Dive into the Top 10 Workplace Safety Trends & Innovations [2026]

Executive Summary: What are the Top 10 Workplace Safety Trends in 2026 and Beyond?

Workplace health and safety is set to undergo a major shift in 2026, driven by artificial intelligence (AI) integration, regulatory pressure, employee expectations, and an expanding digital toolkit. The top 10 trends shaping the future of occupational safety are:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration: With workplace injuries costing USD 176.5 billion annually in the US alone, AI is playing a pivotal role in prevention. Predictive systems flag 75% of high-risk incidents. AI-enabled chatbots, compliance assistants, and monitoring systems are scaling across sectors.

2. Enhanced Employee Safety Training: Proactive, multimedia training reduces incident rates by up to 74%. AI, virtual reality (VR), and gamification improve engagement and retention. Virtual simulations allow workers to rehearse emergencies without risk, as companies invest in tools that deliver faster, role-specific safety training at scale.

3. Wider Adoption of Wearables and Smart Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Despite high injury risks among new hires and manual laborers, only 17-18% of employers use wearables. Advanced sensors, smart belts, biometric wristbands, and exoskeletons are now emerging to reduce strain and flag hazards.

4. Automation and Robotics Deployment: Rising labor costs and safety concerns are improving robotics adoption. Cobots, drones, and mobile manipulators perform hazardous tasks, from inspections to lifting. The workplace robotics safety market is projected to reach USD 6.8 billion by 2030, growing at a 13.9% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).

5. Emphasis on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Data shows that workers of color and disabled employees face higher injury risks. Startups provide tools for inclusive training, psychological safety, and equitable policy design. Inclusive personal protective equipment (PPE), tailored training, and accessible emergency protocols are key areas of innovation.

6. Strengthening Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Management: Strong EHS performers see 10% higher market cap growth and 16% more revenue. Platforms offer unified systems combining AI, Internet of Things (IoT), and predictive analytics for compliance, inspections, and risk forecasting.

7. Focus on Mental Health and Wellbeing: Work-related stress and anxiety cost the global economy USD 1 trillion annually. Startups provide AI-driven platforms to track emotional health, promote resilience, and enable real-time interventions. Organizations are adopting VR therapy, wearables, and personalized programs to support psychological safety and reduce burnout.

8. Remote Work Safety Measures: Injury claims among remote workers rose 24-54%. Firms monitor ergonomic risk, mental strain, and data security in home offices. Tools offer remote performance tracking, safety check-ins, and team-building experiences to ensure that distributed teams remain safe, connected, and productive.

9. Rise of Incident Reporting Technologies: Real-time, AI-assisted incident reporting is becoming standard. Mobile apps and multilingual tools enable frontline workers to log hazards instantly. This reduces delays and improves data accuracy. Regulatory mandates are also pushing firms to adopt intelligent systems that forecast and prevent recurring risks.

10. Novel Emergency Response Innovations: 35% of workers feel unprepared for emergencies despite rising threats. Companies deploy IoT sensors, connected wearables, and autonomous drones to improve response times.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the workplace safety problems?

Workplace safety problems include a high number of fatalities and injuries. AI and digitalization introduce risks such as data privacy breaches and excessive reliance on automation. Mental health challenges like stress, burnout, and isolation from remote work continue to affect workers. Climate-related hazards also pose threats. This includes heat-related deaths and toxic exposures. Physical dangers such as falls and ergonomic injuries also remain common.

2. What are the future trends in workplace safety?

AI-powered analytics will prevent hazards by predicting risk. Wearables and IoT sensors will enable real-time monitoring, while VR and augmented reality (AR) tools will improve safety training through simulated experiences. Meanwhile, mental health receives greater attention. Employers explore AI-based stress detection and respond to Gen Z’s call for psychological safety programs.

Methodology: How We Created the Workplace Safety Trend Report

For our trend reports, we leverage our proprietary StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, covering 7M+ global startups, 20K technologies & trends, plus 150M+ patents, news articles, and market reports.

Creating a report involves approximately 40 hours of analysis. We evaluate our own startup data and complement these insights with external research, including industry reports, news articles, and market analyses. This process enables us to identify the most impactful and innovative trends in the workplace safety industry.

For each trend, we select two exemplary startups that meet the following criteria:

• Relevance: Their product, technology, or solution aligns with the trend.
• Founding Year: Established between 2020 and 2025.
• Company Size: A maximum of 200 employees.
• Location: Specific geographic considerations.

This approach ensures our reports provide reliable, actionable insights into the workplace safety innovation ecosystem while highlighting startups driving technological advancements in the industry.

Innovation Map outlines the Top 10 Workplace Safety Trends & 20 Promising Startups

For this in-depth research on the Top Workplace Health and Safety Trends & Startups, we analyzed a sample of 620+ global startups & scaleups. The Workplace Safety Innovation Map, created from this data-driven research, helps you improve strategic decision-making by giving you a comprehensive overview of the workplace safety technology trends & startups that impact your company.

