How Can We Effectively Integrate The Principles Of The International Labour Organization's (ILO) Convention 190 On Violence And Harassment In The World Of Work Into Workplace Risk Assessments To Specifically Identify And Mitigate The Disproportionate Impact Of Psychosocial Hazards On Female Workers In The Manufacturing Sector, Particularly In The Context Of Automated And Artificial Intelligence-driven Production Processes?

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To effectively integrate the principles of ILO Convention 190 into workplace risk assessments, focusing on the disproportionate impact of psychosocial hazards on female workers in automated and AI-driven manufacturing, follow this organized strategy:

1. Integrate Psychosocial Hazards into Risk Assessments

  • Modify Risk Assessment Frameworks: Expand existing frameworks to include psychosocial factors such as workload, autonomy, social support, and workplace relationships.
  • Gender-Disaggregated Data: Collect data separated by gender to identify specific issues affecting female workers.

2. Engage Workers in the Process

  • Surveys and Focus Groups: Use these tools to gather insights from female workers on stressors and discomfort points.
  • Participatory Approach: Form a committee with female representatives to ensure their concerns are addressed.

3. Assess Workplace Culture

  • Culture Audits: Evaluate the workplace culture for inclusivity and respect, ensuring clear policies against harassment are enforced.

4. Mitigate Identified Hazards

  • Targeted Controls: Implement ergonomic adjustments, training on new technologies, and policies promoting work-life balance.
  • Upskilling Programs: Provide opportunities to address job insecurity due to automation.

5. Training and Awareness

  • Comprehensive Training: Educate all employees on violence and harassment prevention, with special training for managers.
  • Bystander Intervention: Include training to address issues early.

6. Monitor and Evaluate

  • Regular Reviews: Conduct periodic risk assessments and employee feedback to ensure effectiveness.
  • Adjust Interventions: Modify approaches as needed based on feedback.

7. Leverage Technology Responsibly

  • Supportive Technology Use: Utilize technology to monitor workload distribution while respecting privacy.

8. Policy Development and Accountability

  • Update Policies: Develop a comprehensive policy on violence and harassment, including psychosocial hazards and gender considerations.
  • Reporting Channels: Ensure clear, confidential, and non-retaliatory reporting mechanisms with accountability measures.

9. Continuous Improvement

  • Use Guidelines and Tools: Adapt existing ILO resources for structured assessments.
  • Regular Reporting: Maintain transparency and accountability through regular reports on actions taken.

By following this strategy, organizations can create a safer, more inclusive environment that addresses the unique challenges faced by female workers in the context of automation and AI.