NASSCO Safety Podcast

In this episode, Dennis Pivin welcomes Ladd Gould, National Strategic Customer Manager at Sunbelt Rentals, to unpack the complexities of bypass installation safety. From loading and off-loading HDPE pipe to crane operations and pump setup, they detail potential hazards and how to control them. Ladd explains how modern job-site planning, PPE standards, and “take-ten” safety pauses are changing the way bypass projects are executed.

Dennis Pivin is joined by Tim Matheson, Technical Director at BLD Services, for a deep dive into plant safety and OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP). Tim shares lessons from 36 years in CIPP manufacturing, including programs like “stretch and flex,” fit-for-duty assessments, and preventive safety engineering. The episode highlights how strong documentation, employee involvement, and management commitment create lasting safety cultures in industrial settings.

In one of the most personal and vital episodes, Dennis Pivin talks with Harry Miller, VP of  Safety & Labor Relations at SAK about confronting suicide in the construction industry. Together they address alarming statistics, the stigma surrounding mental health, and programs like 988 that save lives. The discussion emphasizes leadership responsibility, open communication, and creating a culture where workers feel safe to seek help.

Host Dennis Pivin explores the critical tools and technologies used to keep workers safe in confined spaces. Featuring Mark Gaines from Archview Services, the discussion covers air monitoring, harness systems, tripods, ventilation, and communication gear—illustrating how each component contributes to rescue readiness and compliance. Listeners gain valuable insights into selecting, inspecting, and maintaining life-saving equipment that protects crews in underground environments.

In this continuation of their resin discussion, Dennis Pivin welcomes back Kaleel Rahaim to explore emission control systems used in CIPP processes. Together they unpack technologies like carbon filtration, thermal oxidation, and wet scrubbers—explaining how each works to reduce styrene emissions. The episode highlights practical field solutions, system efficiencies, and environmental considerations for contractors managing air and water emissions during cured-in-place pipe installations.

Dennis Pivin discusses essential fall protection practices in the underground construction industry with leading safety professional Mark Gaines. The episode details harness types, anchor points, rescue systems, and training techniques that prevent accidents during manhole and tunnel entry. Listeners learn how consistent education, proper gear inspection, and regulatory awareness combine to make fall prevention a central pillar of infrastructure safety.

Host Dennis Pivin speaks with Kaleel Rahaim, Principal Engineer at CIPP Consulting and PhD candidate at Mississippi State, about the science behind cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) resin systems. They break down the chemistry of thermoset resins—polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy—and explain why styrene is used, how alternatives are evolving, and what safety factors matter most. This conversation provides a clear, accessible look into the materials that shape modern trenchless infrastructure.

In this episode of the NASSCO Safety Podcast, Dennis Piven, CSP interviews Jerry Weimer about crucial trenching and excavation safety. They discuss the importance of safe work practice and being aware of trench collapse hazards. Jerry shares his 40 years of experience and offers practical tips for excavation safety and general safety awareness.

Dennis hosts a roundtable with Max Gowdy, Tad Powell, P.E. and Eric Haenlein, P.E. to explore what it really takes to build a strong safety culture. The panelists share stories from their diverse backgrounds—engineering, construction, and management—and discuss themes like peer accountability, leadership by example, and creating psychological safety for workers to speak up. From trench safety to team trust, they reflect on the evolution of industry standards and how repetition, communication, and ownership drive safety success.

Dennis Pivin, CSP interviews Nick Spano of Essential Equipment Company about one of the most injury-prone tools in underground infrastructure: the sewer jetter. Drawing from over 15 years in the industry, Nick breaks down how to safely operate jetters—from jobsite pre-checks to high-pressure hose handling. The episode covers critical hazards like surge during braking, pinch points, and hose failure, along with proper PPE and operator training. This is a must-listen for anyone using jetters on job sites. Nick’s practical advice underscores that safety starts with asking the right questions and building strong habits from day one.