Articles by Barry Bottino

Although outdoor workers are most affected by wildfires, workers in commercial buildings and office locations near fires also face risks.

In Episode 6, the Safety+Health team examines soft skills, including what they are, how they differ from other job-related skills and how they can benefit a safety professional’s career. Also, Linda Martin, a recipient of the National Safety Council’s Marion Martin Award, discusses her work as an educator, earning a doctorate and sharing positivity on social media.

In women-dominated industries such as health care, as well as those in which women aren’t well represented, including construction and the trades, female workers are facing unique challenges amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

No matter how they’re defined, soft skills are vital to a safety professional’s career growth and development. “Technical knowledge will only get you so far,” one expert says.

In Episode 5, the Safety+Health editorial team looks at one economist’s research on the impact of OSHA press releases. And safety superstar Abby Ferri talks about teaching during the pandemic, safety and superheroes.

A single OSHA press release about fines levied against a company can have the same effect as 200-plus agency inspections when it comes to future compliance by the offending employer, as well as those nearby in the same industry, a Duke University researcher recently concluded.

In Episode 4, the Safety+Health editorial team discusses the dangers of arc flash and how experts say it can be prevented. Also: NSC President and CEO Lorraine Martin talks about National Safety Month and being present as a safety leader during COVID-19.

The National Safety Council has launched SAFER: Safe Actions for Employee Returns, a comprehensive, multifaceted initiative aimed at developing industry- and risk-specific recommendations and resources for all U.S. employers.

In Episode 3, the Safety+Health editorial team looks at the topic of control banding – “using what is known to try to manage the unknown.” Also: Former OSHA inspector Paul McNeill shares insights about what employers should – and shouldn't – do when OSHA comes knocking.

In Episode 2, the Safety+Health editorial team looks at what’s being done to protect workers in roadway work zones, and talks with safety consultant Tim Page-Bottorff about his unique path into the profession and how safety pros can take their work home.