2026 Product Safety: Key Regulatory Changes Manufacturers Must Know

In 2026, the global regulatory authorities are pushing manufacturers to consider the three aspects of safety, performance, and reliability more than ever. All industries must deal with the new standards and preventive safety measures. These industries include household appliances, industrial machinery, IT/AV devices, laboratory equipment, and transportation systems.  

The transitioning toward uniform IEC and ISO frameworks is the most significant change in the whole industry. The safety requirements of the household and kitchen equipment regarding their temperatures, electric shock protection, and fire hazards will impact the fixation of the components and design. Manufacturers of industrial machines will need to hire more personnel to meet evolving Machinery Regulation requirements, mostly in risk reduction, automated system behavior, and integrated safety controls.  

By 2026, IT and audio/video equipment will be governed under a unified standard IEC 62368-1 bringing greater consistency to compliance requirements. We also anticipate increased regulatory clarity for hybrid-function products that combine computing, media, and communication capabilities. Additionally, components and installation materials such as switches, plugs, connectors, and regulators will face stricter certification demands as supply-chain traceability becomes a critical prerequisite for market access.  

Transportation safety is still the fastest-moving safety area. In North America and Europe, the breath alcohol ignition interlock devices (BAIIDs), which are part of road-safety enforcement, are expected to undergo new reliability and environmental durability assessments in 2026. Manufacturers that start preparing now will gain a competitive edge and avoid costly delays.  

With compliance becoming more interconnected, organizations are seeking partners who can support global market access with accurate, efficient, and future-ready testing services. At Nemko, our teams continue working closely with manufacturers to help them navigate the evolving 2026 regulatory landscape with confidence.