US Compliance Systems Inc. dba OWYN Safety

01/27/2026

Why Safety Matters More Than Ever: A Call to Action
By: Keith Dague
January 26, 2026


When was the last time you took a moment to assess the hazards present on your job site? When did you last think about the tasks you were going to tackle that day and ensure you had the right tools and safety equipment to perform them safely?

These are questions many of us overlook until an accident occurs, at which point we quickly revert to our old habits. Why is that?

The rational part of us knows that safety is essential. We understand that accidents can have dire consequences, not just for ourselves but for our coworkers and the company as a whole. Yet, when we focus solely on getting the job done—right, on time, and within budget—we often push safety to the back burner.

We think, “Safety is not my job; my job is to complete the work.”

This mindset is reinforced by the emotional side of us, who are driven by the need to provide for our families and keep our businesses thriving. We’ve been doing things a certain way for over 50 years, and it seems to have worked so far. However, this complacency can be dangerous. While OSHA has made strides since its establishment in 1970, the rate of accidents and fatalities has plateaued, leaving employees, company reputations, and profits at risk.

So, why not change now? The path to a safer work environment begins with each of us taking responsibility for our own safety and that of our coworkers.

Here’s how you can start today:

• Assess Your Environment: Take a few moments at the beginning of each day to look around your job site. Identify any hazards that may be present and think about how to eliminate them before you start work.

• Prepare for the Day Ahead: Before you head to work tomorrow, consider the tasks you’ll be performing and ensure you have the right tools and safety equipment.

• Eliminate Hazards: Make it a point to eliminate every hazard you will be exposed to before you begin your work.

• Foster a Culture of Safety: Encourage your coworkers to do the same. Share your observations and experiences and create a culture where everyone takes safety seriously.

• Lead by Example: Be the person who prioritizes safety. When others see your commitment, they may be inspired to follow suit.

This isn’t just about your physical well-being; it’s about your company’s reputation and profits as well. Let’s commit to changing our mindset around safety and take responsibility for creating a safer work environment.

The next time you step onto a job site, remember safety is not just someone else’s job—it’s everyone’s job. Let’s work together to ensure that we all go home safe at the end of the day. Why not make that change today?

Employee QuickTip: Make it a habit to assess your job site for hazards each day and ensure you have the right tools and safety equipment to eliminate risks before starting work.

Management QuickTip: Foster a culture of safety by encouraging employees to take personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of their coworkers, creating an environment where everyone prioritizes well-being.

Remember, safety should never cost an employee or their company an arm or a leg.

Until next time, Stay Safe!

Your OWYN Safety Solution Team

Keith B. Dague, President

01/21/2026

If MrBeast can make safety a priority, so can you!

Check out W0nders’s video.

01/19/2026

In memory of Martin Luther King Jr. Take time to do what is right.

01/19/2026

You Can't Fake Safety
By: Keith Dague
January 20, 2026


Introduction: The Importance of Genuine Safety Practices

In last week’s Safety E-QuickTip, we discussed the pitfalls of a one-sided paper trail and how it can lead to an illusion of safety in the workplace. Today, we want to explore how to build upon that foundation and ensure your safety practices are genuine and effective.

Recognizing the Limitations of One-Sided Safety Practices

As we’ve established, a one-sided paper trail often creates a false sense of security. It’s a compliance check that can leave employees feeling unprotected and disengaged. This week let’s consider the broader implications of relying on a one-sided approach and how it can undermine your safety culture.

The Cost of Complacency

The Liberty Mutual Insurance 2025 Workplace Safety Index reveals staggering losses due to serious, nonfatal workplace injuries. The U.S. construction industry loses over $10.4 billion annually, while manufacturing incurs nearly $7.47 billion in losses. These figures highlight the critical need for a proactive safety culture rather than a mere compliance mentality. Complacency can lead to accidents, injuries, and financial losses that could have been prevented through a more engaged approach.

Transitioning to a Two-Sided Paper Trail

Building on last week’s discussion, let’s dive deeper into the two-sided paper trail approach. This method emphasizes proactive hazard recognition and prevention, ensuring that safety is not just a formality but a core value within your organization.

