Safety Factor

Mazzella Companies

Safety Factor, a podcast for industrial professionals, features discussions between like-minded experts. Once a month, we sit down to discuss some of today's newest product and safety innovations, best practices, industry standards, and more with industry-leading experts.

  1. -1 ДН.

    MEWP Best Practices: Safety That Saves Lives at Height

    Fall protection requirements for mobile elevated work platforms are often misunderstood, especially when it comes to boom lifts, scissor lifts, manufacturer guidance, and jobsite-specific rules. In this episode of Safety Factor, Ben Hengst sits down with a panel of fall protection specialists to break down what workers, supervisors, and safety leaders need to know before stepping into a lift. The discussion covers when fall protection is required in a boom lift versus a scissor lift, why ejection is one of the biggest hazards in elevated platforms, and how OSHA requirements interact with manufacturer instructions, company policy, and site rules. The panel also explains the difference between fall restraint and fall arrest, where to tie off inside a lift, and why using the wrong equipment can create serious risk. If your team uses boom lifts, scissor lifts, or other aerial equipment, this episode offers practical guidance on selecting PPE, inspecting equipment before use, training workers properly, and avoiding the complacency that often leads to incidents at height. "I think the biggest issue with any type of fall protection, especially when you're tying off into lifts, it's just complacency... they've been in a lift every day, or they've done it hundreds of times and nothing's ever happened any other time. So they're not taking this serious." Dan Montchal, Project Manager and Horizontal Lifeline Specialist, HySafe Episode Highlights Why boom and scissor lifts have different fall protection considerationsEjection vs falling out of a boom liftFall restraint vs. fall arrest — what each one does and when they matterCommon tie-off mistakesWhy training, inspections, and JSAs, are critical before working at heightThis episode is essential listening for: Safety managers and EHS leadersWorkers who operate boom lifts or scissor liftsSupervisors responsible for work at heightContractors reviewing lift safety requirements and trainingAnyone building or improving a fall protection programGuests: Hillari Frost, Fall Protection Division Manager, MazzellaCorey Crawford, Fall Protection Specialist, MazzellaBecky Danielson, Training Director, SafewazeDan Montchal, Project Manager and Horizontal Lifeline Specialist, HySafeFree Downloads: Job Safety Analysis and Working at Height Risk Assessment BundleFall Safety 101 Infographic PosterTop 10 Safety Tips for Working at HeightTop 5 Fall Protection Hazards on the Job SiteFall Protection Harness Inspection Field ReferenceHierarchy of Fall Protection

    30 мин.
  2. 14.08.2025

    How Much Does Crane Safety Actually Cost?

    What safety features should be built into your next crane or your lifting equipment? Which ones tend to get cut before the order is placed? In this episode of Safety Factor, crane experts share what happens when budget decisions override safety intentions. From no-touch rigging tools to laser-marked danger zones, they walk through the safety innovations available today and explore the extra costs associated. You’ll hear about the most common injury patterns in steel operations, the push-pull between production and safety, and how small investments now can prevent major incidents later. "Everybody has caviar dreams until they find out how much it costs, right? So yes, they want to make them safe. Yes, they want to make them reliable, right? ... 'Yes, I want the Cadillac.' And then you give 'em the price and they say, 'Oh, well, what can we do to get it, you know, half price?'" Episode Highlights: Why crane safety features get cut during procurement - A real look at where cost pressures show up—and what it means for operatorsNo-touch systems and radio control systems - What they do, how they help, and the % price bump to expectCrane safety vs. production pressure - Why “just train them better” isn't a full strategy—and what to do insteadHow to use incident data to justify safety upgrades - Learn how near-miss trends can support your CapEx proposal The hidden cost of designing for price, not safety - When procurement wins the spec battle, who pays the price later?Whether you're specifying cranes, selecting safety systems, or building a CapEx case, this episode offers grounded advice on how to prioritize safety, even when budgets tighten. Guests: Jim Warren, Director of Steel Segment, MazzellaChris Ross, Key Account Manager, MazzellaLance White, Director of Sales Specialists, MazzellaFREE DOWNLOADS: Overhead Cranes E-Book: Overhead Cranes From Top To Bottom10 Things to Consider When Selecting an Overhead Crane for Your Business ChecklistBridge Crane Quote Comparison ToolOverhead Crane and Hoist Service E-Book: A Guide to Upgrades and ModernizationsOverhead Cranes & Built-Up Hoists BrochureNo-Touch Electrode Handling Systems Brochure

    18 мин.
  3. 31.07.2025

    Crane Buying Mistakes That Cost Millions

    When it comes to overhead cranes, the real cost isn’t always upfront. In this episode of Safety Factor, crane industry veterans share the most common buying mistakes that lead to catastrophic failures, expensive service calls, and constant downtime, and how to avoid them from the start. From mismatched duty cycles to proprietary parts and short-sighted procurement strategies, this episode unpacks the traps that cost operations hundreds of thousands—if not millions—over time. You’ll hear exactly what to avoid when buying a crane, so you don’t end up with years of breakdowns, ballooning costs, and downtime you can’t afford. "You've got cranes that are still in service that have been up for 40 years, and they're still serviceable, they're still solid, good cranes, and those cranes were sold right. You've got other cranes that were sold six months ago, and they're wore out already." - Kevin Brewer, Director of Service, Mazzella Episode Highlights: Real-life crane failures and what caused themWhy specs—not price tags—should guide your next crane purchaseUnderstanding duty cycle and what it means for your uptimeHow to compare crane quotes the right wayWhat makes a crane easier and cheaper to service long-termHow to explain crane needs to higher-ups or procurementWhether you're sourcing a new crane or stuck maintaining one that’s underperforming, this episode is packed with honest insights, technical expertise, and hard-earned lessons. This Episode Is Essential Listening For: Operations managers in steel and mill environmentsProcurement teams evaluating crane proposalsEngineers and maintenance leadersAnyone responsible for uptime in a facility with overhead cranesGuests: Jim Warren, Director of Steel Segment, MazzellaTim Gaydos, Crane Specialist, MazzellaKevin Brewer, Director of Service, MazzellaFREE Downloads: Overhead Cranes E-Book: Overhead Cranes From Top To Bottom10 Things to Consider When Selecting an Overhead Crane for Your Business ChecklistBridge Crane Quote Comparison ToolOverhead Crane and Hoist Service E-Book: A Guide to Upgrades and Modernizations

    26 мин.
  4. 08.11.2024 ·  ВИДЕО

    Building on a Legacy: The Next Era of Mazzella Companies

    Join us for the second episode in Mazzella Companies’ 70-year celebration series, as we delve into the journey of the third generation of Mazzella family leadership and their vision for the future of rigging, metal roofing, and rollforming equipment. In this episode of Safety Factor, we’re joined by Tony, Matt, and Adam Mazzella, who reflect on their family’s legacy, the core values they’ve inherited, and the exciting growth opportunities ahead for Mazzella Companies. "To me, it’s not just the money side of it. It is, you know, how can we accentuate these core values even to another level, even to another level? And ultimately for us to be successful, that's what we have to do. It can’t just be here. It needs to be something that’s scalable. It needs to be something that we take everywhere,”- Adam Mazzella, President of Metals Division, Mazzella Companies In this episode, listeners will hear: Stories of Mazzella’s growth into a national industry leader in lifting, rigging, metal coil supply, and Portable rollforming machineryThe challenges and achievements of the third generation, including expansion into crane manufacturing and metalsReflections on family legacy, work ethic, and the futureInsights into how the Mazzella team honors their foundational values while pushing forward with new technology and industry expertiseThis episode offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at three generations of Mazzella leadership. Hear candid reflections on the family dynamics, competitive spirit, and work ethic that have propelled the company forward. As Tony Mazzella shares, "They both have the grit to get it done." If you're a professional in rigging, lifting, or metal roofing, this episode offers a compelling look at the evolution of a family business and its impact on the industries it serves. Discover how Mazzella’s family legacy continues to inspire innovation, strengthen partnerships, and drive sustainable growth across the rigging and metal sectors. Guests: Tony Mazzella, CEO of Mazzella CompaniesAdam Mazzella, President of Sheffield Metals and New Tech MachineryMatt Mazzella, President of MazzellaBackground Reading & Watching: Mazzella Companies Celebrates 70th AnniversaryMatt Mazzella and Adam Mazzella Named Presidents of Mazzella Companies100th Birthday Tribute for Our Founder, Jim Mazzella, Sr.Complete Lifting & Metals Solutions: Mazzella Companies' CapabilitiesFREE Downloads: Mazzella Capabilities Brochure (English)Mazzella Capabilities Brochure (Spanish)Lifting & Rigging Learning Center Resources GuideSheffield Metals D7 Product BrochureNTM Product CatalogRelated Podcasts: Rigging Through the Ages: Mazzella’s 70-Year Journey as a Rigging Industry LeaderUnveiling AWRF’s Vision for the Future of Rigging Industry Safety and StandardsExploring Career Advancement in the Lifting Industry Through Industrial Training on Global Lifting Awareness DayAdapting to Wind Energy: The Evolution of the Lifting IndustryRaising the Bar: Enhancing Crane Lift Safety with TechnologyContact Mazzella: Schedule Remote or In-Person Rigging and Crane TrainingContact Mazzella's Rigging DivisionContact Sheffield MetalsContact New Tech MachineryDisclaimer: Any advice, graphics, images, and/or information contained herein are presented for general educational and information purposes and to increase overall safety awareness. It is not intended to be legal, medical, or other expert advice or services, and should not be used in place of consultation with appropriate industry professionals. The information herein should not be considered exhaustive and the user should seek the advice of appropriate professionals.

