Certificants can earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points by participating in activities related to various emerging technologies. These points help ensure certificants stay informed about the latest industry standards, risks, and best practices. Safety professionals play a vital role in identifying, evaluating, and mitigating risks to protect the health, safety, and well-being of individuals in environments where emerging technologies are utilized. CPD points can be earned through activities pertaining to emerging technologies across all current Continuing Education activities (Category A) that are published in the Continuous Professional Development Guide.
What Are Emerging Technologies?
Emerging technologies are new or rapidly evolving innovations reshaping industries, work environments, and society. They often involve high levels of uncertainty, complexity, and change. Examples include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning
- Robotics & Automation
- Drones (UAVs)
- 3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing)
- Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Augmented Reality (AR) / Virtual Reality (VR)
- Cybersecurity & Information Technology Innovations
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Autonomous Vehicles
- Renewable Energy Technologies (e.g., hydrogen fuel cells, advanced battery systems)
Safety Professional Role in Emerging Technologies
To effectively manage the evolving risks of emerging technologies, safety professionals should adapt to multidisciplinary environments that involve technology, engineering, and data science. The role of safety professionals in relation to emerging technologies is highlighted below.
Risk Assessment & Management
Emerging technologies often introduce new, untested hazards. The safety professional should conduct proactive risk assessments, develop hazard control measures, and revise safety protocols accordingly.
Developing New Safety Standards
Very often, existing safety standards may not apply directly to emerging technologies. The safety professional should participate in or advocate for the development of updated regulations and industry standards.
Training & Awareness
When emerging technologies are introduced, workers may be unfamiliar with the safe use of the technologies. The safety professional should design and deliver training programs, safety inductions, and instructional material tailored to emerging technologies.
Human–Technology Interaction
As automation and AI change the way humans interact with machines, the safety professional should ensure that interfaces, workflows, and ergonomics promote safe interactions and minimize human error.
Ethical and Legal Considerations
Emerging technologies may raise new privacy, data security, or bioethics issues. The safety professional should collaborate with legal and compliance teams to align with ethical practices and legal regulations.
Emergency Preparedness and Response
New risks may require new response strategies (e.g., drone crashes, robot malfunction). The safety professional should update or create emergency response plans for incidents involving emerging technologies.
Certificants' Activities to Earn CPD Points
Certificants working on emerging technologies can earn points through various activities as follows:
Formal Education & Training
- Workshops & Seminars: Enroll in accredited courses or training sessions on safety in emerging technologies such as AI, robotics, nanotechnology, biotechnology, renewable energy, cybersecurity, etc.
- Certifications: Earn industry-recognized safety certifications from recognized bodies (e.g., OSHA, NEBOSH, ISO, or other technology-specific safety certifications) that can count towards CPD points.
- University Courses: Enroll in short courses or degree programs related to safety in emerging technologies.
Industry Conferences & Webinars
- Attend or present at safety-related conferences, such as those focused on workplace safety in technology industries, automation risks, or digital safety protocols.
- Participate in workshops or panel discussions on emerging technology risks, safety protocols, and regulations.
Research & Publications
- Publish articles or whitepapers on safety challenges and solutions in emerging technologies.
- Research emerging risks and mitigation strategies for emerging technologies.
- Contribute to safety standards development for emerging technological fields.
On-the-Job Learning & Practical Experience
- Take part in e-learning modules and webinars on safety challenges in emerging technologies.
- Participate in case studies, industry-led virtual training sessions, safety audits, or risk assessments for emerging technologies.
- Develop and implement new safety protocols within an organization.
- Conduct risk assessments and case studies on safety incidents in emerging tech industries.
- Engage in practical simulations or scenario-based learning
Professional Membership & Networking
- Join and actively participate in professional safety organizations that offer CPD-accredited programs.
- Participate in mentorship or knowledge-sharing programs and engage in peer discussions, safety forums, and working groups.
Article contributed by Mark Fernandes, CRSP