LiveWire Podcast
Ep. #26 The Hidden Risk of Cheap PPE with Derek Sang
Welcome back to LiveWire, the podcast from OEL Worldwide Industries. Derek Sang returns to LiveWire for round two, and this conversation goes deep into what it really takes to keep utility workers safe on the job. Derek talks about the quality gap in flame-resistant, arc-rated clothing, explaining why a $40 shirt bought online can carry very different protection than an $80 shirt from a proven brand, and why that difference only shows up the day someone actually needs it to work. The conversation also covers what it takes to earn trust with linemen who have been in the field for decades, why an outside voice can cut through in ways a supervisor's message sometimes can't, and what Derek looks for when thinking about who could eventually carry his role forward. Derek also shares what life looks like doing 40 to 55 speaking dates a year, from staying disciplined on the road to keeping the message fresh presentation after presentation. If you work in electrical safety, PPE, training, or utility operations, this episode is a candid look at the human side of building a career around keeping people safe. Subscribe and follow LiveWire: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/livewire-podcast-49ab32385/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livewirepod/ • X: https://x.com/LiveWirePod1 • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@livewirepod • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6vsiDECeMhdLwO9S7wFcS7 • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/livewire-podcast/id1847925085
