Bargaining over the Introduction of Robots into the Workplace

Abstract

This Comment considers whether, and under what conditions, an employer must bargain with the union representing its workers about a decision to introduce robots. The author argues that, because of the profound impact a decision to automate is likely to have upon "terms and conditions of employment," an employer should be required to bargain collectively with the union representing the affected employees prior to implementation of the decision. The author concludes that, only in this way, can the rights of workers facing technological displacement be ensured.