Tree Map reveals the Impact of the Top 10 Emerging Trends in Workplace Safety

New technologies are reshaping how organizations monitor, prevent, and respond to workplace risks. AI supports predictive risk analysis and detects hazards early, while automation and robotics limit human exposure in hazardous settings.

Wearables and PPE include biometric tracking and alert systems. EHS platforms simplify compliance, reporting, and training through centralized workflows. Meanwhile, safety training incorporates immersive content and mobile access to reach workers more effectively.

Incident reporting and emergency response tools are improving preparedness across organizations. Moreover, mental health programs and remote work safety measures are expanding the scope of workplace well-being.

Global Startup Heat Map covers 620+ Workplace Safety Startups & Scaleups

The Global Startup Heat Map showcases the distribution of 620+ exemplary startups and scaleups analyzed using the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform. It highlights high startup activity in the USA and Australia, followed by the UK. From these, 20 promising startups are featured below, selected based on factors like founding year, location, and funding.

Want to Explore 620+ Workplace Safety Innovations & Trends?

Top 10 Emerging Workplace Safety Trends [2026 and Beyond]

1. AI Integration: AI-led Workplace Safety Market to Reach USD 6.8 B by 2030

In 2023, US private industry employers reported 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. High injury and fatality rates continue to push organizations toward AI-based safety tools.

The National Safety Council estimated workplace injury costs at USD 176.5 billion in the same year. Labor shortages and tighter safety regulations are also influencing AI adoption across industries.

Oracle acquired Newmetrix a workplace risk prediction firm that partnered with JE Dunn, a Missouri-based building contractor with 3500 workers. Their safety observation system ran across multiple sites and predicted 75% of recordable incidents on high-risk projects weekly. Teams held 350 extra safety talks between workers and supervisors.

Funding for AI-based EHS startups continues to grow. In the last year, Intenseye raised USD 64 million, while Protex AI secured USD 36 million through a Series B round in early 2025.

This year, the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) launched Safety Trekr AI, which is a chat assistant that searches a 1330-page safety handbook instantly. The tool allows professionals to find relevant information quickly, make faster decisions, and meet compliance goals.

Real-time AI monitoring is also gaining traction. For example, Amazon uses computer-vision systems in its warehouses to alert supervisors when safety hazards occur.

Looking ahead, the global AI workplace safety market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 18.2% from 2024 to 2030. Analysts expect it to reach USD 6.8 billion by 2030.

Credit: Grand View Research

AnticipAI makes Workplace Safety Assistant

Dutch startup AnticipAI builds an AI-based safety assistant for industrial environments. It strengthens risk detection and prevention in sectors like chemicals, logistics, construction, and manufacturing.

Credit: AnticipAI

The system works with existing CCTV setups to analyze video in real time. It identifies safety hazards automatically through generative AI and does not require human intervention.

It allows businesses to set custom monitoring rules for each camera. The platform then creates compliance reports and automates response workflows. Further, the integrated assistant manages alerts, investigates root causes, and guides corrective actions.

AnticipAI also monitors safety tasks and provides follow-up insights. It updates reports as workplace conditions change.

inviol develops AI-driven Health & Safety Coach

New Zealand-based startup inviol creates an AI-driven safety platform for warehouses, manufacturing, and logistics sites. It identifies high-risk behaviors and encourages safer practices through edge-based video analysis.

The platform detects safety violations such as missing PPE, unsafe loading, or close contact with hazardous equipment. It does not stream or save routine footage to the cloud. It allows businesses to map out work zones and assign safety rules, which trigger real-time alerts when breached.

Further, the platform uploads only high-risk incidents for coaching to protect privacy. This method promotes accountability without continuous monitoring. It also gives the team personalized alerts, reviews short video clips, and monitors compliance through a dashboard.

2. Enhanced Employee Safety Training: Proactive Safety Training Cut Incident Rates by 74%

Accidents are lower in organizations with strong training programs. According to the 2024 State of Safety Training Survey, proactive training reduced incident rates by 74% compared to the industry average.

On the other hand, insufficient training is a significant contributor to accidents. As per a National Safety Council (NSC) poll conducted as part of the Work to Zero campaign, 42% of employees and 38% of employers stated that insufficient training resulted in serious injuries.

In the last year, more than 90% of safety professionals agreed that training becomes more effective and interesting when it incorporates live instruction, video, and online courses.

Since 2019, the usage of e-learning for safety training has increased by 350%. Learning management systems (LMSs) and mobile platforms are widely used for just-in-time, on-the-job training.

Credit: EHS Today

AI, VR, and AR are advancing training. Workers are able to rehearse high-risk situations, such as responding to a fire or equipment failures, in zero-risk settings via immersive virtual reality training. Businesses report improvements; the HQSoftware VR program, for example, reported an 84% engagement rate and a 67% knowledge retention rate.

