Letter to the Editor: Institutionalizing Artificial Intelligence in Decision-Making and Decision Support for Ergonomics and Safety

Dear Editor, The growing complexity of contemporary work systems and the increasing availability of large-scale operational data have intensified the need for advanced decision-making approaches in safety and ergonomics. Traditional expert-based and rule-driven methods, while foundational, often lack the capacity to respond proactively to dynamic, uncertain, and data-intensive environments. In this regard, artificial intelligence (AI) offers substantial potential to enhance both decision-making and decision support processes in safety and ergonomics, provided that its use is institutionalized rather than applied in an ad hoc manner. AI-based techniques, including machine learning and predictive analytics, enable the integration and analysis of heterogeneous data sources. These approaches can help identify emerging risks and support timely interventions. Research in safety science suggests that predictive models can outperform conventional approaches in forecasting incidents and injuries, particularly when organizational, human, and environmental factors are considered simultaneously [۱]. Similarly, in ergonomics, AI-driven systems have demonstrated effectiveness in continuous posture assessment and ergonomic risk evaluation, reducing reliance on subjective observation and periodic assessments [۲]. Institutionalizing AI involves embedding these technologies into formal safety management systems and ergonomic decision frameworks. Such integration must be guided by clear governance structures that define the complementary roles of human experts and AI systems. Although AI can enhance situational awareness and reduce cognitive workload, excessive reliance on automated recommendations may lead to automation bias and diminished critical judgment [۳]. Therefore, AI should function as a decision support mechanism rather than a decision substitute, ensuring that human expertise remains central to safety- and ergonomics-related judgments. From a human-centered perspective, the successful institutionalization of AI depends on alignment with ergonomic principles and sociotechnical systems thinking. Participatory design approaches that involve safety professionals, ergonomists, and end users can improve system usability, transparency, and acceptance [۴]. Furthermore, developing competencies in data literacy and AI interpretation among professionals is essential to ensure responsible and informed use of algorithmic outputs in safety-critical contexts. In conclusion, artificial intelligence holds significant promise for improving decision-making and decision support in safety and ergonomics. However, realizing this promise requires systematic institutionalization supported by governance frameworks, human-centered design, and professional capacity building. By embedding AI within established decision-making processes while preserving human oversight, organizations can advance safer, more adaptive, and ergonomically sound work systems.

کلیدواژه ها:

Artificial Intelligence ، Ergonomics ، Safety