Robotisation of work - what are the experiences among employees in automotive industry company in the Czech republic

Abstract

The appearance of new technologies, such as advanced robotic systems that can closely interact with humans, has led to a revival of the debate on the automation potential of jobs and tasks as well as their consequences on occupational safety and health (OSH). Especially for the automation of physical tasks, industrial robots appear most frequently. The possible associated health effects for the employees has not yet been fully explored. Inadequate robotic task allocation and design can be mostly associated with psychosocial risks like reduced wellbeing, emotional exhaustion, nervousness or irritability. Mechanical robotic failures may cause physical harm. Also the prevalence of information and communication technologies (ICT) is growing rapidly. The digital stress may negatively affect individual physiological wellbeing, user satisfaction or individual performance at work.Purpose: The aim of the qualitative study was to describe experiences with introduction of robots into work activities among employees in automotive industry.Methods: We interviewed 8 employees of automotive industry company in the Czech Republic using a semi-structured guide and subjected the interviews to qualitative content analysis.Results: We summarized 9 themes: General perception; Change; Fear; Problems; Support (training, current support); Social relations and communication; Characteristics of the employee; Physical health and Mental health (stress, fatigue, cognitive function: memory and attention, abuse.Conclusion: Findings from this study suggest the importance of support in terms of adequate and easy to understand training and also supportive leadership. The characteristics of the employee who is collaborating and cooperating with robots in the studied company was unique – not highly educated but very skilled and proactive. It also seems that company culture and managerial support are necessary to create a healthy and successful organization.Supported by Ministery of Health, Czech rep. - RVO (NIPH, 75010330)

Keywords: Psychosocial risks at work, robotisation, company culture

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005461