VR-based safety training outperformed traditional techniques 47 times, matched them 13 times, and was inferior in just one instance, according to a systematic evaluation of 52 trials. Similarly, a PwC study found employees undergoing VR training also finished courses 4 times faster than those in a classroom.

Further, safety surveys show that AI-powered simulations are able to provide real-time guidance or hazard prediction, as well as customize training to particular roles and risks.

The workplace safety training market is expected to grow at a 9.8% CAGR from 2026 to 2033, and will reach USD 9.7 billion.

Credit: Verified Market Reports

SAFVR delivers Immersive Safety Training

Singaporean startup SAFVR builds an AI-powered VR training platform, Nexus AI, for workplace safety. It aligns with global compliance standards and covers sectors like mining, logistics, energy, pharma, and aviation.

The startup’s platform simulates high-risk scenarios that allow employees to practice safety protocols in controlled virtual settings. AI digital humans guide learners in real time, offer feedback, and adjust content based on individual progress.

SAFVR provides a training library mapped to OSHA, ISO 45001, and other regulations. It supports mobile gamification, multiple languages, and integrates with learning management systems.

Nexus AI further tracks performance metrics and generates automated audit reports. It also delivers analytics for emergency preparedness and compliance monitoring.

Trainday creates a Vocational Safety Training Platform

US-based startup Trainday offers an AI-driven platform for managing training and compliance. It allows organizations to create, launch, and track safety and vocational programs quickly.

The startup’s platform transforms documents, PDFs, and outlines into structured courses using AI. These courses include multimedia elements, interactive quizzes, and virtual instructors to engage learners.

Trainday supports the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) and LMS integration. It also generates OSHA and ISO-compliant content automatically and delivers training in multiple languages to serve diverse industries.

The platform provides customized modules for sectors such as healthcare, construction, logistics, oil and gas, and manufacturing. These modules enable employees to meet safety and compliance standards.

Further, the platform offers built-in analytics to track learning progress and highlight areas for improvement. It also simplifies certification and audit workflows.

3. Wider Adoption of Wearables & PPE: Only 17-18% of Employers Use Wearables to Track Worker Health

In the UK, 543 000 workers experienced musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in 2023-24, which led to 7.8 million lost workdays. New hires face greater risks; about 70% are injured within their first two months, and one in eight incidents occurs during the initial weeks.

Despite this, only 17-18% of employers use wearables to monitor worker health, according to an NSC survey. The usage remains limited even among early adopters. Construction companies trial more safety technologies than other industries, averaging 5.7 solutions.

Recent advances have improved the practicality of safety wearables. Modern devices combine sensors, wireless connectivity, and analytics to deliver immediate feedback. Smart belts, such as the Modjoul SmartBelt, send haptic alerts when workers bend, lift, or twist in unsafe ways.

Moreover, ergonomic sensors are worn on the hip or back, and they work to correct poor posture. Smart helmets and vests track vital signs or detect environmental hazards, including gas, heat, and noise, then alert users in real time.

Spacebands, based in Bristol, develops wristband sensors for site hazards. The company secured contractor trials with Komatsu, Kier, and others, raising over GBP 1.3 million in seed funding by 2024.

Moreover, Mid-Ohio Food Collective deployed 48 Kinetic wearable sensors for its forklift, driving, and kitchen teams. The initiative reached an 88% usage rate, exceeding the 65% goal. Leaders reported that real-time feedback on risky postures improved awareness and strengthened safety culture.

AR glasses and AR/VR training tools also display instructions or hazard alerts, and their adoption remains in pilot phases. Powered exoskeletons also support workers handling heavy loads or performing overhead tasks.

The smart PPE market reached USD 4.92 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow to USD 8.23 billion by 2030, reflecting a 13.11% CAGR.

Credit: Mordor Intelligence

This momentum comes from new OSHA heat-safety standards, EU privacy regulations, and Construction 4.0 programs that embed connected monitoring into daily operations.

Safety Biometrics manufactures Biometric Wearable Technology

US-based startup Safety Biometrics offers an AI-enabled safety system for managing workplace fatigue. It connects a field management platform with smart wearables to monitor worker health.

Credit: Safety Biometrics

It’s a KOS Bracelet that streams biometric data in real time, including heart-rate variability, hydration levels, oxygen saturation, core temperature, and motion. This data flows to a cloud dashboard, where machine-learning (ML) models assess risk and send immediate alerts via audio and vibration. Further, the safety system notifies supervisors.

In addition, the platform links alerts with digital safety checklists, incident logs, and approval workflows. It captures offline data using quick response (QR) codes and near field communication (NFC) tools. Over time, it learns individual patterns and recommends tailored break schedules.

Digity makes 3D-printed Hand Exoskeletons

German startup Digity creates wearable safety gear for industrial workplaces. Its product, ARTUS, improves hand protection and ergonomics through a passive finger exoskeleton.

