Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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:

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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:

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Nate Fredrickson Nate Fredrickson

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.

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