Can robot applications safeguard workers’ health? Evidence from China

This study uses data from the China Labor-force Dynamics Survey to investigate the impact of robot applications on worker health. We find that robot applications significantly improves workers’ health, especially among men, those engaged in routine tasks, and workers in the manufacturing sector, and the results remain robust with a series of robustness checks. The mechanism analysis indicates that task reallocation and improvements in working conditions are potential channels through which robot applications can affect workers’ health. Specifically, robot applications can replace high-physical exertion and high-risk tasks, steering workers toward occupations and tasks with lower physical intensity and reduced injury risk. Additionally, this study contributes to improving working conditions by reducing working hours, lowering work intensity, improving the working environment, and enhancing workplace safety. We also find that the robot applications are effective in improving workers’ mental health. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the societal benefits of the current robot applications.