Kerry Schimelfenig is the business development manager at Protective Industrial Products (PIP) and a passionate safety trainer and advocate. He encourages organizations to take a holistic approach to workplace safety, which means embracing everything from policies to technology to help protect workers. Proper training, however, is key.
In his role at PIP, he partners with executive leadership in construction organizations to implement programs that promote the use of safety products. He holds numerous industry-specific OSHA certifications, enabling him to assist companies in implementing effective safety solutions that enhance worker comfort, productivity, and compliance.
Schimelfenig joined PIP eight years ago and has has an extensive background in the safety space. In addition to his work at PIP, he is an adjunct instructor for the Mid-Atlantic OSHA OTI at two community colleges and participates in several ASSP/ANSI A10 committees. He also serves on the executive board of ASSP’s Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter as treasurer.
To learn more about Schimelfenig and his take on industry issues, please read the Faces of EHS interview below:
Q: How did you get your start in the field?
Two significant experiences have profoundly impacted my life. First, I was at Ground Zero on 9/11 during the attack on the towers. Witnessing the chaos and the efforts to help those in need made me realize that I could make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Second, I owned a manufacturing facility where I was responsible for 250 employees who cut, sewed, and printed garments for various companies, including large pharmaceuticals, resort wear, and uniforms. As the president and owner, I managed all aspects of the business, and safety was always a top priority for me, even during my time in the Navy.
As a service-connected disabled veteran, I gained first-hand insight into how employers and employees respond to injuries during the Gulf War. This experience deepened my commitment to safety. I developed a passion for learning about safety protocols and teaching others, a commitment I continue to uphold today.
Q: Who has been your biggest influence in the EHS industry, and why?
I cannot pinpoint just one person. There are many people I work with who influence and inspire me every day in the safety space, from product and service revolutionaries like Joe Millot, who was one of the founders of PIP; to men like Tom Bobick, who still after retiring works daily to make a difference in keeping people safe; and gentlemen like Wes Wheeler, VP of safety for NECA, who wakes up every day with the sole purpose of making someone’s life safer that day and every day moving forward.
So, to answer your question from my heart, it’s the site safety manager on a job, the plant safety manager, the EH&S professor, and all the people who commit to making a safer environment, workday, and life.
Q: What’s your best mistake, and what did you learn from it?
My best mistake was when I entered the safety products business. I was selling what I thought people needed, instead of listening. I learned extremely fast and shifted the way I operated daily. My goal is to partner with organizations, and I cannot partner if I don’t listen to what their pain points are. I have spent many years and still work every day perfecting this skill. Doing this, I have the pleasure to partner with many of the great companies across the globe in their safety space, working to address their needs.
Q: What’s your favorite and least favorite part about working in the industry? Would you change anything?
What I cherish most about my role in this industry is the opportunity to transform not just the workplace atmosphere but also the lives of employees. Collaborating to enhance educational experiences is a passion of mine, as learning is a lifelong journey.
On the other hand, my greatest frustration stems from witnessing individuals make daily choices that compromise safety—whether due to ignorance or a willful neglect of established protocols.
My mission is to champion safety by empowering others with knowledge about protocols and standards, highlighting their critical importance and inherent value. Every day, I strive to foster a culture where safety is not just a requirement but a shared commitment.
Q: What are your thoughts on safety culture? How can company leaders make safety a value within their organization?
Safety culture is the backbone of any successful organization, shaping how employees perceive and prioritize safety in their daily activities. A strong safety culture fosters an environment where everyone feels responsible for their own safety and that of their colleagues, leading to reduced incidents and enhanced overall well-being.
To embed safety as a core value within an organization, company leaders can take several impactful steps:
Lead by example: Leaders should model safe behavior and demonstrate a genuine commitment to safety. When employees see their leaders prioritizing safety, they are more likely to follow suit.
Open communication: Encourage a culture of transparency where employees feel comfortable reporting safety concerns without fear of repercussions. Regularly solicit feedback and actively listen to employees’ insights.
Training and education: Provide ongoing training that emphasizes the importance of safety protocols and empowers employees with the knowledge they need to work safely. Make learning engaging and relevant.
Recognition and reward: Acknowledge and reward safe practices and behaviors. Celebrating safety milestones can motivate employees to prioritize safety in their work.
Integrate safety into core values: Make safety a fundamental part of the company’s mission and values. This integration should be reflected in policies, procedures, and everyday practices.
Regular assessments: Conduct frequent safety audits and assessments to identify areas for improvement. Use these findings to refine safety protocols and ensure they remain effective.
Empower employees: Involve employees in safety committees or initiatives, allowing them to take ownership of safety practices. This engagement fosters a sense of responsibility and commitment.