    46 мин.
  5. 13.08.2024 ·  ВИДЕО

    Rigging Through the Ages: Mazzella's 70-Year Journey

    Join us for a special episode of "Safety Factor" as we celebrate Mazzella Companies' 70-year journey in the rigging industry. This episode is a tribute to the legacy of innovation, dedication, and excellence that has defined Mazzella's history as a family-owned rigging industry leader. Hear from CEO Tony Mazzella and Co-owner Jim Mazzella as they share intimate details about the company's founding, key milestones, and the core values that have guided its success over seven decades. "My dad's mentality of you got to be a lifelong learner. You got to stay with the times. You're either getting better, you're either moving forward or backward, there's no such thing as standing still. That's almost a mantra inside our company. And then the idea of humble, he was a very humble guy. He was hungry, he had a good work ethic, he was smart. And I mean that in his relationship with people. His, the people work for him, the vendors, the customers, that mentality of team. So all those things that we put on the wall today, in my mind, were directly from him. And that's what we grew up around our whole life, and deviating from them, I don't think we're here today." - Tony Mazzella, CEO of Mazzella Companies Tony and Jim share captivating stories about their father, the founder, Jim Mazzella, Sr., and his groundbreaking contributions to rigging technology. From the invention of the 7-part™ Wire Rope Sling to the development of Mazzella's steel mill program, Mazzella has been at the forefront of industry advancements. Listeners will discover: The humble beginnings and relentless perseverance that laid the groundwork for Mazzella's lasting successKey innovations, including the invention of the 7-part™ Wire Rope Sling, that have shaped the rigging industryPivotal moments in Mazzella's growth, such as securing major steel mill accounts and expanding into new locationsThe core values that have sustained the company through changing times and guided it to becoming a rigging industry leaderInsights into the next generation of Mazzella leadership and the company's vision for the futureThis podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone working in the rigging industry. Mazzella's remarkable story provides invaluable insights into the evolution of the rigging business, from pioneering sling designs to navigating industry-shaping events like recessions and technological advancements. This episode offers a unique behind the scenes look at the history and future of the lifting and rigging industry. Guests: Tony Mazzella, CEO of Mazzella CompaniesJim Mazzella, Co-Owner of Mazzella CompaniesBackground Reading & Watching: Mazzella Companies Celebrates 70th AnniversaryMazzella Lifting Technologies lost a long-time employee on July 20, 2015—James “Jimmy the Jet” Murray. A Tribute to James “Jimmy the Jet” Murray—the World’s Fastest Wire Rope Splicer!Matt Mazzella and Adam Mazzella Named Presidents of Mazzella Companies100th Birthday Tribute for Our Founder, Jim Mazzella, Sr.Complete Lifting & Metals Solutions: Mazzella Companies' CapabilitiesLearn more about these real-world solutions and results! Mazzella Case StudiesFREE Downloads: Mazzella Capabilities Brochure (English)Mazzella Capabilities Brochure (Spanish)Lifting & Rigging Learning Center Resources GuideMazzella 7-Part™ Wire Rope SlingsRelated Podcasts: Unveiling AWRF’s Vision for the Future of Rigging Industry Safety and StandardsSteel’s Sprint From the Safety Stone AgeRaising the Bar: Enhancing Crane Lift Safety with TechnologyHow Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Are Revolutionizing Industrial TrainingContact Mazzella: Schedule Remote or In-Person Rigging and Crane TrainingContact Mazzella's Rigging DivisionDisclaimer: Any advice, graphics, images, and/or information contained herein are presented for general educational and information purposes and to increase overall safety awareness. It is not intended to be legal, medical, or other expert advice or services, and should not be used in place of consultation with appropriate industry professionals. The information herein should not be considered exhaustive and the user should seek the advice of appropriate professionals.

