When Will AI Replace Ingénieurs Santé et Sécurité, à l'exception des Ingénieurs et Inspecteurs de sécurité minière ?

The impact of AI on Health and Safety Engineers will unfold in distinct phases. By early 2026, junior roles focused on documentation and basic compliance audits will experience severe disruption. Mid-2028 marks a critical point where around 50% of tasks will be automated by AI. By late 2030, the trend will continue, necessitating adaptation across the profession.

The initial wave of AI automation, starting as early as 2026, will disproportionately affect entry-level positions. Companies are rapidly adopting AI-powered safety management systems, leading to an estimated 30-40% decline in junior safety engineer roles focused on routine tasks and documentation.

As we approach mid-2028, the automation of approximately 50% of Health and Safety Engineering tasks will become evident. AI-powered compliance management systems, automated inspection tools, and predictive risk analytics platforms will handle a substantial portion of work, transforming the mid-level engineer's responsibilities.

Junior health and safety engineers heavily involved in documentation, basic compliance audits, and routine inspections are most at risk. Their roles are the first to be significantly impacted, with an estimated 30-40% decline in entry-level positions by 2026 as AI systems become more prevalent.

Mid-level engineers without specialized expertise in complex industrial processes, accident investigation, or advanced regulatory strategy will face challenges by 2028. Senior engineers possessing deep domain knowledge in high-hazard industries like chemical manufacturing and construction, however, are better positioned to leverage AI tools and focus on strategic oversight.

To navigate the AI revolution, health and safety engineers must focus on developing specialized skills. This includes mastering complex industrial processes, honing accident investigation techniques, and deepening expertise in regulatory strategy. Proactive adaptation is key to maintaining relevance and career progression.

Embrace AI-powered tools that are transforming the field. Platforms like Intelex Safety Management, Cority AI Risk Assessment, and SafetyCulture iAuditor, with their machine learning capabilities, are essential for automating routine tasks. Integrating these tools into your workflow will enhance efficiency and allow you to focus on higher-value activities.