May Day, or International Workers’ Day, began with the struggle for an eight-hour workday and safer job conditions in 1886 Chicago. Over a century later, it still symbolises workers’ rights and dignity. Many countries including Bangladesh have made economic progress, but the fight for safe workplaces and fair treatment is far from over. In fact, the way forward may lie in something that wasn’t imagined before: technology. Today, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools offer new hope to solve old problems in workplace safety and worker rights.
Bangladesh made significant progress in its garment sector since the 2013 Rana Plaza tragedy. Minimum wages have increased, and many factories have improved their safety protocols. However, the problems are yet to be eradicated. Millions of workers, especially women in garments or men in informal labour or as day labourers, still face long hours, low wages, and unsafe work conditions. Corporate offices, though seemingly polished, are not exempt either. Overwork, poor career progression, and job insecurity are prevalent here. True change demands both stronger policies and smarter implementation, enforced by digital solutions.
Some companies have already taken steps worth following. Unilever Bangladesh’s Aastha initiative is one of them. This program provides clean water, hygiene products, and health education to over a million workers. Their safety policy requires hazard training, emergency drills, and regular audits. Similarly, Better Work Bangladesh, supported by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), has improved conditions in 450 factories by using worker-led safety teams and feedback systems. These efforts are paying off: reduced accidents, improved worker morale, and stronger brand trust. Even in corporate jobs, flexible hours and mental health programs are being slowly adopted.
Technology is already improving safety in sectors beyond garments. In construction, AI tools and Building Information Modelling (BIM) are helping projects finish faster and safer. BIM has been used in big projects like Dhaka Metro Rail. With AI, these models can automatically detect design issues, simulate disasters, and give real-time updates, reducing project costs by 15 per cent and improving safety by 30 per cent. For a sector that employs over 3.5 million people, these tools can save lives and money, especially in a disaster-prone country like Bangladesh.
Fisheries and agriculture are also adopting smart tools. In Cox’s Bazar, the Digital Early Warning Systems (DEWS) project has equipped 300 boats with waterproof communication tools. These give 48-hour storm warnings and allow fishermen to call for help during emergencies. Around 3,000 fishermen now benefit from this system.
Meanwhile, in fish farms, Smart Fish Farm technology uses sensors to check water pH and oxygen levels. These sensors help reduce feed use by up to 20 per cent, boosting both profits and sustainability. Though the tech costs about 1.5 lakh per acre, the benefits are worth it. These digital tools are making even remote or informal workplaces safer, showing how innovation isn’t limited to big industries. They also point to the growing role of home-grown tech solutions in improving livelihoods.
To make a permanent change, companies must go beyond minimum legal compliance. They should ensure every worker earns a living wage, not just the minimum one. Workplace safety should not depend on luck or location. It must be a non-negotiable standard. Real worker voices must be heard, through surveys, forums, and unions. Companies must also invest in worker growth by offering training, fair promotions, and mental health support. Transparency is crucial too. Companies should publish clear reports on wages, injuries, and worker satisfaction to show they are serious about improvement…