What would be the safest thing to do if you encounter a honey badger

The answer is back away slowly and don't make any sudden movements.

Don't corner it primarily, much like many animals it's more likely to flee than confront a threat if it has an escape route.

Stay calm and do not attempt to touch or hold the honey badger, even if you want to. Simply move away in a non-threatening manner.

If you do provoke one into a fist fight you're probably going to lose, don't bother trying to hide in a tree, they can climb.

At the end of the day, honey badger don't care.