The first ethical question about using AI in a workplace could be: Is AI our new BIG BROTHER?
The answer is: yes, it could be! BUT it’s not a comprehensive answer.
The AI technology I have in mind is like what we are using in VEUNEX. We gather data from CCTV cameras to train our AI algorithms for finding workplace anomalies. Finally, companies can avoid accidents by using our AI-driven engines and safety solution scenarios. To see more, you can check out our solutions on our website or book a free demo here.
It has been claimed that our solution, which uses surveillance cameras, may make employees feel uncomfortable because they feel as if others are watching them, almost like the police. I’d like to know how accurate such feelings are and how we can resolve this issue.
Someone can claim that surveillance cameras are already installed in every workplace. Thus, the first idea could be that since we are already watched, it would be okay if it were used to save lives! So it’s not a new BIG BROTHER. It is just a new way to use data to save lives. However, this point of view does not look very satisfying at first!
No one wants to lose his freedom, and if employees feel like that, it can damage the workplace environment, safety culture, company reputation, and finally, company efficiency. Although, when we think a little more profoundly, we can see that in today’s digital age, on a big scale, in society, not only our physical location is tracked, but our emotions and thoughts as well! Therefore, the real question is, how can we ensure that we do not lose our freedom in the workplace and society both?
In my opinion, it does not matter that the government, Facebook, or Google are watching us. I don’t mind them watching and using data as long as we know what they are doing with it. Whenever we feel their actions threaten our freedom, we can stop them; the problem arises when we are unaware of their activities. So more transparency means fewer threats to our freedom. This relation can be used in the workplace as well.
Suppose there is a robust trusting culture in a workplace, where employees know how the cameras’ data is being used to improve occupational health and safety. In that case, the myth of a BIG BROTHER presence can be reduced. But it’s not the whole story.
AI uses in-time camera videos and detects anomalies. It is definitely on us to determine what will happen next. Is it better to inform an HSE officer or turn on the siren? On the other hand, what will happen to the employee who makes a mistake? These questions are not new, and they’ve been here all the time. Eventually, I think at least current AI technology like what we use is not a matter itself. The important thing is what we do with it and our current work environment and safety culture, since AI is only a perfect tool to improve safety, nothing more, at least not yet!