The two-sided paper trail approach is a commitment to genuine safety practices that protect employees and support the company’s reputation and profits. It’s about fostering a culture where employees feel empowered to engage in safety practices and report hazards. This leads to a more productive workplace and a stronger bottom line.

Make the Switch

As we begin 2026, now is the perfect time to reassess your workplace safety practices. Transitioning to a two-sided paper trail approach can protect your employees and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

If you missed last week’s Safety E-QuickTip, "Don’t Let a One-Sided Paper Trail Lead You Down the Wrong Path," you can read it here.

Conclusion: A Commitment to Real Safety

As we move forward, it’s crucial to recognize that fake safety is not an option if you want to protect your employees and your company. The difference between a one-sided and two-sided paper trail can have a substantial impact on your organization. Don’t settle for an illusion of safety. Instead, commit to genuine practices that protect your most valuable asset—your employees.

Together, we can create a safer, more productive workplace for all. Let’s make 2026 a year of real change in workplace safety by fostering a culture that prioritizes safety and well-being.

Employee QuickTip: This year, embrace the mindset that prioritizing safety not only protects you but also empowers your team to thrive in a culture of care and responsibility.

Management QuickTip: As we enter the new year, recognize that a proactive approach to safety fosters a culture of accountability that boosts morale and productivity while reducing accidents.

Have you received your first Safety E-QuickTip and would like to check out some QuickTips from the past? Check out our Safety E-QuickTips Archive Page on our website.

If you know of someone or a company that might benefit from receiving Safety E-QuickTips, please take a moment to share this with them so they can sign-up today.

Remember, safety should never cost an employee or their company an arm or a leg.

Until next time, Stay Safe!

Your OWYN Safety Solution Team

Keith B. Dague, President

01/16/2026

It might be National Nothing Day, but that doesn't mean you should do nothing about safety!!

01/13/2026

Making sure you are well fed on the job sit is important, but we don't recommend this for lunch.

714.3K likes, 8800 comments. “We attempted to make a massive pan of lasagna using construction tools”

01/12/2026

Don't Let a One-Sided Paper Trail Lead You Down the Wrong Path
By: Keith Dague
January 12, 2026


The Problem: One-Sided Paper Trails

If there's one thing that can derail real safety in the workplace, it's the "One-Sided Paper Trail." You know what I'm talking about. It's when a company, OSHA, or a prequalification company asks you to submit a safety program, safety training documentation, and other supporting safety documentation. Once it's approved, it's the last time safety will be discusses unless there's an accident on the job.

We had a client tell us just in the past few months that getting his safety submittals approved was next to impossible, but when he got on the job, based on the hazards he saw, safety was the last thing on anyone's mind. Sound familiar?

This issue has been brought up more than once over the years and takes place all too often.

The Solution: A Two-Sided Paper Trail Approach

So, why not look at the 2-sided Paper Trail approach to Safety?

Where eliminating hazards and preventing accidents is on the front side, and it is support by the Paper Trail on the backside. The key to a safe worksite is not in the paper, it's in recognizing hazards and eliminating the potential for accidents. The paper is there to support your effort, ensuring you know what to do, how it was done, and to be used as supporting documentation should an incident take place.

The Switch: A New Approach to Safety

Quite a switch, wouldn't you say? But it's one that provides real value and a great ROI - It protects employees, company reputations, and profits.

Don't let a one-sided paper trail lead you down the wrong path when a 2-sided approach will get you where you need to be. Working together, we'll make it happen.

Get Started Today

Start building a two-sided paper trail today! You'll be glad you did.

Management QuickTip: As we enter the new year, let go of outdated beliefs that safety is a cost rather than a valuable investment in your team's well-being and productivity.

Employee QuickTip: This year, let go of the old mindset that being tough means ignoring safety; prioritize your well-being and set a positive example for your coworkers.

Stay Safe!

Your OWYN Safety Solution Team

01/09/2026

Static Electricity in the workplace can be dangerous, and not just because your coworkers might be trying to shock you! Did you know flammable liquids could ignite because of static electricity? We have a training for that.

