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Train Workers on How to Respond to Active Shooters in the Workplace

In 2013, two nurses at a Milwaukee hospital heard gunshots. Instead of taking cover, they ran toward the gunfire. Only when they spotted the armed man running at them did they turn and flee. A police officer cornered the gunman and restrained him with pepper spray. The gunman screamed: “I can’t see! I can’t see!” […]

Get involved or steer clear? What’s HR to do when complaints roll in?

Ahh, the human resources department. The place where compassionate, friendly people solve problems in the workplace. A place filled with intelligent professionals uniquely qualified to turn conflict into comfort. Or maybe that’s not what the HR department should be at all. Maybe HR should empower others to handle certain workplace issues on their own rather […]

Job Hazard Analysis Training in 7 Minutes Flat!

Analyzing every job for its hazards can reduce accidents. The purpose of a job analysis is not to evaluate job performance but to find hazards and then determine ways to reduce or eliminate them. Look at each job you do in detail. Often we look at obvious dangers but ignore the simple, everyday things that […]

HR, Get Out of the Babysitting Business

HR spends too much time babysitting. For example, policing a rule like “Do not abuse sick leave!” How are you going to enforce that? Follow all your employees? Stop! Says consultant Hunter Lott of “Please Sue Me” fame. Get out of the babysitting business and go PTO.

Still Babysitting? Go PTO and Get Out of the Babysitting Business

Yesterday’s Advisor featured Lott’s “Please Sue Me” presentation. Today, more of Lott’s tips as delivered at the SHRM Conference and Exposition held recently in Orlando. Behavior Make behavior 50 percent of anybody’s job, says Lott. Try this for a policy: Maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner so that you […]

How Long Does It Take to Train Effectively?

Toolbox talks are informal discussions that address specific hazards or conditions. They are often delivered before a shift or when there is a change in the job, conditions, or equipment. Safety toolbox talks are less formal and shorter than safety meetings and other types of training sessions. They serve as an excellent refresher and a […]

ERISA = Every Ridiculous Idea Since Adam

by Brandon Long It’s rumored that President Ronald Reagan once referred to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) as “Every Ridiculous Idea Since Adam.” ERISA serves important purposes in our society, but it also presents tremendous challenges and potential liabilities for good-intentioned employers that merely want to provide nice benefits to their […]