ARTUS uses 3D printing to form a structure that senses hand movement, redistributes force, and limits hyperextension during manual tasks. It connects to Digity’s digital safety platform and enables real-time monitoring of performance while reducing downtime and injury risk.

Moreover, the startup’s product protects against crush injuries and sharp edges. It handles force loads up to 5 kilograms. The design adapts to different work environments and increases comfort and strength output without added strain.

4. Automation & Robotics Deployment: 61% of Businesses Automate to Cut Labor Costs

Skilled labor is expensive and scarce worldwide. According to a Packaging World survey, 61% of businesses cited labor cost reduction as their main reason for automation. The steep rise in wages and inflation increases the appeal of robots.

Also, the cost of robotics has decreased. Over the last ten years, the average price of an industrial robot has halved. Additionally, new leasing and robot-as-a-service models lower initial expenses.

Moreover, changes in geopolitics are encouraging businesses to relocate their manufacturing domestically. According to a 2022 ABB poll, 74% of EU firms and 70% of US firms plan to reshore or nearshore production, and 75%/62% of those say they will invest in robotics.

Cobots are designed to work alongside humans and perform hazardous tasks, including welding and material handling, heavy lifting, and repetitive motions. They improve safety by reducing the physical strain on employees and are equipped with sensors and force limits.

For instance, Dobot SafeSkin, the contactless pre-collision safety system, is improving human-robot collaboration safety standards. SafeSkin removes the need for preventative slowdowns by detecting obstacles within 10-20 cm and reacting in about 10 milliseconds. When compared to conventional approaches, this enables collaborative robots to work at up to 1 m/s, which further increases productivity by up to four times.

Also, mobile manipulators combine mobile platforms with articulated arms. They are able to move around building sites or manufacturing floors and carry out material transportation, machine maintenance, and inspections. They automate tasks that would otherwise expose workers to risks by accessing confined or complex places.

Moreover, aerial drones carry out mapping and inspections while protecting inspectors. For example, on construction sites, drones handle surveying and monitoring tasks to eliminate the need for workers to enter dangerous zones. Similarly, remote demolition robots lower the risk associated with manual wrecking.

Israeli-based Percepto creates Sparrow autonomous drone technology that functions in Level 5 hurricane conditions and has additional safety features like an ASTM-compliant parachute mechanism.

By 2030, the global automation and robotics workplace safety market is projected to reach USD 6815.9 million. The market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 13.9% from 2025 to 2030.

Credit: Grand View Research

In terms of region, North America was the largest revenue-generating market in the last year. Country-wise, India is expected to register the highest CAGR from 2025 to 2030.

Mosafe automates Transportation Safety Management

Australian startup Mosafe builds an automated platform for safety and compliance in transport and logistics. It combines safety tasks, vehicle inspections, training content, and document control in a digital system.

The platform integrates easily into daily workflows. It automates training delivery, assigns tasks, and sends alerts, which allows teams to reduce repetitive admin work across both field and office roles.

The startup includes customizable forms, secure digital records, and mobile access. This setup supports real-time updates and enables efficient on-site reporting.

Mosafe also offers ready-to-use training aligned with industry standards, along with integrated document tracking. These features improve operational efficiency and enhance compliance monitoring.

RoboForce creates an AI Robotic Workforce

US-based startup RoboForce develops robotic systems powered by AI to automate complex industrial tasks. Its product, TITAN, combines domain-trained AI with modular hardware and mechanical control to perform operations like picking, placing, pressing, twisting, and connecting.

TITAN operates across varied terrains using wheeled or tracked bases. It features interchangeable end-effectors and reaches up to 1100mm. Each battery pack lasts up to 8 hours. It handles tasks with reliable torque and supports payloads of up to 40kg with 1mm-level accuracy.

Moreover, RoboForce uses real-world data and a closed-loop AI-hardware feedback model to improve performance over time. It adapts to different tasks without manual intervention.

5. Emphasis on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI): ~1.3 B People have Significant Disabilities

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the US Census Bureau, 16% of US private-sector workers held high-risk jobs in recent years. This figure rises to 24% for Hispanic workers, 21% for Black workers, and 21% for men, compared with 13% for white workers.

Workers of color and those with lower educational attainment experience more injuries on the job. Risk analyses show Black and Hispanic employees face higher rates of non-fatal injuries and report greater discomfort when speaking up about unsafe conditions.

As part of ESG efforts, DEI plays a role in safety planning. Regulators are exploring how inclusive work environments reduce injury risk. The US Department of Labor is examining safety program designs that address social and behavioral barriers. These include ensuring that workers, regardless of language or employment status, are able to participate in safety committees.

Standard safety gear often lacks inclusive design. A study by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research found that 12.3% of respondents rarely or never receive equal treatment in workplace safety. Nearly 28.2% report rarely or never receiving gloves or equipment in appropriate sizes.

