The age of the augmented worker calls for responsible innovation

Technology has progressed to the point where gadgets and tools are no longer external items but attachments and augmentations to the worker’s body. Exoskeletons, wearable sensors and smart glasses are becoming more common across warehouses and facilities worldwide.

What Is an augmented worker?

An augmented worker is a human employee whose capabilities become enhanced through advanced technology. In this context, augmentation refers to integrating various gadgets and tech to improve a person’s physical, mental and sensory capabilities.

Many companies have already adopted human augmentation technologies in the workplace.

There are three main categories for this technology: replicating – where technologies replace or address lost functions, like smart glasses for visual impairment or prosthetics for amputated limbs; supplementing – using technologies to boost existing capabilities, like hearing aids; and exceeding with tech which allows humans to surpass natural capabilities, like in advanced brain-computer integrations.

Many companies have already adopted human augmentation technologies in the workplace. German Bionic recently released an AI-powered exoskeleton named Exia. It offers up to 38 kilograms of assistance, helping humans lift heavy objects easily and more efficiently.

However, its augmented AI capabilities are the main selling point. The more someone uses Exia, the more the exoskeleton learns to anticipate their movements. It’s like muscle memory, but for AI and machines.

Human augmentation technologies in the workplace

Human augmentation exists in various forms, helping workers improve their performance and productivity. Some popular and practical examples include exoskeletons, wearable electric or mechanical devices support that enhance the body’s natural movements. In warehouses and other workplaces, exoskeletons often help employees carry heavy loads or travel longer distances while minimizing physical strain on their bodies.

There are also wearable sensors, such as those in smart gloves, used to help monitor a worker’s actions, vital signs, fatigue and environmental conditions in real time. For example, they can look at someone’s heart rate, temperature and surroundings, allowing them to send alerts if they’re at risk of injury.

While Augmented reality (AR) glasses are smart eyewear that relay digital information onto the user’s field of vision. It still allows people to see their immediate surroundings, but AR glasses can superimpose data like instructions or alerts onto the image, which helps with guidance or accuracy.

The benefits of human augmentation

Adopting human augmentation technology in warehouses and similar facilities offers several benefits, like increased efficiency, as new technologies often bring advancements that increase workplace efficiency and productivity, and human augmentation tech is no exception. Exoskeletons, AR glasses and wearable sensors help streamline workflows and minimize errors so workers can complete tasks faster and more easily.

Improved workplace safety comes from technologies that make managers and workers more aware of their condition and surroundings, which improves everybody’s safety. For example, wearable sensors can alert workers and supervisors about potential health concerns or workplace dangers.

While human augmentation technologies allow companies to scale and adapt their processes as needed. For example, a company can use AR glasses for hands-on training, allowing new employees to become productive faster.

Challenges and considerations

While augmenting workers with technology can be beneficial, this practice also raises significant concerns.

Take data collection and surveillance, human augmentation devices like wearable sensors and AR glasses gather vast amounts of personal and operational data. While this information can improve performance, it raises concerns about employee privacy, consent and potential misuse.

Many employees across multiple age groups are deeply uncomfortable about workplace surveillance, with 54% of Gen Z stating they would consider a pay cut if it meant better workplace privacy.

Augmenting human capabilities through technology also raises various ethical concerns, especially those related to surveillance, worker autonomy and potential job displacement. New technology usually outpaces regulation, so it can take some time to establish safety and ethical standards regarding human augmentation.

Balancing innovation and responsibility

The augmented worker brings several advancements and advantages to the table. However, companies must be mindful of the ethical and operational concerns surrounding this technology. Ultimately, human augmentation is not about replacing people, but about amplifying human potential to ensure that progress benefits both businesses and society.

__

Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest innovation news and more sent to your inbox.