01/05/2026

It's Time for a Fresh Perspective on Workplace Safety
By: Keith Dague
January 5, 2026


As we step into 2026, it’s time to rethink how we handle workplace safety. If we continue to manage safety the same way we have for years, we can expect the same results.

In last week’s Safety E-QuickTip, “Get the Year Off on the Right Foot, Not the Broken One,” we emphasized the importance of investing in safety to reap benefits for both employers and employees. This year let’s build on that message and challenge the status quo.

The traditional approach to workplace safety often relies on outdated beliefs and practices, which can lead to complacency and risk-taking. Employees may think, “I’ve done it this way for years and never been seriously hurt.” This mindset can create a culture of peer pressure, where employees feel compelled to project toughness rather than prioritize their safety.

In 2026, let’s shift our focus to proactive safety measures that foster a culture of vigilance and accountability. Consider the following strategies:

1. Conduct Regular Safety Audits: Identify potential hazards and address them before they lead to accidents.
2. Engage Employees in Safety Discussions: Encourage open dialogue about safety concerns and involve employees in developing solutions.
3. Invest in Training and Resources: Equip employees with the knowledge and tools they need to work safely.
4. Encourage Reporting of Near Misses: Cultivate an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting unsafe conditions without fear of judgment.

By changing our approach to workplace safety in 2026, we can create a safer, more productive work environment for everyone. Let’s commit to doing better this year!

Employee QuickTip: It's time to stop taking chances with safety and start prioritizing it, because it’s not about being tough; it’s about being smart.

Management QuickTip: It’s time to change how we think about workplace safety and invest in it, because the status quo is not working.

Happy New Year! - Stay Safe!

Your OWYN Safety Solution Team

12/31/2025

We wish you the safest 2026!

12/29/2025

Get the Year Off on the Right Foot, Not a Broken One
By: Keith Dague
December 29, 2025


As we wrap up this year, let’s talk about something that might not be on your radar: workplace safety. You might think that safety costs money, but I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to.

For years, employers have been taught that workplace safety comes at a cost. They believe they must sacrifice production and profits for safety. Employees have faced a different challenge when it comes to workplace safety: “Peer Pressure.” In many industries, safety has often been an afterthought, as it’s understood that you must be tough because the work is hard and physically challenging.

But what if I told you that workplace safety is actually a good investment? Studies show that companies investing in safety often see reduced insurance premiums and fewer days lost to injury. When done right, no one pays an arm or a leg, and both employers and employees reap the benefits of a safe workplace.

How is he so aware of what it takes to get the job done and how safety is handled?

Let me say this: I can appreciate what it takes for management to bring your projects in on time and within budget, and I can also appreciate the work each employee puts in every day to get the job done. I have over 50 years of experience in construction and safety, the first 20 years in various areas of construction and the past 30 in safety.

During my early years in construction, I personally took chances with my safety because I thought it was necessary to get the job done. There were close calls, but I was lucky enough not to experience serious consequences.

In the past 30 years, I’ve represented more employers before OSHA than I care to remember, where serious and even fatal accidents took place that could have easily been prevented.

So yes, I speak from years of experience and that experience tells me - There is a better way to prevent accidents in the workplace.

But never forget, I appreciate and understand how demanding your job is, in management and as an employee. I believe it’s my job to help you understand that safety should never cost you an arm or a leg—physically or from your pocket.

Getting the Year Off on the Right Foot: This old-school belief that still hangs around today continues to lead to dangerous situations and injuries that can be easily avoided. It’s crucial to shift the conversation around safety to emphasize that everyone benefits from a safe workplace.

