Just over a quarter of workers in Britain are worried that artificial intelligence (AI) will lead to job losses, according to a new survey.
A YouGov poll commissioned by workplace expert Acas explored employees’ main concerns about the use of AI at work. It found that 26 percent of workers fear that AI could cost them their jobs. Just under a fifth, at 17 percent, said they were concerned about AI making errors, while 15 percent cited a lack of regulation as a major worry.
Dan Ellis, Interim Chief Executive of Acas, pointed out the need for employers to address these concerns when introducing AI technologies. He said, “Some employers may be looking to embrace new technologies as a way to cut costs, increase productivity or make workers’ jobs easier.
“There can be concerns from staff when new technologies are introduced at work and it’s clear from our study that their biggest worry is that AI will result in job losses. Bosses should have clear policies on the use of AI at work, remember that it is not a perfect technology and have open conversations with employees around its use.”
Clear AI policies and employee consultation
Acas advises that organisations adopting AI should develop clear and transparent policies around its use in the workplace. Consulting employees and any representatives about its introduction is recommended, particularly if AI is expected to change how certain roles operate. Changes to responsibilities involving AI could result in the need to amend terms and conditions of employment.
Employers are encouraged to present AI as a tool for enhancing employees’ roles rather than replacing them. Providing reassurance that human skills will still be necessary can help ease fears about job security; training may also be required to ensure that staff understand how to use AI effectively and get the best results from it.
Acas also points out that AI technology is not without flaws. Outputs generated by AI should be checked carefully for accuracy, tone and bias. Any AI-generated material should be clearly cited to maintain transparency in communications and decision-making.
The privacy problem
Organisations must ensure that their data privacy policies extend to the use of AI. Employees should be cautious when entering business-sensitive or personal information into AI platforms, particularly public tools. There is a risk that such information could be made public or used by others if adequate precautions are not taken.
The guidance notes the importance of aligning AI use with existing data protection regulations, including compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Acas advises checking with internal IT teams to ensure that only approved platforms are being used for work-related AI activities.