On 28 April of every year, the International Labour Organization (ILO) observes the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, promoting safe and healthy working conditions for all employees. This day is dedicated to promoting the prevention of accidents at work and industrial disease around the world. This year’s theme, "Revolutionising Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalisation at Work," highlighted the potential of new technology in preventing workplace accidents.
The Importance of Safety at Work
Safety at work is a crucial aspect of any company. Safeguarding the health and safety of employees not only protects them from injury but also enhances efficiency and morale. In 2023-2034, the ILO confirmed that every year, worldwide, 93 2.93 million workers die of work-related causes, and 395 million workers suffer a non-fatal injury at work. 41 million workers in the world are estimated to be exposed to excessive heat, and the ILO estimates that $361 billion could be saved each year if improved procedures were put in place to prevent injuries from excessive heat in work environments.
These statistics highlight the need for nonstop efforts to improve safety in the workplace.
The Role of AI and Digitalisation
This year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work focuses on the capability of AI and digitalisation to revolutionise occupational safety and health (OSH) systems. New AI technology can use data and algorithms to identify workplace risks and hazards, and to provide instant feedback to staff members to help them reduce their risk of injury at work. AI-powered systems can detect if workers are failing to wear any required personal protective equipment (PPE), so they can then issue an immediate notification to the employee. Moreover, AI systems can use highly accurate algorithms to predict incidents such as explosions in coal mines, 30 minutes before they happen. This pre-emptive approach allows companies to tackle safety issues head-on to create a safer and healthier workplace for everyone.
With enhanced technology, industrial robots are even being used to carry out dangerous assembly line tasks, such as managing toxic materials or doing heavy lifting, or can work side by side with humans in dynamic workplaces. Drones can also be used to carry out inspections at hazardous locations, avoiding the need for humans to be exposed to risky zones such as power lines.
A Culture of Prevention
The ILO's campaign looks to revolutionise workplace safety by promoting the sharing of information, experiences, and best practices among employers, workers, governments, and organisations.
We must recognise the huge importance of workplace safety to prevent accidents at work. By embracing the potential of AI and digitalisation, companies can review their practices to create safer workplaces and working practices for workers worldwide.
