Artificial intelligence: It’s “reshaping how safety teams work,” says Ryan Demelo, director of product marketing for EcoOnline.
“AI-powered hazard analysis speeds up risk assessments and identifies issues that may be overlooked,” he said. “AI also supports faster incident investigations and recommends possible corrective actions. In chemical safety, AI can suggest safer alternatives to hazardous substances.”
Rajiv Jalim, global head of sustainability at AMCS, echoed those thoughts.
“Possibly the biggest development is the integration of AI throughout safety programs in areas like risk management, training, vehicle safety and fire prevention,” Jalim said. “For example, AI-enabled software is helping to predict incidents before they happen by identifying deeper trends in historical data.
“In the field, AI is being integrated into bodycams, sensors and monitors for observing unsafe behaviors, triggering alerts, monitoring environmental conditions (temperature, weather, air quality, etc.) and protecting equipment.
“When used in training, AI is reducing the time taken to prepare and update safety videos and training manuals, catering to diverse audiences and in multiple languages.”
Adopting software
Demelo says successful integration of safety software – AI or not – comes down to three factors: training, strong internal champions and ease of use. “Safety software doesn’t need to be complex,” he said. “In fact, it is there to ease work and save time. Employers should embrace AI to simplify their safety programs, using it to streamline inspections, analyze incidents and assist with risk assessments.”
Jalim acknowledged this may be easier said than done because “some workers still view safety software as a policing tool employed by management.”
Employers should remind workers that safety software’s primary objective is “to promote safe working conditions by leveraging data to minimize risks and empower workers to make safer choices.”
He added: “When properly implemented, safety software becomes a tool for navigating new and changing job hazards, leading to a proactive safety culture that feels less regulated and more empowering.”
Compiled with the assistance of the International Safety Equipment Association
Coming next month:
- Hand protection
- Spills
