Landscape of Artificial Intelligence Use for Occupational Health and Safety Practice in Two Canadian Provinces

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Artificial intelligence (AI) can modernize occupational health and safety (OHS) practice and provide solutions to the most complex health and safety challenges. Empirical data on firm‐level AI utilization in OHS practice remain limited. The objective of this study was to examine AI use for OHS and firm‐level descriptive and OHS characteristics associated with AI use. Methods A total of 810 OHS professionals in British Columbia and Ontario, Canada were surveyed in the summer of 2024. Surveys asked about firm‐level AI use for OHS and items asked about descriptive and OHS characteristics. Participants were also asked about perceived AI concerns and OHS impact. A multivariate logistic regression model was fitted to examine factors associated with firm‐level AI use for OHS. Results In total, 29% reported firm‐level AI use for OHS. Larger‐sized firms and those with hybrid work arrangements had a greater odds of AI use for OHS. Also, firms with high workplace hazard exposure had a greater odds of AI OHS use. More positive perceptions of AI's impact on OHS were associated with firm‐level AI use for OHS. Conclusions AI use for OHS may be concentrated among hazardous firms and those with the conditions to support technological adoption. Research examining AI's effectiveness in OHS settings is needed to guide evidence‐based implementation in occupational health practice.

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