As 2025 draws to a close, what should your business be preparing for in 2026?

Written by Steve Scott, Health and Safety Consultant at SafeWorkforce

Health and safety might not be the most exciting subject, but it’s one of the most important, underpinning productivity, compliance, and employee wellbeing. With workplace expectations and legislation continuing to evolve, now is the time to make sure your business is ready for the year ahead.

Here are six key considerations for businesses going into 2026:

1. Keep up with health & safety legislation

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has signalled a continued focus on managing psychosocial risks, workplace stress, and safe maintenance practices. Organisations using contractors or managing mobile workforces should expect increased scrutiny around competence and record-keeping.

This is a good moment to review your health and safety documents and policies and ensure your health and safety management system is up to date, clearly communicated, and backed by evidence of training and maintenance checks.

2. Mental health and wellbeing

Employee wellbeing is now recognised as a core element of workplace safety. Businesses that invest in wellbeing programmes often see reduced absenteeism and improved retention.

In 2026, expect even more emphasis on mental health first aiders, wellbeing champions, and stress risk assessments. Even small, low-cost actions, such as open communication, flexible working options, and access to support resources, can make a meaningful difference.

3. Competence and training records

Competence isn’t just about qualifications; it’s about ensuring staff remain capable and confident in their roles. For many SMEs, training records are where gaps appear during on-site audits.

Make sure refresher health and safety training, particularly for fire safety, first aid, and manual handling, is scheduled and properly documented. Digital record systems can make this much easier and provide the proof you need during an inspection.

4. Keep pace with technology and hybrid working risks

Hybrid and remote working bring different risks, from ergonomic setup to fire safety awareness at home.

At the same time, more organisations are adopting tools such as AI-driven monitoring systems and digital permit-to-work platforms. These can improve safety performance but may also introduce data and privacy considerations. Before rolling out new tech, carry out a simple risk and compliance assessment to ensure it supports, rather than complicates, your safety responsibilities.

5. Review fire safety and emergency arrangements

Recent updates to fire safety for businesses legislation continue to place greater responsibility on the responsible person to ensure fire risk assessments are suitable, up to date, and that cooperation between building occupiers is properly documented.

Before the new year, review your fire risk assessment, check that all testing and maintenance records (extinguishers, alarms, emergency lighting) are current, and confirm that all staff know what to do in an emergency.

Building resilience, not ticking boxes

Health and safety shouldn’t be a tick-box exercise, it’s a foundation for long-term resilience. A proactive approach in 2026 will help you stay compliant while protecting your people, reputation, and productivity.

Start the new year with a simple review: What’s changed in your business? What’s due for renewal? And where could you make things clearer or safer?