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The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in worker management (AIWM) can have different impacts on workers’ occupational safety and health (OSH), depending on how it is implemented and managed. Examining case studies of real-world applications helps to better understand how these systems are used in practice and offers guidance for effective implementation, minimising the risks associated with their use.

Large car manufacturer: the importance of worker involvement
A large Belgian car manufacturer analysed in the study employs approximately 7,000 workers, with a significant part of them on temporary contracts. An AI-based worker management system was introduced to improve efficiency at the assembly line through task synchronisation. It also flagged operators who had not worked at a particular post for long, prompting reassignment and training.

The technology was implemented in a top-down hierarchical manner that gave workers minimal opportunity to provide input. Following implementation, the company reported increased productivity and a reduction in quality incidents. Nonetheless, the AIWM system reduced worker autonomy and increased workload, two important psychosocial risks that can lead to stress and burnout. The work intensity was high and managed through job rotations.

Moreover, the lack of human oversight in AI-based processes contributed to a more hostile work environment where workers felt over-monitored and isolated. This led to a high turnover rate within the company.

This case highlights the importance of involving workers in the development and deployment of AIWM systems. A top-down approach can exacerbate psychosocial risks and reduce job satisfaction.

Small automotive supplier: participation and proactiveness is key
A small Italian automotive supplier employing 49 people implemented AIWM solutions across all departments and roles. These included systems for task allocation, communication and information sharing, quality and safety controls and logistics, aimed at creating more efficient workflows.

The technology was designed and developed in-house, with workers actively involved at every stage of the process. The company also took a proactive approach to OSH, consulting research institutions and national organisations specialised in the field.

The AIWM systems supported workers in managing processes and responding to challenges using real-time data, which improved their autonomy. The participatory approach created a stronger sense of ownership and engagement among staff, leading to higher job satisfaction, increased productivity and greater worker empowerment. Ultimately, this strategy contributed to lower levels of stress, creating a healthier workplace.

Food service providers: alternative models for better work-life balance
Two Spanish home-delivery food service cooperatives adopted a worker-centric approach to AIWM from the beginning. Deliveries are coordinated using one of these systems developed by and for cooperatives, designed to promote supportive rather than surveillant labour relations.

With workers actively involved in decision-making processes, the AIWM system enables fair distribution of work, including the option to decline deliveries without penalty. This helps mitigate common psychosocial risks in digital platform work by ensuring fair workload distribution, respecting workers’ availability and preferences and limiting daily physical strain, all of which contribute to better work-life balance and safer conditions.

Large manufacturing company: social dialogue is essential
A large Danish manufacturing company, characterised by high levels of unionisation and strong worker representation, gradually introduced AIWM technologies on its production lines and in administrative tasks. These technologies, embedded in devices such as smartwatches and tablets, were designed to streamline workflows, allocate tasks and facilitate communication between workers and machines.

The company involved workers and their representatives throughout the entire implementation process. This commitment to social dialogue helped address concern, reduce stress and ensure that the AIWM systems were introduced in a manner that actively supported workers’ OSH.

• Take a look at all content related to our current priority area, worker management through AI.
• Explore our previous HWC articles focusing on opportunities and risks of AI worker management and safer implementation of these technologies.
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