The International Labour Organization (ILO) has released a new report titled “Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalization at Work.”The report explores how AI, automation, robotics, and digital tools are reshaping occupational safety and health (OSH) globally. These technologies reduce physical risks, improve mental well-being, and transform how work is managed across sectors. While offering major opportunities, they also introduce new risks that require thoughtful policies and inclusive strategies.
New Risks Identified
Despite these advantages, the report flags several new challenges. As robotic and AI systems take over high-risk roles, maintenance workers and operators who interact with these machines now face risks associated with system malfunctions, unpredictable behaviors, and cybersecurity breaches. The growing reliance on wearable devices and exoskeletons can introduce ergonomic issues if these tools are not ergonomically optimized or properly fitted.
The psychological impact of digitalized work environments is another area of concern. Constant surveillance, high algorithm-driven performance expectations, and a lack of boundaries between personal and professional life have been associated with increased stress, fatigue, and burnout. Moreover, digital supply chains are contributing to OSH challenges at every level—from the mining of raw materials for electronics to the disposal and recycling of e-waste—raising questions about worker protections and ethical practices throughout the technology lifecycle.
Call for Policy Action
The ILO emphasizes that the benefits of AI and digital transformation in the workplace will only be realized if governments and organizations implement thoughtful, forward-looking regulations. The report notes current gaps in national and international policies when it comes to regulating human-machine interaction, protecting data privacy in the workplace, and ensuring fair working conditions in platform-based jobs. It underscores the relevance of ILO Conventions Nos. 155 and 187, which establish the foundation for safe and healthy working conditions, and calls for their modernization to reflect the realities of digital workspaces.
National policies are beginning to respond to these needs. Some countries have introduced regulations to ensure robotic safety standards, outline telework rights, and uphold a worker’s right to disconnect from digital tools outside working hours. These efforts are vital in preventing overwork and ensuring long-term mental health sustainability.
Way Forward
Governments and employers are encouraged to:
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Establish safety standards for human-robot interaction and telework
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Guarantee the right to disconnect
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Support algorithmic transparency and safe platform work
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Involve workers in the adoption of new tech and provide proper training and awareness
While AI and automation present transformative opportunities for occupational safety and health, the ILO emphasizes that balanced, human-centered implementation is critical to ensuring long-term well-being in the digital workplace.
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Source: International Labour Organization
