Technology
Wednesday, October 25th, 2023 5:49 pm EDT
Key Points
- A comprehensive survey: The University of Illinois Chicago conducted the largest nationwide survey of Amazon workers to date, gathering responses from 1,484 current Amazon employees across 42 states and 451 facilities. The survey highlights the toll that Amazon’s work environment is taking on its workers.
- Injuries and exhaustion: The survey shows that nearly 70% of Amazon workers had to take unpaid time off due to pain or exhaustion they suffered on the job in the past month. Common injuries reported include sprains, strains, or tears. Almost half of respondents reported moderate to severe pain in their legs, knees, or feet in the last three months.
- Intense scrutiny and safety concerns: The study adds to growing scrutiny of Amazon’s workplace safety and its treatment of warehouse employees. Regulators, lawmakers, rights groups, and workers have criticized Amazon for its labor practices. Amazon has argued that it’s taking steps to reduce injury rates and improve working conditions, but critics argue that the company’s emphasis on speed and constant monitoring of employee productivity contribute to the issue.
A study from the University of Illinois Chicago’s Center for Urban Economic Development reveals that Amazon warehouse workers are experiencing physical injuries and mental stress due to the company’s focus on speed and extensive surveillance. The survey, which included 1,484 current Amazon workers across 42 states and 451 facilities, indicates that nearly 70% of employees have had to take unpaid time off due to pain or exhaustion from their jobs in the past month. Common injuries reported include sprains, strains, or tears. Over 50% of respondents expressed burnout, which increased with longer tenures at Amazon. The data adds to existing concerns about Amazon’s workplace safety and employee treatment. Regulators, lawmakers, and rights groups have criticized Amazon for labor issues. Amazon has stated that it’s working to reduce injury rates and has made adjustments to improve working conditions. However, critics attribute many injuries to the demanding pace and constant monitoring of worker productivity. Approximately 44% of surveyed workers reported not being able to take necessary breaks, which are essential to preventing injuries. Many workers also felt they were being watched or monitored, contributing to work-related stress. The study highlights the need to address work intensity and monitoring to improve workers’ health and safety.
For the full original article on CNBC, please click here: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/25/study-amazons-focus-on-speed-surveillance-drives-worker-injuries.html
