PAPod 523 - Building Bridges: Redefining Worker Engagement and Mental Health in Construction

Merry Christmas, again.

Join host Todd Conklin in this engaging episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast as he dives into a captivating conversation with Bionda van Roosendaal Stelling, the General Manager of Health, Safety, and Environment at HEEREMA. Recorded during an unexpected taxi ride, this episode takes us on a journey through the fascinating world of high-risk maritime operations. Explore the challenges and innovations in safety within the maritime industry, emphasizing a shift from viewing workers as problems to seeing them as integral solutions. Bionda shares insights into how European maritime companies like HIRMA are embracing new perspectives on safety and resilience, highlighting the importance of learning from normal operations and integrating technology as a tool rather than a crutch. This episode also reflects on the broader changes in safety discussions over the years, the continuous evolution in industry practices, and the vital role of accountability in managing project risks. Whether you're in the maritime industry or interested in modern safety approaches, this episode offers valuable lessons on navigating complex environments while keeping the human element at the forefront.

In this episode, join Todd Conklin for a casual yet insightful chat on the importance of understanding and interpreting data in both personal and organizational contexts. Using a humorous anecdote about a data-collecting ring, Todd delves into how data can provide insights into our happiness and health, drawing parallels to the abundance of data collected in workplace safety and operations. Moreover, Todd discusses the significance of open-ended conversations with employees to gauge the true health of an organization. He emphasizes the importance of building quick relationships and understanding the changing needs of the workforce in a rapidly evolving work environment. Todd also challenges listeners to think about the nature of feedback and data collection, promoting genuine conversations as a vital tool for organizational success and personal growth. Tune in for a reflective journey on how we can all benefit from asking the right questions and being open to the answers, however surprising they may be.

Join Todd Conklin in this insightful episode of Pre-Accident Investigation, where he reflects on the moral duty and challenges faced in the safety industry. Discover the importance of allowing workers the ability to succeed in complex environments, even when achievements can't be measured.

Part Two of a continuing conversation from almost 10 years ago.  In this captivating episode of the Pre-Accident Podcast, host Todd Conklin welcomes the legendary Edgar Schein and his son Peter for a deep dive into the world of organizational culture and safety. This is part one of a two-part series that promises to challenge your thinking and spark new insights. Listeners are treated to an enlightening conversation with Edgar Schein, a revered figure in the field of organizational development, as he shares his distilled wisdom gathered over decades of academic and consulting work. Schein emphasizes the critical importance of openness and trust in driving both safety and effectiveness within organizations, drawing from his extensive experiences with major corporations and industries. The episode explores the concept of relationship building within management, challenging traditional notions of role-based relationships and advocating for a more personal and trust-based approach. The discussion touches on the nuances of creating psychological safety, the impact of reward systems, and the often overlooked role of middle management in fostering a culture of safety and effectiveness. Join Todd Conklin and his distinguished guests for an engaging conversation that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment. Tune in to discover how openness and trust can transform your organization and why these elements are the bedrock of true effectiveness.

In this episode, Todd Conklin shares a valuable piece of advice he received from his boss during challenging times. Despite facing criticism and negativity, Todd emphasizes the importance of perseverance and maintaining a positive attitude. He recounts the lesson his boss imparted, which has become a guiding principle for him: "Get caught trying to make it better." Todd reflects on how this mindset has influenced his approach to leadership and personal growth. Join Todd for this insightful safety moment as he encourages listeners to embrace challenges and strive to improve situations, even when faced with adversity. Remember to have fun, learn something new every day, and, above all, stay safe.

In this captivating episode of the Pre-Accident Podcast, host Todd Conklin welcomes the legendary Edgar Schein and his son Peter for a deep dive into the world of organizational culture and safety. This is part one of a two-part series that promises to challenge your thinking and spark new insights. Listeners are treated to an enlightening conversation with Edgar Schein, a revered figure in the field of organizational development, as he shares his distilled wisdom gathered over decades of academic and consulting work. Schein emphasizes the critical importance of openness and trust in driving both safety and effectiveness within organizations, drawing from his extensive experiences with major corporations and industries. The episode explores the concept of relationship building within management, challenging traditional notions of role-based relationships and advocating for a more personal and trust-based approach. The discussion touches on the nuances of creating psychological safety, the impact of reward systems, and the often overlooked role of middle management in fostering a culture of safety and effectiveness. Join Todd Conklin and his distinguished guests for an engaging conversation that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment. Tune in to discover how openness and trust can transform your organization and why these elements are the bedrock of true effectiveness.

Welcome to the Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment with Todd Conklin. In this engaging episode, we delve into the concept of "graceful extensibility," a crucial feature for enhancing the safety and reliability of operations. Inspired by insights from David Woods of Ohio State University, Todd explores how building margins into systems can mitigate the consequences of potential failures. Through thought-provoking examples, like the space program's ability to take one more orbit, this episode illustrates the importance of creating room for error without severe repercussions. Discover how you can apply graceful extensibility to your safety programs and everyday life, ensuring resilience in the face of variability and risk. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how to hedge your bets and build robust processes that accommodate unforeseen challenges, all while learning something new and prioritizing safety.

In this episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, host Todd Conklin delves into a vital conversation about mental health and worker engagement within the construction industry. As the world navigates through increasingly stressful times, Todd emphasizes the importance of addressing mental well-being in the workplace. Joining Todd is Alan Palmer from JMJ, who shares insights on innovative programs like the "Village Heroes," designed to listen and support workers on major projects. The discussion highlights the alarming statistics around suicide rates in the construction sector and the proactive measures some organizations are taking to create a more supportive work environment. Through engaging anecdotes and expert opinions, this episode encourages listeners to rethink traditional management approaches, emphasizing the need for holistic worker engagement strategies that address mental health and foster a culture of safety and resilience.

In this episode of Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Moment, Todd Conklin delves into the intriguing concept of happiness as a pivotal element in facilitating organizational change. Despite the challenges and resistance that often accompany change, Todd argues that happiness should not be seen as oppositional but rather as an integral part of the process. Exploring the idea that happiness is a choice, Todd emphasizes the importance of fostering a positive environment during times of significant shifts within organizations. He suggests that a content and satisfied team is more likely to embrace and navigate challenges effectively. Tune in to understand how happiness and satisfaction can play a crucial role in successful organizational transformation. Join the conversation and reflect on how you can incorporate happiness into your daily life and work environment. As always, strive to learn something new, have fun, and be kind and safe.