National Safety Council and Wolters Kluwer Enablon Report Finds Rapid AI Adoption in Workplace Safety

National Safety Council and Wolters Kluwer Enablon announced in a press release that artificial intelligence is being rapidly integrated into workplace safety programs across U.S. industries. The report, titled The Safety Shift: EHS Readiness in 2026, surveyed 1,053 professionals in environmental, health, and safety, operations, and risk management roles.

According to the findings, 20 percent of organizations report extensive AI integration within EHS programs, while 62 percent report moderate or limited use. More than 80 percent of respondents said their organizations are mostly or fully ready to deploy AI, yet only 11 percent operate fully digital EHS systems. Most organizations still rely on hybrid workflows that combine manual and digital processes.

The report highlights a cautious approach among professionals. Ninety percent expressed concern about AI use, with 65 percent identifying overreliance as a key risk. Respondents also agreed on the need for clear governance and human oversight to ensure AI supports rather than replaces safety decision making.

Survey participants identified operational risks such as fatigue, infectious disease, and an aging workforce as current priorities, while 87 percent said mental health should be part of the EHS mandate. The report concludes that progress in digital systems and data quality will be essential for organizations seeking to expand AI use in workplace safety.