What Role Should AI Play in Advancing Workplace Safety?

ASSP's Board of Directors recently approved a position statement on artificial intelligence (AI), as well as an AI Task Force, according to a Dec. 1 blog from ASSP President Pam Walaski. 

“AI holds immense promise, but its potential risks require that we act with caution and integrity,"Walaski wrote. "By embracing AI thoughtfully and responsibly, we can harness its potential to improve workplace safety, protect workers and create healthier work environments. But we also know that the use of AI introduces challenges, including privacy risks and the need to manage emerging hazards. As with any new technology, use of AI may introduce new hazards that require adaptive solutions. “

The group’s policy statement is as follows:

Trust

AI technologies lack the nuanced understanding of context and human factors that we provide as safety professionals. As the stewards of safety, we are critical in setting ethical and operational standards for AI and making sure these technologies enhance worker well-being.

Transparency

Leadership is built on clarity, trust and informed decision-making. Workers deserve transparency about what these systems do. Taking a transparent approach supports a workplace culture of accountability.

Equity

Equity is a cornerstone of a healthy and fair workplace. Decisions informed by AI, whether related to safety monitoring, risk analysis or workforce management, must be free from biases so they can support the collective well-being of all employees.

Privacy

Safety professionals play a key role in upholding workers’ rights to privacy. We must advocate for safeguards to prevent unauthorized access, misuse or exploitation of data collected through AI-based systems. Doing so reinforces our role as trusted advisors.

“AI holds immense promise, but its potential risks require that we act with caution and integrity.” Walaski writes. “As with any new technology, use of AI may introduce new hazards that require adaptive solutions.“