Why OSINT Assessments Are Essential for SMBs: Vetting Partners, Vendors, and Key Personnel
In today’s business climate, small and mid-sized organizations face increasing exposure to reputational, financial, and operational risks—often without the internal resources to detect them early. Whether onboarding a strategic partner, hiring a high-level employee, or engaging a new vendor, the cost of a misstep can be catastrophic. That’s where OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) assessments come in—and where Paravel Risk Management delivers measurable protection.
What Injuries Belong on the OSHA 300 Log—and Why Accuracy Matters
For small to mid-sized businesses, especially those without a dedicated safety manager, OSHA compliance can feel like navigating a maze of technicalities. One of the most misunderstood areas? The OSHA 300 Log.
This log isn’t a catch-all for every bump or bruise—it’s a legally mandated record of specific work-related injuries and illnesses. Recording too much can invite unnecessary scrutiny. Recording too little can trigger fines. Here's how to strike the right balance.
Behavioral Risk Protocols in Long-Term Care: How Structured Observation Enhances Safety and Staff Accountability
In long-term care environments, safety isn’t just a compliance metric—it’s a daily operational imperative. Behavioral risk protocols, when paired with structured observation, offer administrators a powerful framework for identifying red flags, improving staff accountability, and protecting vulnerable residents.
Operational Security 101: Tactics for Real-World Data Defense for SMBs
Operational Security (OPSEC) is no longer a military relic—it’s a strategic imperative for small and medium-sized businesses navigating an increasingly hostile digital landscape. At Paravel Risk Management, we advocate for OPSEC not just as a cybersecurity measure, but as a pillar of operational stewardship that protects client trust, internal workflows, and long-term viability.
Choosing Wisely: Why Businesses Must Vet Their AI Tools Before Deployment
As artificial intelligence becomes central to operational strategy, the choice of which AI to adopt isn't just a tech decision—it’s a matter of risk, reputation, and responsible stewardship. At Paravel Risk Management, we’ve seen firsthand how poorly aligned AI systems can compromise client trust and introduce legal or ethical liabilities. That’s why vetting your AI provider must be a cornerstone of your onboarding protocol.
Bridging the Gap: How AI Collaboration Empowers SMBs in Risk Management
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face a persistent challenge: the need to operate with precision and professionalism—often without the luxury of large teams or deep budgets. At Paravel Risk Management, we’ve found a powerful ally in addressing this gap: business-focused artificial intelligence, specifically Microsoft Copilot.
AI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a scalable labor solution. For SMBs that can’t afford to onboard additional staff, AI tools like Copilot offer:
The SMB Guide to Avoiding Litigation After a Workplace Incident
Workplace incidents are inevitable—but lawsuits don’t have to be. For small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), the ability to document events correctly, investigate impartially, and respond with clarity often determines whether a situation ends in resolution or litigation.
Paravel RM specializes in proactive risk management, workplace investigations, and compliance coaching designed to protect businesses from liability while fostering a safer, more accountable work environment. This guide walks through practical steps SMBs can take to strengthen their response protocols and avoid costly outcomes.
The High Cost of Non-Compliance: What OSHA Inspections Could Mean for Your Business
At Paravel RM, we understand that workplace safety isn’t just a moral obligation—it’s a legal one. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces standards designed to protect employees from harm. But when those standards are ignored or misunderstood, the consequences can be swift and costly.
Workers’ Comp or Workers’ Con? How to Protect Your Business from Fraudulent Claims
When it comes to workplace injury claims, diligence matters. While most employees who file workers’ compensation claims are genuinely hurt and deserving of support, employers occasionally face questionable or inconsistent reports that warrant further review.
At Paravel Risk Management, we specialize in helping companies navigate the complexities of these sensitive cases. Here’s how we recommend approaching potential fraud or exaggerated injury claims—professionally, lawfully, and thoroughly.
When AI Plots to Stay Alive: What the Claude Simulation Really Taught Us
The headlines were hard to ignore: “AI model tries to blackmail its programmer.” For some, it sounded like a sci-fi thriller. For others, it raised ethical alarms. But what really happened with Anthropic’s Claude Opus 4 wasn’t a rogue system—it was a deliberately engineered test designed to probe how advanced AI behaves under simulated pressure.
