New technology could widen inequality unless workers have a say, warns Wales TUC

• New technologies and automation have rapidly changed the world of work, and the pace of change is accelerating, according to a new report commissioned by Wales TUC.
• Work is already being reshaped by new technology, the research found, which warns that it is both a risk and an opportunity for the workforce.
• New technologies can make work more fulfilling, safer and more flexible, but bosses need to work with trade unions so that the gains are shared and workers aren’t left behind.

Employers are adopting new technologies at an increasingly fast pace, according to a new report commissioned by Wales TUC, and safeguards must be in place so that it doesn’t leave workers behind.

The research was carried out by the Labour Research Department, to explore how workers should prepare for the future of work. It sets out how workers in the UK and the rest of the world are preparing for technological transformation, and negotiating their fair share of the gains.

The report authors concluded that successful intervention is possible but that the time to act is now. Trade unions need to be preparing the ground and engaging members on how technology is changing the workplace, and engaging in dialogue at a workplace and policy level.

New technology is both a risk and an opportunity for workers in Wales

The report highlights a raft of research on the possible impact of new technology on the number and nature of jobs. It highlights research which warned that up to a third of jobs in Wales could be lost as a result of automation, which a disproportionate impact on sectors like manufacturing and retail, but is cautious about whether this will be the reality.

Wales TUC General Secretary Shavanah Taj said: “It’s clear that the rapid introduction of new technologies is changing work in so many ways – it effects how we do our jobs, what we do and how we’re managed. But it’s very important we remember that the introduction of tech is always an employer’s choice, and it isn’t a one-dimensional issue. There are both short and long-term implications, many of which matter to workers.

“It’s important that we don’t view the issue as a jobs lost vs. jobs gained issues, and instead consider how new technology can be harnessed to improve workers’ experiences. Our focus should be on how to negotiate greater flexibility, more fulfilling work and other benefits which new tech can bring.

“Worker voice is key. Employers need to get around the table with worker representatives to negotiate the introduction of new technology. Reskilling will be a core part of this, and additional responsibilities and job transformation must be fairly rewarded. The technological revolution will be a failure if it results in workers doing more but getting paid less.”

The report looks at predictions that industry 4.0 will generate significant financial and productivity gains, and that the benefits of these should be fairly shared with the workforce. It also explores some of the emerging issues with new technology and automation, including the implications for worker health and safety, issues with data management and excessive monitoring, as well as the possibilities it has created for remote working.