Occupational Safety and Health Risks of Gig Workers in Finland

Temporary work and work through temporary agency, i.e. gig work, have been associated with adverse effects on occupational safety and health (OSH). About 15% of employees in the European Union work temporarily. The objective of this study was to identify the main OSH risks for gig workers. A total of 164 gig workers responded to an e-survey covering 25 risk assessment sections. Most of the respondents worked in health care and social services. The main risks were awkward work postures, work breaks and pace of work, and inappropriate behaviour. Only 28% of the respondents thought that gig workers are aware of their OSH responsibilities and duties. The lack of knowledge of OSH responsibilities and duties can also constitute an OSH risk. To ensure that gig workers know their responsibilities and duties and are aware of risks at work, gig workers should receive better orientation and become involved in risk assessment in the workplace. From a management point of view, knowing the risks is a prerequisite to proactively improving the OSH of gig workers.