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AI hazard classification

4 min readLast updated January 15, 2026

AI hazard classification

Verdan uses artificial intelligence to automatically classify safety observations, saving time and ensuring consistent categorization.

How It Works

When you submit a safety observation:

  • Text Analysis — AI reads your description to understand the hazard
  • Image Analysis — If photos are attached, AI identifies visual hazards
  • Classification — The hazard is categorized into standard types
  • Severity Assessment — Risk level is estimated
  • Standards Reference — Relevant OSHA regulations are identified
  • Recommendations — Corrective actions are suggested

Hazard Categories

The AI classifies into OSHA's Focus Four and other categories:

Focus Four (Most Common Fatalities)

  • Falls — Unprotected edges, holes, scaffolding
  • Struck-By — Falling objects, vehicles, equipment
  • Caught-In/Between — Machinery, collapsing structures
  • Electrocution — Exposed wiring, power lines, equipment

Additional Categories

  • Fire/Explosion
  • Chemical exposure
  • Ergonomic hazards
  • Environmental conditions
  • Housekeeping
  • PPE violations
  • Traffic/vehicle
  • Noise exposure

Severity Levels

LevelDescriptionResponse Time
CriticalImmediate danger to lifeImmediate
HighSerious injury potentialWithin 4 hours
MediumModerate riskWithin 24 hours
LowMinor concernWithin 1 week

OSHA References

The AI maps observations to relevant OSHA standards:

  • 29 CFR 1926 (Construction)
  • Specific subparts and sections
  • Direct links to regulation text

Accuracy & Overrides

  • AI classification accuracy: ~92% in testing
  • Always review AI suggestions before accepting
  • You can modify the category, severity, or recommendations
  • Corrections help improve future accuracy
  • Human judgment always takes precedence

Privacy & Data

  • Observation data is processed securely
  • Photos are analyzed in-memory, not stored externally
  • AI models are updated quarterly
  • No personally identifiable information is used in training