Health and safety at work – current and future challenges in light of traditional and new technologies, with a focus on AI

Key points

The EESC:

• recalls that the Framework Directive 89/391/EEC has significantly improved worker safety and health in EU Member States. However, further efforts are required to ensure full and effective implementation of its provisions. The 2023 OSH stock-taking summit emphasised the need for stronger enforcement;

• recognises the potential of AI and robotics to create safer and healthier workplaces. It stresses the importance of implementing the EU OSH Strategic Framework with evidence-based policies and tripartite collaboration. Effective regulation is necessary to prevent risks associated with digitalisation;

• notes that work is evolving with increasing human-machine interaction, AI-driven decision-making, and remote work. The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated digital transformation, doubling the prevalence of remote work. These changes require updated OSH policies to safeguard workers;

• emphasises that digital technologies can reduce or introduce new workplace risks, requiring regulatory vigilance. Legal and negotiated measures are needed to manage emerging risks effectively. A proactive approach is essential to ensure worker safety in a digitalised work environment;

• warns about the EU’s lag in digital transformation, particularly in AI and digital innovation, affecting its competitiveness. The digital transition presents an opportunity to improve productivity while maintaining social cohesion. To close the digital gap, Europe must accelerate its efforts in technological advancement;

• stresses the need for digital skills development to ensure workers remain relevant in the labour market and maintain autonomy. There is a risk of deskilling due to AI-based work management systems. Policies should focus on lifelong learning and training tailored to digital transformation;

• calls for strong AI regulation and worker rights to ensure human control over AI-driven labour management systems. Workers, particularly e-platform workers, should have consultation rights regarding AI deployment. Transparent policies are necessary to prevent bias and discrimination in AI applications;

• underlines the importance of OSH training and literacy, especially when new technologies are introduced. Many workers lack basic literacy and problem-solving skills, which impacts their ability to understand safety instructions. Addressing these gaps is crucial for workplace safety;

• flags AI-related ethical and legal concerns, as AI can perpetuate biases related to gender, race, age and disability, posing risks to OSH. The EU’s legal framework includes 116 legislative pieces addressing AI’s workplace impact. Ensuring safe and fair working conditions requires strong worker involvement in AI deployment;

• raises concerns about workplace surveillance and data protection, warning against intrusive electronic surveillance while acknowledging its benefits for safety. The EU should monitor the effectiveness of existing regulations and introduce further measures if necessary. Transparency in AI decision-making and data security must be prioritised;

• encourages social partners to play an active role in regulating AI in the workplace through collective agreements. Given the limited number of such agreements, it urges stronger social dialogue to ensure a human-centric approach to AI. It also calls on the European Commission to provide social partners with the necessary resources, including capacity building and knowledge on the existing regulatory framework, to effectively address digitalisation challenges.