Globally, about 1.3 billion people live with major disabilities. When workspaces lack proper adaptations, such as ramps or adjustable desks, these employees face added risks. Inclusive equipment, including adjustable lifts or custom seating, reduces strain and improves accessibility for different body sizes and mobility needs.

Some companies are taking steps to improve access. Honeywell involved disabled employees in product development. One engineering lead, who became quadriplegic, co-designed a Bluetooth-based find me, help me emergency alert system. The tool allows first responders to locate workers with disabilities during emergencies.

Moreover, the global diversity and inclusion (D&I) market is projected to reach USD 27.1 billion by 2030. Between 2024 and 2030, it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.4%.

Credit: Research and Markets

Alda manufactures a DEI Toolkit

Icelandic startup Alda provides a platform that enables organizations to promote inclusive workplace cultures. It combines assessments, AI-generated action plans, and gamified micro-learning tools.

The startup’s platform collects anonymous, intersectional feedback through short Inclusion Pulse surveys. It merges this data with HR records to evaluate cultural health using the Inclusion Index.

Alda delivers customized recommendations and measurable goals using AI. It simplifies reporting with dashboards that present inclusion metrics clearly across all organizational levels.

Its mobile-friendly learning library offers more than 60 modules, including topics like allyship, unconscious bias, and generational diversity. These resources support employees and managers in daily interactions.

Diverseek makes a DEI Knowledge Sharing Platform

US-based startup Diverseek offers a knowledge-sharing platform that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. It delivers expert talks, panel discussions, and podcasts that turn research and lived experience into practical strategies.

The platform features sessions with DEI professionals, business leaders, and community advocates. It records these discussions and shares them through an on-demand portal for ongoing learning.

Diverseek emphasizes leadership accountability and encourages data-driven decisions. It offers tools to support psychological safety, allyship, and policy reviews, which allow businesses to track progress and refine their DEI efforts.

6. Strengthening EHS Management: High-EHS Performers See 10% Higher Market Cap Growth & 16% More Revenue than Average Firms

Many studies show that strong EHS management is associated with improved business outcomes. According to an EY review of 9000 big public companies conducted in 2024, high-EHS-performing organizations outperformed their peers in terms of financial and social measures.

Over the last ten years, these companies have, on average, seen a 10% growth in market capitalization and a 16% increase in revenue compared to average corporations. Additionally, they experienced a 3% decrease in staff turnover.

Meanwhile, inadequate safety still comes at a high cost. According to Liberty Mutual’s 2024 Workplace Safety Index, non-fatal injuries cost employers in the US more than USD 48 billion in a single year. The weekly cost of the top ten accident categories alone exceeds USD 1 billion per week.

Firms are compelled to implement strong EHS systems by regulatory requirements such as the EU CSRD, OSHA/NIOSH data reporting, and ISO 45001 upgrades. Companies are forced to demonstrate safety performance as part of sustainability commitments due to investor expectations and ESG.

Employee expectations are also important. As a result of workers’ growing demands for safe and healthy workplaces, businesses are investing in culture and technology.

As per the 2025 EHS Benchmarking Report survey, 39% of businesses intended to improve their AI EHS investments in the upcoming year. Predictive analytics used by 60% of respondents, AI-powered video analysis by 50%, and automated alerts/trend monitoring by 48% are important EHS applications. Remarkably, 59% of businesses thought generative AI may improve safety and decrease downtime by predicting and preventing injuries.

One large chemical manufacturer deployed AI-powered cameras and reported an 83% drop in safety compliance violations and a 30% reduction in forklift incidents. It reported a yield of 295% ROI in 4.1 months

Also, the market for environmental health safety software is expected to grow at a 10.7% CAGR from its 2025 valuation of USD 2.24 billion to USD 3.73 billion by 2030.

Credit: Mordor Intelligence

SafetyWhat creates EHS Solutions

Indian startup SafetyWhat builds a cloud-native platform that allows organizations to manage environmental, health, safety, and quality (EHSQ) operations through a single digital interface.

Credit: SafetyWhat

The platform includes modules for incident reporting, risk management, inspections, audits, observations, asset maintenance, food safety, occupational health, environmental compliance, and permit-to-work processes. All of these features align with global standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 22000, and ISO 45001.

SafetyWhat simplifies workflows by digitizing reports, schedules, documentation, and corrective actions. It supports mobile data capture, real-time alerts, offline access, and customizable forms.

The startup offers root cause analysis tools, training modules, and dashboards that allow tracking key performance indicators like TRIR and DART. The platform also uses predictive analytics to monitor and forecast safety trends.

Further, its reporting and analytics software turns EHS data into actionable insights, which enables smarter decisions across teams.

Ombrulla provides AI & IoT-powered Workplace Safety

UK-based startup Ombrulla develops safety software powered by AI and IoT. It combines real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and real-time location system (RTLS) tracking to prevent accidents and maintain compliance.

