Nearly half of workers fear AI could replace their jobs, survey finds

Almost half of workers are worried that artificial intelligence (AI) could replace their jobs, according to new research from GMB Union.

The union’s survey of more than 5,000 workers across a range of sectors found that 48% are concerned about the impact of AI on their employment, while 58% believe the technology will eliminate jobs in their workplace.

The findings come amid growing debate over the use of AI and automation in the workplace and their potential impact on employment.

According to the survey, 29% of workers said their employer has already introduced AI into the workplace.

Of those, more than a quarter (26%) reported that the technology is now carrying out tasks they would previously have performed themselves.

The poll also found that 48% of respondents believe AI is being used by employers to monitor their activity or that of their colleagues.

GMB highlighted recent announcements involving job losses linked to automation, including changes at retail and manufacturing businesses, as evidence of growing concern among workers.

The findings were discussed at the union’s annual congress in Blackpool.