Page 45 - OHS, April/May 2025

A R T I F I C I A L I N T E L L I G E N C E
Robots and Workers: Redefi ning Safety
Robots and humans are starting to work together to enhance workplace safety through
AI-driven solutions and human expertise.
BY DANIYAL SHAHID
nesses, but with evolving technology, a new question
Workplace safety has always been a top priority for busi-
arises: can robots take on the role of a safety offi cer?
Artifi cial intelligence (AI) and robotics are now
being used to detect hazards, enforce safety rules, and even re-
spond to emergencies. Th ese smart machines off er 24/7 monitor-
ing, quick hazard detection1, and instant alerts, making workplaces
safer than ever. Industries like construction, manufacturing, and
warehouses are already integrating AI-driven safety solutions.
However, while robots bring many advantages, they also raise con-
cerns about trust, decision-making, and human job security.
A small increase in the number of robots (about 1.34 robots per
1,000 workers) led to a drop in workplace injuries, reducing them
by 1.2 cases for every 100 full-time workers in the U.S. between
2005 and 2011.
Companies are using AI-powered devices and machines to de-
tect hazards, monitor environments, and respond to emergencies
faster than humans. Th ese robots work in areas like construction
sites and factories, identifying gas leaks, measuring air quality, and
even predicting accidents. By reducing risks and preventing costly
incidents, they are making workplaces safer while protecting both
workers and businesses.
Why Companies Turn to Robots
Seventy-seven percent2 of organizations that implemented Robotic
Process Automation (RPA) reported improvements in the consis-
tency and quality of decision-making processes. Workplace safety
is a top priority for businesses, and companies are always looking
for new ways to minimize risks. Robots and AI-powered systems
are becoming the perfect solution. Here’s why:
■ 24/7 Monitoring: robots can monitor work environments
round the clock, ensuring that safety protocols are always followed.
■ Quick Hazard Detection: Robots equipped with sensors
and cameras can quickly identify potential dangers, such as slip-
pery fl oors, unsafe machinery, or fi re hazards.
■ Instant Alerts & Response: AI-powered safety systems can
immediately alert workers and management when a risk is detect-
ed. Some advanced robots can even take action—such as shutting
down a faulty machine—to prevent accidents.
■ Cost-Eff ective: While robots require an initial investment,
they save companies money in the long run by reducing workplace
injuries3, medical costs, and legal claims.
Several industries have already started using safety robots. For
example, construction companies use drones to inspect risky ar-
eas, and warehouses use autonomous vehicles to transport goods
safely. Some factories even have AI-powered robots that remind
workers to wear safety gear.
As technology continues to advance, robots will play an even
bigger role in workplace safety. While they may not completely re-
place human safety offi cers, they can certainly assist them in creat-
ing a safer work environment for everyone.
Safety robots are changing the way workplaces detect and man-
age risks. A 10 percent4 rise in robot use is linked to a 0.066%
drop in workplace deaths and a 1.96% decrease in injuries. With
advanced sensors and AI, these robots can identify hazards like
gas leaks, overheating machinery, or unsafe working conditions
before they become serious problems. Th ey continuously scan
the environment, spotting dangers that human eyes might miss.
In industries like construction and manufacturing, where risks are
high, these AI-powered machines act as an extra layer of protec-
tion. By providing instant alerts, they help prevent accidents and
keep workers safe.
The Human vs. Robot Debate
Robots and AI-powered systems are improving workplace safety,
but can they truly replace human safety offi cers? Both have their
strengths and weaknesses, making this an ongoing debate.
W here Robots Excel:
■ 24/7 Monitoring: Robots don’t need breaks and can con-
tinuously scan the environment for risks.
■ Faster Hazard Detection: AI can instantly spot gas leaks,
fi re risks, or machinery failures.
■ Quick Emergency Response: Some robots can shut down
dangerous equipment or activate alarms
Where Humans Still Win:
■ Critical Th inking: Humans can analyze complex situations
and make quick decisions based on experience.
■ Adaptability: Workers can adjust safety measures in real
time, something AI struggles with.
■ Emotional Intelligence: A human safety offi cer can com-
municate with workers, understand their concerns, and create a
strong safety culture.
While robots can react quickly, they lack the ability to think
under pressure like humans. AI follows preset rules, but workplace
emergencies oft en require fl exible decision making. For example, a
robot may detect a fi re and trigger an alarm, but it won’t be able to
calm workers or organize an evacuation like a trained professional.
Th e best safety approach is a mix of AI and human expertise,
where AI and robots are tools that support human safety profes-
sionals rather than replace them entirely. Robots detect hazards
and respond fast, while humans provide judgment and leadership.
Future innovations will enhance this teamwork, making workplac-
es safer. Rather than replacing jobs, AI can support safety offi cers,
creating a smarter, more secure work
environment.
REFERENCES
1. tinyurl.com/w9uye4j6
2. tinyurl.com/429r5vs5
3. tinyurl.com/yzx36yry
4. tinyurl.com/4ttzuvj2
Daniyal Shahid is an independent
marketing analyst focused on technology
and innovation in business and how new
trends are shaping industries.
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