The use of backpacks by delivery riders has come under scrutiny in a detailed study by Fundacentro, highlighting significant health risks for workers in the gig economy. These risks, compounded by challenging working conditions and minimal industry regulations, raise concerns about occupational safety, sustainability, and the broader implications for platform-based labor.
Key Findings from the Study
The report, conducted across four Brazilian cities—Belém, Belo Horizonte, Curitiba, and Florianópolis—sheds light on the relationship between the choice of delivery tools (backpacks or fixed boxes) and musculoskeletal health. Out of 192 riders surveyed, a notable association was found between the use of backpacks and complaints of back and shoulder pain. This ergonomic concern is further aggravated by long working hours and the physical demands of navigating urban landscapes.
Backpacks are also linked to higher risks of severe injuries during falls. Despite these issues, many riders prefer backpacks for their affordability, flexibility, and practicality in delivering meals.
Why Riders Choose Backpacks Over Fixed Boxes
Several factors drive riders to opt for backpacks despite the associated risks:
- Food Safety and Efficiency: Backpacks help maintain the integrity of food, especially on uneven roads, as they absorb shocks better than fixed boxes.
- Ease of Use: Unlike fixed boxes, backpacks don’t require removal when carrying passengers or switching between personal and professional use.
- Cost Considerations: Backpacks are cheaper to purchase and maintain, making them a preferred choice for gig workers who bear all costs, including fuel, equipment, and repairs.
- Legal and Practical Constraints: Fixed boxes often necessitate compliance with strict licensing laws, such as having a specific “red plate” for motofreight vehicles, deterring many from using them.
Proposed Solutions and Recommendations
To mitigate these challenges, the study emphasizes the need for collaborative action involving riders, app-based companies, and policymakers. Key recommendations include:
- Ergonomic Redesigns: Developing safer and more comfortable fixed boxes tailored to delivery riders’ needs.
- Cost Sharing: Encouraging app companies and food establishments to co-finance safer equipment.
- Policy Updates: Addressing gaps in legislation to protect workers, including mandatory hazard pay and clear accountability for equipment standards.
The study also suggests greater public awareness campaigns and ongoing dialogue among stakeholders to prioritize safety without compromising the economic viability of delivery work.
Policy Implications: A Path Toward Regulation
The report delves into the legal landscape, highlighting proposed bills such as PL 578/2019, which advocates for:
- A 30% hazard pay for delivery workers.
- Stricter health and safety requirements for app-based companies.
- Certification mandates like the Condumoto registration for workers.
While the bill faces resistance from gig economy platforms, which cite concerns about economic freedom and operational costs, it underscores the urgent need to balance corporate interests with worker safety and rights.
Conclusion
Fundacentro’s findings offer critical insights into the challenges faced by delivery riders, exposing the hidden costs of convenience. The health risks of delivery backpacks highlight the urgent need for systemic changes, from ergonomic innovations to robust labor protections. As the gig economy continues to grow, addressing these issues is vital for creating a safer and more equitable working environment.