International Workshop on Artificial Intelligence and Chemical Safety and Security Management.

Artificial intelligence (AI) enhances chemical safety and security by improving hazard detection, automating compliance, and predicting failures. Applications include real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance for equipment, generating safety data sheets (SDSs), and analyzing large datasets to identify potential risks and suggest safer alternatives. AI is also used for advanced security threats like chemical or biological weapons, with potential for both positive applications like verification and negative ones like bypassing security mechanisms.

Applications in chemical safety and security

In Hazard detection and prediction: AI can continuously monitor environmental readings and equipment data (e.g., temperature, pressure) to detect anomalies and predict potential hazards or equipment failures before they occur.
In Automation: AI can automate tasks like generating Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) based on chemical databases and regulatory requirements, significantly reducing manual effort and time. It can also streamline regulatory reporting by analyzing process data.

In Risk assessment: AI can help with risk assessments by analyzing historical data, alarm logs, and safety incidents, assisting in risk ranking.

In Compliance monitoring: AI can act as a tireless assistant for compliance officers by reviewing logs and procedures against evolving regulations, flagging any gaps.

In Predictive maintenance: AI algorithms can monitor equipment performance to predict failures, such as detecting a failing seal in a pump before a physical alarm is triggered.

In Security enhancement: AI can be used to counter chemical and biological threats by applying tools to identify, prevent, and mitigate impacts. It is also being explored to enhance the verification mechanisms of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

Safer alternatives: AI can analyze data to identify and suggest greener alternatives to hazardous chemicals and promote chemical recycling.

Challenges and considerations

Human oversight: Despite AI's capabilities, human decision-making remains critical, especially in risk assessments.
Security risks: There is a concern that AI could potentially be used by malicious actors to bypass verification mechanisms or to create new threats.
Cultural integration: Successfully implementing AI requires focusing on the workforce and company culture to drive improvement.

17 June 2025 - Inaugural address at the International Workshop on Artificial Intelligence and Chemical Safety and Security Management by the OPCW Director-General.