A comparative study between two automotive companies in Belgium and Italy explores the digital impact of digital technologies and artificial intelligence-based worker management (AIWM) systems on occupational safety and health (OSH)
AIWM system integration has become increasingly prevalent in industrial sectors to enhance productivity and streamline processes. However, they can significantly impact worker autonomy, job quality and OSH. Findings of the study indicate that the adoption of the system mainly depend on the level of worker involvement and the managerial strategies employed.
While the Italian firm involves employees in decision-making processes and reports superior OSH outcomes and overall wellbeing, the Belgian firm follows a hierarchical, top-down management model. The choice of the management model adopted may largely be influenced by the size of the companies and their positions in the global value chain.
Given their active engagement with technology adoption and development, workers in the Italian firm were found to experience lower levels of stress, increased job satisfaction and reduced exposure to OSH risks in comparison with workers in the Belgian firm who exhibited an absence in worker participation, resulting in adverse health effects including burnout and anxiety.
Italian case reports also showed zero turnover along with the presence of a stable workforce, while the Belgian case on the other hand showed a slightly higher turnover indicating potential challenges in maintaining a consistent organisational culture and overall instability.
Moreover, the study takes into account the dual role that AIWM systems play in OSH management. For instance, while these systems enable real-time hazard monitoring, provide ergonomic support and facilitate the delivery of safety training programmes, they can however lead to adverse outcomes if operated without adequate human oversight.
Overall, the findings of the study highlight that a successful integration of AIWM systems require active engagement and participation of workers in the adoption, development and implementation of digital tools. In addition, structured training programmes, job role rotations, and proactive health and safety measures are mandatory requisites to ensure worker wellbeing and optimisation of production processes.
Study offers insights into AIWM impact on workers' wellbeing
Findings of the study highlight that a successful integration of AIWM systems require active engagement and participation of workers in the adoption, development and implementation of digital tools. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
