Episode 29: Automation, isolation and workplace safety, why human connection still matters at work

Episode 29: Automation, isolation and workplace safety, why human connection still matters at work

From Sustainable Human by Linda Jarnhamn, flow2thrive

May 19, 2026 · 34 min · Season 5 · Episode 29

About this episode

The episode discusses the importance of designing workplaces that prioritize human connection amidst technological advancements.

How can we design workplaces that stay both technologically advanced and human-centered? In this episode, Linda Jarnhamn sits down with Lena Abrahamsson, Professor in Human Work Science, Luleå University of Technology. They discuss how workplace and production systems should be designed around people, not just technology. Lena explains that when automation improves physical safety, it can create new risks such as isolation and boredom, which in turn may cause apathy and accidents. The c...

People in this episode

Host: Linda Jarnhamn

Guest: Lena Abrahamsson

Topics covered

  • workplace design
  • human connection
  • automation
  • safety
  • isolation
  • boredom

Keywords

  • workplace safety
  • human-centered design
  • automation risks
  • physical safety
  • employee well-being

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Luleå University of Technology

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