About 40% of Australian jobs will be automated in the next 10-15 years (Australia’s Future Workforce). Robotics and automation will reduce physical workplace injury by 11% by 2030 (CSIRO).
But these and other workplace trends also bring a new set of problems, issues, and challenges.
One in three Australian workers suffer from workplace stress and anxiety (Australian Psychological Society).
What are the health and safety issues we need to consider in the workplace of the future?
Robots, automation, and remote interfaces reduce worker exposure to hazards in their work environments
Working from home brings benefits, but also blurs the boundaries between work and home
Robots and exoskeletons assist workers with strenuous work and manual handling
Workplace flexibility improves ergonomics for knowledge workers
Embedded devices and wearables optimise workplace productivity and safety for each worker
Human-machine interaction increases cognitive demand, leading to greater stress and burnout
Algorithmic management inadvertently applies unconscious bias in management decisions
Unforeseen interactions with robots, drones and autonomous vehicles increases physical risk to workers
Lack of transparency in AI leads to unpredictable and risky situations
AR (augmented reality) improves situational awareness by providing information on hidden risks
Adaptive automation monitors people working with robots to improve interaction and reduce risks
Pressure to implement new technology introduces new risks to the workplace
AI analyses workplace behaviour to provide more insight into workplace safety
Constant real-time monitoring and oversight increase stress and mental health issues
Increased digitisation increases the risk of cyber-security issues
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