This episode of the IHSA Safety Podcast discusses the legal responsibilities, safety standards, and regulatory framework that every construction supervisor needs to know and features construction supervisor Andy Fournier.

Andy discusses the most important supervisory responsibilities on a construction project, one of which is prioritizing safety above all else. He speaks against a culture that puts schedule and deadlines over safety, stating that while no one may remember how quickly a project is completed, everyone will always remember the impact of safety oversights, such as incidents that result in serious injuries or fatalities. Jobsites should promote a culture in which taking the extra time to do things correctly is valued, even if it means the project takes longer than planned.

Another responsibility Andy prioritizes as a supervisor is proper planning. Poor planning can lead to frustration and chaos on jobsites, which makes it crucial that supervisors stay ahead of potential issues with adequate planning.

Andy further discusses some tips on being able to handle different types of personalities and also shares some tools and resources that have improved his understanding of the different construction regulations.

Free resources

The Role of a Supervisor

The Competent Supervisor

What Supervisors Need to Know

The Working Minds for the Trades - Manager

Basics of Supervising

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This episode of the IHSA Safety Podcast discusses personal protective equipment (PPE) and features Ryan Smith, health and safety consultant at IHSA.

Ryan highlights the necessity of having the appropriate PPE fit and proper training on how to use them. The right fit, the right gear, and the right training could mean the difference between going home safe and not going home at all.

Ryan identifies common PPE mistakes on construction sites, such as not wearing hard hats at all times when on site, not wearing appropriate eye protection where there's a risk to the worker's eye, and not using fall prevention or fall protection as required. He also mentions comfort as one of the key factors employers should consider when it comes to PPE use. Investing in high-quality PPE appropriate for a specific task is critical, as it encourages and promotes regular use and proper maintenance, both of which enhance safety on the job.

Ryan also emphasizes the need for consistent enforcement from leadership in following the primary safety measures on jobsites so that workers don’t have to rely solely on PPE to stay safe. Any positive change in site culture should begin at the top and spread downward; hence, employers must put in the effort to ensure their workplace safety culture is high-standard and compliant.

Free resources

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Construction Health & Safety Manual

Safety Talks

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This episode of the IHSA Safety Podcast discusses the importance of mental health training in the workplace and features Enzo Garritano, IHSA’s President and CEO.

Enzo highlights the necessity of understanding mental health and its impact in the workplace. Everyone in the workplace plays a part in mental health, and it should be treated like any other workplace risk, with a focus on raising awareness and understanding the support roles and resources available.

Enzo discusses ‘Opening the Door to Support,’ one of IHSA’s eLearning programs designed to equip learners with essential skills and tools to support mental health in the workplace. This interactive, six-module program covers essential topics such as breaking down stigma, identifying red flags, leading by example, communicating supportively, and supporting others.

Enzo emphasizes the critical need for both management and workers to participate in mental health training to increase their awareness and understanding of mental health. Getting training is a starting point that provides opportunities for growth in the subject matter, and leaders should invest in getting their workers and teams involved.

Free resources

Opening the Door to Support

The Working Mind for the Trades - Manager

The Working Mind for the Trades – Worker

2026 National Conference: The Power of Peer Support

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