On 6th February 2025, an inspiring convergence of government officials, senior executives, and regulators took place at the House of Lords. This wasn’t just another meeting. It marked a pivotal moment in the future of Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) and the transformative role of AI-powered predictive safety. The Rt Hon. the Lord Boateng CVO passionately underscored the importance of leadership, relationships, and the power of technology to drive lasting change.
The growing demand for AI in critical infrastructure
The digitisation of the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure is no longer a distant concept. It’s happening now. With OFGEM, the UK’s energy regulator, spearheading initiatives like the AI Predictive Safety Interventions program, industries are seeing tangible impacts on safety, efficiency, and operational resilience. This two-year government-backed initiative, developed in collaboration with Scotia Gas Networks, Cadent Gas, Northern Gas Networks, National Gas, and FYLD, showcases how digital transformation can prevent incidents before they happen.
Karl Simons OBE, Chief Futurist & Co-Founder of FYLD, captured the sentiment perfectly: “AI is already here. We must work to understand how and where to use it. We need to know that when using AI we can rely on it to give us the answers we need.”
From reactive to predictive: transforming safety with AI
The event spotlighted the measurable success of AI-powered predictive safety in high-risk industries. Scott Broadley, FYLD’s CCO, demonstrated how AI not only enhances risk intelligence but also empowers field teams to act proactively, preventing accidents before they occur.
Key features showcased included:
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Video Risk Assessments (VRAs): Fieldworkers use short video surveys at the start of shifts, which FYLD’s AI analyses in real-time to detect potential hazards. This ensures that risks—often invisible to the naked eye—are identified and addressed before work begins.
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Real-time Intervention: The platform provides live feedback and tailored interventions during work activities, ensuring risks are managed dynamically as situations evolve.
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Data-Driven Decision-Making: By integrating structured (e.g., job profiles, asset histories) and unstructured data (e.g., weather conditions, site videos), FYLD’s platform offers a comprehensive risk landscape, allowing managers to make informed decisions that minimise hazards.
The future of AI in regulation and safety
In a thought-provoking panel session featuring Jane Lassey from the Health & Safety Executive and Benjamin Legg from Digital Realty, discussions centred around the regulatory challenges posed by AI’s rapid growth. The consensus? As AI revolutionises safety management, regulatory bodies must evolve to ensure that these technologies are ethically implemented, transparent, and accountable. Ben Legg emphasised the balance between innovation and responsibility: “The challenges around AI are varied, but it’s crucial to ensure health and safety is built into it.”
Why this matters for the future of CNI
The event wasn’t just about showcasing technology: it was a call to action. With fatalities in the UK construction sector increasing over the past year, the need for smarter, AI-driven safety solutions has never been more urgent. FYLD’s platform is already making waves, detecting over 16,000 hazards for construction companies and significantly reducing workplace incidents.
As Lord Boateng eloquently stated in his closing address, the path forward lies in collaboration between technology providers, industry leaders, and regulators. By embracing AI, the UK has the opportunity to redefine safety standards, protect its workforce, and create a more resilient infrastructure.
Take the next step with FYLD
Are you ready to revolutionise your approach to safety and operational efficiency? FYLD’s AI-powered platform offers the tools to make that leap from predictive risk management to real-time safety interventions.
Contact FYLD today to explore how our technology can transform your operations and ensure the safety of your workforce.
