Occupational health and safety in the digital age: a theoretical study of the impact of digital transformation

Abstract

This article explores the impacts of digital transformation (DT) on occupational health and safety (OHS), highlighting the challenges and opportunities for OHS associated with new forms of work organization "New way of work", notably teleworking, this mode of work offering on the one hand a certain flexibility to employees, can also, on the other hand, generate risks to their safety, physical and mental health. However, the article also assesses EU OHS legislation relating to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotization in the work context, and highlights the need for concrete actions to ensure a safe and healthy working environment in the digital age, such as establishing an adequate legal framework for the digital "right to disconnect", investing in training and skills development, promoting a culture of prevention, etc. As a result, this article also highlights the importance of supporting change in the context of digital work in the workplace. Indeed, the implementation of a prevention strategy within organizations is fundamental to the optimal management of OHS. This strategy involves raising workers' awareness of emerging psychosocial and ergonomic risks, adequate safety measures and good practice in the use of digital tools. However, the article also raises ethical concerns, concerning data confidentiality, privacy and the difficulties of automated decision-making, particularly with the implementation of AI and its increasing use in work supervision and management.

Keywords: Digital transformation (DT) - Occupational health and safety (OHS) - Artificial intelligence (AI) - Risks – legislation EU

JEL Classification: J24 - K32 - M14 

Paper type: Theoretical Research.