    43 мин.
  6. 18.07.2024

    Exploring Career Advancement in the Lifting Industry on Global Lifting Awareness Day #GLAD2024

    Dive into the world of industrial lifting and rigging as we celebrate Global Lifting Awareness Day. We discuss how the industry has evolved as well as the importance of making your voice heard on Global Lifting Awareness Day. Then, this episode of Safety Factor delves into career advancement opportunities through specialized industrial training programs and features insights from industry experts. "This industry is going nowhere, Ben. I mean, the more you know, the more you grow, right? So the sky is really the limit for the lifelong learner, and the more education they get, the higher they can go in this industry." - JT Farley, Mazzella Customer Trainer Episode Highlights: Global Lifting Awareness Day Recap: Ross Moloney revisits the highlights of last year's event and outlines the goals for 2024, emphasizing the importance of respecting quality products, maintaining rigorous inspection standards, and valuing industry expertise.Career Advancement through Industrial TrainingKey skills and certifications crucial for career growthIndustrial training programs offered by Mazzella and ITIHow to leverage training opportunities for career advancementThe importance of documented competency and qualificationsExpert advice for those new to the industryWhether you're operating cranes, rigging loads, or managing safety protocols, from newcomers to seasoned professionals, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how industrial training can propel your career in the lifting industry. This episode is essential listening for: Newcomers to the lifting and rigging industryExperienced professionals seeking career advancementSafety managers and trainersCompany owners and executives in industrial sectors#GLAD2024 Guests: Ross Moloney, CEO at LEEAAmanda Long, Vice President of Sales at ITIJT Farley, Mazzella Customer TrainerBackground Reading: How Does Global Lifting Awareness Day Promote the Lifting Industry?How Is Technology Changing the Lifting and Rigging Industry?OSHA Inspection Series: How Can Lifting & Rigging Training Help with OSHA Compliance?How Is ITI Incorporating Technology Into Crane Operator Training?Why Pay for Lifting and Rigging Training When You Can Get it for Free?How to Get More Out of Your Rigging Training and Lift Training CoursesCrane Operator Training: Who’s Responsible for Training Your Employees?Ride Along with Al Abel – Day in the Life of a Lifting & Rigging TrainerOSHA Definitions of Competent, Qualified, Designated, & Certified PersonsOSHA, ASME, and ANSI: What They Do and How They’re DifferentFREE Downloads: Lifting and Rigging Best Practices InfographicMazzella / ITI Training Solutions BrochureOSHA Personnel Designations [Guide]Calculating Load Weight Pocket [Guide]Hierarchy of Fall Protection [Infographic]Contact Mazzella: Schedule Remote or In-Person Rigging and Crane TrainingContact Mazzella's Rigging DivisionDisclaimer: Any advice, graphics, images, and/or information contained herein are presented for general educational and information purposes and to increase overall safety awareness. It is not intended to be legal, medical, or other expert advice or services, and should not be used in place of consultation with appropriate industry professionals. The information herein should not be considered exhaustive and the user should seek the advice of appropriate professionals.

