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4 Pallet C e nt ral • Ma rch -Ap r il 2 0 26 PALLETCENTRAL, Volume 26 No.2 PalletCentral ® is a bi-monthly publication of the NWPCA (becoming Woodpack Global™), © 2026 NWPCA (becoming Woodpack Global™). All rights reserved. NWPCA 225 Reinekers Lane, Suite 560 Alexandria, VA 22314 703-519-6104 info@palletcentral.com Advertising: To advertise in PalletCentral, contact Mark Barford at 703-519-0186 or mbarford@palletcentral.com. Publishing Partner: Tulip Media Group Subscriptions to PalletCentral ® are complimentary, however you need to subscribe: PalletCentral.com/pallet-subscription >>Subscribe Subscribe to ensure you receive the latest edition of PalletCentral ® and to make sure we have your correct mailing address and/or email address for digital editions. Please note that NWPCA (becoming Woodpack Global™) does not sell our mailing lists. ©2026 NWPCA (becoming Woodpack Global™). All rights reserved. The views expressed in all articles, editorials and advertisements appearing in PalletCentral are solely those of the author and advertiser, respectively, and do not necessarily represent the views of NWPCA. IN THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS 8 Leer From Our President 10 Policy At Play 12 Inside NWPCA 30 Our Advertisers 20 36 March-April 2026 • Volume 26 No. 2 42 | OSHA's New Leadership Priorities And Funding For FY 2026 Workplace safety policy is evolving in 2026 as OSHA advances modernization, predictive analytics, and expanded collaboration with industry to move from reactive compliance toward proactive injury prevention. Emerging AI tools, digital monitoring, and data-driven risk mitigation are reshaping how safety is managed across high-risk sectors. At the same time, funding and staffing limitations may narrow enforcement efforts to the most serious hazards and complaints. With Congress examining AI's role in workplace safety and legislation proposing higher penalties, employers should prepare for a regulatory landscape defined by technology, targeted enforcement, and continued political uncertainty. BY ADELE L. ABRAMS, ESQ., ASP, CMSP 36 | 4 Measures To Beer Manage Liability Claims Liability pressures are intensifying across the wood packaging industry as insurance markets tighten and claims grow more complex. Rising premiums, evolving exposures, and increased litigation risk are reshaping how manufacturers approach protection. In this environment, proactive risk management is not optional; it is essential. From clear documentation and rapid incident reporting to understanding policy structures and emerging cyber and environmental risks, preparedness strengthens both financial resilience and reputation. In a high-risk landscape, disciplined claims management is a competitive advantage. BY PAUL QUANDT, CIC, CFPS, CLCS 20 | Your Story Is Everything. Tell It Well And Success Will Follow Story is the foundation beneath every pallet shipped and every partnership built. While production metrics measure output, it is purpose that defines direction. In an industry shaped by resilience, innovation, and long-standing relationships, a clearly articulated story transforms identity into strategy. As the organization evolves into Woodpack Global, the name reflects a broader, more connected industry landscape, while the mission remains constant. Pallets move products across the world. A strong story moves the industry forward. BY JERICA KINGSBURY 32 | Cautious Optimism In A Holding Paern The wood packaging industry enters 2026 in a steady but restrained position. The latest Economic Pulse Survey reflects a sector defined by cautious optimism, tight margins, and uneven demand. While inflation has eased and conditions remain stable, growth is slow and forecasting remains difficult. Members are responding with discipline—controlling costs, maintaining staffing levels, and prioritizing flexibility over expansion. It is not a period of rapid acceleration, but one of preparation. Guarded confidence, grounded in operational resilience, continues to guide the industry forward. BY ANNETTE FERRI NATIONAL WOODEN PALLET & CONTAINER ASSOCIATION

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