Durant, Okla. – In an incredibly tight margin, Oklahoma State University claimed the championship of the 2026 Safety Olympics hosted by Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s department of Occupational Safety and Health. 

OSU margin of victory over Montana Tech was 1/100th of a point. Montana Tech was the champion of the event two years ago. 

The Safety Olympics consisted of seven teams competing in six aspects of occupational safety and health: Hazard Recognition, Incident Investigation, Presentation Preparation, Safety Culture, Safety Innovation, and Safety Jeopardy. Over two days, the teams were scored and ranked. 

“Thank you to all the teams that came to participate in the 2026 Safety Olympics competition,” said Dr. Mellena Nichols, associate professor of occupational safety and health and Southeastern team coach. “It’s always great to have the competing schools visit us in Durant, as we’re also thankful for our sponsors and judges from companies and construction facilities across the region supporting the teams.” 

Teams in the competition were:

Southeastern Oklahoma State
University of Central Missouri (Warrensburg, Mo.)
Collin College (Collin County, Texas)
Montana Technical University (Butte, Mont.)
Oklahoma State University (Stillwater, Okla.)
Pittsburg State University (Pittsburg, Kans.)
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

2026 SAFETY OLYMPICS SCOREBOARD

A total of 39 vendors from across the nation were represented at Thursday’s annual Safety Career Fair as well.

About Southeastern

Founded in 1909, Southeastern Oklahoma State University provides an environment of academic excellence that enables students to reach their highest potential. By having personal access to excellent teaching, challenging academic programs, and extracurricular experiences, students will develop skills and habits that promote values for career preparation, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning. Our over 6,000 students include 50% first-generation students and 28% students of Native American descent, with 82% receiving financial aid. Southeastern ranks amongst the most affordable schools in the region thanks to out-of-state tuition waivers and is proud of its exceptional affordable accredited MBA program, stellar aerospace and teacher education programs, and outstanding national ranking in graduating Native American students.