What DE Small Businesses Need to Know About OSHA’s FY 2026 Outreach Initiatives

OSHA has outlined its FY 2026 Outreach Initiatives, highlighting national safety campaigns, compliance deadlines, and agency priorities for the year ahead.

For small businesses, this plan signals an important shift: more emphasis on compliance assistance and proactive safety efforts, and less reliance on penalty-driven enforcement.

Here’s what employers should know.

1. OSHA Is Prioritizing Outreach & Assistance

In FY 2026, OSHA is increasing its focus on:

• Compliance assistance and outreach
• Helping employers proactively improve safety programs
• Reducing burdens on small businesses
• Targeting enforcement on serious violators and high-hazard workplaces

For small employers, this means there are opportunities to strengthen safety programs with guidance and support before issues arise.

2. Key National Campaigns to Watch

OSHA will promote several nationwide initiatives in 2026, including:

• Stand-Up for Grain Safety Week (March 30–April 3)
• Fall Prevention Stand-Down (May 4–8)
• Heat Illness Prevention Campaign (spring through fall)
• Safe + Sound Week (August 10–14)
• Workplace Mental Health & Suicide Prevention outreach (May & September)

Participating in these campaigns is a simple way to demonstrate commitment to safety while reinforcing training and awareness.

3. Important Reporting Deadlines

Small businesses subject to OSHA recordkeeping requirements should note:

• January 2 – March 2, 2026: Electronic submission of CY 2025 injury and illness data (for covered employers)
• February 1 – April 30, 2026: Required posting of the OSHA injury and illness summary

Staying ahead of these deadlines helps avoid unnecessary compliance issues.

Why This Matters

For small businesses, strong safety programs aren’t just about compliance; they reduce injuries, lower costs, improve morale, and strengthen your company’s reputation.

OSHA’s FY 2026 outreach plan reinforces a clear message:
Proactive safety pays off.

Employers who take advantage of outreach initiatives and compliance assistance resources will be better positioned for long-term success.