By: Natalie Johnson

On-the-job accidents in the United States continue to have significant financial and human costs. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the total cost of work injuries, including medical expenses and lost productivity, reached an estimated $176.5 billion in 2023.

This ongoing challenge is particularly relevant for industries that are crucial to New York’s economy, such as construction and logistics. Intenseye, a startup based in Silicon Alley, is working to address this problem through innovative solutions.

The company’s mission is to shift workplace safety from a reactive to a more predictive model using artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

The High Cost of a Reactive System

Workplace injuries remain a significant concern across various industries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that private industry employers experienced 2.6 million nonfatal injuries in 2023.

At present, the standard approach to safety tends to be reactive, focusing on managing incidents after they occur rather than preventing them upfront. This model has serious implications for employers and employees alike, with consequences such as lost productivity and medical expenses for employers, and physical harm and financial strain for employees. One category alone, overexertion, costs employers an estimated $12.8 billion annually.

When an accident happens, the resulting process can often become complicated and adversarial. The reactive approach frequently leads to disputes over claims, causing injured workers to seek assistance from a workers’ compensation lawyer to navigate the system. This is especially true given that approximately 7% of initial claims are denied, leaving workers to fight for the benefits they are entitled to.

How Predictive AI Technology Works

The Intenseye platform uses existing infrastructure in the workplace, such as cameras and wearable sensors, to collect extensive real-time data. This information is then processed by an AI system.

The AI analyzes this data to detect patterns and potential precursors to accidents, helping to identify risks before they become threats. This is achieved through the creation of a “digital twin” of the worksite—a virtual model that allows managers to simulate and spot potential hazards, which is a concept that has been explored by multiple research institutions.

The platform’s key features include:

• Real-Time Hazard Detection: The system identifies immediate dangers, such as liquid spills, improperly placed equipment, or workers entering restricted high-risk areas.

• Unsafe Behavior Recognition: The AI can detect non-compliance with safety protocols, such as workers not wearing safety harnesses or hard hats in required zones.

• Predictive Risk Modeling: By combining historical and real-time data, the AI forecasts periods or locations with higher risk, enabling proactive measures to be taken.

• Automated Alerts: Supervisors and workers are sent immediate notifications via mobile devices or wearables when a potential hazard is identified, allowing for swift intervention.

A Mission to Redefine Safety Standards

The Intenseye platform was developed by its leadership team, who bring a diverse set of skills in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Their goal is to move beyond traditional safety protocols, focusing on proactive, real-time prevention rather than simple compliance and reporting. Motivated by the limitations of conventional safety systems, the company applies its technical expertise to help organizations identify risks earlier and create safer, more informed working environments.

The Broader Trend of AI in Workplace Safety

This trend is part of a wider shift toward the integration of artificial intelligence in safety management systems. AI is increasingly being used to detect hazards and improve compliance, offering significant potential improvements in workplace safety. Although there are still challenges to be addressed—such as ensuring the privacy of employee data and fostering trust in automated systems—the technology holds potential for significant advancements in workplace safety.

The Future of Jobsite Safety in New York

AI platforms like the one developed by Intenseye are gradually transforming workplace safety from a reactive model to a more proactive, data-driven strategy. The potential benefits for New York’s key industries are clear: safer work environments, reduced costs, and more efficient operations.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as specific advice or recommendations. While the article discusses the capabilities of Intenseye’s predictive AI technology, it is based on publicly available information and may not reflect all aspects or updates related to the company or its services. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research or consult with relevant professionals for more detailed and tailored guidance.