As manufacturers explore AI, automation and Smart Manufacturing tools, employers are also facing new HR and compliance questions. Littler’s 2026 Annual Employer Survey found 84% of employers expect workplace AI policy or regulatory changes to affect their business over the next year, double the share from 2025. The survey also found nearly 4 in 5 respondents are concerned about AI-related litigation, with data privacy, discrimination or bias, and state and local AI laws among the top concerns.

“AI can help manufacturers move faster, but speed without guardrails creates risk,” said Dave O’Neil, director of communications for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. “The promise of AI is real, but so are the workplace questions around privacy, bias and human oversight.”

Manufacturers adopting AI in hiring, scheduling, productivity tools or workforce management should review how these systems are being used, how decisions are documented and whether HR teams are prepared to manage the people-side risks of new technology. 5/7/2026