NYC delivery workers injured at more than five times national rate under intense labor control by apps, survey finds
More than half of New York City's app-based food delivery workers have been injured on the job, and 40% meet the criteria for severe psychological distress, according to a new study from the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH), in partnership with t
The alarming rate of injuries among NYC's app-based food delivery workers highlights a pressing concern in the gig economy. With over half of these workers experiencing on-the-job injuries, it's clear that the current labor control systems employed by apps are unsustainable. This is particularly concerning given the growing reliance on food delivery services, which has accelerated during the pandemic.
The survey's findings also underscore the often-overlooked psychological toll of this work. Forty percent of respondents meeting the criteria for severe psychological distress is a staggering statistic, suggesting that the demands and pressures of app-based work are taking a profound mental health toll. As the gig economy continues to expand, it's essential to examine the working conditions and labor practices that underpin these industries, and to consider the implications for worker well-being.
As the conversation around worker rights and protections in the gig economy continues to evolve, it's crucial to watch how policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders respond to these findings. Will there be increased calls for greater oversight and regulation of app-based labor practices? How might companies adapt their models to prioritize worker safety and well-being? And what role will research and data play in shaping the future of work in the gig economy?
Originally reported by phys.org. LearningWire adds analysis for science & discovery readers.