The article was authored by Fortune Elenwa.
How might AI be used within the workplace to reduce risk?
AI-powered technologies are reshaping workplace safety by enabling organisations to shift from reactive to proactive risk management. Predictive tools, real-time monitoring, and AI generated reporting allow businesses to identify hazards before incidents occur. Such technology which allows businesses to get ahead of risks includes wearable devices that track fatigue and stress, smart cameras identifying near-misses, and sensor technologies preventing collisions.
Further AI driven technologies to enhance workplace safety include robotics which are increasingly used to replace human workers in high-risk settings including heavy lifting operations and the handling of toxic chemicals, significantly reducing injury rates.
As well as AI supporting preventative health and safety measures, AI systems can enhance post-incident responses. AI systems can automatically capture and analyse data from incidents and near-misses, enabling faster investigation and learning. Smart cameras, for instance, can detect a fall or unsafe behaviour and trigger an immediate response, without inevitable delays that arise in manual reporting.
Despite advancements, uptake within workplaces remains low. According to the 2025 HSE Benchmarking Report, only 2% of organisations currently utilise AI to manage Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) data.
Benefits Vs the pitfalls of utilising AI
It is clear that the potential benefits of AI in workplace safety are substantial and include reduction of human exposure to hazardous environments, early risk prevention enabled by predictive analytics and real-time monitoring and enhanced accuracy and speed in incident reporting and analysis.
However, businesses are understandably wary and deterred by potential risks that incorporating AI into the workplace may present.
One key challenge is the lack of transparency in AI decision-making, which can complicate accountability. The International AI Safety Report 2025 highlights the need for transparency and auditability in AI systems. Cybersecurity is another critical concern; AI-driven systems are increasingly attractive targets for cyberattacks, and failures in securing these systems could result in operational disruptions and liability exposure.
To maximise the benefits of AI while mitigating and balancing risks, businesses should consider:
- Conducting detailed, AI-specific risk assessments - businesses should evaluate the potential safety, ethical, and operational risks unique to AI, within a specific risk assessment.
- Maintaining clear and auditable decision-making records - AI systems must be configured to document the data sources, parameters, and decision pathways, to create a traceable audit trail.
- Providing thorough training for employees on AI interactions - employees must be trained not only in how to work alongside AI systems but also in recognising potential system failures and escalating concerns.
- Engaging insurers and legal advice early when adopting AI solutions - involving insurers and legal representation at the design and procurement stages ensures that new AI implementations meet regulatory obligations.
How is the Health and Safety Executive responding to AI?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has confirmed that existing health and safety legislation, particularly the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 applies equally to AI use. The legislation’s goal-setting approach means businesses remain responsible for ensuring the safety of their systems, regardless of whether they involve AI technologies. However, recognising the evolving regulatory landscape, HSE has joined the 'Digital Regulation Cooperation Forum' to collaborate on oversight of AI across sectors. Current regulatory priorities include ensuring that AI applications are safe, secure, and robust. The approach of the HSE highlights the need for businesses to conduct rigorous risk assessments and maintain thorough oversight when implementing AI-based solutions.
Conclusion
AI offers significant potential to transform workplace health and safety. By approaching AI implementation responsibly and strategically and with robust advice, businesses can improve safety outcomes, reduce risk, and gain a competitive advantage in an increasingly regulated environment.
If you have any queries or questions regarding the utilisation of AI to transform workplace health and safety, do not hesitate to contact us.
References
- https://www.hse-network.com/how-ai-is-transforming-workplace-safety-report/#:~:text=AI%2Dpowered%20solutions%20are%20revolutionising,corrective%20measures%20before%20incidents%20occur.
- https://www.hse.gov.uk/news/hse-ai.htm
- https://www.weightmans.com/media-centre/news/ai-revolution-meets-regulation-how-the-health-and-safety-executive-is-regulating-ai/#:~:text=This%20means%20that%20the%20HSE,Safety%2C%20security%20and%20robustness.
- https://www.hse.gov.uk/news/hse-ai.htm
- https://axaxl.com/fast-fast-forward/articles/using-artificial-intelligence-to-create-a-
- https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/mckinsey-digital/our-insights/superagency-in-
- https://www.britsafe.org/safety-management/2024/ai-a-powerful-new-tool-for-managing-safety-risks
- https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/679a0c48a77d250007d313ee/International_AI_Safety_Report_2025_accessible_f.pdf
- https://www.warwicksciencepark.co.uk/warwick-firm-using-ai-to-predict-workplace-health-and-safety-incidents-before-they-happen/
- https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/topics/cybersecurity/partner-content/as-%20cybercriminals-use-ai-to-escalate-threats-how-can-law-firms-protect-themselves
- https://cms-lawnow.com/en/ealerts/2024/04/artificial-intelligence-and-occupational-health-and-safety-opportunities-and-risks
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