Healthy work in pioneer branches (GAP). The fourth industrial revolution in the semiconductor industry - 2 case studies

Background. The increasing importance of information and communication techniques and computerization in production (e. g. smart production control, cyberphysical systems) as well as increasing relevance of computerization in various industries, the fourth industrial revolution, result in new challenges for occupational health and safety. Little is as yet known about the health consequences of technological change. Material and methods. In two companies in the semiconductor industry (manufacturer, component supplier), expert interviews were conducted with seven employees (per company) from different departments. The interviews were transcribed and qualitative thematic analyses were conducted using MAXQDA. Results. The technical status of both companies differed with respect to the state of technology but there was an overall indication that the employees are constantly exposed to changes and transitions that require personal adjustments and modifications. Qualification measures, life-long learning and increasing cognitive demands on the employees are an important issue. Conclusion. While the health impacts of physically demanding work decline as technology and automation takes on more and more physically demanding tasks, psychological burdens are arising due to increasing monitoring and decision-making requirements. Issues of occupational health and safety that foster health-promoting work must take into account new demands as well as the classical hazards.