As safety and health professionals look ahead following the end of the federal funding lapse, it’s important to recognize that while operations are resuming, some impacts on workplace safety and health may continue for a short time.
Safe and healthy work environments rely on consistent oversight, collaboration across sectors and clear communication. Funding gaps may temporarily interrupt some functions, creating follow-up needs as normal operations resume. For example:
- It’s common for inspection, research and rulemaking activities to experience brief backlogs as operations restart.
- Adjustments in staffing or scheduling could extend the “catch-up” period in certain areas.
- Workers and organizations may have experienced uncertainty around timing for programs, training or communications.
To help sustain strong safety and health performance as agencies and organizations return to full capacity, consider the following:
- Re-activate compliance and oversight activities. Prioritize any inspections, audits or initiatives that were delayed.
- Reassess your risk-control and assessment systems. Identify any blind spots or deferred actions that need renewed attention.
- Communicate openly with your workforce. Clear updates support trust and readiness.
- Focus on proactive safety and health performance. Resilience depends on systems, leadership and culture as much as compliance.
ASSP remains committed to supporting safety and health professionals with timely information and practical resources that strengthen safety and health programs across all industries.