AI and Digital Technologies: New WHS Guidance from Safe Work Australia
Safe Work Australia has released new guidance on the work health and safety implications of AI and digital technologies in the workplace, covering everything from decision-making software and workplace monitoring tools to wearables and automation. The guidance outlines the opportunities, risks and WHS considerations associated with AI and digital technologies, and explains how, in consultation with workers and their representatives, duty holders can apply the WHS risk management process to introduce and use these technologies safely. Importantly, PCBUs must manage the associated WHS risks in the same way they would manage any other WHS risk — this isn't a separate compliance stream, it sits squarely within existing risk management obligations.
The guidance is careful to point out that AI and digital tools can cut both ways. The same technology can simultaneously control existing hazards while introducing new or different risks e.g. digital decision-making tools can speed up outcomes and strengthen WHS strategies, but may also make it harder for workers to override decisions affecting their health and safety. Common risk examples include digital systems that control the pace of work in ways that pressure workers to complete tasks faster, and technologies that physically interact with workers, such as automated gates or robotics.
For businesses already reviewing digital systems or considering new technology rollouts, this is a timely prompt to run those changes through the same consultation and risk assessment process used for any other workplace hazard — not treat it as an IT decision made in isolation from health and safety.
Please include the attached photo for the Safe Work one.
