Ministry of Labour Hosts Symposium on AI and Workplace Safety

The Ministry of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department kicked off OSH Month with a landmark symposium themed “Revolutionising Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalisation at Work.”

Held at the Regency Suites Hotel, the event brought together nearly 100 stakeholders from the public and private sectors to explore how artificial intelligence and digital tools can modernise workplace safety in Guyana. The symposium also marked the observance of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

The gathering featured panel discussions and expert presentations on topics such as predictive analytics, digital surveillance, and the development of safer, smarter work environments through emerging technologies.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton stressed that technology must be grounded in human competence to be effective.

“If you don’t have real intelligence, you’re incapable of utilising AI,” he said, urging businesses not to rely on assumptions about employee capabilities. “With technology, we cannot assume — we have to know.”

Citing the Ministry’s partnership with Coursera through the Board of Industrial Training, Hamilton noted that despite widespread smartphone access, many users struggled with basic digital literacy—highlighting a gap between access and readiness.

He also called on employers to reconsider how they evaluate employee potential.

“Certificate doesn’t equal employability. Certificate doesn’t equal responsibility,” he stated, advocating for continuous training and practical skills development.

Minister Hamilton warned that no amount of technology could overcome unsafe workplace cultures without an underlying shift in mindset.

“Without an attitude transformation in the workplace, digitalisation alone will not prevent hazards,” he cautioned.

The event was part of a series of activities planned for OSH Month, aimed at raising awareness and strengthening health and safety standards across the country.

Also present at the opening ceremony were Ms Gillian Burton-Persaud, Advisor to the Minister; Ms Gweneth King, OSH Consultant; Mr Roydon Croal and Ms Maxean Bess, Assistant Chief OSH Officers, along with other distinguished guests.

They were also representatives from the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Massy Guyana, the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), SEACOR Marine, Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), the Linden Mayor and Town Council, MODEC, Guyana National Shipping Corporation Limited (GNSCL), ChampionX, Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Banks DIH Limited, Sterling Products Limited, Farfan and Mendes Limited, Pritpaul Singh Incorporated, Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), Guyana Logistics and Support Services Incorporated, among others. The Ministry of Labour reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous learning as Guyana transitions into a more technology-driven economy.