The software gathers data from wearables, sensors, and AI-enabled cameras to monitor worker location, behavior, equipment use, and environmental risks at hazardous sites. Its facial recognition manages access, while predictive analytics detects hazards, and automated alerts trigger emergency responses.

The startup’s features include fall detection, OSHA-compliant reporting, and customizable dashboards. The platform connects with hardware such as BLE, RFID, LoRaWAN, GPS, and RTLS systems.

Ombrulla also supports industrial applications through zone-based enforcement, incident tracking, and asset management. It identifies risks early and centralizes safety processes to improve oversight.

The startup further reduces injuries, improves productivity, and allows industries to meet regulatory standards in oil and gas, construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.

7. Focus on Mental Health & Wellbeing: Anxiety & Depression Cost USD 1 T in Lost Productivity & 12 B Workdays Annually

Globally, mental health problems are costing economies and enterprises a lot of money. According to WHO (2024), anxiety and depression disorders result in around USD 1 trillion in lost productivity worldwide and 12 billion workdays annually.

According to a 2023-2024 HSE report, 776 000 people in the UK experienced stress, anxiety, or depression at work, which led to 16.4 million missed workdays. Although it has dropped from 910 000 in 2022-2023, the present rate of self-reported work-related stress, despair, or anxiety is still greater than it was before the pandemic.

Poor mental health in the workforce severely undermines performance and well-being. In the American Psychiatric Association (APA) survey, 42% of employees reported burnout in the past year.

The World Economic Forum reports that there is a USD 4 return on investment for every dollar spent on mental health interventions in terms of increased productivity and health. Early access to mental health resources for staff members assists in reducing burnout and stopping decreased productivity brought on by mental health issues.

The tendency is also driven by changes in generations. Compared to their older counterparts, younger employees had lower work health scores. Mental Health America found 71% of Gen Z and 59% of Millennials consider their overall work health to be unhealthy, compared to 42% for older groups.

Gen Z employees report feeling less psychologically safe; for example, 63% of them stated they are not comfortable speaking up, and 60% believe they are not allowed to be themselves at work.

Credit: Mental Health America

Innovations in digital health are also altering how businesses promote wellbeing. AI and data analytics are enabling personalized mental-health programs. Employers are utilizing wearable technology and AI-powered platforms to customize therapies for each employee.

A change to tech-driven care is seen in the growing use of online therapy and mobile apps for mental health. For instance, 28% of US workers currently have access to telehealth, or virtual counseling, via their workplace.

New tools like VR are gaining traction. VR exposure treatment is used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety, and the initial results are encouraging. After interacting with difficult patients, the Hoag Hospital realized that its employees were exhausted. Thus, it provided clinical staff with 20-minute headset sessions, which resulted in increases in willingness to work and up to 60% reductions in stress and anxiety.

Further, the market for mental wellness is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2025 to 2032. It will reach USD 298.42 billion by 2032 from USD 178.05 billion in 2025.

Credit: Consegic Business Intelligence

UpBeing creates a Social Wellness App

Canadian startup UpBeing offers an AI-based platform that tracks emotional well-being and promotes psychological safety at work. It uses real-time mood monitoring and shared emotional insights to support healthier team dynamics.

The platform collects data from daily reflections, calendars, and wearable devices. It then uses affective computing models to identify emotional patterns and deliver timely wellbeing metrics.

The startup offers interactive dashboards, emotion mapping, and polling tools that encourage anonymous participation. These features preserve privacy while promoting inclusion.

UpBeing complements existing wellness initiatives. It improves engagement by allowing employees to share their emotional state anonymously within teams.

The platform also integrates with team dashboards, application program interfaces (APIs), and business intelligence (BI) tools to reveal trends across departments and communities. These insights enable leaders to monitor workplace wellbeing and inform strategy.

Mindletic offers Enhanced Resilience & EQ Tools

Lithuanian startup Mindletic develops an AI-powered emotional fitness platform. It allows organizations to improve resilience, productivity, and emotional awareness through continuous emotional intelligence (EQ) training and insight-driven strategies.

The platform collects real-time emotional input from users through daily reflections and mood tracking. It then anonymizes and aggregates this data to guide organizational decisions and shape customized wellbeing initiatives.

Mindletic integrates with Slack and includes interactive tools such as gamified learning modules, peer group sessions, and access to licensed mental health professionals for personalized counseling.

The startup further offers features including the emotional impact measurement tool, team challenges, and reflective games. These features promote psychological safety and collaboration. Companies use these tools to monitor well-being trends, measure intervention impact, and align EQ training with performance goals.

8. Remote Work Safety Measures: Injury Claims among Remote Workers Rose 24-54%

As remote and hybrid work becomes more common, home offices require safety standards that were once applied only to traditional workplaces. Companies routinely assess remote setups for hazards such as poor ergonomics, fire risks, and slip-and-fall dangers, similar to office inspections.

