The discussion on how artificial intelligence (AI) affects jobs is intensifying. The Institute of Public Policy Research (IPPR) has noted that as many as eight million workers in the UK might be at risk as AI becomes adept at performing their tasks. However, in Cambridgeshire, a company is leveraging AI to help extend the careers of individuals in physically demanding roles.
Being a mechanic involves a lot of physical exertion, including bending, lifting, and stretching, particularly when working under vehicles.
Such physical jobs can lead to muscular-skeletal issues, causing pain in the back, joints, and muscles. In the fiscal year 2022-23, this affected 473,000 workers in the UK.
While some may have to quit jobs they love due to these issues, at German Autowerks in Kimbolton, they have adopted AI to help prevent this.
German Autowerks has committed to technology that safeguards employees from workplace injuries. Technicians were videotaped during their regular tasks, and AI analyzed these videos to pinpoint stress points and potential problem areas on their bodies.
Using this data, the company chose specific exoskeletons from the market for their staff. These are powered suits that alleviate some of the physical strain of the job.
John McGaughey, a technician, commented that the exoskeleton feels like regular clothing after a short period and remarked, “A wheel weighs about 20kg but this makes it feel half the weight, and you can enjoy the work because you’re not feeling the aches and pains.”
The AI technology was supplied by Stanley Handling based in Hertfordshire, which predicts that such systems will soon be as standard as Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) like hard hats or high-visibility jackets.
Andre Jutel, a solutions consultant at the company, stated, “It’s about protecting people. We have an ageing workforce and many manual jobs are tough. The average worker might not retire at 65—perhaps at 75. This technology supports them to continue working longer.”
But the question arises: should these jobs be automated instead?
Jutel explained that while automation might seem an alternative, it’s not always feasible. He noted, “Businesses are dynamic. They evolve and certain tasks become obsolete. I’ve seen a £100,000 machine become redundant in months because it was designed for a specific purpose. Humans are flexible and adaptable—that’s why we believe it’s better to aid them.”
AI already supports workers across various professions. Doctors, police, teachers, and farmers use AI for tasks like diagnosis, administrative work, lesson planning, and predicting harvest times.
Each application of AI, including the ergonomic analysis for mechanics, allows tasks to be completed faster than humans could alone, though human oversight remains crucial. However, concerns persist that without protective policies, many jobs could be lost to AI rather than enhanced by it. Last year, BT planned to replace thousands of jobs with AI technology.
The IPPR warns that secretarial, customer service, and administrative roles are particularly vulnerable, disproportionately affecting women.
Carsten Jung, senior economist at IPPR, emphasized, “AI is a game changer for many. While many companies invest in it, and it can accelerate tasks, a job apocalypse isn’t inevitable. It’s crucial for government, employers, and unions to make decisions now to ensure we manage this technology effectively. If they delay, it might be too late.”
The UK government aims for the country to be a global AI leader. The Department for Science Innovation and Technology stated, “AI is enhancing the safety and satisfaction of our jobs… but we must also gear up for a future where the most advanced systems are far more capable. AI should continue to serve the public good, and we’re committed to ensuring that as we evolve our policy approach in this area.
