Safety Outlook for 2026 | Risk Matrix Episode 125
Risk Matrix #125: Safety Outlook for 2026
2026 is here. If you’re working on your professional development calendar, reviewing OSHA’s enhanced penalties, or evaluating AI tools for your safety program, you’re already ahead.
Dr. Martin and James break down the seven safety trends that will impact high-risk industries this year: heat standards moving to states, AI decision-making risks, enhanced OSHA penalties, mental health enforcement challenges, and whistleblower protection updates.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Professional development planning requires commitment. Put 2026 conferences and training on your calendar now (AIHA Connect, ASSP, VPPPA, NSC, BCSP Global Summit) or they won’t happen.
- AI is decision support, not a decision maker. Real client story shows how pre-qualification AI tools flagged nonexistent policy gaps. Don’t let AI make consequential safety decisions without human oversight and verification.
- OSHA enhanced penalties for 2026 correspond with inflation. Review OSHA’s Top 10 violations and national emphasis programs now to prepare for enforcement activities in amputations, falls, and trenching.
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