In the US, 56% of jobs are suitable for remote work. By 2023, 40% of new job postings included remote or hybrid options. Whereas, in Europe, telework increased from 14% in 2019 to 24% in 2021, with around 44 million employees working remotely.

Injury claims among remote workers rose by 24-54%, according to insurers. Most incidents involve musculoskeletal injuries caused by poor ergonomics, along with stress-related mental health claims. A 2022 study in Hong Kong found that 61.2% of remote workers experienced new neck or back pain while working from home.

To address these risks, companies are adopting new tools and programs. For example, Australian utility Powerlink uses SafetyIQ’s journey management system. Lone field workers check in via SMS to confirm safe arrival, and missed check-ins trigger alerts to managers.

Cloud and mobile safety apps are also gaining traction. Cloud-based EHS platforms support incident reporting and compliance tracking, while smartphone apps allow workers to log hazards and access training from home.

Organizations now implement cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive data and support workforce well-being. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and virtual private networks (VPNs) secure remote connections, while strong password policies paired with password managers minimize access risks. Teams regularly update software and systems to patch known vulnerabilities and prevent exploitation.

Moreover, the global remote work security market is projected to grow at a 16.2% CAGR during the forecast period 2025 to 2034. The market growth is driven by remote workforce expansion and growing cybersecurity concerns.

Credit: Polaris Market Research

WorkCradle offers a Digital Workplace

Nigerian startup WorkCradle makes a platform that combines flexible workspace access with remote team management. It allows organizations to book co-working locations such as hotels, cafes, and serviced offices through a real-time dashboard.

The startup’s platform tracks remote work using verified timesheets and automated activity logs. It’s Smart Work Diary records clock-ins, breaks, and screen activity. At the same time, it backs up work files securely to the cloud.

WorkCradle digitizes paper records and connects companies to on-demand talent in data analysis, web development, and cybersecurity to support operations. It includes features for monitoring performance, identifying top contributors, and minimizing data loss across distributed teams.

QuestWorks gamifies Remote Team Development

US-based startup QuestWorks builds a game-based platform that turns team development into interactive role-playing experiences rooted in real-world skills.

Credit: QuestWorks

The platform assigns character roles based on each participant’s strengths. It allows teams to progress through weekly quests that simulate leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving tasks.

It’s live sessions that are led by expert facilitators, use a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired system. The gameplay aligns with defined learning goals and rewards players with experience points for practicing communication and resolving conflict.

QuestWorks tracks team dynamics and records behavioral progress. Its AI-powered analytics provide feedback on individual growth and offer insights into engagement, trust, and well-being.

9. Rise of Incident Reporting Technologies: 57% of Businesses Use Tech for Incident Reporting & Investigation

OSHA’s 2024 rule requires that injury and illness data be submitted electronically in the US. There were 370 000 Form 300A submissions in the most recent cycle.

OSHA notes that making injury and illness data accessible will allow for the detection of hazardous workplace situations and factors that lead to occupational injuries and illnesses. Recognizing these hazards enables us to detect ways to control or prevent them and reduce future injuries.

According to the VelocityEHS’ State of the Market Report, alongside the EHSToday survey, a major portion of businesses use technology to administer or transmit information and activities linked to health and safety programs. Most businesses use it for incident reporting and investigation (57%), chemical and safety data sheet (SDS) management (59%), and training and education delivery (83%).

Credit: VelocityEHS

ML is applied to incident data. Modern EHS platforms use AI to automatically categorize occurrences, identify trends, and even forecast new dangers. For instance, incident learning is becoming accelerated and standardized when safety software integrates AI agents to review previous reports and provide remedial measures.

In the last year, AGCO, which is a producer of agricultural equipment, reduced its Total Case Incident Rate by 52% at specific South American plants through the implementation of an AI-driven ergonomics and incident-tracking system.

Real-time reporting is made possible by mobile apps and cloud-based EHS systems. Companies enable frontline employees to submit incident reports instantly using smartphones or tablets to reduce delays and data inaccuracies. Such mobility means even small contractors and remote sites are able to feed data into centralized dashboards.

From basic incident-reporting kiosks to AR training, new interfaces are appearing. To improve actual danger recognition, some companies, for example, employ VR and AR to mimic incident scenarios. The results of these simulations are then fed back into the reporting system.

Additionally, multilingual apps and voice-driven reporting are removing obstacles and guaranteeing that injuries are swiftly recorded.

Metta Space enables Intelligent Misconduct Management

Spanish startup Metta Space builds a misconduct management platform to prevent, report, and resolve workplace incidents through secure digital workflows.

It allows employees to use personal mobile devices to submit anonymous reports. HR teams manage cases through a resolution center with instant messaging and geo-located guidance for step-by-step response.