By taking these steps, company leaders can cultivate a robust safety culture that not only protects employees but also enhances productivity and morale across the organization.
Q: What safety concerns or issues do you think need more prioritization in EHS programs?
In EHS programs, several safety concerns warrant greater prioritization to enhance workplace safety and well-being:
Mental health and well-being: Addressing mental health is crucial, as stress, burnout, and anxiety can significantly impact employee safety and productivity. EHS programs should incorporate mental health resources and promote a supportive work environment.
Ergonomics: Many workplaces overlook ergonomic assessments, leading to musculoskeletal disorders. Prioritizing ergonomic training and workstation evaluations can prevent injuries and improve employee comfort.
Hazardous materials management: Proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials often require more attention. Regular training and clear protocols can help mitigate risks associated with chemical exposure.
Workplace violence prevention: With increasing incidents of workplace violence, EHS programs should include strategies for prevention, response training, and creating a culture of respect and safety.
Remote work safety: As remote work becomes more common, ensuring that employees have safe home office setups and access to safety resources is essential. This includes training in ergonomics and mental health support.
Incident reporting and analysis: Encouraging a culture of reporting near misses and unsafe conditions can help identify trends and prevent future incidents. EHS programs should streamline reporting processes and analyze data effectively.
Training and awareness: Continuous education on safety protocols, emerging risks, and regulatory changes is vital. Regular refresher courses and engaging training methods can keep safety top of mind.
Environmental sustainability: Integrating environmental concerns into safety programs can help organizations reduce their ecological footprint while promoting a culture of responsibility and compliance.
By prioritizing these areas, EHS programs can create a more holistic approach to safety that protects employees and fosters a culture of well-being and sustainability.
Q: What will be the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles on the EHS industry?
The integration of ESG principles is poised to significantly impact the EHS industry in several key ways:
Enhanced regulatory compliance: As ESG principles gain traction, regulatory frameworks are likely to evolve, requiring organizations to adopt stricter environmental and safety standards. EHS professionals will need to stay ahead of these changes to ensure compliance.
Increased focus on sustainability: ESG emphasizes environmental stewardship, prompting EHS programs to prioritize sustainable practices. This includes reducing waste, minimizing carbon footprints, and implementing energy-efficient processes, which can lead to cost savings and improved public perception.
Social responsibility and employee well-being: The “S” in ESG highlights the importance of social factors, including employee health and safety. EHS programs will increasingly focus on mental health, diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a safer and more supportive workplace culture.
Stakeholder engagement: Companies will be more accountable to stakeholders, including investors, customers, and communities. EHS professionals will need to communicate effectively about safety and environmental initiatives, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to ESG principles.
Risk management: ESG frameworks encourage a proactive approach to risk management. EHS programs will need to identify and mitigate risks related to environmental impacts, employee safety, and social issues, leading to more comprehensive risk assessments and management strategies.
Innovation and technology adoption: The push for ESG compliance may drive innovation in EHS practices, leading to the adoption of innovative technologies for monitoring, reporting, and improving safety and environmental performance. This could include data analytics, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven solutions.
Reputation and competitive advantage: Companies that effectively implement ESG principles can enhance their reputation and attract customers and investors who prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. EHS professionals will play a crucial role in shaping and promoting these initiatives.
Long-term value creation: By aligning EHS practices with ESG principles, organizations can create long-term value, reducing liabilities and enhancing operational efficiency. This alignment can lead to improved financial performance and resilience in the face of changing market dynamics.
In summary, the incorporation of ESG principles into the EHS industry will drive a fundamental shift towards more sustainable, socially responsible, and governance-focused practices, benefiting organizations, employees, and the environment.
Q: How will new safety technologies influence the work being done by EHS professionals?
New safety technologies are set to revolutionize the work of EHS professionals in several impactful ways:
Data-driven decision-making: Advanced analytics and data collection tools enable EHS professionals to gather and analyze vast amounts of safety data. This data-driven approach allows for more informed decision-making, identifying trends and potential hazards before they escalate.
Real-time monitoring: Technologies such as IoT sensors and wearable devices facilitate real-time monitoring of environmental conditions and employee health. EHS professionals can receive immediate alerts about unsafe conditions, enabling prompt responses to mitigate risks.
Enhanced training and simulation: Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies provide immersive training experiences, allowing employees to practice safety protocols in simulated environments. This hands-on approach can improve retention and preparedness for real-life scenarios.
Automated reporting and compliance: Automation tools streamline the reporting process, making it easier for EHS professionals to track compliance with regulations and standards. This reduces administrative burdens and ensures timely reporting of incidents and safety metrics.
