Robots essential workers

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Robots, essential workers

Robots have been used during the pandemic in multiple ways, and for good reasons.

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Quantumrun Foresight
November 25, 2021

Robots as essential workers need a structural reassessment of labor needs, with automation potentially negating the need to rehire certain workers, and a decrease in young people being attracted to low-paying service jobs due to the perceived risk of automation. Furthermore, the increasing presence of robots could reshape societal norms, foster greater acceptance of automation, and address demographic challenges by providing assistance and companionship to the aging population. Breakthroughs in medicine and space exploration, increased productivity and efficiency, and reduced waste and pollution through optimized processes are among the other profound impacts of this trend.

Robots as essential workers context

In 2020, in response to the escalating COVID-19 pandemic, 33 countries embraced the use of robots across various industries, according to the research organization Robotics for Infectious Diseases. The deployment of robots extended beyond traditional factory automation. They were employed to sanitize roads and public areas, assist potential real estate buyers by providing virtual property tours through remote screens, and even symbolically represent students during graduation ceremonies when physical attendance was restricted.

The adaptability of robots has become increasingly evident, as they transcend their conventional role in factory settings. Previously considered economically unfeasible for lower-end retail and service tasks, robots have emerged as valuable assets in these domains as well. The COVID-19 crisis has served as a catalyst, intensifying the demand for robots. Governments and companies are now driven to accelerate their long-term automation objectives to complement human workers, effectively accomplishing repetitive assignments with enhanced efficiency.

The integration of robots into various sectors signifies a paradigm shift in the labor landscape. By expanding the scope of automation, companies and governments are striving to address the challenges posed by the pandemic and anticipate future disruptions. As a result, robots are poised to assume a more significant role in both routine and specialized tasks, while humans can focus on complex problem-solving and higher-value activities.

Disruptive impact

As robots assume more routine and monotonous tasks, individuals may find themselves liberated from repetitive work, allowing them to focus on more creative and complex endeavors. However, it also raises concerns about job displacement and the need to acquire new skills to remain relevant in the evolving labor market. Governments and educational institutions may play a crucial role in preparing individuals for this transition by offering training programs and fostering a culture of lifelong learning.

Companies stand to benefit from the long-term impact of robotics as well. By incorporating robots into their operations, businesses can enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency. In industries such as healthcare, robots can assist medical professionals in tasks like disinfection, teleconsultation, and sample transportation, freeing up human workers to concentrate on providing personalized care. Delivery robots offer the potential for faster and more reliable service, improving customer satisfaction and streamlining logistics. However, companies must also navigate ethical considerations, such as environmental impact and ensuring the responsible use of robots to avoid privacy infringements.

Governments may need to establish regulatory frameworks that ensure the safe and ethical use of robots, addressing concerns related to data privacy, cybersecurity, and environmental sustainability. By investing in research and development, promoting innovation, and providing support for businesses and workers during the transition, governments can position their countries as leaders in the field of robotics and automation. Furthermore, they may need to collaborate with international organizations to develop global standards and guidelines for the responsible deployment of robots in various sectors

Implications of robots as essential workers

Wider implications of robots as essential workers may include:

A structural reassessment of labor needs among various companies in various industries, as the automation invested in during the COVID-19 pandemic may negate the need to rehire some workers.
Less young people being attracted to low-paying service jobs that they may view as being at a high risk toward automation. This view could become self-fulfilling, as companies facing labor shortages will further invest in automation.
Increased venture funding for robotics related startups focusing on various niches where robots can provide value to companies and people.
The increasing presence of robots as essential workers could reshape societal norms and attitudes towards technology, fostering a greater acceptance and integration of automation in everyday life.
The aging population benefiting from the presence of robots in healthcare and eldercare, assisting in tasks and providing companionship, alleviating the burden on caregivers and addressing demographic challenges.
Breakthroughs in other fields, such as medicine and space exploration, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and capabilities.
Increased productivity and efficiency in industries, leading to potential economic growth but also raising concerns about job displacement and income inequality.
Reduced waste, energy consumption, and pollution through optimized processes and resource management.