The impact of industrial robots on the world of work

Despite falling prices and more varied applications, the diffusion of industrial robots is taking place at a slower pace than expected. There are not only technical snags but also social barriers to be overcome — displacement of workers, deskilling of certain operations, changes in work methods. Robots do away mostly with unskilled and hazardous jobs and can lead to dramatic employment cut-backs in individual plants. But so far robotisation has affected only a limited number of workplaces in manufacturing. While working conditions may be improved on the whole, reduced manning can contribute to the social isolation of workers. Robotisation can also put a strain on industrial relations unless the workers are properly consulted and their concerns and interests taken fully into account.