Predictive analytics: Machine learning algorithms can analyze historical data to predict potential safety incidents. EHS professionals can use these insights to implement preventive measures, reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
Remote safety management: With the rise of remote work, technologies that facilitate remote monitoring and management of safety protocols are essential. EHS professionals can oversee safety practices across multiple locations, ensuring compliance and support for remote employees.
Improved communication: Mobile applications and communication platforms enhance collaboration among EHS teams and employees. Quick access to safety information, protocols, and incident reporting fosters a culture of safety and accountability.
Sustainability tracking: Modern technologies enable EHS professionals to monitor environmental impacts more effectively, such as emissions and waste management. This capability supports sustainability initiatives and compliance with environmental regulations.
Behavioral insights: Advanced technologies can track employee behavior and safety practices, providing insights into areas where additional training or intervention may be needed. This focus on behavioral safety can lead to a more proactive safety culture.
Cost efficiency: By leveraging technology to improve safety processes, organizations can reduce costs associated with accidents, regulatory fines, and insurance premiums. EHS professionals can demonstrate the value of safety investments through measurable outcomes.
In summary, the integration of new safety technologies will empower EHS professionals to work more efficiently, make informed decisions, and foster a proactive safety culture, enhancing workplace safety and compliance.
Q: What are you most proud of?
What I am most proud of in my safety career is the ability to share a pivotal aspect of my journey in the safety fields, something that fills me with immense pride. It is not just about the protocols I have implemented or the training sessions I have conducted; it is about the lives I have touched and the culture of safety I have fostered.
In my career, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformation that occurs when safety becomes a shared value rather than just a set of rules. I am most proud of the relationships I have built with my colleagues, where trust and open communication thrive. It is in those moments, when team members feel empowered to speak up about hazards or suggest improvements, that we create a truly safe environment.
One of my proudest achievements was leading a safety initiative that reduced workplace incidents by over 30%. But the numbers alone do not tell the whole story. What truly matters is the ripple effect of that success—families who sleep soundly at night, knowing their loved ones return home safely. It is the camaraderie that develops when everyone is committed to looking out for one another.
I am also proud of my role in mentoring the next generation of safety professionals. Sharing knowledge and instilling a passion for safety in others is a legacy I cherish. When I see my mentees take charge, innovate, and advocate for safety, I know I have made a lasting impact.
In conclusion, what I am most proud of in my career is not just the achievements I have accomplished, but the lives I have influenced and the culture of safety I’ve helped cultivate. Together, we can continue to build environments where safety is not just a priority, but a way of life.
Q: Do you have any advice for people entering the EHS profession?
Absolutely! Here are some key recommendations:
Stay curious and keep learning: The EHS field is constantly evolving with new regulations, technologies, and best practices. Stay updated through continuous education, certifications, and attending industry conferences.
Develop strong communication skills: EHS professionals must effectively communicate safety protocols and environmental policies to diverse audiences. Practice clear, concise communication and active listening.
Build relationships: Foster strong relationships with colleagues across all levels of the organization. Collaboration is key to creating a culture of safety and environmental responsibility.
Be proactive, not reactive: Anticipate potential hazards and develop preventive measures. A proactive approach can significantly reduce incidents and improve overall safety.
Understand regulations and standards: Familiarize yourself with local, national, and international EHS regulations. This knowledge is crucial for compliance and effective risk management.
Embrace technology: Leverage technology and data analytics to enhance safety programs and streamline processes. Familiarity with EHS software can improve efficiency and reporting.
Cultivate a safety culture: Work towards creating a workplace culture that prioritizes safety. Encourage employees to take ownership of their safety and that of their peers.
Be adaptable: The EHS landscape can change rapidly due to new regulations, technologies, or organizational shifts. Be flexible and ready to adapt your strategies as needed.
Seek mentorship: Connect with experienced professionals in the field. Mentorship can provide valuable insights, guidance, and networking opportunities.
Passion and commitment: Finally, approach your work with passion and a genuine commitment to making a difference. Your enthusiasm can inspire others and drive positive changes within the organization.
Entering the EHS profession is a rewarding journey, and your efforts can lead to safer workplaces and a healthier environment. Good luck!
Q: Anything else you’d like to add?
A career in safety is exceptionally rewarding. It is exciting to collaborate with organizations that recognize the value of their people and to assist them in establishing programs that foster both organizational success and individual growth. When organizations understand that their employees are their greatest assets, it becomes incredibly fulfilling to help create a safety environment that is as crucial as a preventative maintenance program for keeping those assets strong and healthy.
Are you or a colleague an EHS professional interested in being profiled for the Faces of EHS series? Please contact Joe Bebon at JBebon@BLR.com.