AI for Workplace Safety: Kickstart your safety journey with Computer Vision

Computer Vision, Workplace Safety

Workplace Safety is not a new concept and has become one of the main priorities for organizations worldwide today. Maintaining a safe work environment comes across as a significant challenge for organizations, and safety managers are always on the lookout for newer and effective ways to first identify the safety hazards in the organization, effective workplace safety communication, and finally, render a safe working environment for their workers.

Why AI for Workplace Safety

Not only is it the requirement of the law, but also businesses are obligated to offer safety to their employees for a good number of reasons; safe workplaces are happy workplaces, more productive and profitable. With reduced accidents and injuries, safe workplaces improve employee engagement and encourage the wellness of employees and employers alike. Employers, regardless of the size of their organizations, are vested with a huge responsibility towards the safety of their employees and providing them with a hazard-free workplace.

Different health and safety laws promote the adoption of safety policies and procedures across organizations. These policies work as guiding principles throughout the decision-making process toward attaining health and safety objectives. However, knowing safety protocols and embracing policies is not enough and real challenges emerge when it comes to implementing these policies. There is a compelling need for a fail-proof system to ensure that employees within the organizations work without any harm to their health. 

Leveraging AI for Workplace Safety and Compliance

Computer vision, one of the many fields of AI, is proving to be the one-stop solution for solving many workplace safety-related issues. Accurate deep learning models combined with cameras enable employers to identify workplace hazards, continuously monitor dangerous environments, detect all instances of non-compliance and get real-time automated alerts for corrective actions. This is helping industries to optimize resources and prevent harm. Here are some ways in which you can use computer vision technology for workplace safety:

  • Video surveillance in coordination with computer vision models – Employers can use cameras to monitor workspaces and identify potential hazards, such as blocked exits, spills and leaks, and other safety violations. The video footage can be analyzed using computer vision algorithms to detect objects, track movements, and identify anomalies.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) detection: Computer vision algorithms can successfully detect if workers are wearing PPE, such as hard hats, gloves, and safety glasses. This is done through image or video analysis, and automated alerts are sent to supervisors in case of any violation.
  • Object detection and tracking: Workplaces can ensure maximum safety and effective work execution by marking exclusion zones using Vision AI. Also, the technology can aid in detecting and tracking objects in the workspace, such as forklifts, vehicles, and heavy machinery. This can help prevent collisions and alert workers from moving out of the way.
  • Slip and Fall detection: 26% of workplace injuries are caused by slips, trips and falls. Computer Vision solutions can help prevent accidents and injuries by identifying hazards that go unnoticed. It enables real-time monitoring for slip and fall detection and instant alerts to the response team members.
  • Early Smoke and Fire Detection: As per a report from NFPA, an average of 37,910 fires at Industrial or manufacturing properties were reported each year in the US between 2011 and 2015. Annual losses, other than casualties, were estimated at $1.2 billion in direct property damage. 

Implementing fire safety protocols at the workplace is one of the essential responsibilities of an employer and a mandate by law. Computer Vision solutions can accurately and effectively spot early signs of smoke and fire and help save lives and mitigate damages caused by industry fires.

  • Worker Ergonomics risk assessment: Ergonomic risks account for wear and tear in the body and can become reasons for injury. Machine Learning models based on posture detection can help to analyze worker behavior and identify potential hazards, such as fatigue, distractions, or unsafe practices, to avoid injuries related to overexertion and repetitive movement like lifting. 

These are some areas where Computer Vision is dramatically helping industries establish workplace safety and health as a core value, enabling them to integrate safety as a culture in the organization and take advantage of endless other benefits like helping them to reduce injuries, remain compliant with regulations, improve productivity, reduce costs and better worker engagement.

How safe is your workplace? 

Workplace safety is of utmost importance, and managing safety successfully can have innumerable benefits. Computer Vision is emerging as a critical technology to ensure it. By incorporating computer vision into your operations, you can enhance business efficiency and safeguard your employees’ well-being. Prioritizing workplace safety not only promotes good health but also protects your brand reputation. 

Begin your workplace safety journey today by incorporating VisionAI Workplace Safety solutions into your operations to prioritize the well-being of your employees and promote a safe and sustainable work environment.