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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

De-escalating tense situations is a critical skill in managing conflicts, particularly in professional and high-stress environments. At the heart of successful de-escalation lies Active Listening, one of the most effective tools for calming individuals, understanding their concerns, and defusing potential aggression. By listening attentively, you not only address the emotional needs of an upset individual but also observe physical cues that may signal escalating behavior.

Performing a risk and security assessment of your business is crucial for identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities that could impact the safety and security of your operations. These assessments provide valuable insights that enable businesses to implement effective measures, protect assets, and ensure the well-being of employees and clients. Risk and security assessments are not only important for existing facilities but also play a vital role in new constructions.

In today’s fast-paced work environment, the design of your office space plays a crucial role in the well-being and productivity of your employees. Poor ergonomics can lead to repetitive strain injuries, back and neck problems, and other musculoskeletal disorders, which not only affect employee health but also impact overall business performance. Investing in an ergonomic office setup is not just about comfort—it's a strategic decision that can yield significant cost savings and enhance workplace efficiency.

Detecting deception is an invaluable skill, whether in professional settings or personal interactions. Similar to a poker game, lying requires significantly more effort than telling the truth. Deceptive individuals often exhibit verbal and physical “tells” that an observant interviewer can recognize. Below are some key insights into identifying potential signs of lying:

Although most workers’ compensation claims are valid, even a single fraudulent claim can significantly impact your business by increasing insurance premiums long after the claim is closed. Detecting fraud requires vigilance and a clear understanding of potential warning signs. Below are 15 indicators that may signal work comp fraud and warrant further investigation:

Danger elicits instinctive responses in humans, often defined as fight, flight, or freeze. These reactions are automatic physiological responses to perceived threats, also referred to as hyper-arousal. While commonly seen in high-stress situations, they are masterfully illustrated in the 1993 motion picture Jurassic Park, and resonate deeply when applied to real-world challenges.

While the likelihood of an active shooter targeting your workplace is low, preparing for such a scenario takes only minutes and can save lives. Active Shooter Preparedness Training equips individuals with the knowledge and strategies to respond effectively. Here are the core principles covered in the training: