Assessing Musculoskeletal Health Among Gig Economy Delivery Workers in Urban Areas

Thesis Abstract

The rapid expansion of the gig economy has transformed urban labor markets, with delivery services playing a pivotal role in contemporary economies. However, there is growing concern about the health implications faced by gig economy delivery workers, particularly regarding musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which are exacerbated by repetitive tasks, prolonged standing, awkward postures, and ergonomic deficiencies inherent in their dynamic work environments. Despite the increasing prevalence of gig-based delivery work, limited empirical data exists on the specific musculoskeletal health risks and factors influencing their well-being. This study aims to systematically assess the prevalence, risk factors, and potential health outcomes related to musculoskeletal disorders among gig economy delivery workers operating in urban settings. The specific objectives are to (i) determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among delivery workers, (ii) identify ergonomic, work-related, and psychosocial risk factors associated with MSDs, (iii) evaluate workers’ awareness and use of preventive measures, and (iv) develop recommendations for reducing musculoskeletal health risks in this occupational group. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study integrates quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. The quantitative component involves a cross-sectional survey administered to a sample of 400 gig economy delivery workers selected through stratified random sampling to ensure representativeness across different platforms and urban districts. Data collection instruments include a validated Musculoskeletal Disorder Questionnaire and a Work Environment and Risk Assessment Survey, complemented by semi-structured interviews to explore workers’ perceptions and coping strategies. Data analysis primarily involves descriptive statistics to establish prevalence rates, followed by inferential techniques such as multiple logistic regression to identify significant predictors of MSDs. Thematic analysis will be employed to interpret qualitative data, providing contextual insights into workers' experiences and risk perceptions. The study also adopts the Job Demands-Resources Theory and the Biomechanical Model of Musculoskeletal Disorders as its theoretical frameworks, guiding the identification of individual and work-related factors influencing musculoskeletal health. The anticipated findings include a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms, particularly in the lower back, neck, shoulders, and knees, with work-related postural challenges, workload intensity, and ergonomic inadequacies emerging as significant contributors. Psychosocial factors such as work stress and job insecurity are expected to exacerbate health risks. Additionally, findings are likely to reveal a gap in workers’ awareness and utilization of ergonomic or health-promoting strategies, highlighting areas for targeted intervention. These results aim to fill a critical gap in occupational health literature concerning gig workers, whose unique work conditions diverge from traditional employment. This research contributes to knowledge by providing empirical evidence on musculoskeletal health risks specific to gig economy delivery workers, informing policymakers, occupational health practitioners, and platform operators about targeted ergonomic and psychosocial interventions. It underscores the need for tailored health promotion strategies, workplace modifications, and policy reforms that address the specific challenges faced by gig-based workers. The main conclusions emphasize the urgency of implementing ergonomic training, regular health assessments, and supportive work policies to mitigate MSD risks. Recommendations include promoting ergonomic guidelines for delivery tasks, establishing health monitoring programs, and fostering awareness campaigns to enhance worker knowledge and self-efficacy. Furthermore, the study advocates for future longitudinal research to examine the long-term health outcomes of gig economy workers and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented interventions, ultimately contributing to improved occupational health standards in flexible work arrangements.