Algorithmic Tracking is ‘Damaging Mental Health

 Bottom line: 

Tracking workers and setting performance targets through algorithms is damaging the mental health of employees and must be controlled by new legislation, according to a group of MPs and colleagues. An "algorithm accountability law" would ensure that companies assess the effect of performance-driven regimes, such as monitoring queues at supermarkets or hourly delivery guidelines for delivery drivers, said the All-party parliamentary group (APPG) on the future. of work. "Widespread monitoring and goal setting technologies, in particular, are associated with pronounced negative impacts on mental and physical well-being, as workers experience the extreme pressure of constant, real-time micromanagement and automated assessment," they said. APPG members in their report. . The report recommends incorporating a new algorithm law, which it says would set "a clear direction to ensure AI puts people first." It warns that "the use of algorithmic surveillance, management and monitoring technologies […] has increased significantly during the pandemic."

Why this is important:

 Under the proposed law, workers would have the right to participate in the design and use of algorithm-based systems, where computers make and execute decisions about fundamental aspects of someone's work, including in some cases the shift assignments and pay, or if they get a job in the first place. The report also recommended that companies and public sector employers complete algorithmic impact assessments, aimed at fixing any problems caused by the systems.