Actually, on Easy they do quite well because of how little damage enemies do. You can pretty much leave the Hunters alone near the end of that level and some or all of the workers will survive.

The funny thing is watching them follow you to the end of the level-- where they'll fire on the stationary gun, but only one shot-- in unison-- right after you fire. Probably a script Bungie put in place to ensure that friendlies don't kill it and end the level without your participation.