A recent survey conducted by the GMB union revealed that close to 50% of employees are concerned about the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on their jobs. Among the 5,000 union members surveyed, almost 3 in 10 reported that their employers had already implemented AI systems, with 26% stating that these systems were performing tasks typically handled by human workers. Additionally, nearly half of the respondents mentioned that AI was being used by their employers to monitor their activities or those of their colleagues.
The growing use of AI technology is increasingly leading to job displacements. For instance, Asda recently announced plans to streamline its warehouse operations through automation, potentially resulting in the loss of up to 1,000 jobs. Similarly, Nestle is considering cutting 450 positions, with the GMB attributing some of these layoffs to the expanded use of AI, particularly in departments like human resources.
In a separate development, Amazon introduced a cutting-edge robot designed to operate within its warehouses, marking advancements in robotic technology. The Proteus machine is equipped with state-of-the-art features that enable it to navigate areas previously inaccessible to robots.
Amidst these changes, concerns were raised at the GMB Congress in Blackpool by Nestle worker Robert Battell about the increasing trend of job losses due to automation. Battell emphasized the need for regulatory measures to safeguard workers from potential misuse of AI by employers, highlighting both the opportunities and risks associated with this technology.
Furthermore, the GMB expressed worries about the impact of driverless taxis on the job security of Britain’s 300,000 cab drivers. Waymo, a US company, has selected London as its first European city for testing autonomous taxis, a move that could potentially disrupt the traditional taxi industry. The GMB is advocating for government intervention to protect taxi and private hire drivers from job losses resulting from the adoption of driverless vehicles.
Private hire driver and GMB Congress Delegate, Ali Haydor, stressed the importance of balancing technological progress with the welfare of workers, cautioning against the potential consequences of replacing human labor with automation. Haydor emphasized the need for shared benefits and risks in the evolving landscape of technology and employment.
