Next Generation Prevention

Next generation prevention in workplace safety and prevention

WorkSafe is adopting a next generation prevention approach to workplace safety and prevention.

This a holistic approach that leverages advanced technology and data analytics to proactively manage and prevent a wide range of physical and psychosocial hazards in a rapidly evolving world of work.

For more than 20 years, WorkSafe Saskatchewan, the injury prevention partnership between the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) and the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, has championed workplace safety in the province.

Over this time, due to the efforts of workers, employers and safety leaders, Saskatchewan’s Time Loss injury rate has decreased by almost 70 per cent.

But injuries and fatalities continue to happen in our workplaces. To take the next step in workplace safety, WorkSafe Saskatchewan is looking to next generation prevention.

Prevention through innovation

WorkSafe Saskatchewan is embracing the advances that are revolutionizing workplace safety globally. Traditional approaches focused on injury statistics after they happened.

Now, we’re relying on leading indicators, predictive analytics and human and organizational performance principles to spot risks early and act before injuries or illnesses happen. There is also a recognition that physical safety must include psychological health and overall well-being of workers.

“WorkSafe Saskatchewan’s next generation prevention approach moves beyond traditional compliance to build a comprehensive, data-driven safety culture.”

Why next generation prevention

Next generation prevention is necessary to meet the complex challenges of the future workplace, address evolving psychosocial risks, utilize the potential of new technologies ethically and ultimately prevent harm more effectively and reduce injuries and incidents.

Key elements of WorkSafe’s next generation prevention include:

  • The use of artificial intelligence (AI), wearable devices and automation to monitor conditions, predict risks and prevent incidents in real time.
    • AI and data analytics: Analyzing vast amounts of data to identify patterns, forecast potential hazards and provide actionable insights for decision-making.
    • Wearables and smart PPE: Using smart personal protective equipment (PPE) and sensors to track vital signs, detect environmental hazards (for example, harmful gases and extreme heat), monitor ergonomics and provide real-time alerts.
    • Automation and robotics: Eventually employing collaborative robots and drones to perform hazardous tasks, removing humans from high-risk environments and reducing physical strain.
    • Immersive training: Utilizing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to provide realistic, zero-risk safety training experiences, improving knowledge retention and hazard recognition.

Adopting an integrated and comprehensive approach that combines traditional occupational safety with overall worker well-being, including psychological health, work-life balance and chronic disease prevention.

Recognizing and actively managing new or amplified psychological health challenges, such as work-related stress, burnout, isolation from remote work and anxiety related to job automation and human-machine interactions.

Moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach to provide personalized safety and health measures that account for the diverse needs, demographics and skills of the modern workforce, including newcomers, young workers and those with disabilities.

Fostering a work-safe mindset that prioritizes prevention before incidents occur, rather than merely reacting to incidents. This involves strong leadership commitment, open communication and active worker participation in shaping safety initiatives.

Addressing the ethical challenges and data privacy concerns associated with extensive data collection and AI monitoring, ensuring transparency and building worker trust.

“Next generation prevention anticipates the changing world of work and uses innovative, data-driven and human-centred strategies to create safer and healthier work environments.”

What is generation prevention?

It is a shift to a proactive, integrated and continuous improvement model from traditional, reactive safety compliance.

It uses advanced technologies and incorporates psychosocial factors like psychological health and well-being into safety protocols.

How to incorporate next generation prevention principles in your workplace

Reach out the WCB’s prevention department to learn how you can incorporate next generation prevention approaches into your workplace.

WorkSafe Saskatchewan
200 – 1881 Scarth St.
Regina SK S4P 4L1
Phone: 306.787.7248

Toll free: 1.800.667.7590
Email: worksafeinquiry@wcbsask.com