ILO Report Warns Of AI Danger And Emerging Safety Risks In The Digital Workplace

Previously Reported On IWMD 2025

An International Labour Organisation report released last April for International Workers Memorial Day highlights how rapid advances in digital technology are reshaping safety and health conditions in workplaces around the world — and warns that without proper safeguards, these changes could introduce new risks for workers.

Drawing on a comprehensive desk review, key informant interviews, and an assessment of current policies and practices, the report offers fresh insights into how governments, employers, workers, and occupational safety and health (OSH) experts can navigate the accelerating digital transformation.

The first section of the report examines the growing influence of automation, advanced robotics, smart OSH tools, monitoring systems, extended and virtual reality, and algorithmic management. According to the findings, these technologies present significant opportunities to improve workplace safety but may also create new vulnerabilities if not carefully managed.

The second section reviews global, regional, and national policy responses to digitalization in the workplace. It identifies key regulatory gaps, evaluates emerging policy approaches, and underscores the importance of thorough risk assessment, strong worker participation, and preventive strategies to ensure digital tools are introduced safely and effectively.

The report concludes with a set of key points that outline the critical steps needed to ensure that the digital transition remains responsible, inclusive, and centred on worker well-being.

Countries Will Need To Update Safety Rules For The Digital Workplace

As digital technologies continue to transform how work is organized and performed, governments and employers will need to ensure that occupational safety and health (OSH) standards keep pace.

Analysis highlights how existing OSH frameworks — including International Labour Organization standards — will remain vital for protecting workers’ rights in an increasingly digital environment.
With digitalization cutting across multiple policy domains, several countries will need to integrate OSH considerations into broader strategies on artificial intelligence and digital transition. Others will take the reverse approach, embedding digital technologies within OSH policy frameworks to strengthen prevention, monitoring, and worker protection.

Legal reforms will also be required to increase in momentum. Many governments will need to update regulations on robotics and human–robot interaction to reduce risks in collaborative workplaces. New rules establishing a “right to disconnect” will aim to prevent burnout linked to constant digital connectivity. At the same time, OSH protections will need to be expanded to cover remote and platform workers, reflecting the changing nature of employment.

Beyond legislative action, voluntary standards, guidance materials, awareness campaigns, training programmes, and research initiatives will be required to help businesses and workers adapt. However, experts warn that more research will be needed to fully understand the long-term safety implications of emerging technologies and support evidence-based decision-making.

At the workplace level, the report stresses that regular risk assessment and management will remain essential. Employers must be encouraged to evaluate hazards associated with new technologies, apply preventive measures aligned with the OSH hierarchy of controls, and update internal policies as digital systems evolve — all while incorporating worker input and the latest OSH insights.

Advanced tools such as AI-driven analytics, real-time monitoring, and predictive modelling will be required to improve risk assessments and support OSH strategies. Still, the report cautions that these technologies should complement, not replace, human judgment.

The analysis concludes that active worker participation will be crucial at every stage of digital technology deployment — from design to daily operation — to ensure innovations enhance, rather than compromise, safety and health.

With a collaborative and worker-centred approach, stakeholders will help shape a digital future that is safer, healthier, and more sustainable future for all.

Source: ILO