Overview

As generative AI rapidly reshapes the way we work, its role in safety management is both promising and challenging.

This presentation explores how tools like large language models can support and enhance traditional safety engineering practices—from hazard analysis to assurance case generation—by merging AI capabilities with human expertise. We'll examine the strengths and limitations of current generative AI tools, highlight key risks and mitigation strategies, and look ahead to emerging technologies.

This talk will provide practical insights into integrating AI safely and effectively into safety-critical workflows, while considering the cultural and procedural shifts this transformation demands.

Speaker

Ben Fulford, Senior Functional Safety Consultant, BMT

Ben is a Functional Safety Consultant at BMT with over 15 years of experience delivering safety assurance across the defence, nuclear, automotive, aerospace, and maritime sectors. His recent work focuses on the safe and ethical integration of generative AI within safety-critical environments. Ben leads BMT’s “Smarter Working with Technology” programme, where he has developed and deployed BMT Generative AI tool - BMT Copilot across BMT to transform engineering workflows. He has pioneered new approaches to prompt engineering - developing and rolling out a prompt engineering training programme and is actively involved in several innovation projects applying frontier AI. Alongside his innovation work, Ben continues to provide independent safety assurance and contributes to AI and safety working groups.

The material presented has not been peer-reviewed. Any opinions are the presenter’s own and do not necessarily represent those of IChemE or the Process Management and Control SIG. The information is given in good faith but without any liability on the part of IChemE.

Time

09:00–10:00 GMT.

Software

The presentation will be delivered via Microsoft Teams. We recommend downloading the app from the Microsoft website, rather than using the web portal.