The Consumer & Industrial Products (C&IP) sector is in the midst of a workplace revolution. From robotics and automation to remote jobsite monitoring and flexible workforces, new technologies are transforming how businesses protect their teams. They also keep operations running smoothly. While these innovations drive efficiency and safety, they also introduce new insurance considerations and risks that must be carefully managed.
Technology Improves Safety and Shifts the Risk Landscape
Manufacturers and consumer goods companies are investing in everything from wearable safety devices and AI-driven monitoring systems to collaborative robots (cobots) and remote sensors. These advancements are making worksites safer, reducing human error, and enabling real-time data-driven decisions. But they also require a rethink of traditional insurance coverage and risk management strategies.
Four Trends Shaping Insurance Decisions in 2026
As operations evolve, insurance programs must keep pace with changes that affect how coverage is structured, applied, and tested, particularly in areas where new practices and technologies are changing exposures.
Remote Monitoring and Cyber Risks
New devices can instantly alert supervisors to unsafe conditions, but they also create potential vulnerabilities, such as cyber threats and system failures. Make sure your property, cyber, and liability insurance policies reflect these evolving exposures.
Robotics and Automation Liability
While robotics and automation may reduce specific job-site injuries, they also raise questions about equipment breakdown, product liability, and human-robot interactions. Review your insurance coverage for malfunctions, programming errors, and third-party claims arising from automation mishaps.
Temporary and Flexible Workforces
The gig economy and flexible staffing models are common in today’s plants and warehouses. This shift adds complexity to workers’ compensation, employment practices liability, and safety training requirements.
Data Privacy and Workplace Analytics
With the adoption of smart devices and analytics comes the responsibility to safeguard personal and operational data, underscoring the need for robust cyber liability insurance and clear protocols.
Stay Ahead of Risk: Protect Your Workforce and Coverage
Use these strategies to ensure your insurance, training, and compliance keep pace with evolving risks:
Assess and Update Insurance Regularly:
As your technology and labor models change, your insurance program should too. Work with an advisor who understands manufacturing risks and can proactively address coverage gaps.
Prioritize Training and Documentation:
Keep your workforce up to date on safety protocols for new tools and processes and document all safety initiatives.
Stay Ahead of Regulations:
Evolving workforce safety laws may require changes to both operations and insurance; CBIZ can help you remain compliant and protected.
Helping You Stay Ahead of Risk and Coverage Challenges
At CBIZ, we don’t just keep up with change; we help you stay ahead. Our team brings deep industry experience and tailored insurance solutions for manufacturers navigating new tech and labor trends.
Let’s work together to safeguard your workforce, manage new risks, and support your growth in 2026.
Contact a CBIZ advisor today!
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