The Occupational Safety Leadership Podcast

Episode 101- Establishing Safety Goals

In today's episode, Dr. Ayers discusses establishing safety goals.  Leading and Lagging indicators are discussed.  #occupationalsafety  #safetygoals   #Safety

Episode 100 - Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) - How to factor in experience and training

In today's episode, Dr. Ayers covers the concept of adding in competence, knowledge, training and experience to a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA).

Episode 99 - Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) - Practical Examples

In today's episode, Dr. Ayers covers a few practical examples of job hazard analysis (JHA) using the 5x5 matrix.  The concept of adding in competence, knowledge, training and experience is discussed.

Episode 98 - Acute vs. Chronic Chemical Exposure

In today's episode, Dr. Ayers discusses the difference between acute and chronic chemical exposures.  In possible, eliminate or substitute the chemical exposure, then use engineering controls such as ventilation and lastly use PPE.

Episode 97 - Hazard Reduction - Take Action - Be Proactive

In today's episode, Dr. Ayers discusses the need to be proactive in hazard reduction and not to wait around to be told to do something.

Episode 96 - Ed Foulke - Former Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA

In today's episode, Dr. Ayers discusses what a new safety profession needs to know when OSHA comes knocking.  Ed Foulke is a Partner at Fisher Phillips and former Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA.  Ed has great tips for the new safety professional.

Episode 95 - Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)

In today's episode, Dr. Ayers breaks down the steps of performing a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA). A Job Hazard Analysis (JHA), also known as a Job Safety Analysis (JSA), is a systematic process that helps identify and mitigate potential hazards associated with specific job tasks. It's a critical component of workplace safety.  

Episode 94 - 5 x 5 Risk Assessment Matrix

• Topic: This episode introduces and explains the 5 x 5 Risk Assessment Matrix, a structured method for assessing risks in occupational safety.
• How It Works:
  • The matrix uses five levels of likelihood (from rare to almost certain).
  • It also uses five levels of severity (from negligible to catastrophic).
  • Multiplying these values gives a risk score that helps safety leaders decide which hazards require immediate attention.
• Purpose: Provides a visual and systematic way to prioritize risks, ensuring that resources are directed toward the most critical safety issues.
• Application: Commonly used in safety programs to evaluate hazards such as chemical exposure, equipment failure, or unsafe behaviors.

• Why It Matters for Safety Leadership

• Clarity in decision-making: Leaders can quickly identify which risks are unacceptable and need urgent mitigation.
• Consistency: The matrix standardizes risk evaluation across teams, reducing subjective judgment.
• Communication: It’s a simple visual tool that helps explain risk levels to employees, executives, and regulators.