Keeping Current

When critical systems fail, operations leaders are the first line of defense. In this episode of Keeping Current, host Joe O’Dwyer sits down with Dennis Salzmann, Senior Director of ERS Operations, to explore how outages unfold—and what it really takes to bring systems back online. From early warning signs to the chain of events during a disruption, Dennis shares practical insights on leadership under pressure, recovery strategies, and the role of predictive maintenance in building resiliency. Whether you’re a facility manager, engineer, or executive, you’ll gain frontline lessons to strengthen your preparedness and keep your infrastructure running reliably.

In this episode, we dive into the moments no facility wants to face—unexpected outages and near-disaster situations. Host Joe O’Dwyer sits down with Nick Palko, a Business Development Manager/engineer who works hands-on with electrical systems, and Matt Saunders, a customer who’s experienced firsthand how close calls and outages test resilience. Recorded live from the field, you may hear a little background noise as the conversation unfolds—but that only adds to the authenticity of hearing these experiences straight from those who lived them. Together, they share stories of recovery, the lessons learned, and what it takes to prevent the next crisis.

Season 2 continues with an in-depth look at OSHA’s latest regulatory updates and what they mean for workplace safety, compliance, and risk management. Host Joe O’Dwyer is joined by Steve Park to unpack changes like proper PPE fit, multilingual hazard communication, and stepped-up enforcement—plus practical steps to prep for inspections, strengthen training, and adapt your safety program. You’ll hear actionable guidance for manufacturing, construction, utilities, and energy facilities to reduce risk, avoid costly violations, and protect your workforce.

New Keeping Current episodes drop every other Thursday. Ask us about our NFPA 70B Support Services to stay ahead of regulatory change.

Season 2 continues with a deep dive into the rapid growth of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and their transformative impact on today’s power infrastructure. Host Fred Toepfer is joined by Brandon Schuler and Mike Janelle to explore the market trends, technological advancements, and real-world applications driving BESS adoption. From grid modernization and renewable integration to energy reliability and cost savings, they unpack why BESS is quickly becoming a cornerstone of the modern grid. You’ll also hear how BESS services help utilities, facilities, and organizations design, implement, and maintain storage solutions that maximize performance and ROI. Whether you’re evaluating BESS for the first time or expanding existing systems, this episode offers valuable insights to guide your strategy.

Check out new Keeping Current episodes every other Thursday. Also, ask us about our BESS Services!

Season 2 kicks off with host Joe O’Dwyer and guest Warren Garber, a NETA Level II Sales Engineer at ERS with over 30 years of field experience. In this episode they dive into the rising importance of electrical maintenance and NFPA 70B compliance. As the updated standard shifts from recommendation to regulation, facilities are facing new challenges in safety, documentation, and testing expectations. Warren shares insights from decades in the field, offering practical advice on building strong Electrical Maintenance Program and turning compliance into a long-term advantage. Whether you're starting fresh or refining your approach, this episode will help you stay up to code.

Check out new Keeping Current episodes every other Thursday. Also, ask us about our new NFPA 70B Compliance Services!

In this episode of Keeping Current, new co-host Fred Toepfer discuss the evolution of electrical safety and arc flash standards with industry experts, Mark Owens, and Dennis Salzmann. Hear their insights on how the latest NFPA 70B/70E updates continue to shape safety in our industry and why regular updates and collaboration are key to safer systems.

From historical shifts to practical applications, this conversation is all about ensuring that everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.

In this special Veterans Day episode of Keeping Current, host and military veteran Joe O'Dwyer sits down with ERS Sales Engineer Mike Do, currently in the reserves, to explore two important dynamics in engineering. Together, they discuss the collaboration between young professionals entering the field and veteran engineers with years of experience, highlighting how these diverse perspectives drive innovation and mentorship. They also delve into the opportunities for military veterans in the electrical engineering industry, examining how the skills and discipline gained in service translate powerfully to civilian roles.

Joe Odwyer sits down with Nick Durazo for a brief discussion about the critical importance of safety in electrical power systems. Nick shares how tragic incidents can be caused by non-compliance and highlights the severe consequences of neglecting safety protocols. Tune in to learn how regular equipment evaluations can prevent your business from becoming the next safety nightmare.

This October, we’re featuring a two-part series, to discuss the birth of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). In part one, “Origins of Fear: The Birth of OSHA Safety Standards,” host Joe O’Dwyer and Charles Meeker, a Senior Compliance Engineer with over 50 years of experience explore the events that led to OSHA’s creation and why compliance is not just a legal necessity, but a vital safeguard for businesses and workers alike. Tune in for eye-opening discussions on key safety risks, the importance of compliance, and tips to avoid costly accidents.

Resources for listeners:

OSHA Frequently Asked Questions | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Identifying Hazard Control Options: The Hierarchy of Controls (osha.gov)

In this episode of Keeping Current, host Joe O'Dwyer sits down with Greg Smith, ERS's VP of Sales Services, to explore the fascinating journey of the electrical industry. From the birth of electrical safety standards in the 1970's to the challenges the industry faces today, they dive deep into how safety has become the cornerstone of the industry’s growth.