Algorithmic management (AM) in India has led to a decline in job quality, with “clear” evidence of increased monitoring, surveillance and work intensity, noted International Labour Organisation (ILO) in its latest report.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff

Citing a 2024 joint study by ILO and European Commission, the report notes that while AM technologies had a positive impact on work organisation in countries like France and Italy, with no significant negative effects on job quality, in South Africa and India, it led to a decline in job quality.

“These differences highlight the role of institutional and regulatory frameworks in shaping AM’s impact, emphasising that it is the implementation, not the technology itself, that influences outcomes,” the ILO report released on Tuesday said.

AM refers to the allocation, monitoring and evaluation of work tasks and workers’ performance through extensive data collection, surveillance, real-time decision-making and metrics-driven evaluations.

AM integrates digital technologies such as big data analytics, machine learning, geolocation and wearable devices to automate or support functions traditionally performed by human managers.

While its use is particularly prevalent on digital labour platforms, AM has expanded to traditional sectors, including warehouses, factories, call centres, transportation, healthcare and construction.

Besides, the report also noted that remote/online work poses challenges for employers in ensuring a safe and healthy working environment.

Without direct oversight or regular risk assessments, hazards such as poor ergonomics, environmental risks and inadequate safety measures can go unnoticed, amplifying occupational safety and health (OSH) concerns.

In India, only 16 per cent of remote/online workers have a dedicated workspace, it noted.

“Many remote workers lack proper workstation setups, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders such as lower back and neck pain.

“Common ergonomic risks include prolonged sitting, repetitive hand and wrist movements and poor screen positioning, which can contribute to physical discomfort, eye strain and fatigue.

“The sedentary nature of desk-based platform work further exacerbates these risks, contributing to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, as workers spend extended hours without adequate movement breaks,” the report notes.

The report titled ‘Revolutionizing health and safety: The role of AI and digitalization at work’ is released ahead of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28.

The report explores how artificial intelligence (AI), digitalisation, robotics and automation are reshaping occupational safety and health (OSH) in workplaces worldwide.

How countries are regulating algorithmic management in workplaces

• China and Netherlands have introduced regulations emphasising fairness and transparency in workplace algorithms
• Spain amended the Workers’ Statute Act, requiring employers to disclose algorithmic parameters affecting working conditions
• In the US, the Algorithmic Accountability Act mandates assessments of high-risk AI and machine learning systems handling personal data or making automated decisions