One of the central questions of implementing new technologies in the workplace is how they will affect the safety and health of workers. A recent study set out to find those answers.  

The methodology used, called the Delphi method, is to get consensus among academic experts about the most significant impacts on workers and then to propose guidelines for mitigating the potentially negative effects of digital technologies.

The first step was to examine recent research, from 2022-2024, which observed the impact workers experienced based on the requirements that they needed to implement as related to operating new technologies.

A few studies from 2020-2013, the issue examined how incorporating new technology into workflow reconfigures exposure to both traditional physical and environmental risks as well as new hazards associated with digitized work systems (Arana-Landín et al, 2023; Reiman et al., 2021; Zorzenon et al., 2022)

An interesting aspect of assessing potential problems of bringing in new technology is the increase in the cognitive requirements needed. This information overload could lead to “excessive mental workload, raising concerns about human error, reduced performance, fatigue and demotivation.  (Gualtieri et al., 2022)

In addition to the information components, the change in job requirements includes psychosocial stressors. These include performance demands, time pressure, continuous monitoring, fatigue, conflict, and reduced autonomy. The presence of these factors has increased psychosocial risk.

Based on a consensus among 24 academic experts, 42 significant impacts affecting workers were identified, and psychosocial factors were identified as the main risk factors affecting workers’ safety and health. Stress, mental fatigue, and fear of replacement were identified as major adverse effects.

The authors concluded that while technology offers opportunities for modernization, it "also amplifies challenges related to mental overload, increased cognitive demands, and organizational risk factors arising from technological integration."

Strategies to Address Safety Risks due to Technology

Training

To balance the organization, cognitive and technical demands needed for increased technology, companies should invest in methods to develop, train and upskill the workforce. The authors note that "worker training requires both adaptation of the work environment to individual abilities and needs, as well as support for competency development."

The method recommended is active learning, including digital simulations, participatory learning, and augmented or virtual reality. 

Technologies should be designed to support the worker, featuring intuitive interfaces and digital assistance that facilitate integration (Hémono et al., 2026).

Preventative Measures for Psychological Risks

Pointing to a study done by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHAb, 2024), the authors note that preventive measures, such as proper training, good support management practices, and effective communication, should be utilized. These actions not only mitigate negative impacts but also foster healthier work environments.

Collaboration is also a tool that is essential when it is based on clear communication, continuous feedback, and active worker participation. 

Companies must strive for employee engagement to both increase confidence and reduce concerns related to unemployment, lack of qualifications, and insecurity in the face of technological changes.

Read the full study for an in-depth analysis.