Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing workplace safety by expertly automating tedious and error-prone tasks, thereby enhancing decision-making and emergency responses. In today’s intricate business landscape, AI delivers customized solutions that not only boost productivity but also significantly improve operational efficiency. Embracing AI is essential for fostering a safer workplace and protecting your most valuable asset—your employees.

AI tools enable real-time monitoring, data analytics, and seamless communication, significantly improving coordination and decision-making efficiency. Here are some key benefits:

Real-Time Monitoring and Hazard Detection: AI, through machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics, can monitor safety data in real-time. It identifies potential hazards before incidents occur and deploys swift corrective actions.

Predictive Analysis for Risk Assessment: AI algorithms can analyse large safety datasets from production reports, management information systems, and other sources to detect unexpected and unmitigated risks, enabling prompt corrective measures.

Behaviour Recognition and Intervention: AI can detect unsafe behaviours and practices, such as non-compliance with personal protective equipment (PPE) and mishandling of hazardous materials. It immediately alerts the concerned personnel, offering a cost-effective alternative to human supervision in large workplaces.

Efficient Incident Response: AI algorithms can recognise images, situations, and objects related to safety incidents, deploying immediate emergency responses to affected areas.

Points of Consideration

Data Training: The effectiveness of AI tools depends on the quality of the training dataset. Currently, most data is collected manually and may contain inherent biases. It is crucial to moderate the dataset appropriately for desired results. Additionally, acquiring a large training dataset that reflects all probable conditions can be challenging.

Cyber Security Concerns: As AI automates most processes and controls of operations and production, business operations become more susceptible to cyber security vulnerabilities. To mitigate these risks, stringent protocols and increased personnel training are essential.

Algorithmic Integrity and Bias Mitigation: If the training data is not moderated correctly, human biases and skewness can become embedded within the AI algorithm. To ensure fairness and equitable responses for all workforce demographics, AI needs compensatory actions built into its design.

Applications of AI for Safety Within Adani

Remote Hazard Monitoring through CCTV and Drone Cameras: AI-based hazard monitoring systems utilise CCTV and drone camera footage to identify unsafe acts, conditions, and potential hazards in expansive business areas. This technology is in place at AdaniConneX, Adani Airports, and RMRW, being used for condition monitoring, infrastructure inspection, surveillance, and emergency response.

ADAS with DMS for Road and Vehicle Safety: AI-based Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with Driver Management Systems (DMS) can combat unsafe driver behaviour and on-road uncertainties. They provide real-time feedback on vehicle and road conditions to drivers and fleet control, ensuring efficient and safe operations. This technology is currently in use at ATGL for Cascade Vehicles, ALL in the trucking business, and at APSEZ at its three sites – Dahej, Dhamra, and Krishnapatnam, with other sites under review.

AI has revolutionised business operations, turning mundane, repetitive tasks into efficient, data-driven processes. By leveraging AI, organisations can create more efficient, innovative, and inclusive workplaces. As technology continues to evolve, responsible AI adoption will enhance worker safety while improving productivity and efficiency.

The writer is Group Head -Safety