
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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