On February 17, 2026, Indiana officials announced a groundbreaking new occupational safety and health initiative aimed at protecting workers across the state. The initiative, known as the Indiana Worker Safety and Health Program (IWSHP), is designed to promote a culture of safety in the workplace and reduce the number of workplace injuries and illnesses.The IWSHP will focus on several key areas, including providing training and education for workers and employers, conducting workplace inspections to identify safety hazards, and enforcing compliance with occupational safety and health regulations. The program will also work to improve communication and cooperation between employers, workers, and government agencies to ensure that workers are protected and well-informed about potential safety risks.Indiana Governor John Smith spoke at a press conference to announce the launch of the IWSHP, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a safe work environment for all Hoosiers. "Every worker in Indiana deserves to come home safely at the end of the day," Governor Smith said. "With the launch of the Indiana Worker Safety and Health Program, we are taking important steps to protect the health and well-being of our workforce."The IWSHP has already received support from industry leaders and occupational safety experts, who see it as a positive step towards improving workplace safety in Indiana. "This initiative is a game-changer for worker safety in our state," said Sarah Johnson, president of the Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Association. "By working together to identify and address safety hazards, we can prevent injuries and save lives."The IWSHP is set to begin its work immediately, with plans to reach out to employers and workers across the state to promote the importance of workplace safety. Indiana officials are hopeful that the program will lead to a significant reduction in workplace injuries and illnesses, ultimately creating a safer and healthier environment for all workers in the state.