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How AI can Aid the EHS Manager in Identifying Potential Safety Hazards in the Workplace

How AI can Aid the EHS Manager in Identifying Potential Safety Hazards in the Workplace

Since Artificial Intelligence was invented, how people work and live has changed significantly. While AI effortlessly learns and processes a huge amount of data, it has become an undeniable favorite tool for corporations across the globe. From personal to business uses, the options are endless. In a bid to automate multiple business procedures, identifying safety hazards has become a new addition.

An Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Manager must be present for these processes to occur. As described by ProtexAI in a guide, an EHS manager develops and implements effective safety programs to enhance the well-being of employees in a workplace. From training initiatives to recycling programs, the applications are numerous. They usually work with facility managers, but AI is fast becoming a new application.

To be an aide to the EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) Manager, AI has to identify, improvise, and mitigate safety risks in the workplace. Apart from the traditional approaches of audits, which can be time-consuming and inaccurate, AI can automate the process better. It works by analyzing data sources effectively to pinpoint patterns and improvement opportunities. This allows the EHS manager to focus on problem areas to establish efficacy-driven measures.

Here are some ways how AI can help EHS managers improve workplace safety:

Identify Patterns in Data

For AI to pick up patterns of equipment behavior, analyzing large data sets from machine sensors is vital. AI can easily highlight a potential safety hazard by using a data-driven approach to identify discrepancies, abnormalities, and disparate patterns. From overheated machines to unusual sounds from internal machinery, nothing is undetectable. In addition, employee feedback on production floors can also be incorporated. Not just limited to machines, slippery floors, poor lighting, and ventilation can also be noted. As long as data can be coordinated and consolidated, AI can use it for EHS managers to take preventive or corrective actions.

Potential Hazard Prediction

Through historical data, AI can swiftly detect consistent or probable recurring patterns. With this additional information, identifying the root causes of accidents is simple. By knowing the reasons behind different incidents, EHS managers can establish preventative measures to stop history from repeating itself. One of the best aspects is predictive modeling. It is a methodology that analyzes data using statistical algorithms to predict future outcomes. AI can instantly predict potential safety risks as long as a wide range of data sources is included, such as weather and machine data.

Empower Safety Training

Employees must be adequately trained and informed of the latest safety procedures to cultivate a safe workplace. AI can help analyze data from employee training programs. Struggling employees can be pulled aside and given a personalized approach to help improve. By addressing their pain points, employee safety awareness can be maximized to reduce the probability of accidents.

Drive Regulatory Compliance

With data, AI can be a potent ally for workplace safety. AI can instantly pinpoint areas lacking regulatory compliance through employee feedback, machine and environmental data. By being aware of areas that lack compliance, EHS managers can develop and implement measures for damage control. In some cases, corrective measures can be executed to ensure each area complies with the state’s regulations.

In Summary

AI is a powerful aid for EHS managers to identify potential safety hazards in the workplace by analyzing a vast range of data sources. Not just to prevent accidents, it is a helpful ally in ensuring the corporation is compliant with the state’s regulations to avoid legal implications. Despite AI’s many uses, it is not a direct replacement for human judgments but a tool for providing actionable insights to help EHS managers make informed decisions.

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5 Tips to Increase Industrial and Manufacturing Safety

Safety is a significant concern for anyone who cares about their well-being. In some cases, neglecting safety practices puts others at risk too. The adage “you are your brother’s keeper” means just that; look out for each other. Certain habits can safeguard you, while others can put you at risk. Therefore, choose your habits wisely.

If you’re running an industrial and manufacturing plant, you are concerned about the safety of everyone. You do not want high insurance bills and loss of working hours due to injuries you would otherwise have avoided. It has to be said, according to David Rowland, Head of Marketing at Engage EHS, that the responsibility for health and safety starts with the directors of a business. However, if they get this right, and instigate a cultural shift in their company, the benefits can include greater brand loyalty and a higher bottom line. Here are a few tips that’ll increase everyone’s safety while at the plant:

#1: Wear Safety Equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPEs) is a must in any industrial and manufacturing plant to enhance safety. As these are areas with various equipment, it is best to safeguard yourself at all times. Operating without PPE is putting not just yourself but others at risk. Make your employees aware of their responsibility for safety gear and ensure safety rules are strictly adhered to.

#2: Train Employees to Report Anomalies Immediately

The best practice is to bring to attention any anomalies one may encounter in the line of duty. Ignoring small irregularities like nails projecting from the floor, spilt liquid, or malfunctioning equipment can enhance the possibility of a catastrophe happening. Employees should seek the attention of the person responsible for corrective measures immediately.

Create a culture that makes it possible for any worker to report anomalies. Where possible, inspire them to immediately address the problem to avoid accidents and injury to others who may pass the same area and be oblivious to the danger. For instance, the person who discovers an oil spill on the floor should clear it up as soon as possible to prevent someone else from slipping. After cleaning up the spill, the employee can then report it to the supervisor, who will ensure it gets attention.

#3: Educate Workers on Safe Practices and Hazard Areas

A considerable number of hazards that occur in industrial and manufacturing plants are a result of negligence. Instruct your employees on how to correctly operate machinery, electrical equipment, handling toxic materials, etc. Some poisonous materials affect health and also expose the plant to fire and explosion risks.

When flammable materials are not in use, proper storage practices must be adhered to, ensuring they have assigned lockable storage. Ensure that the storage facility is away from ignition sources. Dispose of certain waste types daily–for instance, combustible waste. It is best to store them in metal repositories. At the same time, dust should not be allowed to accumulate as this is a fire hazard.

#4: Put Focus on Ergonomics

Ergonomics causes a considerable number of workplace injuries. Because industrial and manufacturing plants have heavy equipment and tools, there is a fair amount of bending and lifting required. Suppose your employees are not aware of the correct bending and lifting methodologies. In that case, the chances of them suffering from musculoskeletal disorders are high. Put a great deal of focus on ergonomics and educate your workers adequately.

#5: Avoid Workers Getting Fatigued

Electrical equipment operation requires alertness. When one is sleepy or suffers from fatigue, concentration becomes difficult, which is a recipe for disaster. To curb this problem, encourage your workers to take breaks throughout the day to maintain focus and alertness when working.

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Holly Shaw is a freelance business writer.