    46 мин.
  7. 18.04.2024

    Unveiling AWRF's Vision for the Future of Rigging Industry Safety and Standards

    The rigging industry has come a long way in prioritizing worker safety, moving from an era where fatalities were expected to a modern approach focused on rigorous standards and continuous improvement in rigging industry safety and standards. As AWRF members Tim Klein, Emily Wagner, Jeff Ferchen, and Terry Driscoll reveal, the association plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry through its technical committees, recommended practices and guidelines, and collaboration with other organizations. "We're taking all that information and collecting it in the Recommended Practices and Guidelines. Whether it be the proper proof testing of a chain sling or a wire rope sling or a lever hoist, Swager Safety Guide, we have these documents that we've collected all of this information showing the proper way to do it, and we're continually updating those" - Tim Klein, PE, Senior Director – Structures at WireCo In this episode, you'll gain insights into AWRF's vision for the future of rigging industry safety and standards, including: Emerging safety trends and the role of personal competencyThe impact of new technologies like load monitoring toolsStrategies for training the next generation of lifting professionalsThe importance of industry consolidation and global economicsOpportunities to get involved and contribute to AWRF's initiativesThis episode of Safety Factor is a must-listen for professionals across the rigging industry spectrum — from veterans to newcomers and from safety managers to CEOs. Whether you're a rigging professional, safety manager, or industry stakeholder, this episode offers a comprehensive look at AWRF's efforts to drive continuous improvement in rigging industry safety and standards. Guests: Terry Driscoll, Regional Sales Manager at MazzellaJeff Ferchen, Director, Business Development at The Caldwell Group, Inc.Emily Wagner, Co-Owner at JAGwire ManagementTim Klein, PE, Senior Director – Structures at WireCoBackground Reading: What Technological Advancements Have Made Lifting and Rigging Safer? How Is Technology Changing the Lifting and Rigging Industry?We are counting down our list of the top ten lifting technologies that are advancing the lifting industry. The Top Ten Lifting Technologies Advancing the IndustryWhat Is a Signalperson Responsible for on a Jobsite? What Are a Signalperson’s Responsibilities, According to ASME B30.2?What Must Be Done During the Operation of a Tower Crane? What Are Tower Crane Personnel Responsibilities, per ASME B30.3?What Does a Crane Operator Need to Do Before, During, and After a Lift? What Are an Overhead Crane Operator’s Responsibilities, According to ASME B30.2?How Important Is Knowing the Center-of-Gravity of a Load? How Do You Safely Lift Off-Center Loads?How To Perform a Lifting Clamp Inspection to ASME B30.20 StandardsWhat Is the BlokCam, and How Does It Make Lifts Safer?What devices can I use to properly secure loads for transport? What Is Load Securement, and What Standards Govern Safe Transport?Why Is Mazzella’s Process for Ordering Crane Ropes so Comprehensive?As a rigger or end-user of wire rope, it's important to understand the types of end terminations that can be used at the end of a length of wire rope. Wire Rope End Terminations: Sockets, Wire Rope Clips, and SplicesA Tribute to James “Jimmy the Jet” Murray—the World’s Fastest Wire Rope Splicer!FREE Downloads: Rigging Gear Inspection Field ReferenceASME B30 Markings and Identification GuideLifting & Rigging Inspection Frequencies & Records GuideSling Inspections E-Book: A Guide to Inspections & Applicable StandardsOverhead Crane / Hoist Operator Daily Inspection ChecklistDisposal of Damaged Rigging Gear GuideLifting and Rigging Best Practices InfographicLifting and Rigging Site Assessment Guide]Contact Mazzella: Schedule Remote or In-Person Rigging TrainingContact Mazzella's Rigging DivisionLegal Disclaimer: Any advice, graphics, images, and/or information contained herein are presented for general educational and information purposes and to increase overall safety awareness. It is not intended to be legal, medical, or other expert advice or services, and should not be used in place of consultation with appropriate industry professionals. The information herein should not be considered exhaustive and the user should seek the advice of appropriate professionals.

    34 мин.

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Safety Factor, a podcast for industrial professionals, features discussions between like-minded experts. Once a month, we sit down to discuss some of today's newest product and safety innovations, best practices, industry standards, and more with industry-leading experts.