Sep 16, 2025

As 2025 comes to a close, businesses are busy wrapping up projects, finalizing budgets, and preparing for the new year. But one task that should never be overlooked is the year-end risk review. Taking time to assess safety, compliance, and insurance exposures now not only reduces liability but also sets the stage for a stronger 2026.

1. Safety Programs

Evaluate workplace safety initiatives from the past year. Were training sessions completed? Did incident rates improve? Reviewing near-miss reports and inspection logs helps identify trends and uncover areas where additional training or corrective action is needed.

2. Compliance Obligations

Regulatory requirements evolve constantly. Ensure OSHA, DOT, EPA, and industry-specific standards are up to date. Double-check documentation, licenses, and certifications to avoid penalties. Year-end is also a good time to schedule audits or update written policies.

3. Insurance Coverage

As operations change, so do exposures. Review insurance policies to ensure they align with current risks. Have you added vehicles, expanded facilities, or entered new markets? Confirm that coverage limits, endorsements, and deductibles still fit your business needs.

4. Cybersecurity Readiness

With cyber threats escalating, confirm that security protocols, employee training, and cyber liability coverage are in place. The holiday season often brings a spike in phishing and fraud attempts, making vigilance essential.

5. Emergency Preparedness

Severe weather, power outages, and supply chain disruptions can strike at any time. Review and test your emergency response plans to confirm they’re effective and that employees know their roles.


A year-end risk review is more than an administrative task—it’s a proactive investment in resilience. By addressing safety, compliance, and insurance before year-end, companies reduce exposure and start 2026 on a stronger, safer foundation.