Condições de trabalho e precarização: um estudo de caso com motofrentistas da grande Natal

Abstract

This study has as main objective to investigate the working conditions of couriers in the light of the concept of precariousness. Methodologically, a case study was carried out with couriers who work in the Metropolitan Region of Natal, using a script of semi-structured interviews, applied to 13 participants, as a research instrument. For data analysis, content analysis was used. From the results and discussion, it was possible to conclude that these professionals work in precarious working conditions; they work autonomously and bear all costs to carry out their work; and they are exposed to traffic accidents and risks related to the environment because there is no physical protection in the performance of their work, for carrying out complex processes in the activity that demand constant speed, skill in traffic and use of technology. In addition, they are responsible for managing their own work, being paid only for what they produce, resulting in long and strenuous working hours; and they are exposed to contamination by COVID-19 for working on the front lines in product distribution during social isolation, without any help from the public or private authorities.