Lab Coats to Safety Nets: How Artificial Intelligence is Redefining Biosafety Innovations

Artificial intelligence (AI) has radically changed laboratory surveillance and risk perception over the past decade, impacting almost all facets of laboratory safety. AI models combine multiple real-time datasets to predict early outbreaks and alert public health systems. Such models are also used to promptly detect the emergence of hazardous pathogens and heighten safety response. Integration of AI approaches in laboratories enables a smooth flow of automated processes to support specific biohazard-related activities, thereby minimizing human exposure to biohazardous material. In this article, the authors highlight several applications of AI in the successful implementation of a biosafety program, and therefore, in supporting the safety of hospitals and laboratories. However, AI can be harmful in synthetic biology, necessitating the development and enforcement of strict laws. Therefore, it is essential to balance AI-driven innovations with ethical governance to ensure that biosafety laboratories function responsibly.