The Future of Workplace Safety

What if artificial intelligence (AI) could help prevent workplace injuries before they happen? Through a new pilot project, we’re exploring how AI ergonomic assessments can help reduce workplace sprains and strains. This initiative brings together Halifax-based company Vergo, the Workers’ Compensation Board of Nova Scotia, and the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Association to test how AI can identify safer ways of working across our communities.

Using a pre-trained AI system, the project analyzes short video clips of routine work tasks to pinpoint movements and postures that may carry a higher risk of injury. The goal is to better understand how work is done and improve job design.

Thanks to the Great People at Opal Ridge Hall, Dartmouth, N.S. and Moody Hall, Halifax, N.S. dozens of tasks have already been submitted for assessment. These include work completed in serveries, laundry, housekeeping, maintenance, and clinical areas. To safely capture care-related tasks, team members have also used training environments where simulated scenarios help demonstrate how this work is performed.

Thank you to everyone who has participated! Your commitment to safety and openness to new approaches helps reduce injuries and strengthen a culture where health, safety, and wellness are shared priorities.