WorkSafeBC says ask your boss – not AI – about job safety
Published 9:30 am Friday, July 24, 2026
WorkSafeBC has launched a campaign aimed at encouraging younger workers to take their questions about workplace safety to their flesh-and-blood boss – and not AI.
Each year roughly 7,000 young people are injured on the job in B.C. and 18 died between 2021 and 2025.
The campaign is called Before You Ask a Bot, Ask Your Boss.
According to WorkSafeBC, research indicates many in the younger set turn to AI tools and chatbots for answers.
Research shows many young workers are turning to AI tools and chatbots for answers.
A press release notes that AI is unable to assess potential hazards in a specific workplace.
“Young workers often recognize when something isn’t right, but that doesn’t always mean they feel comfortable saying so,” notes Todd McDonald, in charge of WorkSafeBC’s prevention services. “Young workers focus on making a good impression, which can make it harder to ask questions, raise concerns, or refuse unsafe work. Creating a workplace culture where questions are welcomed and concerns are taken seriously supports young workers and is critical to preventing injuries.”
All workers have a right to be informed about workplace hazards, refused unsafe work and participate in health and safety.
Under the Workers Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, employers are required to provide proper job-site orientation and “role-specific” training to all employees before they begin working and must also conduct ongoing supervision to make certain they can perform their tasks safely.
“Young workers bring different levels of experience and familiarity with workplace hazards. Employers should tailor orientation, training, and supervision to the individual worker rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, which can leave gaps that increase risk,” McDonald says.
Workers who feel their safety concerns haven’t been properly addressed can speak confidentially with a WorkSafeBC prevention officer by contacting WorkSafeBC’s Prevention Information Line at 1‑888‑621‑7233.