Shining a spotlight on AI
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Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the way we work, thanks to its ability to perform a wide variety of tasks and process large quantities of data, quickly. According to Helene Seidel-Sterzik, CEO and co-owner of ecoPortal, AI enhances workplace efficiency and could make workplaces safer and happier. “AI, put to good use, will foster a culture of continuous improvement in safety practices and employee wellbeing, supporting safer, healthier workplaces,” she says.
ecoPortal is sponsoring the Knowledge Hub – a two-day education program that’s part of Workplace Health & Safety Show (Sydney, 23-24 October 2024) and provides insights and practical knowledge to champion safety initiatives at workplaces. Led by industry experts, the program discussions relate to cutting-edge technology like AI, as well as worker wellbeing, injury prevention and safety performance evaluation.
From the use of AI-powered drones in construction sites to monitor and survey potentially dangerous building zones to the implementation of wearables like watches that collect critical data and the use of data analytics software to predict risks or language processing systems that can identify potential warning signs of mental health risks, AI-enabled solutions offer a host of benefits.
Enabling early detection and intervention
AI-powered monitoring systems can contribute significantly to the early detection and prevention of workplace hazards by continuously and automatically analysing data to identify patterns and trends that may indicate potential risks. This may include analysing environmental conditions such as air quality or noise levels, employee movements, or unsafe situations.
By using AI to monitor deviations from expected safety practices and then integrating those findings seamlessly and quickly, businesses can identify multiple previously unseen operational risks.
Enhancing engagement with safety culture
Aside from predicting and preventing risks, AI technology can significantly enhance worker engagement with workplace safety culture by providing personalised, automatic safety recommendations and feedback. AI-driven safety apps, for example, can deliver tailored safety tips based on individual roles and work environments, encouraging employees to actively participate in safety initiatives.
Four key considerations for AI integration
Helene outlines the major considerations for companies considering the use of AI in their health and safety programs and strategies. These include:
- Consistently putting data privacy and security first, ensuring the sensitive information collected by AI systems stays safe within the boundaries of what it was collected for.
- Ensuring AI algorithms are transparent and accountable, with mechanisms to address biases or errors.
- Providing adequate training to employees on interacting with AI-powered tools and interpreting their outputs accurately.
- Regular evaluation and updating of AI systems are essential to maintaining their effectiveness and adapting to changing workplace conditions.
“AI-driven predictive analytics will identify emerging risks before they escalate, allowing companies to implement preventive measures effectively, while AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots will provide immediate support for mental health issues and facilitate access to resources and interventions,” says Helene.
Further unpacking the benefits of technology for safety
ecoPortal will be among the more than 160 exhibiting brands at the Sydney Workplace Health & Safety Show (23 & 24 October 2024), showcasing a wide range of solutions that address the safety and wellbeing challenges facing businesses.
The exhibition complements the Workplace Health & Safety Show’s education programme, which features an exciting lineup of 75+ expert speakers who will discuss practical and actionable insights across 50 sessions on the three Summit stages.
Get everything you need to make your workplace safe, healthy and productive! Registration for the Show is free - Register today!