Artificial intelligence and image processing-based work force safety

An artificial intelligence (AI) and image processing-based work force safety system for an industrial processing facility (IPF) including a field level comprising a plurality of work zones having field devices coupled to processing equipment that are all coupled to a process control system, comprising:

• an application server coupled to receive inputs from said process control system;
• a control processing unit having a first input coupled to an output of said application server and a second input coupled to an output of a video scanner that is coupled to receive real-time image data from a plurality of cameras collectively viewing said plurality of work zones including at least a first camera showing an individual in a first work zone of said plurality of work zones;
• an image processing unit and an artificial intelligence (AI) unit both coupled to said control processing unit;
• said application server coupled to the control processing unit;
• said control processing unit coupled to a memory that includes a stored database comprising a plurality of workplace environments each having at least one hazardous condition and required Personnel Protection Equipment (PPE) for said hazardous conditions;
• wherein said control processing unit is for:
• determining from said image data a current location of said individual;
• determining a current minimum PPE requirement for said individual based on said current location by referencing said database to determine a current of said plurality of workplace environments having at least one current said hazardous condition, and a minimum PPE requirement from at least one said PPE for said current hazardous condition;
• said image processing and computing block and said AI unit for analyzing said image data to identify actual said PPEs currently worn by said individual;
• wherein said control processing unit is further for:
• determining whether said individual is currently meeting said current minimum PPE requirement by comparing said PPEs currently being worn to said current minimum PPE requirement to identify an unsafe condition, and
• responsive to said unsafe condition, generating a control signal for initiating at least one of an audible alert and a visual alert that brings attention to said unsafe condition.