Most frontline logistics workers in the UK trust artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to improve safety at work, according to new research.
The survey, commissioned by workplace operations platform SafetyCulture, reveals that 73% of logistics workers believe AI and automation will help keep them safe.
Many see clear benefits: 42% think AI could help predict and prevent accidents, 31% say it can spot risks humans might miss, and 30% believe it will take over dangerous tasks.
Rather than fearing the technology, respondents described feeling “curious” and “hopeful” about AI’s role in the workplace.
Alex Brooks-Sykes, SafetyCulture’s lead for the UK & Ireland, said: “There’s a lot for the logistics industry to feel positive about here.
"Leaders may assume the worst about workers’ attitudes to AI and automation being introduced in the workplace – but our findings show staff are optimistic about the safety benefits in particular.
“It’s also reassuring to see that twice as many workers trust management to make the right decisions on AI adoption, than don’t.
"When introducing new technology, particularly when there’s uncertainty about its impact, being open and transparent is key, and communication is an area workers say their employer can improve on.”
Indeed, 49% of workers said they trust management to make sound decisions regarding AI, compared with 24% who do not.
"However, concerns remain: 45% of logistics workers worry about job losses, while 33% are uneasy about machines making decisions without human oversight.
Notably, 58% say they trust AI to offer insights or guidance, but not to make final decisions.
More than a third (35%) are also wary of unreliable or faulty tech creating hazards rather than solving them.
Alex added: “Among the general positivity, there are some useful actionable issues that workers raise.
"Management must be open with workers about their AI and automation plans, and it’s worth considering how technology will reshape the workplace.”
SafetyCulture, which supports 25,000 UK customers, is headquartered in Manchester.