Human–robot interaction: What changes in the workplace?
This research report explores the opportunities and challenges of closer human-robot interaction in the workplace, drawing on survey data and case studies investigating advanced robotic systems. It examines the impacts of automation on work organisation, job profiles, productivity, and working conditions, including psychosocial health and safety risks. The publication contributes to the broader policy debate on the automation of work by highlighting the need for human-centric design and active worker involvement.
Summary and content fields are drawn from the document text and are pending editorial review.
Who issued it
Who it governs
Policymakers, social partners, researchers, and employers interested in understanding the workplace impacts of human-robot collaboration.
What the document contains
The report addresses the adoption rates and trends of industrial and service robots across enterprises, the implications of AI-driven robotics on work organisation and working conditions, and policy considerations for ensuring human-centric technological integration.
It does not provide binding legal regulations, compliance checklists, or specific technical safety standards for robot manufacturing.
- While fewer companies are using robots, the number of robots per enterprise is increasing.
- Robots are not causing widespread job losses, instead leading to shifts in job profiles and tasks.
- Effective human-robot interaction requires a strong focus on job quality and the active involvement of affected workers.
- Establishments often focus on physical safety when assessing robotic risks while overlooking psychosocial implications.
- Negative working conditions associated with robotics often stem from organisational factors and management choices rather than the technology itself.
· Overview · Key messages · Executive summary · Policy context · Key findings · Policy pointers · Data · About this publication
How it scores
Each score is backed by a quote verified against the document text. Editorial review has not yet confirmed them.
Accountability
1/5Clear responsibility for AI outcomes
Furthermore, the European Commission has taken steps to address liability and accountability issues arising from AI use
Policy context
screening score · 2026-10-24
Fairness
1/5Non-discrimination and equitable treatment
The agenda encompasses several actions focusing on upskilling and reskilling to ensure individuals have the skills necessary for current and future job markets.
Policy context
screening score · 2026-10-24
Human Dignity
3/5Respect for the inherent worth of persons
In the context of advanced robotics, this involves ensuring that systems are designed and deployed in a manner that respects human values and fundamental rights.
Policy context
screening score · 2026-10-24
Human Oversight
2/5Humans remain in control of consequential decisions
lingering concerns around the requirement for workers to continually adapt to new or changing tasks and roles, the possibility of monitoring workers’ activities at an unprecedented level of granularity, diminished autonomy and control over the pace of work
Overview
screening score · 2026-10-24
Privacy
1/5Protection of personal data and private life
the possibility of monitoring workers’ activities at an unprecedented level of granularity
Overview
screening score · 2026-10-24
Transparency
1/5Openness about how AI systems work and are used
Policy actions are essential to promote human-centric design, including awareness-raising campaigns, public incentives for research and development
Policy pointers
screening score · 2026-10-24
Enforcement
0/5Consequences and compliance mechanisms with real force
screening score · 2026-10-24
Impact Assessment
2/5Required assessment of an AI system's risks/impacts before or during use
When assessing the risks associated with human–robot interactions, establishments tend to focus on physical safety but overlook the psychosocial implications.
Key findings
screening score · 2026-10-24