Ever considered a smart assistant dedicated to ensuring workplace safety and compliance? Picture AI as your high-tech safety officer, analyzing real-time data and identifying potential issues before they become non-compliant. This is not just science fiction – it’s happening right now.

But the big question is: Is AI truly revolutionizing how we handle safety and compliance, or is it just another fancy gadget?

With advanced algorithms, real-time monitoring, and predictive analytics, AI is reshaping regulatory requirements by transforming the way safety protocols are managed in workplaces. So, AI is not just a shiny new toy; it’s a powerful tool that actively enhances risk management, streamlines compliance processes, and fosters safer work environments. The integration of AI into existing EHS monitoring systems is proving to be a game-changer, making a tangible impact on how safety and compliance are overseen today.

The impact of AI on workplace safety

In today’s industrial landscape, the idea of operating safely without AI seems increasingly unrealistic. Modern environments are too complex and fast-paced, requiring a level of vigilance and accuracy that traditional methods struggle to provide.

AI technologies, with their advanced data analysis and real-time monitoring capabilities, offer a significant advantage in tracking compliance, enabling EHS teams to respond quickly to emerging issues, reduce the risk of accidents, and enhance overall workplace safety.

According to Gary Ng, CEO of viAct, an AI company from Hong Kong, “As industries evolve and risks increase, AI’s role in safeguarding operations, especially in high-risk workplaces, becomes not just beneficial but essential.” Ng further explains, “Automotive manufacturing units observed a 92% faster Risk Assessments & Safety Audits, thanks to AI, reducing non-compliance issues due to Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPs).”

Also Read: How to leverage Gen AI-enabled chatbots for workplace safety?

Traditional manual safety checks by EHS teams through periodic inspections may lead to operational disruptions as these methods struggle to keep up with the modern operation lines’ rapid pace and complexity. AI, through IoT sensors and cameras in modern facilities, continuously monitors equipment and worker behavior in real-time.

This proactive approach prevents accidents by ensuring compliance with safety standards, underscoring how AI has become crucial in industrial environments like manufacturing, construction, oil & gas, mining, and logistics. It is not just a luxury but a vital element for maintaining a safe and efficient operation.

The role of Generative AI in workplace safety

In today’s industrial landscape, another revolution in AI for workplace safety comes from Generative AI. Imagine a workplace where AI doesn’t just observe safety compliance through video analytics but actively participates in it – that’s the transformative power of Generative AI in reshaping safety and compliance management.

viAct’s safety chatbot named “viGent” is a powerful example of Generative AI that has revolutionized how EHS teams operate. Instead of relying on manual checks or waiting for reports, viGent provides real-time assistance, helping EHS teams identify and resolve safety issues 85% quicker, ensuring 90% improvements in safety practices, and contributing to a 70% long-term safety enhancement. Generative AI is an upgrade that is reshaping the approach to workplace safety, making systems more proactive and intelligent.

What sets Generative AI solutions like viGent apart is their ability to tap into vast data pools, offering insights and predictions that go beyond reaction to incidents, helping prevent them by identifying risks early on. These AI applications seamlessly integrate data from multiple sources, such as video analytics and IoT sensors, for compliance monitoring and assistance.

Also Read: Why AI will play a critical role in brand strategy

Striking the right balance

As AI continues to transform workplace safety, finding the balance between innovation and regulation is crucial. AI-powered tools, like safety chatbots, integrate advanced video analytics and IoT data, which come with regulatory responsibilities.

AI’s real-time monitoring and guidance of workers must align with existing safety standards and laws. Ensuring that AI solutions comply with local and international safety regulations is essential for their widespread adoption.

viAct’s Responsible AI Approach exemplifies finding the balance between innovation and regulation. This approach ensures that AI technologies enhance workplace safety while upholding ethical and legal standards through transparent data handling practices and designing AI systems that align with regulatory frameworks at their core.

Such approaches enable industries to confidently adopt AI-driven solutions, knowing that the technology supports both operational efficiency and compliance with stringent safety regulations.

The future of workplace safety lies at the intersection of AI innovation and safety regulation, driven by responsible AI practices, embracing progress while ensuring worker protection and regulatory alignment.

—

Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic

Join our e27 Telegram group, FB community, or like the e27 Facebook page

Image credit: Canva Pro

The post Workplace safety getting a tech makeover with AI appeared first on e27.