The financial woes of gig economy workers have been laid bare in a new study, which reveals that over half report their unpredictable earnings lead to monetary difficulties.
A poll involving 1,000 workers also highlighted that their sporadic work schedules make it tough to look after dependants or enjoy time off. The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has pointed out from its research that 40% of gig workers have suffered stress exacerbated by their jobs in the last year, with one-third reporting fatigue.
Ruth Wilkinson from IOSH commented on the evolving nature of employment, stating: "Our report highlights this, focusing on how new technologies and digitalisation are creating opportunities to improve how people are protected at work but also showing that this can create new hazards and risks to health and safety, all of which need to be managed."
She noted the increase in gig work as one of these significant shifts. She added: "To explore these findings further, the results of our survey show people working in the gig economy are really struggling, which is of real concern and requires action."
She called for collaborative efforts to navigate the changing landscape of work: "We need to work together as a profession with governments, businesses and other professions to manage the changes to work carefully, to design, consult upon, risk assess, and implement new technologies sensibly and, crucially, to ensure that people can go home from work safe and well every day."
IOSH has unveiled a new report emphasising the urgent need for more stringent and robust modern health and safety regulations to better safeguard gig workers.