Revolutionizing health and safety: The role of AI and digitalization at work
This global report by the International Labour Organization examines how artificial intelligence, digitalization, automation, and advanced robotics are transforming occupational safety and health at work. It highlights both the opportunities these technologies present for reducing workplace hazards and the emerging physical, organizational, and psychosocial risks they introduce. Furthermore, the report reviews global, regional, and national policy frameworks, gaps, and collaborative efforts required to ensure a safe and healthy digital transition.
Summary and content fields are drawn from the document text and are pending editorial review.
Who issued it
Who it governs
Governments, employers, workers, OSH experts, and policymakers navigating the evolving landscape of digital safety at work.
What the document contains
The document addresses the impact of digitalization, artificial intelligence, automation, advanced robotics, smart monitoring systems, extended reality, algorithmic management, and changing work arrangements on occupational safety and health. It also reviews global, regional, and national policies, legal frameworks, and workplace-level risk management strategies.
Binding legal mandates or enforcement penalties are not included, as the publication is an informative global report rather than a binding convention or regulation.
- Digitalization and automation offer significant opportunities to enhance occupational safety and health by removing workers from hazardous environments.
- Emerging technologies such as advanced robotics, smart monitoring systems, and extended reality introduce new physical, ergonomic, and psychosocial risks.
- Algorithmic management and remote work arrangements can increase work intensity, digital surveillance, and risks of burnout or social isolation.
- Existing OSH frameworks, including ILO fundamental conventions, provide a vital foundation for addressing new digital-era workplace challenges.
- A proactive, worker-centred approach involving active worker participation, social dialogue, and sound risk assessment is essential for safe digital transformation.
· How digitalization is transforming safety and health at work · Addressing OSH in the Digital Era: Policies, Gaps, and Collaborative Efforts
How it scores
Each score is backed by a quote verified against the document text. Editorial review has not yet confirmed them.
Accountability
2/5Clear responsibility for AI outcomes
This creates ambiguity regarding the responsibility for implementing essential risk prevention measures, such as risk assessments, OSH training and the provision of protective equipment.
2.3 National frameworks governing OSH and digitalization
screening score · 2026-10-23
Fairness
3/5Non-discrimination and equitable treatment
If AM systems are not designed with fairness in mind, they can perpetuate harmful biases in hiring, promotions and task allocation, disadvantaging certain groups based on race, gender or other factors
1.4.2 Potential risks associated with algorithmic management of work
screening score · 2026-10-23
Human Dignity
3/5Respect for the inherent worth of persons
This report explores the changes digital technologies are bringing to safety and health at work and the need to ensure that these changes do not result in potential risk.
Executive summary
screening score · 2026-10-23
Human Oversight
4/5Humans remain in control of consequential decisions
Digital tools like AI-driven analytics, real-time monitoring, and predictive modelling can enhance risk assessments and OSH strategies but must complement - not replace - human judgement in OSH practices.
Executive summary
screening score · 2026-10-23
Privacy
3/5Protection of personal data and private life
The constant monitoring of physiological and biometric data may also lead to anxiety, as workers feel pressured to maintain specific performance or health metrics.
1.2.2 Potential risks associated with smart monitoring systems
screening score · 2026-10-23
Enforcement
2/5Consequences and compliance mechanisms with real force
Existing OSH frameworks, including ILO OSH standards, remain essential for safeguarding the right to a safe and healthy working environment in the digital era.
Executive summary
screening score · 2026-10-23
Impact Assessment
4/5Required assessment of an AI system's risks/impacts before or during use
At the workplace level, regular risk assessment and management remain essential to proactively addressing emerging digital risks.
Executive summary
screening score · 2026-10-23