Creating Safer Workplaces: How Leadership Should Handle Sexual Harassment Investigations
Sexual harassment in the workplace is not only a legal liability—it’s a threat to a company’s culture, morale, and long-term success. Effective leadership means proactively setting expectations for respectful conduct and responding swiftly, fairly, and thoroughly when allegations arise. At Paravel Risk Management, we help small and mid-sized businesses navigate these sensitive matters with integrity and professionalism.
Preventing Eye Strain for a More Productive Workplace
In today’s fast-paced, digital work environment, employees spend hours in front of screens, which can lead to eye strain—a common but preventable issue that affects productivity, comfort, and long-term eye health. By incorporating simple ergonomic adjustments, businesses can create a more efficient and healthier workspace, reducing discomfort and preventing workplace fatigue.
Why Small and Medium-Sized Businesses in South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota Need Paravel Risk Management
Running a business comes with countless responsibilities, and ensuring workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency should be at the top of your list. Unfortunately, many small and medium-sized businesses struggle to navigate these complex areas, leaving them vulnerable to preventable risks, costly fines, and rising insurance premiums. That’s where Paravel Risk Management steps in.
What OSHA Inspectors Look for During a Surprise Inspection
OSHA inspections are rarely scheduled in advance, and when an inspector arrives unannounced, businesses must be prepared to demonstrate compliance at a moment’s notice. Whether it’s a routine check, a complaint investigation, or a response to a workplace incident, OSHA inspectors focus on key areas to determine if a business is meeting federal safety standards. Below are the main things OSHA inspectors look for during a surprise inspection—and how business owners can prepare to avoid costly penalties.
Inside Job: The Hidden Ways Employees Steal from Your Business
Employee theft is one of the costliest hidden threats facing small and medium-sized businesses today. While most owners trust their workforce, even the best-intentioned companies can fall victim to fraud, theft, and embezzlement—often happening right under their noses. Below are ten common methods employees use to steal from businesses, along with the industries most vulnerable to each scheme.
Team Lifting: A Key to Workplace Safety and Injury Prevention
Lifting heavy loads is a routine part of many workplaces, but improper techniques can lead to serious injuries, costly worker compensation claims, and decreased productivity. At Paravel Risk Management, we emphasize the importance of team lifting procedures to minimize strain, maximize efficiency, and ensure employee well-being.
Why Performing a Mock OSHA Audit Can Save Your Company Thousands in Fines
OSHA compliance is non-negotiable for businesses committed to workplace safety. Yet, many companies only react to violations after an inspection rather than proactively identifying risks before OSHA arrives. The cost of citations, penalties, and corrective actions can be staggering—but conducting a mock OSHA audit can help businesses avoid unnecessary fines, strengthen workplace safety, and protect their bottom line.
Smart, Strong, and Safe: A Woman’s Guide to Business Travel Security
Business travel presents exciting opportunities but also comes with unique risks that travelers must navigate. Whether moving through airports, staying at hotels, or walking in unfamiliar areas, situational awareness and smart precautions are essential. Below are key principles to ensure safe and secure travel, with additional considerations for women travelers.
Warning Behaviors of the Active Shooter
Along with developing a plan for preparing for an Active Shooter scenario, it is important to understand and be aware of the sort of people who are prone to react in this particular violent manner.
According to a 2015 study published in Behavioral Sciences and the Law, there are eight primary warning behaviors to look out for in a potential Active Shooter. Here are some of these signs:
Enhancing Situational Awareness with Cooper's Color Code
Situational awareness is a vital skill in maintaining personal safety, particularly in environments where risks may arise. Being aware of your surroundings and understanding how to respond to potential threats can make the difference between staying safe and becoming vulnerable. For businesses, providing situational awareness training to employees is a proactive approach to fostering a safer workplace. One of the most effective tools to build this skill is Cooper's Color Code, developed by Col. Jeff Cooper. This model categorizes awareness into distinct stages, helping individuals assess and respond to their environment more effectively.