A comprehensive survey on machine learning for workplace injury analysis: risk prediction, return to work strategies, and demographic insights

Abstract This survey paper explores the application of machine learning (ML) techniques in the domain of workplace injuries, focusing on three key areas: risk prediction, return to work (RTW) strategies, and demographic analysis. Through an extensive review of literature from January 2015 to July 20...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Gonzalo A. Vivian, Richard A. Bauder, Taghi M. Khoshgoftaar
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: SpringerOpen 2025-07-01
Series:Journal of Big Data
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s40537-025-01229-z
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Abstract This survey paper explores the application of machine learning (ML) techniques in the domain of workplace injuries, focusing on three key areas: risk prediction, return to work (RTW) strategies, and demographic analysis. Through an extensive review of literature from January 2015 to July 2024, this paper examines the latest advancements in ML-driven approaches to workplace safety and identifies important research gaps. This paper highlights how classical ML techniques, such as ensemble models and decision trees, have become essential tools for identifying workplace injury risks, enabling more accurate interventions. It emphasizes the importance of leveraging ML in personalized RTW programs, which use data-driven insights to improve recovery outcomes and reduce economic demands. In the context of demographic analysis, this paper explores how ML algorithms can uncover disparities in injury rates across various age groups, industries, and occupations, underscoring the need for targeted safety measures. Moreover, research gaps are identified, particularly regarding the emerging potential of advanced ML techniques, such as deep learning and large language models (LLMs), for analyzing structured and unstructured safety data, methods that have not yet been widely applied in workplace injury research. As such, future research should apply recent advances in ML, integrating these approaches with comprehensive and accessible datasets to enhance the prediction and prevention of workplace injuries, provide more detailed analytics and insights, and improve safety protocols across all industries. This comprehensive survey is an invaluable resource for researchers and practitioners leveraging ML to address complex challenges in workplace safety.
ISSN:2196-1115