Worker Safety at Risk: What’s Changed and What’s at Stake

In this episode, Leslie speaks with Tom Duffy of the United Steelworkers about the urgent state of workplace safety in America ahead of Workers Memorial Day.

They begin by reflecting on the meaning of the day, which honors workers who have been killed, injured, or made sick on the job—and why those risks remain a serious concern today. Tom shares insight from decades of experience investigating workplace incidents and advocating for stronger protections.

The conversation then turns to recent policy changes and regulatory rollbacks that have weakened key safety standards, including protections against dangerous exposures and extreme working conditions. Tom explains what these changes mean in real terms for workers and why they could lead to more preventable injuries and illnesses.

They also discuss the growing strain on the agencies responsible for enforcing workplace safety, with fewer inspectors and reduced resources making it harder to hold companies accountable.

Finally, the episode focuses on what workers and unions can do to protect themselves, from pushing for stronger safeguards on the job to advocating for policies that prioritize worker health and safety.

It’s a sobering but important conversation about the risks workers face—and the ongoing fight to ensure every worker makes it home safely.

Follow the USW on Facebook, Instagram and X, using the handle @steelworkers, and visit their website at USW.org. Also, check them out on Blue Sky where their handle is @steelworkers.bsky.social.