In an increasingly digitalized world, occupational safety and health (OSH) are under a new spotlight. Innovative technologies such as remote work, the use of artificial intelligence, and virtual reality equipment have transformed how employees interact with their work environment. However, this transformation brings significant challenges, and legislation must evolve to protect workers in an increasingly complex context.
Occupational safety and health (OSH) in the digital era is more than just applying traditional rules in a modern context. It is a proactive approach that integrates technology for the benefit of employees, minimizing risks associated with digitalization. According to Framework Directive 89/391/EEC, transposed into Romanian legislation by Law No. 319/2006, employers are obligated to provide safe working conditions, including in the context of new technologies.
In Romania, occupational safety and health legislation is regulated by various normative acts concerning both occupational safety and health and the organization of prevention and protection activities at the workplace:
- Law No. 319/2006 on occupational safety and health stipulates the obligations of employers to ensure a safe and healthy working environment, while employees are guaranteed the right to work in conditions that do not endanger their life or health.
- Law No. 81/2018 regulating teleworking activities.
- The Monitor Work Directive (90/270/EEC), addressing risks associated with the use of digital equipment and workstation ergonomics.
- The Work Equipment Directive (2009/104/EC) establishes minimum requirements for the safe use of work equipment.
- Framework Directive 89/391/EEC, concerning the implementation of measures to improve the safety and health of workers at work, imposes on employers the obligation to assess workplace risks to identify potential hazards and establish appropriate prevention measures. The assessment must be continuous and updated in case of workplace changes.
The digitalization of the workplace represents a fundamental shift, with remote work, video conferencing communication, and online collaboration tools becoming the norm for millions of employees. In this context, safety and health are no longer just about the physical conditions of the workplace but also extend to cybersecurity and the psychological health of employees.
For instance, remote work brings specific risks, such as ergonomic issues, digital stress, or work-related accidents that may occur in employees’ homes. Additionally, cybersecurity risks are also a growing concern, given that workers are increasingly exposed to online attacks and risks related to data protection.
Regarding remote work, Law No. 81/2018 regulates teleworking, imposing additional obligations on employers to protect the health and safety of employees, including adapting the workplace to their specific needs.
Challenges and solutions in the digital era include:
- Cybersecurity
In the context of digitalization, protecting data and IT systems is essential. Law No. 190/2018 on the implementation of GDPR in Romania adds an extra layer of protection for employees’ personal data, and non-compliance with these regulations can result in severe financial penalties.
Employers must implement cybersecurity measures such as data encryption, strong passwords, and network monitoring systems. Furthermore, it is important for employees to be trained to recognize cyber threats such as phishing or malware. - Psychological health
Digital stress is an increasingly common reality in the era of remote work. Employees face exhaustion from excessive work, burnout, or social isolation. Law No. 53/2003 (the Labor Code) regulates working hours and rest periods. Moreover, extending health regulations is necessary in the current context. Employers must be aware of the importance of work-life balance and the impact of prolonged remote work. - Remote Ergonomics
Home workplaces can become ergonomically hazardous, with employees at risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders due to inappropriate working conditions. Law No. 319/2006 requires employers to assess risks and ensure adequate working conditions.
Employers must foresee clear policies for remote work, including:
- Risk assessment and management: Identifying factors that can affect workers’ physical and mental health.
- Ergonomic equipment: Ensuring an appropriate working environment with adjustable desks and chairs, quality screens, and other ergonomic accessories.
- Availability hours: Establishing a clear working schedule to prevent overwork.
- Performance objectives: Defining realistic expectations regarding work outcomes.
- Technical assistance: Organizing training sessions for the effective use of work equipment.
- Continuous training: Educating employees to maintain a high level of physical activity during the day.
- Manager preparation: Courses for leaders to help them coordinate remote teams and stay connected with them.
- Risk awareness: Informing employees about specific risks of working from home, such as inadequate ergonomics or social isolation.
- Personal data management: Employers must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
In addition, the digital era has developed a series of innovative software applications capable of analyzing and interacting with workers in real-time. For instance, mental health chatbots monitor communication patterns and can identify signs of burnout or other mental health issues. Furthermore, they can provide personalized support to those at risk, offering recommendations or specific guidance to reduce stress or anxiety.
Also, as an innovation for automated workplaces, the European project MindBot, developed under the Horizon 2020 program, provides support solutions for workers in automated environments. The MindBot platform is designed for workplaces where human-robot interaction is intense. It addresses situations such as prolonged focus on tasks requiring heightened attention and manual precision, where workers may experience excessive pressure or repetitive work that can reduce attention and motivation.
Occupational safety and health in the digital era are essential not only for protecting employees’ well-being but also for ensuring companies’ productivity and legal compliance. In Romania, current legislation provides a solid framework, but employers must continue adapting protective measures to the new technological challenges. By implementing appropriate policies and educating employees, a safe and healthy work environment can be ensured even in a rapidly changing digital era.
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Andreea Nicolaie