AI in health and safety: what impact is it having on the industry?
The health and safety industry is already being influenced by the power of AI, which is revolutionising the way training is delivered. To what extent, however, will it benefit the industry and will there be adverse effects?
As technology advances and adoption increases, more significant improvements in workplace safety and health outcomes are likely but it seems there is still a long way to go.
Challenges and Risks of AI in the health and safety sector
Some of the challenges and risks that the health and safety industry is currently facing includes:
The infallibility of technology vs people – some technological errors in risk detection could lead to overlooked dangers. Companies that are solely reliant on AI to detect risks may find that human judgement and experience is still required. AI should therefore assist and not replace health and safety managers and decision-makers.
Limited human interaction – the use of AI in the workplace reduces or eliminates the opportunity for discussion and for teams to ask face-to-face questions, and therefore receive immediate feedback.
Data protection and AI-powered surveillance can feel invasive leaving teams feeling uncomfortable, controlled and micromanaged. Hacking is also a serious concern to individuals as AI systems have the potential to expose employee health data, security footage, or work habits.
This article on a recent US study around AI’s impact on workplace safety suggests few organisations have leveraged AI’s potential for improving safety protocols.
Benefits of AI in the health and safety sector
Conversely, AI can benefit the health and safety industry significantly by making workplaces safer, reducing risks and improving compliance.
Identifying risks – AI has the power to identify patterns, asses risk factors and predict future risks such as equipment failures, environmental hazards and worker behaviour, notifying employees of potential dangers before they lead to accidents. Wearable safety tech can also prevent accidents.
AI benefiting health and safety trainers – if trainers utilise AI as a tool to enhance teaching methods, they may find their courses become far more streamlined. AI can tailor health and safety training based on an individual’s knowledge level, ensuring effective learning. Virtual Reality can also enable trainees to experience real-life scenarios in a safe environment.
Streamlining reporting – AI can generate reports, analyse causes of accidents and suggest corrective actions as well as automating compliance checks, eliminating the need for manual paperwork.
Here is an interesting article on leveraging AI in safety management.
Safety Nation has certainly seen the benefits of AI and how it’s enhancing workplace safety, compliance and efficiency. The IOSH Managing Safely Course in particular will inevitably be improved by technological advancements, such as VR and we already have personalised training programs in place.
IOSH Magazine looks at how AI is transforming health and safety and IOSH also released a statement on AI opportunities action plan, stating: “IOSH is pleased to see the Government plans for boosting investment in AI opportunities across the UK with the ultimate goal of achieving economic growth, prosperity and social good.”
AI also plays a crucial role in reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability. It enhances IEMA training by optimising sustainable resource management and green supply chain management, monitoring compliance with environmental regulations, and reduces the carbon footprint, amongst many other benefits.
Safety Nation believes that a hybrid model is the best approach for organisations. We offer bespoke in-company, virtual and e-learning training courses that all benefit from dedicated tutors, whilst utilising the power of AI to complement our training methods.