- The tools are already here. Now, it’s about leveraging them to their full potential.
- True potential of workplace safety is unlocked when there is a perfect synergy between AI-driven safety software and the expertise of EHS teams.
Have you ever wished for a miracle while managing a bustling worksite with cranes swinging overhead, forklifts navigating tight corners, and heavy machinery roaring in the background—all at the same time?
On top of that, imagine being responsible for worker safety when someone unknowingly steps into a restricted zone without wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
In such chaotic environments, even the most vigilant supervisors can miss critical moments.
With AI-powered safety management systems, this scenario unfolds differently. Within seconds, the system identifies the breach, sends real-time alerts to the environment, health and safety (EHS) team, and prompts immediate corrective action—averting a potential accident.
According to the 2024 report from McKinsey, while in the past six years, AI adoption by organisations stood at around 50 per cent, this year the jump to 72 per cent has been observed.
The burning question still stands—Can AI for workplace safety offer the same level of assurance as a hands-on EHS manager?
AI-powered EHS monitoring systems collect real-time data, adapting seamlessly to the evolving conditions of a worksite—whether it’s adjusting to rising temperatures in a mining operation or detecting a crane operator distracted by a call on the cell phone.
However, the true potential of workplace safety is unlocked when there is a perfect synergy between AI-driven safety software and the expertise of EHS teams. This collaboration creates a robust safety ecosystem, where technology and human oversight work hand-in-hand to anticipate, detect, and mitigate risks more effectively.
Let’s explore how!
AI as a proactive safety partner
The transformative power of AI for workplace safety lies in its ability to anticipate dangers and act proactively. For instance, the inclusion of computer vision for safety continuously scans worksites, detecting violations like missing PPE, unsafe machinery operation, or workers entering hazardous zones.
Unlike periodic human checks, AI operates 24/7, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks.
Analysing data for safety insights
Data is a goldmine for improving safety outcomes. Every near-miss, incident, or equipment failure holds lessons. Through AI video analytics, companies can uncover patterns and gain actionable insights.
For example, let’s say a particular area on the factory floor or construction site sees a higher frequency of slips or falls.
The AI video analytics integrated into the system doesn’t just identify the incident; it goes a step further by analyzing the environment. It may be noted that poor lighting or slippery flooring is a contributing factor and can automatically suggest changes—such as installing better lighting or upgrading flooring materials.
The true value of this analytical power lies in its ability to guide EHS teams toward data-driven decisions that continuously refine and improve safety protocols. Instead of relying on anecdotal evidence or reactive measures, AI allows for a more precise, evidence-backed approach to safety management.
GenAI enhancing safety solutions
In high-risk and labour-intensive industries, standard safety guidelines often aren’t enough to tackle the unique challenges that arise on-site. This is where Generative AI steps in, offering the ability to craft bespoke safety solutions tailored to specific site conditions.
By simulating various scenarios, Generative AI can develop customized safety plans, including evacuation routes, risk assessments, and training modules that mirror real-life challenges. This adaptability ensures that safety measures evolve as conditions change, helping organisations stay one step ahead in managing risks.
Virtual assistants boosting communication
Conversational AI chatbots act as virtual assistants to EHS managers on site. From providing updates on project schedules to summarising the day’s compliance report in a click, the communication flow gathers substantial pace.
Suppose a worker is having severe back pain issues on a busy day at work. Unable to understand the reason, he types in a prompt on the safety chatbot – “I’ve been working on a construction site for the past six hours, constantly bending and lifting heavy materials. Now, my back hurts severely. Can you look into my posture analysis?”
Using ergonomic assessments through computer vision technology, the AI can summarise the worker’s movements during the tasks for the day and suggest – “It seems that your posture is strained due to prolonged bending and heavy lifting. I recommend adjusting your stance to keep your back straight and knees slightly bent when lifting. Take a 10-minute break, stretch, and hydrate. If the pain persists, report to the onsite health team for a check-up.”
It does sound futuristic but conversational AI chatbots like viGent are already implementing such communicative processes for workplace safety in the real world.
Managing safety involves more than just monitoring—it requires audits, compliance checks, and meticulous record-keeping. From generating digital checklists to sending automated alerts, AI ensures no detail is overlooked.
AI is reshaping workplace safety, not by replacing human oversight, but by enhancing it. The tools are already here. Now, it’s about leveraging them to their full potential!
- Gary Ng is the CEO and Co-Founder of viAct, one of Asia’s top Sustainability-focused AI company that provides “Scenario-based Vision Intelligence” solutions for risk prone workplaces.