In the modern age, where technology intersects with almost every aspect of our daily lives, it’s a natural progression to leverage these advancements for safety. At OnderLaw, we champion efforts to prevent workplace injuries and recognize the monumental potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in this pursuit.
Surge in Workplace Fatalities – A Concern for All
Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) paints a concerning picture: the rise of workplace fatality rates in 2021 reached the highest level seen since 2016. This is not a statistic to be taken lightly. Lives are at stake. But there’s hope. Enter the transformative capabilities of AI in the workplace.
AI’s Powerful Trio for Safety
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), there are three standout technologies with the promise of not just enhancing safety but also offering organizational efficiencies:
1. Natural Language Processing (NLP): Once reserved for sentiment analysis in HR, NLP now plays a pivotal role in safety reporting. By swiftly analyzing massive amounts of safety data, from written reports to videos, NLP eradicates cumbersome manual processes. The Los Alamos National Laboratory’s partnership with Cority exemplifies the profound difference this can make, creating a centralized hub for safety insights.
2. Computer Vision Technology: Imagine a system that instantly identifies safety lapses – from missing personal protective equipment to potential workplace violence risks. Computer vision offers real-time surveillance, proactively catching potential hazards. With AI backing, this technology can even recognize alarming patterns, paving the way for preemptive measures.
3. Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics Engines: Instead of merely reacting to safety incidents, what if we could predict them? That’s the promise of these analytics engines. They can study historical safety data to pinpoint potential risks and suggest proactive interventions. The applications range from immediate alerts regarding on-site spills to managing potential workplace violence incidents with swift security measures.
Costs, Adoption, and Ethical Considerations
While the initial cost of these AI technologies might be a deterrent for some, especially smaller enterprises, the long-term benefits in prevention and productivity make a compelling case for their adoption. Moreover, with scalable models like ChatGPT available on a pay-as-you-go basis, AI’s reach becomes even more democratized.
However, as with all technological adoption, there’s a responsibility. Ensuring data privacy and addressing potential ethical concerns is paramount. Transparent communication with employees about data collection and its intended use is not only an ethical obligation but also instrumental in securing their trust.
OnderLaw’s Take
At OnderLaw, we’ve long been advocates for the safety of workers across industries. While AI and related technologies show immense promise in curbing workplace injuries and fatalities, it’s vital to approach them with the care, diligence, and ethical responsibility they warrant. We champion a future where every worker returns home safely, and with AI’s help, that future seems closer than ever.
For those who have faced workplace injuries or their aftermath, OnderLaw is here to offer legal guidance and support. Reach out to us today.
