Events

A worker management system where simple (i.e. without ‘intelligence’) algorithms and digital technologies (e.g. worker-monitoring devices, computers or face recognition software) are used to manage workers in an automated or semi-automated manner. It provides the means to automate a large number of worker management tasks (e.g. schedule-making, shift- making and worker monitoring through wearable devices). AI-based worker management involves the intelligence simulation necessary to deal with uncertainty (e.g. providing different outputs based on changes in the environment), whereas algorithmic management is deterministic in nature (i.e. it always provides the same output, given the same input). of workers is an increasingly relevant topic for the future of work. The use of AI refers to systems that display intelligent behaviour by analysing their environment and taking actions – with some degree of autonomy – to achieve specific goals. AI-based systems can be purely software-based, acting in the virtual world (e.g. voice assistants, image analysis software, search engines, speech and face recognition systems) or AI can be embedded in hardware devices (e.g. advanced robots, autonomous cars, drones or Internet of things applications). -based systems can bring significant benefits, but also poses new challenges in terms of health, safety and psychological well-being. While AI-supported decision-making can help increase productivity and reduce risk, it can also compromise worker autonomy and cause work-related psychosocial risks. The seminar aims to take stock of the issue by highlighting the positive opportunities introduced by technological innovation, but also drawing attention to potential negative impacts, where the relevant legal provisions are not adequately and consistently applied in employment contracts. 

Senior Research Project Manager Maurizio Curtarelli will present findings from EU-OSHA research and the HWC 2023-2025.