What would happen to factory overhead rates based on direct labor hours when automated equipment is used intensively?

When automated equipment is used intensively, factory overhead rates based on direct labor hours are likely to decline. This is because automation reduces the reliance on direct labor, thus lowering the labor hours used as the allocation base. As a result, fixed overhead costs are spread over fewer direct labor hours, leading to a more efficient allocation of overhead. Consequently, the overhead rate per direct labor hour decreases, reflecting the reduced labor component in the production process.