Skanska's AI Tool Empowers "Informed, Safe Decisions"

Earlier this spring, Skanska launched Safety Sidekick, an AI-powered digital assistant designed to enhance workplace safety across construction projects.

The tool consolidates Skanska’s Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Manual, OSHA construction regulations, and supplementary safety documentation into a single resource.

The platform operates on both mobile and desktop interfaces, serving construction workers and management teams by delivering real-time, job-specific safety guidance.

“With the Safety Sidekick, we are combining the power of AI with our deep-rooted commitment to well-planned, efficient and safely executed construction,” said Paul Haining, chief EHS officer at Skanska USA.

“This tool empowers our teams to make informed, safe decisions at every stage of a project – elevating our unwavering focus and commitment to innovation in the industry.”

Key features of Safety Sidekick include:

• Real-time access to safety resources and task-specific best practices
• Context-aware guidance based on job site conditions to ensure compliance with OSHA and Skanska protocols
• Support for safety classification and documentation through the Safety Classification Learning Model
• Practical, scenario-based policy application to guide day-to-day operations
• Assistance through all phases of the Plan-Do-Check-Act safety cycle

Safety Sidekick is one of several tools in Skanska’s growing suite of generative AI solutions, collectively known as Expert Sidekicks. These purpose-built tools are infused with Skanska-specific knowledge and expertise. By integrating AI into daily workflows, Skanska reinforces its industry leadership — leveraging digital innovation to enhance safety and ensure operational consistency as part of its data strategy.

The development of Safety Sidekick addresses a fundamental challenge in construction safety management – the gap between having comprehensive safety data and being able to use it effectively in fast-paced jobsite environments.

Anita Nelson, chief strategy officer at Skanska USA Building, emphasized the strategic value of the AI initiative.

“These tools empower our people to turn data – including our enterprise knowledge – into actionable insights that better support our project teams and deliver more value to our customers,” she said.

“By embedding data-informed strategies and technologies into the core of our operations, we’re strengthening our ability to stay agile, efficient, and future-focused in an evolving industry.”

Safety Sidekick is currently rolling out to Skanska USA teams nationwide, with comprehensive training and user support available.