AI is changing the rules of the game

It is true that the world will never be the same. New social challenges, the ultra-fast development of technologies, and artificial intelligence (AI) are radically transforming our lives and the labor market. Those who can and must win in this market are employers who sense the breath of innovation and do not merely adapt, but flexibly integrate into progress, create new business models, and develop systems for managing new, previously unknown risks. To remain competitive, employees will also have to adapt: not fear change, engage in systematic and modern learning, and acquire new skills.

The editorial team has drawn attention to last year’s published opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), which focuses on current and future challenges in the field of occupational safety and health (OSH) in the context of both traditional and new technologies, especially with the growing role of AI. The key message is the irreversibility of change, including in the area of occupational safety.

Summarizing intensive global discussions, experts emphasized that AI and new technologies are rapidly transforming business, not only opening up profitable opportunities but also creating societal threats. In particular, these threats affect mental health, stability, employment, and the overall well-being of workers. The changing nature of work requires new skills, which in turn affects people’s ability to compete effectively in the labor market.

A distinctive feature of our time is the existence of global differences in attitudes toward AI: for some it is a tool of progress, for others a source of uncertainty. New challenges require governments and employers to adopt a comprehensive approach and adapt existing OSH mechanisms. Below are some of the trends and recommendations highlighted by the EESC. Understanding them will help you gain deeper insight into current trends, reduce risks in your enterprise, and develop critical thinking.

Read more in Occupational Health & Safety Journal including the following topics:

• people are increasingly interacting with machines; AI-based decision-making systems are emerging, and remote work is becoming more widespread;
• the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital transformation, doubling the prevalence of remote employment;
• digital technologies can both reduce risks and create new ones, requiring careful regulatory oversight;
• digital skills must be developed so that workers remain competitive and retain autonomy;
• loss of qualifications due to automated labor management systems must be prevented;
• clear regulation of AI use is needed to protect workers’ rights, prevent discrimination, and ensure algorithmic transparency;
• raising awareness and knowledge in the field of OSH is essential, especially during the implementation of new technologies;
• the benefits of electronic monitoring for safety must be balanced against the unacceptability of excessive control;
• social partners should play an active role in regulating the use of AI in the workplace through collective agreements.

The Occupational Health & Safety Journal has also defined its priorities: to enrich your professional space with useful information and offer specific, proven solutions for modernizing occupational safety management systems. To introduce new tools that make these systems more effective, particularly in managing new risks and challenges. To promptly update the practical body of materials in the Occupational Safety Cabinet, and not to avoid pressing issues of safety, health, and social protection of workers. Together with partners, to strengthen projects such as the Civil Society Platform “Platform for Social Dialogue and Reforms in the Field of Occupational Safety” (SafePlatform Ukraine), the European School of Risk Management of Jannet Arshimova, the Health and Safety English Speaking Club (HSE-SC), training events, and others—by addressing relevant topics, involving national and international speakers, and sharing the experience of experts and occupational safety specialists.

We will be by your side, and therefore we count on your feedback and support for our projects.