The Environmental Transformation Podcast

In this monumental 100th episode of the Environmental Transformation Podcast, host Sean Grady dives into the critical issue of combustible dust with two leading experts: Dr. Kevin Aikman, a plant biologist and certified industrial hygienist with over 30 years of consulting experience, and Dr. Ashok Dastidar, Vice President at Fauske & Associates, specializing in chemical process hazard analysis. The episode covers the science behind combustible dust, its potential risks, the role of industrial hygienists in recognizing and mitigating these hazards, and the importance of awareness and proper training. Additionally, the discussion highlights the significance of performing Dust Hazard Analysis (DHA) and the upcoming NFPA 660 standard. The episode underscores the real-life implications of combustible dust explosions, referencing notable incidents like the 2008 Imperial Sugar explosion and emphasizing regulations and standards' role in preventing such disasters.

Sean Grady interviews Sean Easton, co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Wastelinq, a cutting-edge waste-tracking software platform. Easton discusses his journey in the waste industry, from his career beginnings to co-founding Wastelinq, which has innovative features such as AI-assisted waste profiling, dynamic routing for treatment methods, and inventory management. Additionally, they touch on sustainability goals, compliance, and the importance of data privacy. Easton shares insights on the challenges of waste management and the value of integrating advanced technology and offers a look inside the operational capabilities of Wastelinq.

Jason Kunz, a safety leader with over a decade at 3M, shares insights on building top-tier safety programs, preventing serious injuries, and how technology is reshaping safety. He also touches on worker engagement and a life-saving CPR experience. Tune in for practical tips to elevate your safety approach. Learn more about Jason at at ⁠⁠www.kunzCompany.com⁠⁠.

Thanks to our sponsors: E-Tank, TerraTherm, Enthalpy Analytical, and Zappa Stewart

Sean Grady interviews Robert Wilkinson, an expert with over 25 years of experience in environmental investigation, assessment, and management. Robert, who is the CCR Technical Manager at Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation (TDEC's) Bureau of Environment, discusses his extensive background and how he became involved in managing issues related to coal combustion residuals (CCR) at TVA coal-fired power plants in Tennessee. The conversation dives into the history and regulatory framework of CCR, the environmental and health impacts, the challenges utilities face in compliance, and the evolving landscape of beneficial reuse projects. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the complexities and innovative approaches in managing coal ash, aiming to prevent future environmental disasters like the 2008 Kingston spill.

Thanks to our sponsors: Cascade Environmental, Enthalpy Analytical, and Zappa-Stewart.

#CCR #beneficialreuse #sustainability #landfill #groundwater

Join host Sean Grady as he interviews JP Verheul, Senior Chemist, and Mike Allen, VP of Trace Lab Services, from Enthalpy Analytical. Discover the critical work Enthalpy Analytical is doing in analyzing environmental samples for PFAS and other contaminants. Learn about the challenges and complexities in the testing and regulatory landscape, especially concerning drinking water, wastewater treatment, and industrial impacts. The episode also features detailed discussions on analytical methods, state and federal regulations, and the future implications of PFAS contamination. Don't miss this insightful episode that sheds light on the evolving industry of environmental testing and PFAS management.

In this final episode of our 8 part series, Sean Grady welcomes back Skip Elliott, a veteran business manager with over 40 years of experience in high-risk industries. Skip discusses his extensive career, including his tenure as the Administrator of the U.S. Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and as the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The conversation centers around the inaugural Rail Hazmat Thought Leader Summit held in Dallas, Texas. Sean and Skip delve into the purpose of the summit, key takeaways, and future steps to improve rail hazmat safety and training. Tune in to learn about the collaboration among various stakeholders and the innovative approaches being proposed to address gaps in training and awareness.

Thanks to our sponsors: Enthalpy Analytical, Zappa-Stewart, The Alliance of Hazardous Materials Professionals, and Cascade Environmental.

#hazmat #emergencyresponse #911 #lepc #firstresponders

#training #environment #safety #railroadsafety

Join host Sean Grady in conversations with industry experts at the Rail Hazmat Summit, featuring insights from Brian Kokkila, Assistant Chief of Operations for the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire. Explore the challenges and collaborations in emergency response activities, focusing on rail incidents and stakeholder engagement. Learn some of the take aways Brian plans to focus on when he returns to his post as a result of this Rail Thought Leaders Summit.

Thanks to our sponsors: Enthalpy Analytical, Zappa-Stewart, the Alliance of Hazardous Materials Professionals, and Cascade Environmental.

#firesafety #firstresponders #hazmat #emergencyresponse #incidentcommand #911

In this episode, join host Sean Grady as he delves into the world of 911 emergency response operations with April Heinze, the Chief of 911 Operations at the National Emergency Number Association (NENA). Get ready to explore the crucial role of 911 operators, the setting of standards, training procedures, and the challenges faced by the emergency response community. Tune in for valuable insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives from a key player in the realm of emergency response.

Thanks to our sponsors: Zappa-Stewart, Enthalpy Analytical, and the Alliance of Hazardous Materials Professionals.

#911 #911operators #emergencyresponce #training #hazmat #firstresponders #nena

In this episode, host Sean Grady interviews John Walsh, the director of hazmat programs for the Short Line Safety Institute, discussing the crucial role of hazmat training for first responders in the rail industry. Walsh shares insights on the challenges and importance of safety training for short line and regional railroads, emphasizing the need for collaboration and leveraging digital technologies for effective training delivery. The interview highlights key takeaways from the Rail Hazmat Thought Leadership Summit, focusing on enhancing emergency response preparedness and fostering community-focused safety initiatives.

Thanks to our Sponsors: Enthalpy Analytical, Zappa-Stewart, and the Alliance of Hazardous Materials Professionals.

#emergencyresponse #training #hazmat #hazardousmaterials #responders #firefighters

Welcome to the environmental transformation podcast. Today's guest is Nikos Avlonas, CEO of the Center of Sustainability and Excellence, discussing sustainability practices and the impact of new climate disclosure rules on organizations. From sustainability training to navigating the complexities of sustainability reporting, join us as we explore the evolving landscape of sustainable business practices.

Thanks to our sponsors: Enthalpy Analytical, Zappa-Stewart, E-Tank, Cascade Environmental, and the Alliance of Hazardous Materials Professionals

#climate #resiliency #sustainability #esg #sustainabilityreporting #climatechange #training #environment