Ethical and social risks of exoskeleton in the construction industry: a systematic literature review

As exoskeletons gain traction in the construction industry, evaluating the ethical and social dimensions of exoskeletons and devising strategies to mitigate these risks becomes imperative. This review focuses on assessing the ethical and social risks associated with the integration of exoskeleton technology in construction, with a goal to enhance worker safety and well-being. Exploring both the potential benefits and challenges of exoskeleton usage, the paper underscores the importance of a balanced approach that reconciles technological advantages with ethical considerations. A systematic literature review was conducted to gather insights into the ethical and social aspects of incorporating exoskeletons in the construction industry. The research involved a comprehensive analysis of existing literature. While the study’s background provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of exoskeleton usage in the global construction industry, this review reveals significant ethical and social concerns surrounding exoskeletons in construction. These include device design, stigmatization, regulatory standards, worker consent and autonomy, trust, potential job displacement, and data privacy. Social considerations include accessibility and affordability, human rights, cultural diversity, and social communication. Effectively addressing these risks requires the establishment of clear ethical guidelines, training, vigilant monitoring, compliance, public engagement, government intervention, and collaboration with researchers and industry stakeholders. While exoskeletons hold the potential to reduce musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomic risks, addressing ethical and social risks is paramount. Neglecting these aspects may impede the acceptance and adoption of exoskeletons, leading to risks such as misuse, decreased social communication, and job displacement. The study proposes a framework that offers insights for industry stakeholders and guides the ethical adoption of exoskeleton technology. A collective effort is necessary to ensure the responsible integration of exoskeletons, fostering a safer and more sustainable construction industry and optimizing their advantages while mitigating disparities and discrimination in the construction industry.