As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to rethink our beliefs about workplace safety. We need to get the year off on the right foot, not a broken one.
Here are 5 Steps for getting your workplace safety program off on the right foot in 2026:

1. Establish ROI: Highlighting the return on investment (ROI) emphasizes that investing in safety can lead to financial benefits, making it clear that safety is an asset that contributes to the bottom line rather than a costly liability.
2. Identify Tools: By identifying practical tools that are easy to implement, a plan provides you with safety measures that can be straightforward and affordable, reinforcing the idea that effective safety doesn’t have to be expensive.
3. Monitor Progress: By monitoring safety efforts, this allows management to identify effective practices and eliminate waste, demonstrating that safety can enhance operational efficiency rather than complicate processes.
4. Empower Employees: Empowering employees to take ownership of safety emphasizes that their insights and observations are valuable assets, reducing the burden on management and making safety a shared responsibility.
5. Celebrate Success: Celebrating safety achievements fosters a positive culture, reinforcing the idea that safety is a valuable asset that contributes to employee morale and engagement.

Workplace safety doesn’t have to cost anyone an arm and a leg. In fact, both management and employees should reap the benefits of a safe workplace. Employers should not have to sacrifice production and profits for safety, and employees should not have to experience a serious injury.

So, let’s get the year off on the right foot, not a broken one. Let’s work together to make a SAFE WORKPLACE a reality!

Management QuickTip: As we enter the new year, let go of outdated beliefs that safety is a cost rather than a valuable investment in your team’s well-being and productivity.

Employee QuickTip: This year, let go of the old mindset that being tough means ignoring safety; prioritize your well-being and set a positive example for your coworkers.

Safety is just as simple as using common sense. By being aware of our surroundings, taking responsibility for our own safety, and promoting a culture of safety, we can create a safer workplace for everyone. Remember to take the quiz and see how well you understand the importance of common sense in workplace safety.

12/22/2025

Using Common Sense to Stay Safe: Lessons from Real-Life Tragedies
By: Keith Dague
December 22, 2025


In our last Safety E-QuickTip, we discussed the importance of common sense in workplace safety. This week, we will explore real-life incidents that illustrate how ignoring common sense can lead to tragic outcomes. These stories serve as stark reminders that safety is not just about following rules; it’s about using our instincts and knowledge to create a safer environment for everyone.

1. The Telecommunications Tower Incident:
A foreman on a telecommunications tower project faced pressure to finish work quickly to make it home for Thanksgiving. Believing he could cut corners, he altered the rigging method to lower a section of the tower. Despite objections from his team, the work proceeded. Tragically, the foreman sustained a fatal injury when the section fell on him. Common Sense Insight: Always adhere to established safety protocols, regardless of external pressures.

2. The Roofer’s Fatal Decision:
A superintendent warned a roofing contractor that winds were expected to pick up in a couple of hours and advised them to secure items and get off the roof. The roofer chose to ignore this warning and continued working. When the winds picked up, a new 18-year-old worker was blown off the building to his death. Common Sense Insight: Take weather warnings seriously and act promptly to ensure safety.

3. Fall Protection Training Gone Wrong:
During fall protection training, one worker argued that the safety requirements were unrealistic and more dangerous than working without them. Ironically, this worker had previously fallen off a flat roof, breaking multiple bones and requiring rods in his leg. Despite his injuries, he remained adamant about his stance. Common Sense Insight: Trust the experts and prioritize safety over personal opinions.

4. The Industrial Laminating Machine Accident:
A young man operating an industrial laminating machine decided to remove a guard to make an adjustment while the machine was still running. His shirt got caught in the gears, violently pulling him into the machine and breaking his collarbone. This incident was caught on film, serving as a grim reminder of the dangers of neglecting safety protocols. Common Sense Insight: Always shut down machinery before making adjustments to prevent accidents.

Building a Culture of Safety
These incidents illustrate that safety is often about being aware of our surroundings and taking the necessary precautions to protect ourselves and others. Promoting a culture of safety in the workplace is essential for preventing accidents and injuries.

Employee QuickTip: Always use common sense by being aware of your surroundings and reporting any safety hazards you encounter.

Management QuickTip: Foster a culture of safety by encouraging open communication and modeling safe behavior for employees.

Safety is just as simple as using common sense. By being aware of our surroundings, taking responsibility for our own safety, and promoting a culture of safety, we can create a safer workplace for everyone. Remember to take the quiz and see how well you understand the importance of common sense in workplace safety.

Happy Holiday's - Stay Safe!

Your OWYN Safety Solution Team