Real-time communication, Big Data, human–machine cooperation, remote sensing, monitoring and process control, autonomous equipment and interconnectivity are becoming major assets in modern industry. As the fourth industrial revolution or Industry 4.0 becomes the predominant reality, it will bring new paradigm shifts, which will have an impact on the management of occupational health and safety (OHS). In the midst of this new and accelerating industrial trend, are we giving due consideration to changes in OHS imperatives? Are the OHS consequences of Industry 4.0 being evaluated properly? Do we stand to lose any of the gains made through proactive approaches? Are there rational grounds for major concerns? In this article, we examine these questions in order to raise consciousness with regard to the integration of OHS into Industry 4.0. It is clear that if the technologies driving Industry 4.0 develop in silos and manufacturers’ initiatives are isolated and fragmented, the dangers will multiply and the net impact on OHS will be negative. As major changes are implemented, previous gains in preventive management of workplace health and safety will be at risk. If we are to avoid putting technological progress and OHS on a collision course, researchers, field experts and industrialists will have to collaborate on a smooth transition towards Industry 4.0.

Introduction

Industrialisation has undergone remarkable transformations since its beginnings in the 18th century. Following the introduction of machinery powered by local generation of steam, which uncoupled production from the limitations of human manual effort (Industrial revolution 1.0), the next paradigm shift came in the 19th century with the introduction of electricity, which allowed the broad distribution of power from a central facility. Thanks to electricity, machinery became less bulky and ran faster (Industry 2.0). The 20th century brought powered assembly lines, and with the development of electronics, manufacturing became more and more automated (Industry 3.0) and focused on performance. With automation came opportunities to optimise manufacturing processes and improve productivity through the design of more flexible, ergonomic and safer machinery (MESI, 2016). In comparison, the term “Industry 4.0” was coined very recently. As might be expected, it refers to the convergence of manufacturing with the digital revolution, artificial intelligence, the Internet of things and with every device called “smart”. Its goal is to allow manufacturers to meet ever-changing demand more efficiently using adaptable and responsive machinery. This idea goes beyond the design of single machines and now encompasses a broadened vision that can best be described as a global revolution in manufacturing. Conceived in Germany, this vision has spread to several other industrialized countries, some of which have been investing heavily in order to catch up to the innovators (MacDougall, 2014; MESI, 2016). Real-time communication, Big Data, man–machine cooperation, remote sensing, monitoring and control, autonomous equipment and interconnectivity are all considered as non-negligible assets in industries that face fierce competition and seek to improve productivity and reduce costs. The fourth industrial revolution goes well beyond concepts such as interconnectivity and digital manufacturing. In Industry 4.0, businesses digitize their physical assets and integrate them into digital ecosystems throughout the value chain. Industry 4.0 promises increases in productivity through the integration of digital systems of production with analysis and communication of all data generated within an intelligent environment.