The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has released the first US-based standard dedicated to risk assessment and management. The new standard—ANSI/ASSP Z310.1-2026—establishes a comprehensive framework and process to help organizations adopt a consistent, structured approach to managing risk. For the laboratory leader, this document can serve as a roadmap for systematically improving decision-making while protecting people, property, and the environment.
A structured framework for laboratory safety
The ANSI/ASSP Z310.1-2026 standard emphasizes that risk management is not a standalone activity or a periodic box-checking exercise. Instead, it should be fully integrated into an organization's management systems, leadership strategy, and day-to-day operations. By following this nationally developed guidance, laboratories can better identify and manage all types of risk to create and protect value.
The standard identifies several key elements of effective risk management:
- Integration into existing management systems to ensure safety is part of every workflow
- Customization to the specific organizational and laboratory context
- Inclusivity and active engagement with stakeholders at all levels
- The use of timely, clear, and available information to inform decisions
- Consideration of human and cultural factors that influence safety performance
- A commitment to continual improvement to address emerging threats
Aligning US standards with global guidelines
The development of Z310.1-2026 builds on the foundation of international guidelines, specifically ISO 31000. However, in 2024, the US Technical Advisory Committee determined that domestic stakeholders required a more practical and simplified implementation-focused standard.
Led by the ASSP Z310 Committee—which includes 28 organizations from academia, insurance, and other industries—the new standard provides the practical tools necessary for US-based facilities to remain competitive while aligning with international expectations. Bruce Lyon, chair of the committee, notes that the standard will strengthen how organizations identify and manage risk, leading to improved environmental, health, and safety outcomes for all.
Strengthening laboratory compliance and operational resilience
The publication of this standard provides a clear benchmark for evaluating current safety protocols. These voluntary consensus standards reflect the latest expert guidance and are designed to help organizations improve performance while reducing the likelihood of injuries and fatalities.
By adopting a dynamic and anticipative mindset as outlined in the standard, laboratory leaders can move beyond reactive safety measures. Implementing a structured risk management process allows for more risk-informed decision-making, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to the most critical safety concerns. This proactive approach not only supports regulatory compliance but also builds a stronger, more resilient culture of safety within the facility.
This article was created with the assistance of Generative AI and has undergone editorial review before publishing.
