 Why Every New Safety Manager Should Attend a Safety Conference (Interview with Damian Langley)
Show notes
Career Advice Every New Safety Manager Needs to Hear (An Interview with Damian Langley)
Guest: Damian Langley, Wilmington Safety School
Episode Summary
Safety conferences are more than just training events—they're opportunities to gain practical knowledge, build relationships, and grow as a leader. In this episode, I sit down with Damian Langley to discuss why in-person safety conferences continue to be one of the best investments a safety manager can make.
Whether you're brand new to safety or have years of experience, you'll learn how conferences can accelerate your professional growth, expose you to new ideas like AI in safety, and connect you with people facing the same challenges you are.
What You'll Learn
The history and mission of the Wilmington Safety School
Why in-person learning is still more valuable than online training alone
How networking with other safety professionals can solve real workplace challenges
The growing role of AI in the safety profession
Why frontline supervisors, safety committee members, managers, and executives all benefit from attending
How safety conferences inspire career growth and leadership development
What to expect at this year's Wilmington Safety School
Key Takeaways
You don't have to figure safety out by yourself.
The best ideas often come from conversations between sessions.
AI will enhance the work of safety professionals—not replace them.
Safety is ultimately about protecting people, not just complying with OSHA regulations.
Investing in your own development makes you more valuable to your company.
Resources Mentioned
Wilmington Safety School
AI in Safety
Behavioral Safety
Leadership Development
OSHA Compliance
Safety Networking
Connect with MeIf you're a new or overwhelmed safety manager looking for practical OSHA guidance, download my free OSHA Audit Checklist using the link below.
It will help you identify common compliance gaps before OSHA does and give you a clear place to start.
Subscribe
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the Help with OSHA podcast and YouTube channel for weekly tips that help busy safety managers go from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready.
#SafetyManager #OSHA #OSHACompliance #WilmingtonSafetySchool #HelpWithOSHA
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37 min
E79 The Secret to Safety Success Isn't More OSHA—It's THIS (An Interview with Jared Tyndall)
Show notes
Feeling overwhelmed as a safety manager? You don't need more OSHA knowledge—you need a better system.
If you're trying to improve workplace safety while wearing multiple hats, this conversation will help you stop chasing your tail and start focusing on what actually moves the needle.
In this interview, I sit down with experienced safety manager Jared Tyndall to discuss the challenges of leading a safety program, building a positive safety culture, and surviving those difficult early years in safety leadership. Whether you're new to safety or responsible for OSHA compliance in a manufacturing, food processing, or industrial environment, you'll gain practical insights that can help you move from overwhelmed to OSHA-ready. We cover safety leadership, employee engagement, safety training, OSHA requirements, and the real-world lessons that aren't taught in most safety manuals.
✅ In this video you'll learn:
• Why trying to fix everything at once creates "safety clutter"
• How to prioritize safety responsibilities when you're overwhelmed
• The biggest mistake new safety managers make in their first year
• Why relationships matter more than acting like the "safety police"
• How to build a stronger safety culture that lasts when you're not around🎯 Ready to become OSHA-Ready?
👉 Watch my FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop:
https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass👉 Download my FREE OSHA Audit Checklist:
https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-inIf you're tired of feeling buried by OSHA compliance, inspections, training requirements, and competing priorities, these free resources will help you create a clear roadmap and focus on what matters most.
💬 Let's talk:
What's been the biggest challenge you've faced as a safety manager?
Leave a comment below—I read every one.
And if you're a safety manager looking for practical advice, real-world experience, and proven systems that work, subscribe to the channel and join the conversation.
🔗 Resources & Links
🌐 Website: https://www.helpwithosha.com
📋 Free OSHA Audit Checklist:
https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in🎓 Free Stress-Free Safety Workshop:
https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass🎙️ Related Videos:
[Insert Related Video Link]#OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #SafetyCulture #SafetyLeadership #OSHACompliance #IndustrialSafety
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24 min
E78 How to Prepare for an OSHA Inspection (Step-by-Step Guide for Safety Managers)
Show notes
Are you a safety manager worried about what would happen if OSHA showed up tomorrow? If OSHA compliance feels overwhelming, this video will show you exactly how to prepare for an OSHA inspection with confidence. If you're a new safety manager or you've never been through an OSHA audit before, this video breaks down the OSHA inspection process step-by-step. You'll learn what triggers an OSHA inspection, what OSHA compliance officers look for during a workplace safety audit, and how to prepare your people and paperwork before an inspector ever walks through the door. Whether you work in manufacturing, food processing, warehousing, or another industrial environment, this practical OSHA compliance training will help you build a stronger safety program and become more OSHA-ready.
✅ In this video you'll learn:
-The two most common reasons OSHA shows up unannounced
-The OSHA inspection framework (Opening Conference, Walkaround, Closing Conference)
-The documents OSHA almost always asks to see
-Common workplace safety issues that lead to citations
-How to prepare employees, supervisors, and front-office staff for an OSHA inspection
-The biggest mistakes safety managers make during an OSHA audit—and how to avoid them
🎯 Ready to become OSHA-Ready?
👉 Watch my FREE Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass
👉 Download my FREE OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in
These free resources will help you identify gaps, prioritize what matters most, and build a system that gives you clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
💬 I'd love to hear from you: Have you ever been through an OSHA inspection? What was the most stressful part of the experience? Leave a comment below and let me know. And if you're a safety manager looking for practical OSHA compliance tips, workplace safety strategies, and step-by-step guidance, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss future videos.
🔗 Resources & Links
🌐 Website: https://www.helpwithosha.com
📋 Free OSHA Audit Checklist: https://www.helpwithosha.com/opt-in
🎓 Free Stress-Free Safety Workshop: https://www.helpwithosha.com/masterclass
#OSHA #SafetyManager #WorkplaceSafety #EHS #SafetyTraining #ManufacturingSafety #OSHACompliance #SafetyProgram #IndustrialSafety #SafetyLeadership
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