From video footage of live working environments to stored risk reports and employee information, today’s H&S data is more valuable (and more vulnerable) than ever. So, as we move into a world where AI and remote tech take centre stage, cyber safety must become part of your health and safety conversation.
Here’s what every business should be thinking about:
Your Workplace Footage Is Data — and It Needs Protecting
Video walk-throughs, photos of equipment, and documentation scans are now key tools for remote assessments.
But these can inadvertently capture:
- identifiable employees
- confidential processes
- access points
- security systems
- high-value equipment
This makes them highly sensitive - and a target if they fall into the wrong hands.
A secure process for capturing, transferring, and storing this content isn’t optional. It’s essential.
Tip: Always use encrypted upload methods and avoid sending footage via email or unsecured messaging apps. If you’re working with an external consultant, make sure they have a clear, documented process for managing your data.
AI Tools: Huge Potential, But They Need Guard Rails
AI can analyse video footage to flag hazards, identify behaviour patterns, and speed up risk assessments.
However, any tool that processes identifiable individuals or sensitive environments falls under GDPR.
That means businesses should ask:
- Where is the data processed? (UK/EU servers vs. abroad)
- Is the footage retained, or deleted after analysis?
- What safeguards are in place to prevent unauthorised access?
AI can strengthen safety, but only when used responsibly and transparently.
Remote Work Has Introduced New H&S Cyber Gaps
Health and safety for remote workers often focuses on ergonomics, lone working, and wellbeing.
But their home tech setup creates additional risks:
- personal devices storing work-related H&S info
- insecure home Wi-Fi networks
- files shared outside central systems
- video assessments carried out over consumer-grade tools
H&S isn’t always thought of as a cyber risk area - but increasingly, it is.
Businesses should support remote staff with clear guidance on secure data handling, especially if they’re providing video footage or accessing safety systems from home.
A Data Breach Is Now a Health & Safety Issue
If sensitive safety data is compromised, it can cause:
- reputational damage
- operational disruption
- GDPR penalties
- employee mistrust
- exposure of security weaknesses to external actors
Treating cyber security as “someone else’s department” is no longer viable. Digital H&S data needs the same robust risk management as physical safety hazards.
A breach doesn’t just impact IT — it impacts people, processes, and safety integrity.
Digital transformation is reshaping health and safety, and the organisations that adapt early will benefit most.
By pairing remote assessments and AI with strong cyber practices, businesses can:
- speed up risk detection
- protect sensitive information
- avoid regulatory pitfalls
- build trust with staff
- future-proof their safety processes
If you’d like to explore how your organisation can safely and securely embrace digital H&S, we can help.
👉 Have questions? Talk to us at www.whatnosafety.co.uk