PREMUS 2025: 12th International Scientific Conference on the Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders
PREMUS 2025: 12th International Scientific Conference on the Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders and ethical considerations in the era of digital interventions
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Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) constitute one of the primary causes of occupational disability on a global scale, impacting millions of workers and placing a significant financial strain on both healthcare systems and employers. As technological advancements continue to shape occupational health practices, a range of digital interventions – including telehealth platforms, artificial intelligence (AI)-based diagnostic systems, digital human modeling (DHM), and gamified educational tools – are increasingly being implemented to aid in the prevention, monitoring, and management of WRMSDs. While these innovations enhance accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and personalized healthcare delivery, they simultaneously present intricate ethical issues that must be addressed with diligence. A fundamental ethical challenge pertains to the assurance of truly informed consent. Given that many workers may lack adequate digital literacy, particularly in automated or remote environments, there is a risk that they may not fully comprehend the operational mechanisms, associated risks, or broader implications of these technologies. This gap raises significant concerns regarding the legitimacy of consent and the preservation of individual autonomy in health-related decisions. Data privacy and security also emerge as critical ethical considerations. The deployment of wearable technologies and AI systems typically involves the collection of sensitive biometric and behavioral data, necessitating stringent data protection protocols to prevent unauthorized access or misuse. Moreover, issues of equitable access underscore an additional ethical dimension. Digital solutions, if not carefully designed, may inadvertently marginalize individuals from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, thereby exacerbating pre-existing disparities in occupational health. In parallel, while gamified approaches can foster greater engagement, they also risk veering into coercive territory, particularly when incentives or behavioral nudges encroach upon personal autonomy. Lastly, the reduction of workers to mere data points through algorithmic evaluation or productivity tracking threatens to undermine their inherent dignity and professional independence. It is imperative that technological applications in healthcare remain anchored in human-centered values. In conclusion, while digital interventions hold transformative potential for addressing WRMSDs, their ethical deployment necessitates a commitment to transparency, respect for individual rights, and the promotion of inclusive access that serves the needs of all workers equitably.