Over the last few years, artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT and DALL-E have led to an explosion of new features being built into the software, apps and systems we use every day. Companies like Google, Microsoft and Meta are leading the charge (and spending billions of dollars) to win the AI race.
What does all of that have to do with the construction industry? While construction remains a hands-on profession driven by highly skilled, trained workers, there are still areas where AI tools are making waves.
“Many of today’s new technologies have the potential to impact worker safety and health,” says LHSFNA Management Co-Chairman David F. Rampone. “Just like we would assess a new safety helmet or another innovative piece of PPE, we should be assessing AI and other digital tools based on a simple question: ‘Does this improve workers’ safety on the job?’”
Let’s take a look at some potential safety and health outcomes – both positive and negative – of bringing these tools into the workplace.
Potential safety improvement – Faster hazard detection
A combination of cameras, sensors and AI-powered safety management systems have the potential to provide continuous monitoring of the work environment. This could be especially helpful on large sites, where safety personnel are tasked with monitoring various hazards simultaneously.
We’ve previously covered how drones can be used for this purpose. Adding AI systems to drones or other cameras could automate the hazard-detection process, allowing for hazard alerts in real time or monitoring at a central work trailer or similar location. Similarly, AI-enabled wearables like smart helmets, safety vest attachments and other items are designed to alert workers and supervisors about hazards in real time.
Potential safety improvement – Improved incident reporting & analysis
The ability of AI systems to scan text and summarize that information could save safety professionals time by reducing the administrative work of written incident reports. This would allow a greater focus on proactive safety measures, such as conducting site inspections and fostering a positive safety culture.
Additionally, safety professionals may benefit from allowing AI to analyze safety metrics, written incident reports and both leading and lagging indicators to uncover trends that could improve safety on site.
Potential safety risk – Disconnecting written plans from reality
While AI tools can save significant time in writing documents, they should never be used to replace the certified safety professionals who perform Job Hazard Analysis and create an employer’s Site Safety & Health Program.
“An employer’s written safety and health plan must accurately reflect the hazards present on the jobsite, and employers must understand and implement the mitigation steps outlined in that plan,” says Ryan Papariello, the LHSFNA’s Safety and Health Specialist. “Relying on a generic, AI-generated safety and health program is not a substitute for a site-specific program developed by a safety professional.”
The LHSFNA’s OSH Division regularly assists LIUNA signatory contractors with reviewing and developing site-specific safety and health programs. To request this service, log into the Fund’s website and click on Services.
Potential safety risk – Data collection & privacy
Large amounts of data collection also raise concerns over data security and worker privacy. Employers need to be clear with workers about what data is being gathered and what it will and will not be used for. Employers also need to take the necessary steps to comply with federal and state laws around data privacy and security.
Similar to our coverage about using wearables to monitor workers for heat illness, workers need to feel confident these technologies are being used for their benefit, not as a “gotcha” that could cost them their jobs.
Like most new technologies, AI promises innovation, cost savings and efficiency. It may even deliver on those promises. To avoid putting workers at risk, employers should ensure that any potential new AI tools undergo testing before being implemented and that data and reporting are regularly monitored by safety personnel.
Treating AI as another tool in the toolbox, not a silver bullet to solve safety and health issues onsite, will help prevent these technologies from doing more harm than good on construction jobsites.
[Nick Fox]