The startup’s platform includes an AI-driven dashboard that tracks behavioral patterns, generates compliance records, and highlights risk indicators to prevent escalation.

Alongside its platform, Metta Space offers workshops that promote inclusive and psychologically safe work cultures.

Pulse Business Solutions advances Incident Management

US-based startup Pulse Business Solutions offers an AI-driven platform that enables organizations to report and resolve safety issues in real time. It allows employees to submit observations directly from the field using mobile devices.

The startup’s platform allows staff to log incidents, hazards, and near-misses through structured checklists and visual documentation. It applies natural language processing (NLP) to categorize reports and ranks them by severity.

Further, automated alerts notify teams, while a centralized dashboard tracks trends, assigns corrective actions, and supports root cause analysis.

Pulse Business Solutions offers features including real-time notifications, accountability tracking, and customizable forms for accident reporting and investigations. It improves visibility, encourages employee participation, and allows organizations to manage safety and compliance more effectively.

10. Novel Emergency Response Innovations: 1 in 5 US Employees Lack Emergency Preparedness Training

AlertMedia’s 2025 State of Employee Safety Report shows that 83% of UK employees and 80% of US employees have experienced emergencies at work. However, 35% feel unprepared to handle such events.

A survey by Fusion Risk Management reveals similar trends. Nearly 48% of US workers and 55% globally have faced on-the-job emergencies. Yet, more than one in five US employees lack emergency-preparedness training.

Increasing threats from extreme weather to cybersecurity breaches make readiness more urgent. In the last year, the US reported seven billion-dollar tropical cyclones, along with floods and wildfires. Facilities also continue to face risks from workplace violence and active-shooter events.

In response, organizations are updating evacuation plans, training for mass casualty scenarios, and stocking emergency medical supplies. Technological advancements are reshaping response strategies.

For instance, IoT-connected vehicles alert emergency services immediately after crashes. Environmental sensors monitor floods, fires, and air quality to send early warnings and support responders in mobilizing faster.

Moreover, drones and robots support operations in hazardous zones. Drones locate trapped individuals or deliver supplies, whereas robots enter dangerous spaces equipped with cameras and sensors.

Wearables and panic-alert devices further link lone or remote workers to dispatch teams for ensuring faster response.

Companies also invest in human-led preparedness. Cisco manages 128 global Emergency Response Teams with 2945 trained employees. Amazon conducted 7.8 million site safety inspections in the last year, up 24% from 2023. It also stocked opioid-reversal drugs in warehouses to support immediate medical response.

Across industries, IoT sensors and automated tools detect incidents and alert responders quickly. Vehicles auto-connect to emergency services, while job sites monitor for toxic leaks or fire hazards. These measures reduce risks for human responders and ensure faster support.

Moreover, the global emergency response services market is projected to reach USD 2.08 billion by 2030, growing at a 17.1% CAGR between 2025 and 2030.

Credit: Grand View Research

Securdia creates Mobile Personal Alarms

Swedish startup Securdia develops mobile alarm systems that improve safety in high-risk workplaces. Its product range includes compact devices such as TWIG SRD, SRT405, SRT406, and TWIG Neo. These connect over 4G networks and sync with the cloud-based SecurCloud portal for ongoing monitoring and rapid response coordination.

Each device activates with a single button press and instantly sends GPS data and emergency alerts to responders or alarm centers. Its features include indoor positioning, automatic test alarms, visual and audio signals, and role-based escalation. The startup supports deployment through installation, programming, and onsite training.

Further, organizations use the system to set internal alarms, track incidents, and stay compliant with telecom upgrades as 2G or 3G networks phase out.

SafeMe builds Employee Security Assistants

Polish startup SafeMe offers a personal safety platform that provides 24/7 protection and emergency response via a mobile app and wearable panic button.

The platform connects businesses to a licensed Security Monitoring Center. When activated with a single click, it sends emergency alerts and GPS location data to trained SafeMe Security Assistants. These assistants coordinate rapid response by dispatching help to the user’s location.

Employees are also able to use live route monitoring and silent alerts. The real-time GPS tracking supports these features without disrupting normal activity.

For organizations, the platform includes administrative tools to control user access and track incident history. It also enables centralized oversight of safety metrics.

Discover all Workplace Safety Trends, Technologies & Startups

Workplace health and safety is evolving with the adoption of new technologies and frameworks. Organizations are exploring digital twins of work environments to simulate risks and improve planning.

AI-driven ergonomic assessments identify strain and suggest adjustments, with real-time sentiment analytics offering insights into workforce morale.

At the same time, voice-activated incident reporting and inclusive design principles are also becoming more popular in sectors that place a high value on employee engagement and diversity.

The Workplace Safety Technology Trends & Startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of trends that we identified during our data-driven innovation & startup scouting process. Identifying new opportunities & emerging technologies to implement into your business goes a long way in gaining a competitive advantage.