My Experience Using AI for Safety and Health
Artificial Intelligence is already a very powerful tool. It has the capabilities to drastically cut down on the amount of time in many areas of safety management from looking up safety regulations to writing programs and policies. Though it has many capabilities, it is important that we view it as an emerging technology which is still in trial phases. More importantly, it is a tool in our toolbox, not a replacement for our brain.
For carpenters, the nailgun was thought to replace the hammer in their toolbox. While it’s true the nailgun has replaced the hammer in many rough framing and finish carpentry tasks for its ability to fasten quickly and efficiently, the hammer is still carried and used by every carpenter in the industry. The hammer, along with the other simple tools in the carpenter’s bag may never be replaced because it is a lightweight, versatile, portable and reliable tool that is proven to get the job done time and time again.
For safety professionals, our education, experience and problem solving ability is likened to these simple tools. First there was an OSHA book and paper pamphlets, then websites and search engines. Now, AI is entering the fray which has the capability to move the needle to the next level of safety if used correctly. Just as the carpenter still carries their simple tools, we must carry ours and use the advanced tools we have available to us to shorten the time in constructing the framework of our tasks. We use our simple, trusted tools to check the results are verify accuracy or applicability.
While AI technology continues to evolve rapidly. In my brief experience using AI I have seen it work very well for some things and not so well for others. I have developed these principles to guide me when using AI to keep myself grounded and I encourage others to do the same or share ideas here!
Think: This will get me 80% there, I need to do the final detail work to cross the finish line.
Always proofread and verify resources.
Nothing replaces human interaction. Discuss issues in person or pick up the phone to talk through an issue. Continue to talk to people on site and build positive working relationships. I am not a robot and neither are they.
If something seems incorrect or inaccurate, it probably is. Trust in myself and my experience.
Avoid developing an overreliance. Take time to read, study, observe and research on my own to continue developing my knowledge base and capabilities.
As a courtesy to others, disclose when AI was used extensively and if necessary the purpose it served. This creates transparency which builds trust.
Remember: The reason we are doing this is to help people get home safely and the end of each day!
Written by: Matthew Chasse
