Digitalization and automation are impacting millions of jobs worldwide, presenting unprecedented opportunities to enhance occupational safety and health. Automation and smart monitoring systems can reduce hazardous exposures, prevent workplace injuries and improve overall working conditions.
Nevertheless, proactive policies are needed to address the potential risks.

Based on an in-depth desk review, key informant interviews and a review of policy and practice, this report explores the changes digital technologies are bringing to safety and health at work and the need to ensure that these changes do not result in potential risk.

By providing policy insights, practices and real-world case studies, this report serves as a resource for governments, employers, workers and OSH experts to navigate the evolving landscape of digital safety at work. 

The first part of the report examines how automation and advanced robotics, smart OSH tools and monitoring systems, extended reality and virtual reality, algorithmic management of work and changing work arrangements are reshaping workplace safety and health, considering both opportunities and potential risks. 

The second part explores global, regional, and national policies that govern OSH in digitalized workplaces, highlighting regulatory gaps and policy responses. It also discusses risk assessment, worker participation and preventive strategies for integrating digital tools safely and effectively at the workplace level. 

Finally, the concluding key takeaways summarize the major findings, emphasizing the critical actions needed to ensure a responsible, inclusive and worker-centred digital transition. Among them, it should be emphasized that comprehensive training programmes should equip workers with the necessary skills to use new technologies safely, recognize potential risks and respond effectively to emerging hazards, with tailored training for those in high-risk or digitally intensive roles.