HESAG Africa champions the use of AI and digitalization in promoting safety and health at work

As the world marks this year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work, celebrated every 28th April under the auspices of the International Labour Organization (ILO), HESAG Africa is calling for a bold embrace of artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalization to transform workplace safety standards in Ghana.

This year’s theme, "Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalization at Work," highlights how emerging technologies can play a transformative role in preventing accidents, reducing injuries, and improving overall worker well-being.

Speaking in an interview, Dr. Selase Darkey, Director of Occupational Safety and Health at HESAG Africa, said that artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the landscape of workplace safety.

"Through AI, companies can now predict hazards before they happen," Dr. Darkey explained. "Data from sensors and workplace monitoring systems can be analyzed in real-time to detect risks such as equipment failures, gas leaks, or unsafe worker behaviour - prompting immediate action to prevent injuries and accidents."

Dzifa Ahadzi, Founding President of HESAG Africa, emphasized that digitalization goes beyond monitoring, it also includes using robotics to handle dangerous tasks traditionally assigned to human workers.

He underscored the role of robotics and automation in handling tasks that expose workers to dangerous conditions.

"In Ghana’s mining and construction sectors, we can deploy robots to perform hazardous duties such as inspecting unstable structures, handling toxic substances, or working in extreme temperatures," Dzifa Ahadzi noted.

"This not only protects human lives but also improves efficiency and compliance with safety standards."

Both safety leaders advocated for targeted investments in digital infrastructure, training programs, and public-private partnerships to ensure that Ghana's workforce can benefit from these innovations.

They stressed that while AI and robots offer significant opportunities, their deployment must be accompanied by strong ethical standards and regulations to safeguard workers' rights and ensure inclusive technological growth.

“AI systems can identify risks before they result in accidents, and suggest preventive measures," Dr. Darkey explained.

"Imagine a smart factory where sensors constantly monitor air quality, machinery conditions, and employee fatigue levels, instantly alerting supervisors to potential hazards."

The Founding President, Dzifa Ahadzi further emphasized that "Digitalization is not about replacing workers; it’s about creating safer, healthier, and more dignified working environments," Dzifa Ahadzi emphasized.

"The future of work in Ghana must prioritize human well-being alongside technological advancement."

HESAG Africa urges stakeholders - government, employers, industries, unions, and educational institutions to work together to integrate AI-driven solutions into occupational safety and health frameworks.

As Ghana joins the global community to reflect on workers' rights and safety on this important day, HESAG Africa's message is clear: embracing AI and digitalization is not just about the future of work—it is about saving lives of workers today.