There are over 2.8 million work-related deaths annually, highlighting the urgent need to enhance workplace safety as technology advances, and prioritising worker safety is crucial to ensure the human element is not overlooked.
Acting Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Employment, Atish Kumar, mentioned this at the Central Division World Day for Safety and Health at Work celebration held at the Suva Civic Centre.
Kumar says artificial intelligence is no longer just a futuristic idea — it has arrived in Fiji and is already transforming the way we work.
He says from automating routine tasks to boosting business competitiveness, AI is reshaping industries.
However, Kumar also warns that the rise of automation brings significant challenges, particularly the risk of job displacement.
He says roles once considered essential in the workplace are becoming obsolete, and more may follow as AI continues to evolve.
He emphasises that tripartite collaboration — involving the Government, Employers, and Workers' Representatives — together with businesses and educational institutions, is essential to addressing this issue.
Kumar says their joint mission is to upskill and reskill Fiji’s workforce to ensure no one is left behind.
The Acting Permanent Secretary says addressing the risks of AI and digitalisation requires forward-thinking measures — from risk assessments and cybersecurity training to adapting data privacy laws and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) policies.
He adds that Fiji has now developed its first National Occupational Health and Safety Policy, with support from the International Labour Organization — a key milestone in ensuring safe workplaces in the digital age.
Kumar says that AI is not replacing humans, but rather redefining work by amplifying creativity, empathy, and problem-solving — and that the future lies in investing in both people and technology.
